Tragedy Strikes As Parish Priest Collapses and Dies During Church Service

Arua, Uganda – January 12, 2024 — The Arua Diocese is in mourning following the sudden death of Rev. Fr. Denis Isa Iranya, the parish priest of Holy Cross Indriani Pilgrim Centre Catholic Mission in Adjumani district. The respected clergyman collapsed during a meeting of diocesan Parish Priests at Christus center in Ediofe Cathedral in Arua city on Thursday afternoon.

Fr. Iranya was swiftly rushed to Pioneer Hospital in Arua city for emergency medical attention. However, despite the efforts of the medical team, he tragically passed away later that afternoon. The cause of death has been confirmed as acute hypertension, according to a statement released by Rev. Fr. Ben Drici, the parish priest of Pakele Catholic Parish and secretary for Pakele Denary.

The statement read, “We are getting the tragic, unbelievable, sad news of the sudden death of our Dean and Parish Priest of Indriani, Rev. Fr. Denis Isa Iranya, that has just occurred in Arua.”

Fr. Iranya, affiliated with the congregation of the Missionaries of Jesus the Divine Master, had a rich history of service within the diocese. Prior to his role at Holy Cross Indriani Pilgrim Centre, he served as the parish priest of St. Mary Assumpta Catholic Parish in Oleba, Maracha district, as well as Pakele Catholic Parish among others.

The news of his passing has left the community in shock, with many expressing their grief and sharing memories of the late priest. Phillip Inziku, a member of Oleba Catholic Parish, described Fr. Iranya as a dedicated and hardworking priest who played a pivotal role in the development of the parish.

“I have received shocking news of the passing away of our first parish priest Fr. Denis Iranya. May his soul rest in peace. We will never forget you, and may you get your reward for the good work,” Inziku noted.

The entire diocese is coming together to mourn the loss of a beloved figure, and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced shortly to provide the community with an opportunity to pay their respects and bid farewell to Rev. Fr. Denis Isa Iranya.