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.
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