Clare
The clergy population of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese has grown by six priests following today’s ordinations, which saw six deacons elevated to the priesthood and four seminarians admitted to the diaconate.
The ceremony, held at Virika Cathedral, was today presided over by Bishop Robert K. Muhiirwa Akiiki, alongside Bishop Emeritus Joseph Sabiti Mugenyi, clergy, religious, and lay faithful.
The ordained
Those ordained to the priesthood include Rev. Fr. Ajuna Onesmus from Kanyamukale Parish, Rev. Fr. Mugisa Wilfred from Wekomiire Parish, Rev. Fr. Tumwebaze Tom from Butunduzi Parish, Rev. Fr. Ronald Tukahiirwa from Kitagwenda Parish, Rev. Fr. Binta Alexandria Mzee from Yerya Parish, and Rev. Fr. Tushabe Derrick from Kahunge Parish.
Those elevated to the Holy order of diaconate include Rev. Dn. Musiime Vincent from Katoosa Parish, Rev. Dn. Kaijuka Simon Peter from Iboroga Parish, Rev. Dn. Kayonga Henry from Yerya Parish, and Rev. Dn. Kato Robert from Katoosa Parish.
In his homily during the Ordination Mass, Bishop Muhiirwa urged Christians to listen to God’s call and respond positively, just as the newly ordained had done in embracing priesthood and religious life.
He expressed concern over parents who discourage their children from answering God’s call, citing cases of parents who claim they cannot afford seminary education yet enroll their children in expensive schools.
He noted the abundance of work in God’s vineyard amid a shortage of labourers in the Diocese, calling on everyone to support vocations physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Speaking on behalf of the newly ordained, Fr. Wilfred Mugisa commended the parents, formators, and all who had guided them through their long journey to the priesthood. He called on Christians from various parishes to turn out in large numbers to witness the first Masses of their respective candidates.
Mr. Charles Kulibanza, the Diocesan Head of Laity, pledged the continued prayers, support, and cooperation of the faithful for the newly ordained, and commended the parents for allowing their children to answer God’s call to serve.