BUSHENYI- The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has yesterday evening arrived in Bushenyi District to officially open West Ankole Diocese’s 16th Youth and Students Convention.
On his arrival, the Archbishop was welcomed by the Bishop of West Ankole Diocese, Rt Rev Johnson Twinomujuni, and Maama Joy Twinomujuni, the Dean of St. Peter’s Cathedral Bweranyangi, The Very Rev John Namanya Makuru, Resident District Commissioner Emmy Ngabirano and Chief Administrative Officer Ms Sanyu Phionah and other dignitaries.
The Archbishop was given a guided tour of the newly constructed magnificent Diocesan Secretariat Offices in Bweranyangi by Bishop Johnson Twinomujuni and said that their next projects include the construction of a hospital and the renovation of the Diocesan Cathedral.
West Ankole Diocese’s 16th Youth and Students Convention, held under the theme “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good,” has is being attended by over 10,000 Youth.
The Convention will be addressed by renowned speakers who include Rev Canon Dr Duncans Mugumya, the Commissioner in the Ministry of Education and Sports, Rev Dr Lydia Kitayimbwa, the Chaplain of St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Rev Canon Caleb Musinguzi, Ian Abaho, among others are addressing various sessions.
While officially opening the convention, Archbishop Kaziimba commended West Ankole Diocese for its exceptional effort in mobilizing youth participation.
“Young people are the backbone of a strong Church and a prosperous nation. Investing in their spiritual and moral growth lays the foundation for a brighter future.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
He encouraged the youth to embrace goodness and resist negativity, and to persevere in the face of challenges.
“Do not accept negative voices that discourage you from doing good. Do not grow weary in doing good. Persist in doing good, even when it’s painful. True goodness requires compassion, persistence, and perseverance.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
He further emphasized the value of enduring short-term discomfort to achieve long-term success.
“There is pressure in reading books—sometimes staying hungry, putting your legs in cold water while reading your books, and foregoing worldly pleasures. But this pressure enables you to focus on future pleasures when you complete your education and start your career,” he said.
According to the Church of Uganda Communications Officer, Sadiiki Adams Mugume, the convention is expected to run until Sunday 12th January 2025 with the Diocesan Football Youth Cup final and their departure is slated for Monday January 13th 2025.
