Thousands of Christians are thronging Wi Polo Shrine in Kalongo Sub-county, Agago District today where celebrations of Blessed Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa day are taking place.
The two catechists were martyred at Paimol, Agago District in 1918 and beatified by Pope John Paul II on October 20 2002 among the 22 other Roman Catholic martyrs of Uganda.
Every October 20th, the spiritual event is celebrated to commemorate the duo’s devotion put up to sacrifice their faith for Christianity in northern Uganda.
This year’s celebrations are under the theme ‘For me life is Christ, Death is gain” and have been organized by Lacor Deanery which comprises of five parishes in Amuru, Gulu and Nwoya districts
According to Mr Geoffrey Odokonyero the chairperson central organizing committee, 50,000 pilgrims are expected to grace the event. These have come from as far as Italy, Germany and South Sudan.
Main celebrant of Mass will be Gulu Diocese Bishop John Baptist Odama.
Other Ugandan martrys are celebrated every 3rd June at Namugongo.
Meanwhile, security has been tightened to maintain law and order as more people try to access the venue. Aswa Regional police spokesperson Jimmy Patrick Okema says they are prepared to safeguard the pilgrims and their properties.
