The Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, Onesimus Asiimwe, has called upon women to embrace unity in Jesus Christ and remain anchored in Him as the true source of everlasting peace.
Speaking to hundreds of women gathered at Kinyasano Girls High School on Tuesday during the official opening of the four-day 3rd Annual Women’s Conference, Bishop Asiimwe praised his wife, Ms Florence Asiimwe, for her vision and dedication in founding the annual gathering.
He described her as a Spirit-led woman deeply committed to strengthening women spiritually within the Diocese.
“As women, God has put in you the gift of prophecy. It does not necessarily require one to wear a collar, but every woman possesses that gift,” he said.
Bishop Asiimwe also extended gratitude to individuals who supported the conference through financial contributions and food donations.
He particularly thanked Kinyasano Girls High School for providing the venue free of charge and commended Archdeacons and Parish Priests across the Diocese for mobilizing women and supporting the success of the event.
“I received an invitation to attend the swearing-in ceremony of President Museveni, but I did not go because I needed to officiate at the opening of this important conference,” he said, underscoring the significance of the gathering.
Drawing from Proverbs 27:17 — “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” — Bishop Asiimwe explained that the conference was intended to spiritually renew and strengthen women who often face challenges such as poverty, family struggles, and emotional burdens.
“When you come here, you come to be sharpened again through testimonies, prayers, worship, and fellowship,” he said.
Bishop Asiimwe further praised women, especially members of the Mother’s Union, for their unwavering contribution to the growth of the Church of Uganda.
“As women, you are the pillars of the Church of Uganda. I do not know where the Church would be without the Mother’s Union. Keep going and never let the fire go out,” he said.
Preaching under the conference theme, “Anchored in Christ for Peace and Stability,” drawn from Ephesians 2:14–17 and aligned with this year’s provincial theme, Bishop Asiimwe reminded the gathering that believers often forget their spiritual identity and where God has brought them from.
He cautioned against sin, including adultery, stealing, lying, and other immoral acts, saying such behavior separates believers from Christ and destroys their relationship with God. He emphasized that through the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, believers have been reconciled and united with God.
“Unity is central because Christ is the chief cornerstone. Every building requires structural integrity, and your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit,” he said.
Referencing Galatians 3:28, Bishop Asiimwe stressed that in Christ there is no division based on tribe, race, or social status because all believers are one in Jesus Christ.
He also cited the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1–9 to emphasize the power of unity, noting that whatever people do together in harmony flourishes.
Bishop Asiimwe reminded the women that true peace is not found in wealth, employment, property, livestock, businesses, or earthly possessions, but only in Jesus Christ.
“Peace does not mean the absence of problems, but even in difficult situations, those who are in Christ experience overwhelming peace,” he said.
Bishop Asiimwe concluded by cautioning women against adultery and immoral relationships, urging them to uphold salvation with holiness, faithfulness, and commitment.
“Women, I call upon you to forsake adultery. If you came as a second wife to a married man, you violated the covenant of the first marriage. Salvation has standards. Being saved is carrying the cross, denying yourself daily, and remaining faithful until the end,” he said.
The conference continues with prayers, worship, Bible teaching, and women-centered sessions expected to attract even more participants before its conclusion on Friday.
