KAMPALA, UGANDA: The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has pledged to advocate for the formal inclusion of pastors’ children in the governance structures of the Church.
Speaking during a meeting with the leadership of the Pastors’ Children Network (PK Network) at the Provincial Secretariat in Namirembe on Wednesday, Archbishop Kaziimba emphasized the need to strengthen fellowship and empower children of clergy and lay readers to actively participate in the mission and life of the Church.
He encouraged pastors’ children to embrace their identity with pride, describing it as a divine calling rather than a burden.
“Sometimes clergy children hide or shy away from their identity because of societal expectations. Others feel pressure to be perfect. But being a pastor’s child is a blessing, God has already placed you in a mission field,” he said.
Reflecting on his own lineage, he shared that although his grandfather, Simeon Kaziimba, served as a Lay Reader and none of his children became clergy, he himself rose to Archbishop by the grace of God, proof that God’s calling is unique and often unexpected.
The Archbishop acknowledged the challenges faced by pastors’ children, including frequent relocations, social pressure, and financial hardship.
“You move often due to your parents’ transfers. You host guests even when there is little food. These experiences build patience and perseverance, qualities God uses to mold leaders,” he said.
He called on every diocese to formally recognize and support Pastors’ Children Networks within their structures, stressing that such fellowships strengthen both families and the wider Church. He also urged pastors’ children to pray for and support their parents in ministry.
PK Network President, Ordinand Shem Kimera, explained that the network was formed to unite and empower children of clergy and lay readers through shared experiences, mentorship, and service.
He outlined the group’s achievements, including support to COVID-19 patients at Mengo Hospital, donations to clergy in Karamoja Diocese, and contributions toward pension house construction in Mityana and Mukono dioceses.
The Network is also planning to establish a SACCO to promote financial empowerment among members.
Rev. Canon Dr. Paul Kakooza, Director of Education Services, noted that Church-founded universities such as Uganda Christian University and Ndejje University already offer scholarships to clergy families. He pledged to lobby for more opportunities through the Universities Leadership Forum in response to the Network’s appeal.
The meeting was also attended by Rev. Canon Simon Peter Ddembelya Yesu, Director of Mission and Outreach, and Rev. Richard Rukundo, Coordinator for Children’s Ministry.
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