BUSHENYI: The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has this evening arrived in Bushenyi District to officially open West Ankole Diocese’s 16th Youth and Students Convention.
On his arrival, he was welcomed by the Bishop of West Ankole Diocese, Rt Rev Johnson Twinomujuni, and Maama Joy Twinomujuni; The Very Rev John Namanya Makuru, Dean of St. Peter’s Cathedral Bweranyangi; Resident District Commissioner Mr. Emmy Ngabirano; Chief Administrative Officer Ms. Sanyu Phionah, and other dignitaries.
He was given a guided tour of the newly constructed magnificent Diocesan Secretariat Offices in Bweranyangi by Bishop Johnson Twinomujuni. Bishop Twinomujuni said, their next projects include the construction of a hospital and the renovation of the Diocesan Cathedral.
The convention, held under the theme “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good,” has drawn over 10,000 youth.
Renowned speakers, including Rev Canon Dr. Duncans Mugumya (Commissioner in the Ministry of Education and Sports), Rev Dr. Lydia Kitayimbwa (Chaplain of St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University), Rev Canon Caleb Musinguzi, Ian Abaho, among others are addressing various sessions.
While officially opening the convention this evening, Archbishop Kaziimba commended the Diocese for its exceptional effort in mobilizing youth participation.
“Young people are the backbone of a strong Church and a prosperous nation. Investing in their spiritual and moral growth lays the foundation for a brighter future.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
He encouraged the youth to embrace goodness and resist negativity, and to persevere in the face of challenges.
“Do not accept negative voices that discourage you from doing good. Do not grow weary in doing good. Persist in doing good, even when it’s painful. True goodness requires compassion, persistence, and perseverance.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
He further emphasized the value of enduring short-term discomfort to achieve long-term success.
“There is pressure in reading books—sometimes staying hungry, putting your legs in cold water while reading your books, and foregoing worldly pleasures. But this pressure enables you to focus on future pleasures when you complete your education and start your career,” he said.
The convention is expected to run until Sunday 12th January 2025 with the Diocesan Youth Cup final and departure slated for Monday.
