The Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira, has officially erected and inaugurated St Barnabas Catholic Parish in Karujanga, Kibuga Sub-county, Ndorwa West County, fulfilling a long-held desire of thousands of Christians for an independent parish and easier access to Eucharistic services.
The historic Mass took place at St. Barnabas Secondary School playground in Katuna Town Council, where Bishop Rubaramira formally announced that St Barnabas Parish has been carved out of Our Lady of Assumption, Rwanyena Parish.
“I, Callist Rubaramira, Bishop of Kabale Diocese, after consulting diocesan advisors, the leadership of Our Lady of Assumption Parish, and evaluating the pastoral needs of the faithful, hereby decree that Karujanga Hiika becomes St. Barnabas Catholic Parish,” Bishop Rubaramira declared.
He also appointed Rev. Fr. Boniface Barisigara as the first Parish Priest of St Barnabas Parish, Karujanga, with immediate effect.
Bishop Rubaramira urged parishioners to prioritize sacramental life, Eucharistic adoration, and active participation in lay apostolate movements to strengthen the parish.
He encouraged leveraging the parish’s strategic location near Rwanda to promote cross-border trade, self-sustainability, and economic empowerment, and emphasized education as a key aspect of parish growth and evangelization.
He also called on the community to emulate Christ, the Good Shepherd, and practice exemplary leadership at all levels.
Rev. Fr. Barisigara challenged parishioners to work hard and show their commitment.
“You are now a newborn parish. But remember, a baby that does not grow spiritually, mentally, and physically is considered weak. Let us work together for the growth of our faith and development of this new parish,” he said.
Local leaders also commended the milestone. Kabale District LC5 Chairman, Nelson Nshangabasheija, praised Bishop Rubaramira for his visionary leadership and pledged full support to the new parish priest.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the collective efforts of many. Let us continue to work together, supporting one another in faith and love as we build this new parish,” he said.
Kabale Municipality MP Hon. Nicholas Kamara celebrated the erection as a spiritual milestone of growth, faith, and unity.
Ndorwa West County NRM MP Flag Bearer Eliab Naturinda Mporera lauded the parishioners for their vision in propagating Christianity and called for continued collaboration for social and economic transformation.
Kabale District Woman MP Hon. Catherine Atwakiire Ndamira described the parish as a testament to God’s faithfulness, a blessing for spiritual growth, and a step toward economic independence.
She encouraged the community to unite in prayer, love, and development.
Minister of Finance (General Duties) Henry Musasizi also congratulated the parishioners, stating, “Your faith and unity have borne fruit, and this new chapter is truly worth celebrating. May God continue to guide and bless your journey.”
