Diocese of Muhabura gets new Bishop

3 April 2023, 11:05 pm

Byamukama Alozious > byamukamaalozious1993@gmail.com

The third Bishop of the Diocese of Muhabura, the Rt Rev Godfrey Mbitse, has today been consecrated and enthroned in a colourful ceremony at St Andrew’s Cathedral Seseme in Kisoro District.

The Most Rev Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, was the main celebrant while Maj (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, the Vice President of the Republic of Uganda represented President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa as the Chief Guest.

In his message, the Archbishop Kaziimba emphasized the need for unity for service and growth in the Diocese. 

He charged Bishop Mbitse and the people of Muhabura to embrace humility and endurance as they handle clergy and the people of God in the Diocese. He urged them to keep in God’s word, fellowship with believers, and be patient and bold as they preach and teach God’s people.

Archbishop Kaziimba commended Bishop Cranmer and Mama Hope Mugisha for their ministry and for continually laying down their lives for the Diocese. 

Bishop Mugisha, who has retired from active episcopal service, was recognized for his consistent ways and firm grip on the affairs of the Diocese.

President Museveni who was represented by the Vice President commended the Church for being a reliable partner with the government in championing the socio-economic transformation and development of the country.

“I want to thank the Church leaders for using their pulpits to propagate the message of wealth creation at the household level.” President Museveni said.

He added,  “It is important to emphasize to believers that besides seeking after spiritual nourishment from the places of worship, they should also participate in income generating activities to sustain their households. All believers should take the example of Jesus Christ, who besides feeding the hungry, preaching and healing the sick, was also a carpenter.”

In his charge Bishop Mbitse pledged to collaborate with the government to improve standards of Church of Uganda founded schools, uplift health hygiene and sanitation, household income through commercial agriculture, intensive farming and promote food storage and marketing. 

Bishop Mbitse also pledged to enhance human resource development, Environmental protection through afforestation, focus on mission and Evangelism, children ministry, ministry to the youth, men and boy child and complete the construction of new Cathedral under construction.

Bishop Dan Zoreka of the Diocese of Kinkiizi who led Bishop Mbitse’s retreat and was the day’s preacher called upon people of Muhabura to offer their Bishop support and not compare him with his Predecessor.

Hon. Maj Gen Jim Muhwezi, the Minister of Security; Hon Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, the Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs; Hon David Bahati, the Minister of State for Trade; Hon. Okello Machwodogo, the Minister of State for Gender, Hon Henry Musasizi, the Minister of State for Finance among several other dignitaries attended the function.