Bishop Sabino Ocan Odoki’s 40 years of priesthood have been a remarkable journey, filled with dedication and service. Born on August 8, 1957, in Layibi, Gulu, to Donasiano Okello (RIP) and Georgina Awoo, he grew up with four sisters and three brothers. Today, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Ediofe Cathedral, is hosting a celebration of his four decades of service to the church.
As a young boy, his fascination with serving as an altar boy during Mass at Holy Rosary Church ignited his passion for the priesthood. After completing his primary education at Holy Rosary Primary School in 1971, he was admitted to the Minor Seminary of Aboke. His journey continued at the Lacor Minor Seminary from 1974 to 1976, and he eventually pursued philosophical studies at Katigondo National Major Seminary from 1976 to 1979. He furthered his education with theological studies at Ggaba National Major Seminary from 1980 to 1983.
In recognition of his dedication, Bishop Sabino was ordained a priest on September 10, 1983, alongside other clergymen. The ordination took place at St Joseph’s Cathedral Parish, Gulu Diocese, with Bishop Cipriano Kihangire presiding. Following his ordination, he was sent to the Kitgum Mission, where he served as a Curate at Christ the King Church and Omiya Anyima sub-parish from 1983 to 1985.
His dedication and abilities led to his appointment as the private secretary of Bishop Kihangire in 1985. Later, in July of that year, he continued his studies at the Catholic Institute of Eastern Africa (now known as Catholic University of Eastern Africa) in Nairobi, Kenya. His academic pursuits resulted in a licentiate degree in Theology in 1987, followed by a doctorate in Sacred Theology in 1992. His doctoral thesis focused on “Death rituals among the Lwos in Uganda: Their significance for the Theology of death.”
After obtaining his qualifications, Bishop Sabino took up teaching responsibilities at Alokolum National Major Seminary. He went on to establish a Pastoral Centre, St Mauritz, Obiya Palaro Rajab, which has since evolved into a vibrant St Mauritz Parish with a health center.
In 1993, Bishop Sabino was the commentator during Pope John Paul II’s visit to Gulu. His welcoming words, “Wa mari Papa, wamari mada! Wajoli Papa, wajoli mada” (“We love you Pope and warmly welcome you”), resonated with the faithful.
In October 1996, he succeeded Msgr John Baptist Odama as the rector of Alokolum National Major Seminary. During a period of intense insecurity, Bishop Sabino’s leadership qualities shone. He was known as approachable, kind, and always ready to help.
When Alokolum Seminary was relocated to Bukalasa Seminary in Masaka in the early 2000s due to the conflict in northern Uganda, Bishop Sabino worked tirelessly to maintain stability. His dedication led to his appointment as the auxiliary bishop of Gulu Archdiocese on October 21, 2006.
As an auxiliary bishop, he played a crucial role in the second diocesan synod convoked by Archbishop John Baptist Odama. In 2009, at the Uganda Episcopal Conference, he was elected to reorganize the Uganda National Diocesan Priests’ Association (UNDIPA) and served as its liaison bishop for six years.
Bishop Sabino currently heads the Commission for Doctrine at the Uganda Episcopal Conference. In October 2009, he was transferred to Arua Diocese as an apostolic administrator for one year and was subsequently appointed bishop of Arua Diocese, a position he has held from 2010 to the present day.
This celebration of Bishop Sabino Ocan Odoki’s 40 years of priesthood reflects a life devoted to faith, service, and the betterment of his community. His journey is a testament to the enduring commitment of those who choose a life of service to the church and its people.
