Ankole Diocese Appoints 53 Officers to Revitalize Youth Ministry

In a move to combat the dwindling presence of youth in religious services, the Ankole Diocese has officially commissioned 53 new officers for its Boys and Girls Brigade. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure young people remain connected to Christian values and church life.

The newly appointed officers, who represent various archdeaconries, clergy, and educational institutions within the diocese, were ordained on Sunday. Their primary mission is to mentor, instill discipline, and impart essential life skills to the youth, fostering spiritual growth alongside practical development.

Bishop Sheldon Mwesigwa highlighted the growing concern over the diminishing number of young congregants, particularly boys, which he described as a “threat to the future of the gospel.” He emphasized that the revival of the Boys and Girls Brigade is crucial for nurturing Christian values from an early age.

“The task ahead of these officers is to nurture Christian values, discipline, education and responsibility among young people. We need to keep young people in church,” Bishop Mwesigwa stated. The officers are expected to actively mobilize youth, guide them in their spiritual journeys, and equip them with tools for responsible living.

Reverend Canon Agasha Muhwezi, who will be overseeing the program, stressed the need for innovative approaches beyond traditional sermons. “Preaching on the pulpit alone will not bring or keep young people in church. The gospel needs to be appealing,” he remarked. Muhwezi suggested incorporating engaging activities such as football tournaments, music, dance, drama, seminars, and youth camps to attract and spiritually guide the younger generation.

Furthermore, the commissioned officers will be instrumental in organizing fellowships and outreach programs in homes, schools, and communities. The overarching goal, as articulated by Robert Basherure, is to cultivate young men and women of “unquestionable character, embedded in Christian values.”

The Boys and Girls Brigade, an international interdenominational Christian youth organization, has a long-standing history of mentoring young people through faith, discipline, and life skills development. This initiative by Ankole Diocese seeks to leverage this proven model to build a stronger future for its youth ministry.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)