NEWS- The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has challenged the youth to embrace the power of scripture for personal and leadership transformation.
The Archbishop made the remarks December 11th 2024, while addressing hundreds of youthful attendees at the official closure of the Provincial Annual Youths and Students Convention (PAYSCO) at Mengo SS where he emphasized that reading and living by the scriptures is a fundamental step in becoming transformational leaders.
“Youth, if you desire to make a significant impact, the scripture must guide your life. It is only through God’s word that you can lead with integrity and purpose,” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
The Archbishop further cautioned the youth about the dangers of undisciplined behavior, bad company, and inappropriate dressing and urged them to maintain a strong moral compass and lead by example.
The three-day convention was officially opened by the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, Rev Canon William Ongeng who emphasized the need to empower young people to take up leadership roles within the church and society at large.
While speaking at the same event renowned Bible Expositor and former Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University, Rev Canon Dr John Senyonyi, challenged participants to embrace leadership as a calling, transforming both themselves and their communities.
Speaking on the topic “A Call to Transformed Leadership,” Rev. Dr. Senyonyi drew from scriptures such as Exodus 3:10 and Isaiah 6:1.
The Chairperson of the Uganda AIDS Commission and former Provincial Mothers Union President of the Church of Uganda, Canon Dr. Ruth Senyonyi, spoke on “The Integrity and Sexual Purity of a Leader,” emphasizing that purity is a core value for any leader, both in their personal life and public service.
The function was also addressed by the Chaplain of St Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Rev Dr Lydia Kitayimbwa who shared on “Generational Challenges and Opportunities of Leadership,” reminding participants of the unique challenges young leaders face and the opportunities available to those who remain faithful.
The participants benefited from Bbira Vocational Training College who equipped the participants with basic skills in bakery, hairdressing, knitting, catering and other vocational skills.
Bbira Vocational Training College Principal, Eng Juliet Nakanjako Ngabirano, said that the training is in line with the College mandate to equip the youth with skills to be job creators and not job seekers.
Throughout the convention, there were engaging activities, including Bible study quiz competitions, team-building games, and Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD) competitions and two smartphones were awarded in a draw for downloading the Church of Uganda App, and two study Bibles were awarded to participants who recited ten Bible verses.
The Youth and Students Coordinator, Rev. Emmanuel Koboi commended the sponsors and the dioceses that sent their youth to the convention, which made this event possible.
“I thank our sponsors and the dioceses for encouraging and facilitating their youth to participate. The participants have greatly benefited from the Bible expositions, practical skilling, networking, teachings, and fellowship, and we are proud of their exemplary moral behavior throughout the convention,” Rev Koboi said.
The Provincial Director of Mission and Outreach, Rev Simon Peter Ddembe Lya Yesu noted that the convention has been a remarkable success.
“The youth have shown a tremendous commitment to learning and spiritual growth. The sessions have equipped them with practical leadership skills and a deeper understanding of their faith. We have witnessed a high standard of moral conduct among the participants, which reflects the impact of the teachings they have received,” Rev Ddembe Rya Yesu said.
According to the Church of Uganda Communications Officer, Sadiiki Adam Mugume, this year’s PAYSCO was held under the theme “Transformed Generation of Leaders,” which wasd drawn from Romans 12:1-2.
