Clare
There was great joy and celebration at Virika Cathedral in Fort Portal City as Rev. Sr. Agnes Atugonza, CSC, from Kyarusozi Parish, made her perpetual vows in the Congregation of the Sisters of Holy Cross. By processing the vows of chastity, poverty, and Obedience Agnes committed her life entirely to the service of God.
The function was presided over by the Bishop of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Robert K.Muhiirwa Akiiki and graced by Rev. Sr. Taposi Gomes, CSC, the General Treasurer, religious fathers, brothers, and sisters from the Holy Cross congregation, diocesan priests, members of various religious communities, and many other faithful.
While presiding over the Holy Mass to mark this sacred occasion, Bishop Muhiirwa reflected on Sr. Agnes’s vocation journey that was inspired by Fr. James Burasa, CSC, the Parish Priest of Kyarusozi, whose example encouraged her to pursue a religious calling.
The Bishop urged successful priests, religious men and women to return to their communities to help cultivate faith and inspire the youth who are discerning similar paths. He emphasized the pressing need for more vocations today, reminding them that “the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.”
Bishop Muhiirwa also offered a brief reflection on the meaning of the three religious vows and commended Sr. Agnes for her courageous and faithful response to God’s call. He encouraged the congregation to continue praying for her, that she may fulfill her mission of bringing hope during this Jubilee Year of Hope, as declared by Pope Francis.
Bishop equally called on the faithful to pray for young people who feel drawn to religious life but may be discouraged by the human weaknesses of some religious leaders.
Sr. Agnes’s parents Mr and Mrs, Rwomubanyoro Steven expressed deep gratitude to Fr. James Burasa for his role in guiding and mentoring their daughter through youth initiatives such as the Xaverian Movement, which helped strengthen her faith. They also thanked the Congregation of Holy Cross for accepting and forming her and asked for continued prayers as she embarks on her lifelong journey in religious life.
In her own words, Sr. Agnes Atugonza, CSC, conveyed heartfelt thanks to her parents, friends, and fellow CSC members for their love and unwavering support. She expressed special appreciation to Bishop Muhiirwa for his presence and spiritual guidance and humbly asked for continued prayers as she walks her path of serving God.
Founded in 1837 by Blessed Basil Moreau, the Congregation of the Sisters of Holy Cross is a community of religious women committed to addressing the challenges of the times through education, social justice, healthcare, and pastoral ministry.
In Uganda, the Sisters are present in Gulu, Kampala, Fort Portal (Kyarusozi)& Virika, and Jinja. The congregation currently includes 23 sisters serving in Uganda and a total of 44 across Africa.
