Tragedy In Jinja: Pastor Storms Altar With Knives, Slaughters Wife Live During Sunday Service

By Our Reporter

What began as a peaceful Sunday service at New Life Gospel Ministries in Jinja turned into a harrowing tragedy when a pastor fatally stabbed his wife in front of the congregation before taking his own life.

The incident, which occurred on the morning of Sunday, July 27, has sent shockwaves through the religious community and the nation at large.

According to police, Pastor Peter Okello, 56, arrived at the church dressed in his customary clerical robes. Unknown to the congregation, he had concealed two sharp knives beneath his attire. Witnesses say he appeared calm and participated in the service as usual, seated at the front of the church near his wife, Pastor Grace Okello, co-founder of the ministry and a well-respected religious leader in her own right.

Without warning, Pastor Okello stood up during the service and launched a violent attack on his wife, stabbing her multiple times before horrified worshippers. Screams erupted as congregants fled in panic. Despite efforts by some members to intervene, Pastor Grace succumbed to her injuries at the altar. Moments later, Pastor Okello turned one of the knives on himself, inflicting fatal wounds to his neck. He died shortly thereafter.

The couple had been married for over two decades and were widely known for their leadership and influence within the Jinja Christian community. However, police have confirmed that the couple had been involved in serious domestic disputes in recent months, primarily concerning church leadership roles and property ownership.

A handwritten note believed to have been authored by Pastor Okello was recovered at the scene. In it, he accused his wife of betrayal and claimed that “today would be the last day of her lies.” Authorities say the note is now part of the ongoing investigation into the motive and psychological state of the pastor prior to the incident.

The bodies were taken to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, where postmortem examinations have been conducted. Meanwhile, police have cordoned off the church premises to facilitate further forensic investigation.

For the members of New Life Gospel Ministries, Sunday’s tragedy is more than a news headline — it is a devastating loss of two spiritual leaders and a painful rupture in their faith community.

“This church was our home,” said one longtime member, requesting anonymity. “Pastor Grace was a mother to many. We’re struggling to understand how this happened.”

As police continue their investigation, the church remains closed.