The St. Adolf Kanyabacope Holy Cross Parish in the Fort Portal Diocese has yesterday celebrated its first anniversary with a series of significant events, including the blessing of the Grotto, the consecration of the church and altar, the wedding of three couples, and the confirmation of 339 candidates.
During his inaugural visit to the parish, Rt. Rev. Dr. Robert K. Muhiirwa Akiiki consecrated the Kanyabacope Parish church and its holy altar, symbolically setting them apart for divine purposes and urging the congregation to treat them with due reverence.
The Bishop, who began his visit by blessing the Grotto, praised the parish for its remarkable achievements within just one year. He emphasized the importance of seeking comfort through the intercession of Mother Mary in prayer.
Bishop Muhiirwa in the same Mass administered the sacrament of Confirmation to 339 candidates, encouraging them to embrace the Holy Spirit and its seven gifts. He urged them to open their hearts to God’s guidance and make use of the Holy Spirit’s power. In his message to the newly confirmed, the Bishop emphasized the need to heed the Word of God, as Pope Francis encourages, and to engage in regular and collective prayer. He also advised them to participate in the sacraments of the Eucharist and Penance to remain worthy of God’s love.
The Bishop urged the students among the newly confirmed, who were preparing for their holidays, to resist peer pressure that might lead them away from the truth of God. He recommended they join church groups like Jesus Youth, YCS, Charismatic Renewal, and Xaverian Legionaries to help guide them spiritually and provide mentorship.
Furthermore, Bishop Muhiirwa underscored the importance of students collaborating with their parents in household chores, fostering humility.
Rev. Fr. Ronald Kawooya, the Parish Priest of Kanyabacope, expressed gratitude to the Bishop for his first visit to their parish and for presiding over the four key ceremonies—the blessing of the Grotto, the administration of Confirmation and Holy Matrimony, and the consecration of the Church and altar. He also highlighted the strong teamwork between the parishioners, their priests, the mother parish of Kyarusozi, and the local government.
Patrick Siisa, Chairperson of the Council of Laity, commended the parish’s steady progress and the unwavering support it receives from the Diocese. He congratulated the newly confirmed, celebrating their commitment as firm believers and an important milestone for the parish.
