KAMPALA – Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi has said that government appreciates the continued cordial relationship between faith based institutions as well as their contribution to the development of the country.
Speaking during the 54th anniversary commemorations since the founding of Kampala Archdiocese at Sacred Heart Cathedral Lubaga in Kampala, the Vice President said that the Church is very instrumental in spreading the message of hope and in the spirited campaign to reduce the infections of Covid 19 in the communities in laision with guidance of government’ standard operating procedures against the epidemic.
The Vice President emphasized the importance of uniting the people rather than diving them which isn’t a good path towards progress and development of the country.
Ssekandi said that the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda mandates elections every after five years and called upon the people to observe peace and love since the country must move on past the election time and further reminded Ugandans to practise the country’s motto “For God and My Country” as we each enjoy the life given to us by God.
The Katikiro of Buganda in a speech read for him by Dr. Prosperous Nnankindu Kavuma Buganda Minister for Education, Health and Women and Minister in the Office of the Nnabagereka said that Kampala Archdiocese is very significant as far as the portrayal of the Catholic Church in Uganda is concerned.
Katikiro Mayiga hailed the services of the Catholic Church in spiritual nourishment and building a holistic person for the wellbeing of society.
He hailed the conspicuous leadership of the Catholic Church in Uganda which has blossomed in a number of enterprises from banks, schools, hospitals and other businesses.
Kampala Archdiocese Bishop Dr. Cypriam Kizito Lwanga urged the faithful against underestimating the power and relevance of the church especially the core family unit in the home that propels togetherness, love and tranquility.
Bishop Lwanga prayed for the past and present clergy that are close to 300 who have served in various capacities in the diocese, that they are blessed by God who called them to serve and preach the Gospel.
Bishop Kizito welcomed the reconciliation efforts by the Uganda Police Force about the recent disrespectful and disruption of the thanksgiving holy mass of the Mbogo clanmates in Mityana recently.
The Prelate said that after santifying the Holy Eucharist during mass is the epitome of the Catholic faith since the presence of Jesus Christ is felt and is real.
He called on leaders in the police force to respect inherent rights like freedom of worship.
Archbishop Kizito Lwanga urged government to revisit the 70 people guidance in worship places amidst covid 19 stating that some churches capacity may be over 2000 worshipers and enforcing social distancing can well be observed with half the capacity number of Christians.