Lugazi gets new bishop
New Bishop of Lugazi Diocese Christopher Kakooza (L) receives car keys from Vice President Edward Ssekandi after his installation at the weekend. President Museveni donated the vehicle to the bishop. PHOTO BY DENIS EDEMA.
What you need to know:
Bishop Christopher Kakooza prays for courage so that he may serve with justice and bring development.
The Rt Rev Christopher Kakooza has been consecrated as the new Bishop of Lugazi Diocese, taking over from the Rt Rev Matthias Ssekamanya, now known as Bishop Emeritus (honours for a retired bishop) who retired last year.
Bishop Kakooza, who was appointed by Pope Francis in November 4 last year, has been the Auxiliary Bishop of Kampala Archdiocese.
During the installation presided over by Archbishop of Kampala, Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, at the weekend, President Museveni urged the Church to fight against corruption.
“I call upon the church to fight corruption. I also urge the youth to be accountable,” the President said in a message read by Vice President Edward Ssekandi.
In his affirmatory message, Bishop Kakooza said he was delighted to join God’s family in Lugazi to preach the gospel of Christ.
“With you, we shall continue to work in service of reconciliation and justice. I am happy to join you to go forth to proclaim Jesus’ name and tell those who don’t know him that he loves them,” Bishop Kakooza said.
He prayed to God for courage and enthusiasm so that he may serve with justice to bring development and peace in families and the world.
Emmanuel Cardinal Wamala, the Papal Nuncio Archbishop Michael Blume, several bishops and priests were also present.
Archbishop Blume urged the diocese to support Bishop Kakooza.
“Help him to be a loving father and brother to those God entrusts to him, first of all, his priests as well as for the poor, the defenseless, those who need the loving touch of Christ and an open ear,” he said.
Pledge support
Welcomed: Bishop Emeritus Ssekamanya, the pioneer Bishop of diocese since February 1997, welcomed his successor and pledged to work with him for the benefit of the people and Church. “We are ready to be fed by you with the word of God. Don’t fear; we are with you and we shall always give you company,” Bishop Ssekamanya said. Lauded: Archdiocese Lwanga expressed gratitude to the Emeritus Bishop Ssekamanya for developing the diocese, citing the construction of Lugazi Cathedral, Buvuma Parish Church, Lugazi Presbytery, St Paul Catholic Church and an administrative block.
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