The Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt Rev Callist Rubaramira, has called on Christians across the Diocese to renew their faith and return to God as the country commemorated Uganda Martyrs Day.
Delivering his message during the Uganda Martyrs Day Mass held at Our Lady of Good Shepherd–Rushoroza Cathedral in Kabale Municipality, Bishop Rubaramira urged believers to strengthen their relationship with God and remain steadfast in faith amid life’s challenges.
“I call upon all Christians to renew their faith and return to God. In times of challenges and uncertainty, we should always seek God and strengthen our spiritual lives,” Bishop Rubaramira said.
Bishop Rubaramira noted that the Uganda Martyrs continue to inspire Christians through their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in God.
“The Uganda Martyrs are a great example to us. They stood firm in their faith despite persecution, and as Christians today, we should remain committed to God and live according to Christian values,” he added.
Bishop Rubaramira encouraged Christians to use the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations as a moment of reflection and spiritual renewal.
He also asked Christians to strictly observe the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) put in place by the Church to help prevent the spread of Ebola.
“As we gather to worship, I urge all Christians to follow the SOPs put in place by the Church to prevent the spread of Ebola. Protecting life is our shared responsibility,” he emphasized.
He noted that faith and adherence to health guidelines should go hand in hand in safeguarding communities during the Ebola threat.
“We pray for God’s protection, but we must also remain careful and responsible by following the guidance given to us,” Bishop Rubaramira said.
CUE IN BISHOP RUBARAMIRA….. ON CHRISTIANS & EBOLA…… RR//
Delivering the homily, the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Good Shepherd Rushoroza Cathedral Parish, Rev Fr Austen Christmas, called on Christians to embrace spiritual humility and live according to God’s teachings, saying true strength begins with acknowledging dependence on God.
“Being poor in spirit means recognizing your spiritual bankruptcy without God. True strength begins when you admit you need Him,” Rev Fr Christmas said.
He encouraged Christians to remain hopeful during difficult moments, reminding them that God comforts those who mourn.
“Those who mourn over personal sins or the brokenness of the world are promised comfort. God meets you in your deepest pain,” he noted.
Rev Fr Christmas also urged believers to embrace gentleness and patience, explaining that meekness should not be mistaken for weakness.
“Being meek is not weakness, but power under control. It requires great strength to be humble and patient in a demanding world,” he explained.
The priest further encouraged Christians to pursue righteousness and spiritual growth.
“Hunger and thirst for what is good, just, and holy. Just as you need physical food, your soul requires spiritual nourishment,” he said.
He also called on believers to practice mercy through forgiveness and compassion.
“Extend forgiveness, grace, and compassion to others. In doing so, you position yourself to receive God’s abundant mercy,” he added.
Speaking on Christian character, Rev Fr Christmas urged the faithful to uphold integrity and sincerity in their walk with God.
“Strive for purity of heart through integrity, sincerity, and undivided devotion to God,” he said.
The parish priest further encouraged Christians to become peacemakers in their families and communities.
“Be a reconciler in your family, community, or workplace. God calls peacemakers His children,” Rev Fr Christmas emphasized.
He encouraged believers to remain steadfast in faith despite challenges and opposition.
“Expect pushback for living a righteous life. Remember that suffering for Christ’s sake is a mark of belonging to His Kingdom,” he said.
Rev Fr Christmas urged Christians to remain firm in their faith and continue living by Christian values despite life’s challenges.
