Thousands of Catholics look to Uganda’s young martyrs as examples of courage and commitment to the faith. On October 20, 2026, pilgrims gathered at the Wipolo Martyrs Shrine in Agago District, within the Archdiocese of Gulu, to commemorate 108 years since the deaths of Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa.
Remembering young witnesses to faith
Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa were young catechists killed in 1918 while serving the Christian community at Paimol. Their annual commemoration has become an occasion for prayer and reflection on faithfulness, especially for younger Catholics considering how to serve others.
Vatican News reported on October 22 that the commemoration brought together clergy, Catholic associations, local leaders and pilgrims from Uganda and abroad, including visitors from Austria and Germany.
A call to perseverance
Bishop Sabino Ochan Odoki of Arua presided over the principal celebration and encouraged participants to persevere in doing good, even in difficult circumstances. The 2026 theme connected devotion to the Eucharist with the witness of Saint Joseph and the two blessed catechists.
The young martyrs were beatified by Pope John Paul II at St Peter’s Square on October 20, 2002, coinciding with World Mission Sunday.
Why their story matters for Catholic youth
The commemoration highlights the place young people have held in the Church’s mission, not simply as future leaders but as active witnesses in their own communities. Their story offers youth movements a point of reflection on catechesis, service and the meaning of courageous faith.
