A total of 140 youths and six priests from Kabale Diocese have set off for the Uganda National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC), scheduled to take place in Gulu Archdiocese from December 9 to 13, 2025.
The delegation was officially flagged off on Monday at the Rushoroza Cathedral grounds by Rev. Fr. Fidel Ndagijimana, the Kabale Diocese Pastoral Coordinator.
The accompanying priests include Rev. Fr. Januario Nomugisha, Rev. Fr. Walter Halerimana, Rev. Fr. Bruno Niyonzima, Rev. Fr. Selestine Nkamwesiga, Rev. Fr. Alexander Mwebembezi, and Rev. Fr. Kwitonda Ponsiano.
Fr. Ndagijimana urged the delegation to uphold the values, discipline, and identity of Kabale Diocese throughout the national gathering. He encouraged the youths to remain proud of their diocesan heritage even as they interact with participants from other parts of the country.
He further challenged them to use the conference as a platform for learning, exposure, and personal transformation. Many young people, he noted, often believe that life revolves only around their local environments, yet such gatherings reveal how much can be learned from others.
On spiritual growth, Fr. Ndagijimana reminded the pilgrims that nurturing their spiritual lives is as important as caring for their physical needs. He encouraged them to stay attentive, focused, and open to guidance from spiritual leaders throughout the conference.
The Rushoroza Cathedral Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Austen Christmas, reminded the youths that once they set off, they assume the role of ambassadors of Kabale Diocese, carrying a shared identity that unites them as one family.
He emphasized that the journey is not only a chance to explore new places but also a spiritual pilgrimage meant to deepen their faith, enrich their prayer life, and provide personal spiritual fulfilment.
Fr. Christmas also encouraged the youths to remain active in their home parishes upon returning from Gulu. He urged them to serve with commitment and enthusiasm.
According to Rev. Fr. Januario Nomugisha Rukabeizira, Director of the Children and Youth Office, the diocesan delegation will reconvene for the Kabale Diocesan Youth Conference from December 18 to 21, shortly after the national event.
The Uganda National Catholic Youth Conference is an annual gathering organized by the Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC) for young Catholics aged 12 to 35. It focuses on faith formation, leadership development, socio-economic empowerment, and cultural exchange.
Last year’s conference was hosted by Hoima Diocese, with President Yoweri Museveni as the chief guest.
