In a significant milestone, 41 dedicated pastors and church leaders of the Born Again faith have completed their theological studies with Equipping Church Leaders of East Africa (ECLEA). This Jinja-based organization, with a mission to empower men and women of faith, is expanding its reach in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other African countries.
These graduates have diligently pursued leadership skills and gained in-depth knowledge of effective gospel preaching, earning certificates, diplomas, and even degrees. Following two to three years of theological education, they are now ready to serve their communities with newfound wisdom and integrity.
ECLEA’s focus extends beyond academics; it aims to cultivate God-fearing leaders who are not only well-versed in their faith but also equipped with life skills to ensure their own well-being and the prosperity of their ministries. Bishop Geoffrey Waako, the general overseer of Live Deliverance churches and ECLEA’s coordinator in Uganda, emphasized that their mission is to eradicate fraudulent practices that can tarnish the reputation of the church.
“We educate them in various disciplines to ensure they don’t become beggars and to refrain from fraudulent activities. Our aim is to do away with fake prophets whose actions compromise our services,” says Bishop Waako.
He also pointed out that the emergence of ECLEA has led to the establishment of churches, schools, and small businesses in various parts of Uganda, providing employment opportunities for many graduates. This multifaceted approach prioritizes job creation and economic empowerment.
With a call for unity among the faithful, ECLEA emphasizes the importance of coexistence and encourages graduates to prioritize their faith in their ministries.
One of the graduates, Pastor Paul Batambuze, who earned a master’s degree in theology, expressed gratitude for the profound impact of his studies. He commended ECLEA for championing the initiative to equip pastors with essential knowledge to serve the Lord and lead sustainable lives.
Pastor Batambuze is committed to utilizing the knowledge he has gained to educate others about the gospel, aligning with the scripture in 2 Timothy 2:2, which emphasizes the passing on of vital messages to trustworthy individuals.
