Clare N
The Bishop of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Robert K. Muhiirwa Akiiki, who also serves as the Vice Chairperson for Communications at the Uganda Episcopal Conference, has encouraged journalists in the Tooro region to focus on stories that promote hope and unity, rather than those that stir conflict and division.
Bishop Muhiirwa made this appeal yesterday while addressing communicators and journalists from across the Diocese, gathered at Katoosa Parish to mark the 59th Diocesan Social Communications Day held under the theme: “Share with gentleness the hope that is within your hearts.”
He explained that World Communications Day, first established in 1967, was intended to inspire reflection on the role of media in society, urging journalists to share truthful and hopeful stories that promote unity and peace in an increasingly troubled world.
Parents advised to be present for their children
The Bishop also encouraged believers to normalize moments of silence during and outside Mass as a way of to listening to the voice of God. He relatedly called on parents to offer more time to their children by actively listening to them and guiding their decisions, rather than leaving them to be shaped solely by easily accessible distractions such as mobile phones.
Tooro Journalists grateful to Fort Portal Diocese
Speaking on behalf of the Tooro Media Practitioners Association (TOMPA) President, Ms. Rhita Kobusinge commended the Diocese for consistently bringing communicators together and reminding them of their important role in society through such annual events.
She urged her colleague journalists to deeply commit to the year’s theme by prioritizing the dissemination of hopeful and constructive information.
Rev. Fr. Peter Kyomuhendo expressed gratitude to all individuals of goodwill who contributed generously toward improving the transport capacity of the diocesan communications office. The fundraising held during the celebration raised UGX 8.7 million.
Mr. Andrew Tibeyalirwa, Director of Honda Uganda and Tooro Royal Cottages, who served as Chief Guest, applauded the efforts of journalists within the Diocese and commended the Diocese for recognizing and supporting them. He contributed UGX 5 million, of which UGX 2 million was in cash, to support the work of the Social Communications office.