Clergy in the Church of Uganda have been urged to strengthen their commitment to preaching the Gospel and address what some leaders described as gaps that have allowed the infiltration of alternative beliefs.
The call was made by the Provincial Coordinator for Muslim Relations, Rev. Musa Syamutsangira, during a four-day clergy retreat held at Emmanuel Cathedral Kinyasano in Rukungiri Municipality.
The retreat was designed to enhance clergy capacity in evangelism, apologetics, and pastoral leadership, with a focus on engaging diverse religious contexts and strengthening Christian witness in contemporary society.
Rev. Syamutsangira questioned participants’ commitment to evangelism, asking: “What passion do you have for preaching the Gospel?” He pointed to the example of the Apostle Paul and his unwavering dedication to spreading the Christian faith.
He led teaching sessions covering key theological and apologetic themes, including the meaning of being “born again” as a requirement for entry into the Kingdom of God, and the importance of baptism as outlined in the Great Commission.
He emphasized the need for clear and accurate teaching, warning against what he described as shallow interpretations of core Christian doctrine.
Other discussions touched on the global growth of Islam, comparative religious teachings, and the role of Christian apologetics in strengthening believers’ confidence in their faith. Participants were also encouraged to engage constructively with other religious texts, including the Quran, to improve informed evangelism and interfaith understanding.
Rev. Syamutsangira urged clergy to return to their parishes with boldness, clarity, and renewed commitment to preaching Jesus Christ as the only way to salvation.
In his commissioning sermon, the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe, called on clergy to remain spiritually vigilant and grounded in their calling.
Citing Ephesians 6:10–11, he urged them to “put on the full armour of God” to stand firm against spiritual challenges.
Quoting theologian C.S. Lewis, he noted that “there is no neutral ground in the universe; every square inch is claimed by God and counterclaimed by Satan,” emphasising the reality of spiritual warfare.
He further reminded clergy that the struggle is not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers, urging them to live lives marked by repentance and holiness.
The Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Munturive Nshaba Ruhanga, called for unity and accountability within the Church, urging clergy to address “cracks” in both the institution and their personal lives while embracing love, discipline, and hard work.
During the retreat, Diocesan Health Coordinator Dr. Edson Masiko led a health and wellness session, urging clergy to prioritise physical wellbeing through exercise and balanced diets.
He emphasized that effective ministry requires good health, noting that one cannot fully fulfil the Great Commission without caring for the body.
The retreat concluded with a commissioning service, sending clergy back to their parishes spiritually empowered, intellectually equipped, and physically strengthened for ministry.
