Christians have been urged to put an end to domestic violence, particularly in homes where conflicts between men and women are often linked to alcoholism. This message was delivered by Ven. Emmanuel Namanya Bwagye, Archdeacon of All Saints Archdeaconry in the Diocese of Kigezi, during the induction service of Rev. Dickson Otin Tukamushaba as the new parish priest of St. James Nyamwerambiko Church of Uganda in Kyanamira Sub-County, Kabale District, on Saturday October 19th, 2024.
In his sermon, Rev. Bwagye highlighted three significant barriers to effective service in any institution, which he referred to as the three “W’s”—Wealth, Women/Men, and Wine. These factors, he noted, often bring conflict between couples and lead to a lack of discipline among clergy and church leaders. He urged church leaders to eliminate these barriers and lead by example.
Rev. Bwagye specifically tackled the issue of alcoholism, warning clergy and congregants against hiding behind the consumption of the local brew, “enturire”, under the pretext that it is not alcohol. “We must remember that “enturire” is still alcohol, and indulging in it as church leaders undermines our spiritual authority,” Rev. Bwagye cautioned. “As clergy, we must practice what we preach.”
He also expressed concern over the decreasing number of men attending church services and called for a revival of male participation in church activities. “The male presence in our churches is shrinking, and this needs to change. We need men back in the church, actively participating in spiritual matters,” he stated.
Rev. Bwagye concluded his sermon by reminding Christians that the Word of God holds the solution to most of life’s challenges. He encouraged them to strengthen their faith and place their trust in God to overcome difficulties.
The induction service, which drew Christians from various parts of the diocese, was marked by a spirit of unity. Church leaders commended Rev. Tukamushaba for his dedication to the Church and expressed optimism that his leadership would inspire growth and development in the parish.
Notable figures attending the event included Counsel Elvis Twenda, a hopeful Member of Parliament for Ndorwa County East, and Enid Origumisiriza, a Woman MP hopeful for Kabale District. Both aspirants pledged their continued support for the Church’s mission to promote spiritual and community development.
During the ceremony, Rev. Tukamushaba expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the congregation for their warm reception, promising to serve with diligence and faith. “I am deeply honored to assume this role and look forward to working with the community to strengthen our parish in the love of Christ,” he said.
Rev. Dickson Otin Tukamushaba was ordained as a priest by the Bishop of the Diocese of Kigezi, Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna, on September 15th, 2024. His journey to priesthood began with active participation as a lay leader at Nyabushabi and St. Philip’s Bugongi Estates. He later moved to St. Andrew’s Kateretere in 2018, where he served as a lay leader before being ordained a deacon. His faithful service led him to St. James Nyamwerambiko Church of Uganda, where he was recently elevated to priesthood.
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