Thousands of Christians from across Uganda converged at St Peter’s Church, Namataba, in Lugazi Archdeaconry, Diocese of Mukono, on Sunday for a grand thanksgiving service marking 50 years since the church’s establishment.
The golden jubilee celebration featured a thanksgiving mass, the confirmation of over 60 Christians into the Anglican faith, and a fundraising drive to support the completion of the church’s new building.
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, who presided over the service, commended the congregation for their faith, unity, and commitment to God’s work.
He urged them to remain steadfast and focused on completing the church project.
“God who started this work will see it through to completion, for He is the God of beginnings and endings. He never fails His followers and never lies, for He is not a son of man to do so,” said Archbishop Kaziimba.
He also expressed appreciation to families who donated land for the church, cautioning the community against the growing habit of selling church or ancestral land.
“It is disheartening to see some people attempting to sell land that their ancestors dedicated to God’s work. Let us protect what was entrusted to us,” he said, urging Christians to use their land productively for lasting benefit.
The Bishop of Mukono Diocese, the Rt Rev Enos Kitto Kagodo, praised the Namataba congregation for their strong commitment to church growth and active participation in ministry.
“Your dedication to the work of God is evident in this milestone,” he said. “Continue to serve faithfully and let your actions reflect your gratitude for God’s blessings.”
According to the Parish Priest, Rev Wilson Kkonde, the church still requires Shs600 million to complete construction of its new structure.
However, the day’s fundraising efforts raised Shs367,106,000 in cash and 210 bags of cement in pledges, marking a significant step toward their goal.
Ms Margaret Kaziimba, the Archbishop’s wife, also addressed parents, urging them to nurture their children with discipline, faith, and responsibility.
“Let us raise our children to be responsible citizens and faithful members of both the church and society,” she said.
The thanksgiving service drew a large and diverse congregation, including Bishop Emeritus James William Ssebaggala (Mukono), Bishop Emeritus Jackson Matovu (Central Buganda), archdeacons, priests, lay readers, clergy spouses led by Ms Catherine Kitto Kagodo, representatives from the Buganda Government, political leaders, school delegations, and numerous Christians from across the region.
The golden jubilee marked not only a milestone of faith but also a renewed commitment to unity, stewardship, and continued growth within the Diocese of Mukono.
