Ugandan Priest Fr. Katongole Appointed to Vatican Dicastery

Reverend Father Emmanuel Katongole has been recognized for his extensive work in theology, peace studies, and environmental stewardship with a new appointment. He is among twelve individuals chosen by Pope Leo XIV to serve as consultors to the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, a significant department dedicated to peace, migration, health, and ecology.

Father Katongole, who is affiliated with the Kampala Archdiocese, is also a professor at the University of Notre Dame in the United States, holding joint appointments with the Keough School of Global Studies and the Kroc Institute for International Studies. His expertise lies in Theology and Peace Studies.

In Uganda, Father Katongole serves as the President of Bethany Land Institute. This organization focuses on engaging young people with the principles of ‘Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ encyclical on care for our common home. The institute’s work is visibly demonstrated in its environmental programs, including the successful rehabilitation of a degraded forest area in Luweero District, now known as Lazarus Forest.

Ordained a priest in 1987, Father Katongole has a long-standing commitment to nature restoration and climate action. He collaborates with international conservationists, drawing inspiration from ‘Laudato Si’ to guide his efforts in environmental preservation. His work at Bethany Land Institute underscores his dedication to ecological renewal.

Father Katongole has also authored several influential publications, including “Who are my people: Love, violence and Christianity in Sub –Saharan Africa” (2022) and “Born from Lament: the theology and politics of Hope in Africa” (2017). The consultors will periodically convene to provide expert advice to the Dicastery, supporting the Pope’s governance of the global Catholic Church.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)