Clergy in North Kigezi Diocese have been reminded of their responsibility to protect the dignity, integrity, and spiritual calling of their ministry.
The message was delivered on Wednesday during the monthly clergy fellowship held at the Consecration Site of Emmanuel Cathedral, Kinyasano in Rukungiri District.
Speaking on the theme “The Clergy and Church Ministry,” the Archdeacon of Nyakinoni Archdeaconry in Kinkizi Diocese, Rev. Canon Dr. Patrick Mbaasa highlighted the unique role of clergy within the Church and emphasized the importance of understanding one’s divine calling.
“Clergy are people who are called, trained, ordained, and sent. It is crucial that we continually reflect on our calling alongside our ministerial formation and ordination,” he said.
Mbaasa noted that the Church exists both as a universal and local institution, describing it as both militant and triumphant.
According to him, the militant Church, he explained, is the visible Church on earth where believers actively serve, while the triumphant Church is invisible and joined after completing the earthly journey.
Mbaasa stressed that clergy are ministers and not mere workers. He also clarified the categories of Christians within the Church—lost, nominal, and practicing—and underscored the importance of drawing people closer to Jesus Christ.
“Although there are many ministries in the Church, the ministry of the clergy is unique. As ordained ministers, we have a name to protect, and our behavior and character must reflect that calling,” he said.
Mbaasa further reminded clergy that the Church, while central to faith, is not the Kingdom of God but subject to it, quoting St. Augustine: “The Church is a communion of saints and sinners.”
Mbaasa observed that many believers in the Church are spiritually thirsty.
He advised clergy to serve as facilitators in ministry, cautioning against using miracles as incentives rather than spiritual guidance.
For the militant Church to thrive, Mbaasa emphasised the importance of teamwork between clergy and laity.
“As team leaders, clergy bear greater responsibility and accountability. Supervise but do not interfere; allow those under your care to fully utilize their gifts in areas such as prayer, healing, and deliverance,” he said.
On handling conflicts, he cited Galatians 5:15, urging clergy not to “devour one another” and to address disputes early to prevent escalation.
He encouraged forgiveness and wisdom, saying: “Weak people revenge, strong people forgive, and intelligent people ignore.”
Mbaasa highlighted the need for commitment, selfless service, and minimal personal interest in team building. He challenged clergy to meet the real needs of the people they lead, emphasizing that the central need is spiritual.
Mbaasa also encouraged personal growth and perseverance, quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “If you cannot fly, then run; if you cannot run, then walk; if you cannot walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”
In his remarks, the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe, thanked Canon Mbaasa for his insights and commended the clergy for their dedication to ministry and attendance at the fellowship.