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.
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