The Parish Priest of Rushoroza Cathedral Parish and Director for Liturgy and Catechesis in Kabale Diocese, Rev. Fr. Christmas P. Austen, has urged Christians to embrace sacrificial love and genuine service to others as a true expression of their faith.
Delivering his homily on Thursday evening during the Holy Thursday Mass at Our Lady of Good Shepherd Rushoroza Cathedral in Kabale Municipality, Fr. Austen reminded Christians that true love demands sacrifice and humility. The Mass, which marked the beginning of the Paschal Triduum, was presided over by the Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Callist Rubaramira.
Reflecting on the significance of Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday or the Thursday of the Lord’s Supper, Fr. Austen noted that the day commemorates Jesus Christ’s Last Supper with His apostles and the washing of the disciples’ feet.
He emphasized that God demonstrated genuine love for humanity through sacrifice, explaining that despite mankind’s sinfulness, God’s love remained constant, ultimately giving His only Son for the salvation of the world.
Fr. Austen challenged believers to examine their attitudes toward responsibility and service, observing that many people seek recognition and benefits but are unwilling to make sacrifices for others.
To illustrate his message, he cited a recent incident in which a school child fell ill with typhoid. According to the priest, when contacted, the father declined responsibility and instead asked the school to reach out to the child’s struggling mother to provide transport for treatment. He said such behavior reflects a lack of responsibility and genuine love.
He further encouraged Christians to reflect on their own shortcomings before judging others, noting that many are quick to point out the faults of their neighbors while ignoring their own. Fr. Austen stressed that building a better Church and community begins with personal transformation and a sincere commitment to loving and serving others.
He called on believers to pray for the grace to love and serve others as they would wish to be loved and served, emphasizing that true love is costly and requires sacrifice.
CUE IN FR. CHRISTMAS… ON THE MATTER… RR/ENG//
The Holy Thursday Mass commemorates the institution of the Eucharist and marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, the most sacred period in the Christian liturgical calendar, leading to the celebration of Christ’s resurrection.
