In 2002, St. John Paul II beatified two young Ugandan catechists: Daudi Okelo and Jildo Irwa. Daudi was sixteen; Jildo just twelve when they were martyred in 1916 for teaching the Catholic faith.

Members of the Acholi people of northern Uganda, both were born into non-Christian families and educated by the Comboni Missionaries. Baptized in 1916, they quickly embraced their new faith. Within a year, Daudi was appointed a catechist, with Jildo as his assistant. Their youth did not dampen their zeal.

Each morning at dawn they beat a drum to gather catechumens for prayer and instruction. They taught the catechism, led the Rosary at sunset, and closed the day with a Marian hymn. They sought out children in outlying villages who spent their days tending cattle or working in the fields. Quiet and steady, Daudi avoided tribal conflicts and was respected by all. Lively and warm, Jildo drew children in with games and joy. Together, they formed a simple but powerful witness.

During a time of political unrest, opponents of Christianity tried to silence them. Threatened and ordered to stop preaching, they refused. Both were speared to death rather than abandon their mission.

Their story still speaks to us as catechists today. They remind us that faith is meant to be shared, that no one is too young to serve, and that ministry is strengthened by companionship. In crossing ethnic boundaries to proclaim the Gospel, they embodied the Church’s unity. Their courage challenges us to live our baptism boldly—wherever we are sent.

Reflections to Hold, Pray, and Live

• Are there young people in your parish whom you could invite to be a catechist helper with you – or to do one-time things, such as music, service leaders, etc.?
• Just as Daudi and Jildo moved outside of their clan, how might you and your learners connect with learners in other parishes in your diocese or in other places around the world?

Author:

Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP
Member, NCCL Board of Directors

Her book, SAINTS & MENTORS for Catechists: 41 Models of Faith to Support and Guide You, can be purchased from Twenty-Third Publications
[GET YOUR COPY HERE]

Learn more about Janet and her publications at https://www.janetschaeffler.com/