The government has urged members of the clergy to remain committed to preparing for a well-earned retirement, thereby preventing any potential burden on society.
This message was conveyed by the Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, Joyce Nabbosa Sebugwawo, during the 4th Clergy Appreciation and Awards Dinner Gala held at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala.
The event’s theme focused on recognizing clergy for their unwavering resilience, love, and steadfast leadership in an ever-evolving world.
The minister introduced the second edition of the Life and Ministry Journal, authored by the outgoing Bishop of Busoga Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Moses Samson Naimanhye, which chronicles the clergyman’s journey in life and ministry, along with a donation of shs500,000/= to support printing costs.
Sebugwawo commended Bishop Naimanhye for his exemplary leadership within both the church and the broader community, emphasizing the government’s appreciation for the clergy’s contributions and wishing him a fulfilling retirement.
The keynote address was delivered by Rt. Rev. Prof. Joseph Galgalo, the visiting Provincial Secretary of the Anglican Province of Kenya and Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi.
Sebugwawo generously contributed Shs5 million to the Clergy Appreciation Commission, an organization dedicated to recognizing and honoring clergy members who provide exceptional service to their church communities.
Prof. Galgalo commended Bishop Naimanhye and the leadership of the Anglican Church of Uganda for their exemplary work, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong, collaborative relationship for the benefit of both nations in the East African community.
The dinner event was designed to inspire and deepen the understanding of the clergy’s vital role in various communities, as they serve as pillars of faith and are integral to the life experiences of believers.
Bishop Naimanhye highlighted the necessity for society to acknowledge the significant contributions of clergy, who provide spiritual guidance and healing to their congregations. He stressed that, by working together as stakeholders, they can foster lasting peace within their communities.
Isaac Sengonzi, the National Coordinator of the Clergy Appreciation Commission, pointed out that while clergy engage in counseling and address various community challenges, they too face personal struggles that deserve recognition from stakeholders.
The commission aims to support clergy in fulfilling their calling effectively, ensuring their relevance despite the challenges they encounter. Sengonzi remarked that this dinner serves as a valuable platform for clergy, sponsors, and all Christians to learn from one another, network, share ideas, and exchange experiences on navigating the unique opportunities and challenges faced by clergy in their service to the community.
