Christians have been called upon to reflect deeply on the true significance of the birth of Jesus Christ as the Christmas season approaches. This message was delivered during the annual “Carols by Candlelight” service held at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Namirembe, organized by the Diocese of Namirembe.
The Retired Bishop of Namirembe, Rt. Rev. Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira, represented Bishop Moses Banja at the evening service.
He thanked God for enabling Christians to gather and noted that the cathedral has long upheld the tradition of preparing for Christmas through carol services held across the four Sundays leading up to December 25.
In his sermon, Bishop Luwalira cautioned believers against losing sight of the purpose of the Christmas season.
“During times like these, many people think only about eating, drinking, traveling, and other pleasures. These are not wrong, but God wants us to keep our focus. We must remember that Jesus came among us to show us the way to eternal life,” he said.
He described Christmas as a period of thanksgiving, reflection, and personal examination, encouraging Christians to evaluate their lives and ask themselves whether they are living according to Jesus’ teachings or being consumed by worldly distractions.
The service was attended by the Second Deputy Katikkiro and Buganda Kingdom treasurer, Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, who read the eighth of nine scripture readings.
He expressed gratitude to the cathedral choir and diocesan leadership for organizing what he described as a spiritually uplifting service.
“At a time when political tension is high, after a year in which many have lost loved ones and property, hearing carols like these restores hope. It comforts people with the knowledge that the Saviour came to bring love and faith,” Nsibirwa said.
He urged the community to avoid conflict, remain rooted in faith, and remember God even amid political divisions or personal hardships, extending warm wishes for a blessed Christmas season and a peaceful new year.
The cathedral announced it will host two additional Christmas events: “Carols by Sunset” on December 14 and the Christmas Cantata on December 21, as part of its continued spiritual preparation for Christmas Day.