The Bishop of South Ankole Diocese, Nathan Ahimbisibwe, has called on Christians to shun hatred and embrace love, emphasizing that God remains the source of true love and that forgiveness and reconciliation are vital pillars of Christian living.
He made the remarks on Sunday during the installation of The Very Rev. Canon Joram Akoragye as the fourth Dean of St Matthew Cathedral Kyamate in Ntungamo Municipality.
In his sermon, Bishop Ahimbisibwe urged Christians to work closely with the newly installed Dean to strengthen and expand the Church’s ministry, outreach, and service delivery to communities across South Ankole Diocese.
“We should avoid hatred, promote love in our communities, and remember that God is the source of true love,” he said.
He further called upon Rev. Akoragye to faithfully embrace his calling through a life of integrity, setting an example for his family, the Christian community, and the wider Church of Uganda.
The Bishop also expressed appreciation to former deans of the diocese, noting that their leadership had laid a strong foundation that continues to guide and inspire other dioceses.
“I want to appreciate the former Deans of South Ankole Diocese for laying a strong foundation that has become a model for other dioceses to emulate,” he said.
He urged Christians to actively practice forgiveness and reconciliation in their daily lives, warning that harbouring resentment could hinder personal growth and distract individuals from fulfilling God’s purpose.
In his response, Rev. Akoragye, accompanied by his wife Ms Rebecca Ntoreinwe and family members, pledged to diligently serve in his new responsibilities.
He expressed gratitude to the diocesan archdeacons for the confidence placed in him, which led to his appointment by the Bishop, and promised to execute his duties in line with Anglican doctrine and the expectations of the Church.
Rev. Akoragye also committed to advancing the mission of the Church while safeguarding diocesan programmes and strengthening service delivery.
Since its creation in 2012, following its carve-out from Ankole Diocese and West Ankole Diocese, South Ankole Diocese has had four deans, including Rev. Canon Yorokam Kamomo, Rev. Canon Joash Twinomujuni, Rev. Canon Cranmer Mwesigwa, and now Rev. Canon Joram Akoragye.
The celebrations also included the confirmation of 176 Christians into the Anglican faith. Bishop Ahimbisibwe encouraged the newly confirmed members to uphold Christian values, embrace humanity, and remain steadfast in the teachings of the Gospel.
He reiterated that a life guided by love, unity, and service remains central to both spiritual growth and the continued development of the diocese.