The Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt Rev Callist Rubaramira, has called on Christians across the diocese to embrace unity and deepen their faith in the Holy Eucharist, describing it as the source of oneness with Christ and among believers.
While delivering his homily during the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ (Corpus Christi) Mass at Our Lady of Good Shepherd Rushoroza Cathedral in Kabale District on Sunday, Bishop Rubaramira urged Christians to remain united and avoid divisions that weaken both the Church and society.
The Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, commonly known as Corpus Christi, is celebrated nine weeks after the Institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper (Maundy Thursday). The day is marked by a public procession with the Blessed Sacrament through the streets as a sign of devotion and reverence to Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
Bishop Rubaramira led hundreds of Christians in a Eucharistic procession at the diocesan headquarters, encouraging them to live in harmony, promote love and reconciliation, and uphold unity inspired by Christ’s sacrifice in the Eucharist.
“In the Eucharist, we become truly one with Christ and truly one with one another. Our human senses may not hear or touch God, and because we do not see Him physically, we may sometimes be tempted to think that God is not close by,” Bishop Rubaramira said.
He reminded Christians that God remains ever-present and powerful in their lives despite human limitations in perceiving His presence.
“Always remember that God has power to do all things for you because He loves you as His child,” he said.
He further emphasized that receiving the Holy Eucharist strengthens believers’ relationship with Jesus Christ and fosters unity within the Christian community.
“The Eucharist makes you one with Christ whom you receive, and also one with your brothers and sisters. Therefore, as Christians who receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ, we should never allow any negative divisions among us,” he added.
Bishop Rubaramira also urged Christians to focus on spiritual sustenance through Jesus Christ, stressing that faith in Him is essential for spiritual vitality, lasting peace, and eternal hope.
Speaking on the importance of the Holy Eucharist, he noted that Christ is the true source of life for the soul, just as physical bread sustains the body.
“Just as physical bread is necessary for daily energy, Jesus is required for spiritual vitality,” he said. “Seeking Him daily prevents spiritual starvation and provides lasting joy and peace.”
He encouraged believers to deepen their relationship with Christ through daily prayer, Scripture reading, and participation in the sacraments, saying this strengthens them amid life’s challenges.
He further reflected on Christ’s teaching in the Gospel: “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them,” explaining it as a profound spiritual union between Christ and believers.
“This is not just symbolic,” he noted. “It signifies an intimate, mutual relationship. Abiding in Christ means allowing His teachings, love, and presence to permeate every aspect of one’s life.”
Bishop Rubaramira also highlighted the promise of eternal life offered through Christ, saying it gives believers hope beyond earthly struggles.
“Jesus offers a secure, everlasting hope,” he said. “Those who partake in His life are assured of spiritual vitality in the present and the resurrection on the last day.”
He emphasized that the Eucharist forms the theological foundation of Holy Communion and remains a central expression of the Christian faith.
“The Eucharist reminds us of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice,” he said. “It calls us to actively remember, reflect on, and participate in His saving love.”
He asked Christians to approach the sacrament with reverence and renewed faith, saying it strengthens unity among believers and deepens their walk with God.
CUE IN BISHOP RUBARAMIRA…. ON CHRISTIANS….. RR/ENG//
