Christine Nassande and Mordecai Moiti. The two had their introduction ceremony on February 15, 2024. PHOTO/COURTESY
“I never stepped foot in his house until we got married,” says Christine Nassande, reflecting on the foundation of discipline and faith that defined their courtship. Mordecai Moiti and Nassande, now celebrated as one of Mbale City's newest couples, share a love story rooted in patience, faith, and genuine connection. Their journey, which began almost a decade ago, is a testament to enduring love and mutual respect. The couple first crossed paths on a busy day in Kampala, a moment that would unknowingly change their lives forever.
How they met
Moiti recounts the moment he first saw Nassande in 2013. As a third-year law student at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) Kampala campus, he was on his way to an evening class when he noticed a young woman and her siblings struggling to navigate the crowded streets of Namirembe Road.
“I greeted her,” he recalls, “and after she responded positively, I felt an urge to help.” He escorted Nassande and her siblings to the taxi park, ensuring they boarded a vehicle heading to Kajjansi on Entebbe Road. Before they parted ways, he mustered the courage to ask for her telephone number.
Christine, then on her Senior Four vacation, was equally struck by Moiti’s kindness. She was in town with her siblings searching for an A-Level school.
“He was kind and gentle. He asked where we were going and offered to help us find a taxi,” she says. After that encounter, they kept in touch through occasional phone calls and text messages.
Over the next two years, their friendship grew stronger, with both focusing on their respective academic journeys. By 2015, after Christine had completed her A-Level studies, their friendship blossomed into a romantic relationship.
What drew them to each other?
For Moiti, it was Nassande’s kindness and inner beauty that captured his heart. “She is beautiful, both inside and out,” he says with a smile. Nassande, in turn, was drawn to Moiti’s caring nature, deep faith, and, of course, his handsome appearance. She admired his gentle yet principled demeanour, which made her feel secure and valued.
Courtship
The couple’s courtship was built on mutual respect, clear boundaries, and shared faith. They primarily met in public places such as church and on casual dates, as Nassande’s strict upbringing at her father’s home meant she could not visit Moiti’s residence.
“I never went to his house until we were married,” she emphasises, showcasing the disciplined nature of their relationship.
Their decision to marry was not marked by an elaborate proposal. Instead, the couple sat down and mutually agreed that it was time to take their relationship to the next level.
“After dating for years, we both felt ready to commit and build a future together,” they share.
Introduction and wedding
The introduction ceremony was held on February 15, 2024, in Kakiri, Wakiso District. Thanks to their supportive families and friends, all the preparations were seamless.
“We had meetings at Papyrus Guesthouse in Entebbe, where every detail for the ceremony was planned and executed smoothly,” they recall.
Their wedding followed on September 7, 2024, at Gospel Assembly Church International in Mbale. The ceremony, officiated by Rev Dowson Meme, was graced by 400 guests. The couple chose a gold and white theme, symbolising purity and prosperity.
Counselling and lessons learnt
As part of their wedding preparation, Moiti and Nassande attended premarital counselling sessions that left a lasting impact on their approach to marriage.
“We learnt that marriage is built on God,” they say.
The sessions emphasised the importance of patience, communication, and trust in each other and God’s plan.
“We were reminded to produce a godly seed and to rely on God in every process of our marriage,” they add.
Memorable moments
For Moiti, the most emotional moment was watching Christine Walk down the aisle with her father.
“As the song, The Master, played, tears flowed down my cheeks. It was overwhelming to see my bride walking toward me,” he shares.
Nassande’s most cherished moment was exchanging vows. “It was so magical,” she says. “In my heart, I was leaping with joy, knowing that God had done it for me.”
Advice for the young
Moiti encourages young men to marry early, citing Proverbs 18:22: He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favour from the Lord.
“In life, one needs the Lord’s favour, and marriage is one of the ways to receive it,” he says.
Nassande advises young women to prioritise peace and prayerfulness. “Men value women who bring peace into their lives. Beauty is secondary; peace comes first,” she says.
Honeymoon
The couple celebrated their new chapter with a honeymoon in Zanzibar, enjoying the serene beaches and creating unforgettable memories.
Christine and Moiti’s love story is a beautiful reminder of the power of faith, patience, and genuine connection in building a lifelong partnership.
