Members of the Rukungiri Arsenal Fans Association (RAFA) on Sunday joined thousands of Christians at Emmanuel Cathedral Kinyasano in Rukungiri District to warmly welcome the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.
The occasion marked a thanksgiving service celebrating three years of episcopal ministry of the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, Rt Rev Onesimus Asiimwe, who was consecrated and enthroned on March 12, 2023.
The colorful celebration drew believers from across the region as Archbishop Kaziimba presided over the service, which also formed part of his farewell tour ahead of his anticipated retirement on August 18, 2027, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 65, as stipulated in the canons of the Church of Uganda.
During the event, RAFA members turned up in large numbers clad in Arsenal F.C. jerseys and fan regalia, creating a lively atmosphere at the cathedral grounds.
The supporters presented Archbishop Kaziimba with a beautifully crafted souvenir plaque in recognition of his support for sports and his unique approach to connecting faith with everyday life.
Responding to critics who question his occasional references to Arsenal F.C. in sermons, Archbishop Kaziimba clarified that football is part of his personal life and a meaningful tool in his ministry.
“Watching football is part of my private life,” he said, noting that sports can also serve as a powerful medium for evangelism.
The Archbishop explained that he sometimes draws lessons from football to communicate spiritual messages. Citing Arsenal’s dramatic last-minute goals in recent matches, he said such moments demonstrate that victory can come even at the final minute.
“That is a powerful reminder that God can answer prayers even at the last minute. Therefore, we should never give up,” he said.
Archbishop Kaziimba also shared that he actively played football in his youth, training with Nakivubo Boys FC, where he played in attacking and midfield roles wearing jersey numbers 7, 8, and 9.
He recalled learning valuable skills such as chest control from legendary Ugandan footballers including Phillip Omondi and Stanley ‘Tanka’ Mubiru.
Beyond international football, the archbishop expressed strong support for Uganda’s national team, the Cranes, as well as several local clubs across the country.
He further explained that his support for the North London club dates back many years, noting that the club was among the early English Premier League teams to prominently field Black players.
“That made many of us in Africa identify with the club,” he said.
While emphasizing the importance of faith and service, Archbishop Kaziimba also highlighted the need for balance in life.
“One cannot be serious all the time. It is important to relax, spend time with family, and build strong bonds with others through sports and recreation,” he said.