A peaceful Sunday morning at New Life Gospel Ministries in Jinja, Eastern Uganda, turned into a nightmare that no one will ever forget….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Church members had come expecting prayer and worship, but instead witnessed a horrifying tragedy that has shocked the entire country.
According to police, Pastor Peter Okello, 56, arrived at the church like he always did—dressed in his usual religious robes. What no one knew was that under his robes, he was hiding two sharp knives. At first, everything seemed normal. Pastor Okello sat quietly at the front of the church, showing no signs of anger or distress. Then suddenly, without saying a word, he stood up and walked toward his wife, Pastor Grace Okello, who was also a co-founder of the church.
To everyone’s shock, Pastor Okello pulled out the knives and began attacking his wife in front of the entire congregation. Worshippers screamed, cried, and ran in all directions. Grace was stabbed multiple times right at the altar. Though some people rushed to help her, it was too late—she died on the spot. Moments later, Peter turned the knife on himself, cutting his own throat and dying shortly after.
The couple had been married for over 20 years and had built the church together. But police now say there were ongoing conflicts between them, mostly about leadership roles in the church and property ownership. A note found at the scene, believed to be written by Pastor Okello, accused his wife of betrayal and stated, “Today would be the last day of her lies.”
Both bodies were taken to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem exams as police continue with investigations. The church has been closed off while forensic experts gather more evidence.
This terrible incident has left many Ugandans in shock. It has also sparked important conversations about domestic violence, especially among religious leaders and couples. Religious leaders in Jinja have strongly condemned the act and are urging couples who face relationship problems to seek help rather than turning to violence.
For the members of New Life Gospel Ministries, what was supposed to be a holy Sunday service will forever be remembered as the day their church became a crime scene. This tragedy reminds us of the importance of mental health support, open communication in relationships, and conflict resolution. When pain, anger, and misunderstanding are left untreated, the results can be deadly….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
