A colorful gathering took place at the Fr. Saturlino Ohure Museum in the Eastern Equatoria State capital, Torit, on Thursday to commemorate the 59th anniversary of the martyrdom of the late priest and politician.
The event, jointly organized by the Catholic Diocese of Torit and the St. Charles Lwanga Choir of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Juba, celebrated the legacy of Fr. Saturlino Ohure, a staunch advocate for the rights of Southern Sudanese after Sudan gained full independence from Anglo-Egyptian rule on 1 January 1956.
Bishop Emmanuel Benardhino Lowi of the Catholic Diocese of Torit passionately declared Fr. Ohure a profound gift to both the church and the people of South Sudan.
“He (Ohure) dedicated his life to serving others, first as a priest and then as a politician. Today, as we honor his memory, we must reflect on our own lives as priests, leaders, and politicians,” he said. “It is crucial to ask ourselves: How was Saturlino performing his duties, and how are we performing ours? This is an opportunity for self-reflection, a chance to truly evaluate ourselves in light of his sacrifice.”
Bishop Lowi urged attendees to pause and contemplate their motivations in a fast-paced world where it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters.
“Fr. Saturlino inspires us to remember that we run for human life, embodying the sacrifice that reflects the light of God,” he stated. “A life unexamined is unworthy; let us take this moment to reflect on our paths and acknowledge the legacy of Fr. Saturlino.”
For his part, Torit Mayor Oyito Baptist Soforonio thanked the organizers for commemorating Fr. Saturlino, affirming the need for continuous recognition.
“Leadership is a difficult calling; it cannot simply be taught, it must be inherent, a divine selection. Effective leaders always consider the well-being of the people,” he said. “As for security in our town, our efforts have ensured a peaceful environment for all. We have reached a destination that has been long sought since 1955, but we must question why we are creating new challenges for ourselves while honoring Fr. Saturlino’s pursuit of unity.”
Meanwhile, Fr. Zachariah Ebul Erminio, the chairperson of the organizing committee, outlined the event’s origins, noting that it stemmed from Fr. Kharleto Otto’s call last December to celebrate Fr. Saturlino’s legacy. His message resonated, prompting the St. Charles Lwanga Choirs and local elders to take action, leading fundraising initiatives to support this day of remembrance.
“The turnout today, even on a workday, speaks volumes about our commitment and the community’s spirit,” he asserted.
Charles Udwar Ukech, the speaker of the state parliament, commended the choirs, religious leaders, and government officials for contributing to the event’s success.
“Fr. Saturlino Ohure, an honorable figure who stood for justice and freedom, was not just a priest; he was a committed politician who fought tirelessly for his people,” he said. “We must embody his positive qualities and strive for justice, dignity, and freedom in our lives as we gather here in his honor.”
Fr. Saturlino Ohure Hilangi was a pivotal figure in South Sudan’s early quest for independence. He was born around 1921 and baptized in Torit in 1931. After studying at the Okaru and Gulu seminaries, he was ordained a priest on 21 December 1946. He, along with his companion, became the first Lotuko priests, leaving a fast mark on South Sudan’s history.