The Archbishop of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on Christians in East Rwenzori to reject divisions based on religion, political affiliation, race and gender and instead embrace love, forgiveness, empathy and humility.
Archbishop Kaziimba made the call during his two-day farewell pastoral visit to St Steven’s Cathedral, where he urged Christians to let go of hatred and thoughts of revenge.
In his sermon, Archbishop Kaziimba said some believers continue to harbour hatred against others, warning that such attitudes undermine Christian values and community cohesion.
He urged Christians to forgive those who wrong them, drawing inspiration from Jesus Christ, who forgave those who crucified him.
“Forgiveness is at the heart of the Christian faith,” Archbishop Kaziimba said, urging believers to promote peace and reconciliation in their families, churches and communities.
The Archbishop also cautioned leaders against undermining Church projects, saying such initiatives are intended to benefit communities.
He, however, commended Kamwenge District authorities for working closely with the Church to support development and community initiatives.
Archbishop Kaziimba also praised the Bishop of East Rwenzori Diocese, the Rt Rev. George K. Turyasingura, describing him as humble, hardworking, God-fearing and decisive.
He said Bishop Turyasingura’s qualities had contributed significantly to the growth and stability of the diocese.
Bishop Turyasingura thanked Archbishop Kaziimba for his leadership and contribution towards strengthening stability, humility and spiritual growth within the Church of Uganda.
Following the farewell visit, Archbishop Kaziimba continued his pastoral journey to South Rwenzori Diocese in Kasese.
In Kasese, he was warmly welcomed at Kikongo, at the border of Ruwenzori and South Rwenzori Dioceses, by Bishop Rt. Rev. Nason Baluku, Maama Jane Baluku, clergy, and jubilant Christians.
On Sunday, Archbishop Kaziimba will bid farewell to Christians at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kasese, before undertaking additional ministry engagements in the Diocese on Monday.
