The Bishop of Kasana-Luweero Diocese, Rt. Rev. Lawrence Mukasa, has voiced his concern over the increasing number of youths imprisoned on charges of defilement, urging society to reflect on moral values and guidance through God’s word.
Bishop Mukasa made the remarks at St. Mark Cathedral after leading hundreds of Christians in a solemn Way of the Cross procession around Luweero Town Council, which began at Our Lady of Fatima Queen of Peace, the diocesan headquarters.
The procession, marked by prayer and reflection on Jesus Christ's suffering and crucifixion, was co-led by Rev. Wilson Kisekka.
While addressing congregants, Bishop Mukasa recounted a recent visit to Nakasongola Prisons, where he found over 1,500 inmates many of whom were young people facing charges of defilement and murder.
“The Officer in Charge (OC) told me most of the youths in prison are facing defilement charges,” Bishop Mukasa stated.
“This holy season should be a time for reflection. Prevention is better than cure. Let us think carefully about the decisions we make.”
He also revealed that a significant number of female inmates were imprisoned for violent crimes especially murder.
“This is alarming. As a society, we must urgently address the moral decay leading to these tragic outcomes, women are in prisons for murdering co-wives, some have brutally killed their inlaws which is wrong” he added.
Bishop Mukasa called on the youth to embrace Christian values and use the Bible as a moral compass to navigate a world full of temptations.
He further commended the faithful for turning up in large numbers, noting that their public demonstration of faith sends a strong and positive message to the broader community.
However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the state of infrastructure in the district, particularly the roads, which he described as riddled with potholes and nearly impassable during the rainy season.
“This district played a critical role in the liberation struggle of the 1980s. It’s time we reaped the benefits. At the very least, Luweero Town Council should have tarmac roads,” he said.
Rev. Wilson Kisekka of the Anglican Church echoed the call for spiritual resilience, urging believers to hold fast to the cross for strength and hope.
“The cross is our power and our hope. Let us never tire of looking to it God will answer our prayers,” he told worshippers.
Local leaders including Katikamu North MP Denis Sekabira, LC5 Chairperson Erasto Kibirango, and Luweero Town Council Mayor Chris Buwembo were in attendance.
Bishop Mukasa thanked them for actively participating in church activities.
MP Sekabira emphasized the importance of responsible leadership inspired by the example of Christ. “As leaders, we must carry our own crosses through dedicated service and accountability,” he said.
The Way of the Cross was held under the theme, “Do to others as you would have them do to you”, and was organized by the Joint Christians Council. During the event, christians donated over Shs. 1 million to support inmates in seven prisons across the districts of Luweero, Nakaseke, and Nakasongola.
Fr. Peter Ssesanga of the Joint Christians Council praised the generosity of the faithful, noting, “When you give to the needy, God sees, appreciates, and blesses you.”
The event concluded with prayers for the nation, its leaders, and the moral restoration of society.