New Priests Urged to Serve All Impartially, Combat Poverty

Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha of Mbarara has called upon 24 newly ordained priests and deacons to embody the selfless service of Jesus Christ. During an ordination Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral in Nyamitanga, the Archbishop stressed the importance of transforming lives without discrimination, urging the clergy to be unified through Christ and the Holy Spirit.

He encouraged the new shepherds to remain steadfast in the gospel of truth, serving God’s flock with joy, unwavering faith, and hope. They were advised against serving conflicting interests, instead focusing on spreading God’s word through their actions.

Echoing these sentiments, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, who was the chief guest, urged the clergy to foster unity and community transformation irrespective of religious affiliation. He also called on church leaders to ensure that church projects benefit all community members and to actively support government efforts in combating poverty and corruption.

Local legislator Charles Ngabirano expressed his belief that the new priests would play a vital role in guiding communities out of poverty through development initiatives, mentioning a church-started coffee project as an example of dual spiritual and physical development.

Former Mbarara City Woman MP Ritah Bwahika Atukwasa congratulated the ordained and appealed to communities to welcome and support them, noting that priests often lack salaries and rely on community support for their daily needs. She also implored the priests to champion government programs aimed at improving livelihoods, such as promoting coffee farming and backyard gardens.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/newly-ordained-priests-urged-to-serve-with-impartiality-5551896