The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, has emphasized the importance of spiritual reflection, unity, and surrendering to Jesus as the true source of salvation.
While delivering his Christmas message at his official residence in Namirembe, Kampala on Tuesday morning, Kazimba called for unity among lay and clergy leaders in the diocese in order to navigate this challenging period.
He called for a transformation in the country, starting with individuals and families recognizing the need for Jesus’ guidance and reminded Ugandans that they cannot save themselves, except they surrender to Jesus as the true savior.
“As we come to the end of the year, we can see how many of us have tried to save ourselves from the challenges we face in our lives. We have tried to be our own saviours. Unfortunately, that doesn’t work. We can’t be our own saviour.That’s why God sent his Son, Jesus, to save the world. To save you and me.” he stated
Adding that “We have allowed evil to prosper in Uganda at all levels, including our families. The transformation of our country begins when individuals and families recognize they can’t be their own savior, when they invite Jesus to rescue them, and when they pursue righteousness and holiness in their families.”
The Archbishop also cautioned fellow church leaders to desist from church politics and instead emulate Jesus Christ. He was making reference to misunderstanding within the Church of Uganda this year, revolving around the election of new bishops.
He cautioned against power struggles in leadership and stressed the importance of servant leadership.
“The Church has also suffered because of bad decisions by its leaders. I have lost count of the number of times I have been sued by a group of “Concerned Christians” because their candidate for Bishop was not elected. Spiritual leadership is different from secular or political leadership. Spiritual leaders follow in the footsteps of Jesus” He added
Stating further that “There is too much “grasping” to be a Bishop or to have “your man” become a Bishop. Becoming a Bishop is not about seizing power, influence, and status. Instead, it is about empowering others to excel in the gifts of the Spirit for the building up of the Body of Christ and the extension of God’s Kingdom. Too many people think if they get “their man” elected as Bishop, he will save them. That’s just not true. Only Jesus can save us. Christmas reminds us of that.”
He however hailed Christians for a peaceful election and creation of two new baby dioceses this year, West Ruwenzori and East Busoga.
Kazimba called for increased support for youth ministry under the Provincial Annual Youth and Students Conference (PAYSCO). He also commended the annual conference for Heads of Educational Institutions, revealing the hope it brought for the ongoing development of schools.
The Archbishop reflected on the inaugural Provincial Prayer Convention at Namugongo and the July Provincial All Clergy Conference, emphasizing the importance of unity for service and growth.
Looking ahead, he revealed that the theme for the coming year would be “Conforming to the Truth of God’s Word and not the patterns of this world,” emphasizing mindset changes.
He extended sympathies to those mourning the loss of loved ones during the festive season, particularly acknowledging the passing of Bishop Thomas Edison Irigei in Kumi Diocese. He
In his closing remarks, the Archbishop extended warm Christmas greetings to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, government leaders, Bishops, clergy, and Christians across denominations.