Clare N
There was great joy today at Virika Cathedral in Fort Portal, as the Institute of the Brothers of St. Joseph the Worker (BSW) welcomed seven young men into religious life, while three brothers made their perpetual vows.
The newly professed brothers, who took their first vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, include: Rev. Bro.Josephat Aharimpitsya from Mbarara Archdiocese; Bro.Joseph Mugenyi from Kitumbi Parish in Fort Portal Diocese; Bro.Alfred Tumukunde from Mbarara Archdiocese; Bro. Sande Peter from Lwamata in Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese; Bro. Emmanuel Mujuzi from Masaka Diocese; and Bro.Chrispus Atwebembeire from Mbarara Archdiocese.
In the same celebrations brother Damiano Twagiraye, Brother Ndihabwe Damian, and Brother Turyamwijuka Alex made their perpetual vows, committing themselves fully to lifelong service in the Church.
Presiding over the celebration, the Bishop of Fort Portal, Rt. Rev. Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki Kasaija, called on Christians to respond generously to God’s call, just as the newly professed brothers have done.
He encouraged parents to guide their children in discerning their vocation in life.
The Bishop also urged the brothers to remain faithful to their vows by embracing a life of prayer, community, and simplicity, following the example of Christ and their patron, St. Joseph the Worker, through dedication to hard work and service.
Speaking on behalf of the parents, Mr. Francis Baguma, father of Bro.Joseph Mugenyi, expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to the congregation for nurturing the young men. He called on fellow parents to support and inspire vocations among the youth.
Representing the newly professed and those who made final vows, Bro. Damiano Ndihabwe thanked God for the gift of vocation and acknowledged the support of the Church, family, and the congregation.
He encouraged his fellow brothers to remain steadfast in prayer and commitment to their calling.
The Supreme Moderator of the Institute of St. Joseph the Worker, Bro. Eugene Bwambale Africano, praised the Bishop for his guidance and support.
He noted that the addition of new members brings renewed energy and commitment to evangelization, inspiring many young people to consider religious life.