Clare
After nearly a decade, the Catholic Diocese of Fort Portal has unveiled the long-awaited updated version of the Catechists’ constitution in Runyoro/Rutooro. The revised constitution will reportedly govern Catechists across the Diocese as they carry out their respective duties.
The launch, occurred earlier today during a Catechists meeting held at St. Adolf Ongoing Formation Center in Fort Portal Central Division, officiated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Robert K. Muhiirwa Akiiki, the Bishop of Fort Portal Diocese.
Catechists urged to serve by the Constitution
In his address during the official launch, Bishop Muhiirwa urged Catechists to actively utilize the provided copies of the constitution to navigate modern challenges while staying true to church doctrine, emphasizing its practical application over mere decoration or even keeping them.
He went on to emphasize the importance of regularly updating the constitution to keep pace with evolving times, ensuring that servants of God remain current in their service. He suggested a review every 10 years to ensure its continued relevance.
Bishop Muhiirwa, who appreciated the revised version and the people behind it, is optimistic that it will ease the work of the Catechists to suit the modern times with the evolving world without them getting off truck.
Key revisions revealed
According to Mr. Andrew Baguma, the Diocesan Head Catechist, the decision to update the constitution stemmed from requests by fellow catechists who sought clarity on various issues relevant to modern times. Among the challenges that hindered the service of the Catechists pertinent to the old Constitution, was the available of only a handful copies that could hardly be accessed by majority of them.
The head catechist equally noted that some of the rites of Catechists were not clearly mentioned in the old version of the constitution compared to the updated one.
Baguma, highlighted key revisions, including clarifications on Catechists’ emoluments, duties, and prohibitions, expressing optimism that this clarity will streamline their services, rectifying the ambiguities of the previous constitution.
Rev.Fr. Gerald Akugizibwe, the Pastoral Coordinator of Fort Portal Diocese, who Co-chaired the constitution launch meeting alongside the Head catechist, commended Bishop Muhiirwa for his support in the updating process.
He also thanked Head Catechist Baguma and his committee for their dedicated efforts in producing the updated constitution, urging Catechists to utilize it effectively in their church service.
The meeting saw the participation of 36 Catechists from across the Diocese, marking a significant step forward in governance and clarity within the Catechist communities.
