Heavy Storm Destroys St Steven's Church in Nakasongola

The church, which serves over 500 members, has been funded through small contributions from the community, including the use of donated land for brick-making and pooled resources for cement. ]

Congregants at St Steven's Church of Uganda in Lwampanga in Nakasongola District were left in shock after a heavy storm, fueled by rains from Lake Kyoga, caused the collapse of their church building on the night of December 1.

The incident, which occurred around 9pm, reduced the partially completed structure to ruins.

Betty Naluyange, a congregant, explained that the building, which was still under construction, lacked doors and windows, leaving gaps in the upper sections.

"The empty spaces allowed the storm to freely enter the structure, suppressing it until it collapsed," she said.

Mande Robert, the church's mobilizer, spoke of the challenges faced by the project, which had been ongoing for the past decade.

"The church was designed to cost Shs. 600 million, and we've spent over Shs200 million so far," he said.

"However, much work remains to be done, including completing the upper parts, plastering, and flooring.  Sadly, we had only managed to use the building for three Sunday services before the storm destroyed it," he added.

The church, which serves over 500 members, has been funded through small contributions from the community, including the use of donated land for brick-making and pooled resources for cement. ]

Despite their efforts, the destruction has left many members discouraged.

Rev. Jessica Katusabe, the priest of St. Stevens Church, expressed concern over the congregation's temporary place of worship.

"I'm deeply confused about where we will congregate. The surrounding area lacks enough shade to accommodate our members," she said.

She also noted that many of the church members, who include farmers and fishermen, have been severely impacted by the flooding of Lake Kyoga, which has displaced many.

"It will be difficult to convince them to contribute again for construction," she added.

Rev. Can. Samwiri Ssaka, the Archdeacon of Nakasongola Deaconry, called for support from well-wishers nationwide.

"This is a time for solidarity. We need the help of generous individuals and organizations to rebuild this church and restore hope to these Christians," he appealed.

St Stevens Church is one of 18 churches in Lwampanga Parish, which falls under the Nakasongola Archdeaconry in the Luwero Diocese.

Despite the setback, the congregation remains hopeful that their place of worship will be rebuilt with the support of kind-hearted individuals and organizations.