Canon Ssewannyana bids farewell to St. James Bwebajja as they raise over 100million shillings to construct a new church.

There was a unique blend of joy, gratitude and emotion at St. James Bwebajja Church of Uganda on Sunday, 26th July 2026, as Christians gathered to celebrate their patron saint, St. James. The colourful occasion also became a heartfelt farewell celebration for Venerable Canon Emmanuel Kenneth Ssewanyana, who used what was one of his final visits as Archdeacon to leave the congregation with a powerful message of faith, peace and hope.

Standing before a packed church, Canon Ssewanyana reflected on 34 years of ordained ministry, not by recounting achievements, but by sharing moments that had strengthened his faith in

 God's power.

One testimony especially captivated the congregation. He recalled ministering alongside an Archdeacon to a Christian who was possessed by evil spirits. As they prayed with unwavering faith, he boldly declared, "If there is any evil spirit here with power, let it come out."

To everyone's amazement, the spirit responded, "I have come out because you called me." After several hours of fervent prayer, the evil spirit finally surrendered, saying in Luganda, "Tugende, tetujja kubasobola" ("Let us leave; we cannot overcome them.").

The testimony stirred the congregation, who spontaneously broke into the beloved East African Revival anthem, "Tukutendereza Yesu," filling the church with songs of praise.

"I preach to you what I have personally witnessed and experienced," Canon Ssewanyana told the worshippers, reminding them that the Gospel is not merely theory but the living power of God.

Preaching from Judges 11, he shifted his message to Uganda's need for peace. He expressed concern about growing divisions and conflicts, urging leaders and citizens alike to reject hostility and embrace reconciliation.

"Be at peace with your neighbour. Be at peace with your wife," he repeatedly appealed.

He challenged those who struggle to accept defeat, asking why people find it difficult to make peace even after disagreements or competition. Referring to the country's political environment, he encouraged all Ugandans, regardless of political affiliation, to pursue peaceful dialogue rather than conflict.

He prayed that Uganda would never reach a point where citizens would cry out for God to judge between opposing sides, but instead become a nation known for resolving differences peacefully.

Turning his attention to families, Canon Ssewanyana urged young people to honour God by abstaining from sexual relationships until marriage. He also encouraged mothers never to discriminate against children, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, reminding the congregation that every child is precious before God.

In one of the day's most touching moments, the Canon publicly thanked his wife, Christina, for remaining faithfully by his side during one of the most serious illnesses of his life.

"Keep your promises until the end," he encouraged, speaking from personal experience and gratitude.

His heartfelt words deeply moved the congregation. When the altar call was made, 30 people surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ, making the celebration not only a remembrance of St. James but also a day of new beginnings for many believers.

The day's celebrations also looked beyond the present. Dr. Robinah Kyeyune, the Head of Laity, unveiled architectural plans for a new church building expected to begin next year. The vision inspired generous giving as members, guests and friends responded enthusiastically during a fundraising drive led by Mr. Kisugga.

By the close of the celebrations, more than UGX 100 million had been pledged, alongside 50 bags of cement, providing a strong foundation for the long-awaited construction project.

The Parish Priest of Kitende Parish, Rev. Samuel Muwonge, thanked the congregation for their overwhelming generosity and urged Christians to honour the pledges they had made so that construction of the new church building could begin immediately. He challenged believers to translate their promises into action, saying that every contribution would help turn the vision of a new sanctuary into reality.

The congregation now eagerly awaits September, when the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt. Rev. Moses Banja, is expected to officially break the ground for the new church building.

 

St. Barnabas Namulanda Celebrates Mary Magdalene's day with an inspiring story.

Just 12 miles from Kampala, along the busy Entebbe Road, stands the quiet community of Namulanda. A short distance from the highway, tucked away about 300 metres into the trading centre, is the modest St. Barnabas Namulanda Church of Uganda—a place where ordinary people gather every Sunday in search of hope, fellowship and God's word.

On Sunday, 26th July 2026, the church came alive as worshippers streamed in from all directions. Some walked gracefully through the neighbourhood, others arrived on motorcycles, while a few drove in with their families. Despite their different backgrounds and means of transport, they were united by one purpose—to worship God and celebrate St. Mary Magdalene's Day, the patronal celebration of the Christian Women Fellowship (CWF).

The day's guest preacher, Mubuulizi Rose Kyofuna Afaayo, a Lay Reader from St. Mark's Church of Uganda, Zzana, captivated the congregation with a moving message about one of the Bible's most remarkable women.

Drawing from Luke 8:1–3, Mubuulizi Rose described Mary Magdalene as a living testimony that no life is beyond God's power to restore. She explained that the Church of Uganda honours Mary Magdalene as the patron saint of the Christian Women Fellowship because her life demonstrates the transforming grace of God.

"Mary is a school of spiritual restoration," she said, encouraging worshippers to believe that no past is too broken for Christ to redeem.

She explained that Mary came from Magdala, a prosperous fishing town, and that before encountering Jesus, she lived a troubled life.

 According to the biblical account, Jesus delivered her from seven demons, marking the beginning of a complete transformation. From that moment, Mary abandoned her former way of life and devoted herself entirely to following Christ.

Mubuulizi Rose reminded the congregation that while fear caused many of Jesus' disciples to flee during His crucifixion, Mary Magdalene remained faithful. She stood at the cross, witnessed His burial, and became the first person to encounter the risen Christ. Her unwavering devotion, she said, was born out of deep gratitude for what Jesus had done in her life.

"She stayed because she understood the value of her salvation," the preacher noted. "Her story teaches us that those who truly experience God's grace remain faithful even in difficult moments."

The message resonated deeply with many in the congregation, especially members of the Christian Women Fellowship, who celebrated their patron saint not merely as a historical figure but as an example of courage, faithfulness and transformed living.

Beyond the celebration, the church continues to impact the local community through practical initiatives.

 St. Barnabas Namulanda is currently undertaking a CWF decoration project while also supporting a youth income-generating venture that hires out event chairs and tables.

Speaking after the service, Mubuulizi David Bulega Sekitooleko appealed to worshippers and well-wishers to support the Christian Women Fellowship in its ongoing projects, saying their contributions would strengthen both the ministry and the church's service to the community.

"We Have a Chaplain Without a Chapel": Students' Remark Inspires Bishop Banja's Appeal for a School Chapel at Kitende Secondary School

A simple but heartfelt response from students at Kitende Secondary School became the defining moment of Bishop Rt. Rev. Moses Banja's pastoral visit, as he challenged the school community to build a permanent chapel for worship.

During his visit to the school, where he confirmed students into the Anglican faith, the Bishop commended the school's commitment to Christian fellowship but noted that holding services on the school playground was both inconvenient and costly.

Drawing comparisons with schools such as Mengo Senior School, King's College Budo, and Gayaza High School, which all have dedicated chapels, Bishop Banja asked the students what Kitende Secondary School had. Their spontaneous reply brought smiles across the congregation: "We have a chaplain without a chapel."

Touched by their response, the Bishop appealed to the Board of Governors to make the construction of a school chapel a priority beginning next year. He emphasized that a chapel would provide students with a permanent place for prayer, worship, and spiritual growth.

Preaching from Mark 8:1–9, the account of Jesus feeding the four thousand, Bishop Banja reminded the congregation that Christ's compassion extends to every human need. He said Jesus' love is unconditional and has the power to transform lives, lifting those considered insignificant into people of great purpose and turning weakness into strength.

"The moment you speak to Jesus," he told the students, "He can change every situation for good."

The Bishop also shared a personal testimony, revealing that he had recently been struggling with severe sciatic nerve pain that had left him with sleepless nights. However, after praying the previous evening, he experienced relief. His testimony encouraged students to trust God even in difficult circumstances.

Speaking to parents and teachers, Bishop Banja urged them to continue supporting students academically by encouraging disciplined study and hard work as they prepare for their end-of-year examinations.

Reflecting on his own days as a teacher at Gayaza High School, he recalled spending countless sleepless nights preparing lessons. His dedication became so well known that students coined the expression "to Banjarize," meaning working tirelessly through the night in pursuit of excellence.

Addressing the godparents of the newly confirmed students, the Bishop reminded them that they had accepted a sacred responsibility to nurture the young Christians in faith, guiding and supporting them throughout their lives.

As he concluded his sermon, Bishop Banja made an altar call. More than 300 students responded by giving their lives to Jesus Christ, marking a powerful moment of spiritual renewal that many present will remember for years to come.

The service was attended by the Dean St. Paul's Cathedral Namirembe The Very Rev. Can. Dunstan Kiwanuka Mazinga, Diocesan Secretary Rev. Can. Henry Ssegawa, Entebbe Archdeacon Ven. Can Henry Segawa,  Namirembe Diocesan Education Secretary and Archdeacon of Kazo Ven. Can David Mpagi, Kitende Parish Priest Rev. Samuel Muwonge, Rev. Kato Lubwama,  Rev. Katuba and Rev. Mpoza plus a number of Lay Readers from Kitende Parish.

There was also dedication of Senior four and senior six students.

A Life That Defied Every Prediction: Giving Thanks for 71 Years of God's Faithfulness

Maama Mary is a living testimony of God's never ceasing steadfast love and His never ending new mercies every morning.

The thanksgiving celebration at St. Stephen's Kitende Church of Uganda marked more than just 71 years of life—it was a powerful testimony of God's unfailing faithfulness.

According to her daughter, Maama Mary was born into a large family in Bukerere. Tragically, one after another, her siblings died before reaching the age of 12. As the years passed, many people in the village believed that she too would meet the same fate. Few expected her to live beyond childhood.

Yet God had a different plan.

Against all expectations, she grew into adulthood and eventually became the only surviving child from her family. Even after she got married and welcomed her first child, the voices of doubt continued. Some villagers predicted that neither she nor her baby would survive.

But once again, God proved Himself faithful.

Today, at the age of 71, Maama stands as a living testimony of God's sustaining grace. Surrounded by her children, grandchildren, relatives, and friends, the family gathered not merely to celebrate a birthday, but to return thanks to God for a life that has overcome every prediction of despair.

Her journey reminds us that God's plans are greater than human expectations. What people declared impossible, God turned into a remarkable testimony of hope, preservation, and enduring faithfulness.

MERCY ON THE HILL: Hundreds Gather at St. Stephen's Kitende to Celebrate God's Faithfulness and Look Ahead with Hope

By Our Staff Writer

The first rays of the morning sun had barely broken over Kitende Hill when Christians began streaming towards St. Stephen's Church of Uganda. Dressed in colourful cultural attire, families, friends and worshippers climbed the hill with hearts full of gratitude, united by one purpose—to thank God for His faithfulness during the first half of 2026.

Perched high above the surrounding communities of Kajjansi, Kigo, Seguku, Nakigalala, Kitovu and Bwebajja, the church became a beacon of praise as voices rose in worship, thanksgiving and joyful song.

It was more than another Sunday service. For many, simply being present was a testimony that God had carried them through six months filled with both blessings and challenges.

There were three services the first one was in Luganda, the second was in English and the third one was in Luganda. Being a cultural Sunday,  the reading was done in various languages making people feel at home after listening to their mother tongue at Kitende.

Different church choirs filled the sanctuary with uplifting hymns of thanksgiving, drawing the congregation into heartfelt worship. As familiar choruses echoed through the church, many raised their hands in praise, celebrating God's unfailing love and endless compassion.

"We Are Alive Because of God's Mercy"

Preaching during the Thanksgiving Service, the guest preacher, Rev. Nathan Mulondo, Parish Priest of Kiweesa Parish in Mityana Diocese, delivered a sermon centred on Jeremiah 3:23, reminding Christians that every new day is evidence of God's mercy.

"For us to be alive today is not because of our own strength or goodness. It is because of God's mercy."

— Rev. Nathan Mulondo

Rev. Mulondo challenged the congregation to reflect on the countless ways God continues to show favour despite human weakness.

He observed that people often fall short of God's expectations, yet His mercy continues to restore, sustain and bless them.

Using the well-loved Luganda hymn 302 – Kisaakyo Tekitegeerekeka ("Beyond All Knowledge, Lord, Your Love Is Divine"), he carefully unpacked each stanza, illustrating how God's love reaches beyond human understanding.

The message struck a personal chord with many worshippers, who quietly reflected on the journeys God had brought them through during the first six months of the year.

Mercy in Everyday Life

Rev. Mulondo encouraged Christians not to overlook God's hand in their daily lives.

He reminded business owners, professionals and families that their continued survival, provision and success are not simply the result of hard work but are clear evidence of God's sustaining mercy.

"Even the businesses that continue to stand today do so because of God's mercy, which we can never fully comprehend."

— Rev. Nathan Mulondo

He concluded by praying that the remaining months of 2026 would be marked by greater testimonies, stronger faith and God's continued favour upon His people.

Building God's House Together

The thanksgiving celebration also became an opportunity to look to the future.

Addressing the congregation, the Parish Priest of St. Stephen's Kitende Church of Uganda, Rev. Samuel Muwonge, announced the launch of a fundraising campaign to install marble flooring in the church under construction.

Beginning Sunday, 19th July 2026, Christians will have the opportunity to sponsor marble tiles at UGX 100,000 per square metre.

In an encouraging announcement, Rev. Muwonge revealed that Mengo Senior School had pledged to sponsor the marble flooring for the church altar.

"As we thank God for what He has done, let us also participate in building His house for generations to come."

— Rev. Samuel Muwonge

He invited every Christian, family and well-wisher to prayerfully contribute towards completing the sanctuary.

A Service Filled with Hope

The service was attended by Rev. Christopher Kato Lubwama and Mubuulizi Christopher Nsereko of St. Stephen's Kitende Church of Uganda.

As the congregation dispersed after worship, they left with memories of beautiful music and inspiring preaching. They departed with renewed hope, reminded that God's mercies are indeed new every morning and that His faithfulness continues from generation to generation.

When Fathers Took Their Place: A Sunday of Love, Laughter and a Call to Lead

 By Staff Writer 

The smiles said it all. 

As couples walked hand in hand into St. Stephen's Kitende Church of Uganda, it was difficult to tell whether they were celebrating a church service or reliving the joy of their wedding day. Dressed in immaculate white Fathers' Union tunics, dark jackets and royal blue sashes, the men proudly escorted their wives, who looked elegant in snow-white gomesi adorned with matching blue sashes. Others wore colourful kitenge fabrics bearing the emblems of their respective Married Fellowship groups.

The atmosphere was filled with warmth and affection. Throughout the service, husbands leaned towards their wives, whispering a few words before both burst into gentle laughter. Whatever they shared remained their little secret, but it was a reminder that strong marriages are built on friendship, love and shared moments.

The procession of Fathers' and Mothers' Union members, walking hand in hand into the sanctuary, transported many back to the day they stood before God and exchanged their marriage vows.

The day's theme, "Buli mbeera yonna ezitowa mu kkanisa buvunanyizibwa bw'abasajja okugiggyamu" (Every difficult situation facing the Church is the responsibility of men to overcome), challenged fathers to rediscover their God-given role as spiritual leaders, providers and protectors.

Delivering the sermon, lay evangelist Christopher Lukabwe from Kayunga Parish near Wakiso presented the Apostle Peter as the perfect model for Christian fathers. He described Peter as a man who never ran away from difficult situations and urged men to emulate his courage.

"When the Church of Uganda chose Peter as the patron saint of the Fathers' Union, it was intentional," Lukabwe said. "Peter remained close to Jesus even in difficult moments. Men today should also stand firm whenever the Church faces challenges."

He reminded the congregation how Peter healed the lame beggar at the temple gate, not by giving him money, but by speaking healing in the name of Jesus Christ. Likewise, he said, today's fathers must rise above merely identifying problems and instead become instruments of God's solutions.

Lukabwe encouraged men to become active evangelists, saying the newly constructed church building would only be filled if fathers took responsibility for winning souls to Christ. In a light-hearted but passionate appeal, he also encouraged families to embrace children as a blessing, saying thriving Christian homes help build a thriving Church.

Drawing from the miraculous catch of fish, he noted that while others reasoned according to human logic, Peter obeyed Christ's instructions. That simple act of faith, he said, should inspire fathers to trust God even when circumstances seem impossible.

Earlier in the service, Rev. Christopher Kato Lubwama baptised a child and used the occasion to remind the congregation that the Church continues to grow through faithful families.

"A river that stops flowing eventually dries up," he said. "I thank God that more people continue to be added to His Church."

Rev. Lubwama challenged men to work diligently, build stable homes and reject idleness. He warned that poverty often begins with an unwillingness to work and observed that gambling and endless idle conversations have robbed many men of their potential.

He also urged parents to raise hardworking and responsible children, wondering why some young people are unable to perform simple household chores despite growing up in comfortable homes.

"The role of a father is not only to provide," he said. "It is also to nurture, guide and prepare children for life."

As the service drew to a close, Parish Priest Rev. Samuel Muwonge brought smiles across the congregation when he entered carrying two footballs. One was presented to the Fathers' Union and the other to the Mothers' Union as he announced an evening football match between the clergy and lay readers against members of the Fathers' Union.

The announcement was greeted with excitement and laughter, reflecting his belief that fellowship extends beyond the church walls.

"Sports promote unity, health and fellowship among believers," Rev. Muwonge said.

He also appealed to fathers to lead by example by bringing their children to church rather than allowing them to drift to other places of worship.

The service concluded with one of its most touching moments. Husbands and wives turned to face one another and prayed together, asking God to strengthen their marriages, deepen their love and help them remain faithful to the vows they had made years before.

It was more than a Fathers' Union celebration. It was a reminder that when fathers embrace their calling as spiritual leaders, loving husbands and responsible parents, families flourish—and so does the Church.

Tears, Reflection and a Call to Humility as Worshippers Gather for National Repentance

The midday silence at St. Stephen's Kitende Church of Uganda was broken by songs of praise as believers gathered for the weekly Lunch Hour Fellowship on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The service coincided with Uganda's Anglican Church marking 149 years since the arrival of Christianity, turning what would have been an ordinary lunch-hour gathering into a deeply reflective moment.

What began with joyful worship soon transformed into an emotional service of repentance, soul-searching and prayer for the nation.

Standing before a quiet congregation, Rev. Samuel Muwonge announced that the day's gathering would be unlike the usual Bible teaching sessions. Instead, he invited worshippers to embark on a journey of personal and national repentance. He directed the congregation to study several passages of Scripture—including Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Proverbs, Acts and 2 Peter—after the service, saying they carried timeless lessons about humility, obedience and God's judgment.

At the heart of the service was a simple but powerful prayer that echoed through the church.

"Dear Lord God, save my family, save my village, save my country."

The words were repeated with conviction as worshippers bowed their heads, many praying quietly for their homes and for Uganda.

Rev. Muwonge explained that he had dedicated the week to teaching about the destructive consequences of pride. Drawing lessons from biblical history, he reminded the congregation that no nation, institution or individual is too powerful to fall.

"Many nations have fallen because of pride," he said. "Many people rise through God's grace, but when they forget Him and begin to exalt themselves, a great fall follows."

Throughout his sermon, he challenged political leaders, church leaders and ordinary citizens alike to recognise that positions of influence are gifts from God rather than personal achievements. He warned against taking divine grace for granted, saying history repeatedly shows that pride often comes before destruction.

Using biblical accounts such as Noah's generation, Sodom and Gomorrah, and the life of Lot, Rev. Muwonge painted a picture of societies that ignored God's warnings until judgment came. Yet amid the warnings, he also offered hope, reminding believers that God always preserves those who remain faithful.

Turning his attention to modern Uganda, the preacher spoke passionately about what he described as growing moral decay. He lamented corruption, bribery, tribalism and nepotism, saying these practices continue to rob deserving people of opportunities while weakening the nation's institutions.

He also expressed concern over unethical behaviour in workplaces, homes and even within sections of the Church, urging Christians to reject compromise and pursue integrity.

"The solution begins with repentance," he told the congregation. "When God's people humble themselves and seek Him, He can heal the land."

Rev. Muwonge further cautioned Christians to remain grounded in Scripture, warning against religious leaders who, in his view, have abandoned biblical teaching in favour of motivational messages that lack spiritual depth.

As he continued preaching, the atmosphere inside the church grew increasingly emotional. His voice softened as he recalled incidents of cruelty and injustice in Uganda, including the public humiliation of vulnerable individuals.

 Overcome with emotion, tears filled his eyes as he appealed to God for mercy upon the nation.

The congregation listened in silence. Some bowed their heads in prayer while others quietly wiped away tears.

Quoting Proverbs 29:23—"Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honour"—

Rev. Muwonge urged families to cultivate humility in their daily relationships. He encouraged wives to respect their husbands regardless of financial circumstances, advised children to honour their parents, and reminded church ministers, choir members and public servants that pride has destroyed many promising lives and institutions.

At  the end of the service, Rev. Muwonge led worshippers in a public confession of Uganda's sins, asking God to forgive the nation, restore righteousness and raise a generation marked by humility rather than self-exaltation.