In a solemn ceremony held at Nsambya village, Ikumbya Sub county in Luuka district, the Lutheran Church in Uganda celebrated the ordination of three Reverends into the Lutheran tradition. Reverends Joel Mugere, Joseph Ngobi, and Wako were honored for their commitment to serving their communities and embracing the call to parenthood.
Bishop Isabirye Charles Bameka, the head of the Lutheran Church in Uganda, delivered a heartfelt message urging the newly ordained reverends to endure every situation, emphasizing the importance of facing challenges with unwavering devotion to God and their community. The Bishop acknowledged the difficulties many reverends encounter but highlighted the resilience and commitment that propels them to serve their congregations.
Luuka North MP Hon. Luke Kyobe Inhensiko commended the Lutherans for their impactful service to the community and urged the faithful to heed the guidance of their church leaders. He also addressed the concerns of LC I chairpersons, assuring them that the issue of their monthly salary allowance is under parliamentary discussion. Hon. Kyobe encouraged the community to embrace government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) for poverty alleviation.
“I want to thank the Lutheran church for the work you have done to bring development to our communities; I also want to congratulate the reverends for what you have achieved today. I want to appeal to the community to obey these reverends and other church leaders.” – Hon. Luke Kyobe.
Woman MP for Luuka district, Hon. Esther Mbayo, conveyed a message emphasizing appreciation for the NRM government and Luuka MPs for their contributions to Luuka district’s development. She encouraged unity and discouraged frequent changes in leadership, envisioning a developed Luuka through collaborative efforts.
Luuka district LC V chairman Simon Wakaze, represented by Ikumbya Sub County chairman Ntumba Wilberforce, urged the newly ordained reverends to uphold the honor bestowed upon them and work collaboratively with their congregations. Wakaze expressed commitment to advocate for a car for Bishop Bameka from President Museveni during the upcoming NRM Day celebrations.
Deputy Speaker of Luuka district, Ruth Wagwoina, lauded the Lutherans for maintaining the integrity of their religion and recounted a recent incident in Ikumbya Sub County. She commended the Lutherans for not being associated with acts that could defame the religion and disrupt the peace of the community.
The ordination ceremony not only marked a significant moment for the newly ordained reverends but also underscored the enduring spirit of faith and community service in Luuka district.