The Hoima Diocesan Youth Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Mandela acknowledges the fact that it’s the duty of the Church to bring back hope among her young members who are challenged in many ways. 

He mentions dangerous disease outbreaks especially Covid-19 that led many people to lose hope globally. 

To the young people, he says they are particularly experiencing challenges, including the many voices that are likely to divert young people away from the right path. 

He emphasizes that this year’s National Catholic Youth Conference hosted by Hoima diocese primarily focuses on the Holy Father, Pope Francis’ message of hope to the youths this year. 

Meanwhile, the Hoima Diocesan Youth Coordinator, Maria Assumpta Atula says expectations are high, that at the closing ceremony of the conference this Sunday, President Museveni shall give encouraging words to young people. 

She adds that as the host diocese, they hope to see young people changing their ways after this conference. 

The Youth Coordinator of Mbarara Archdiocese, Linus Nagaba says it’s time to bring young boys on board too because they are the fathers of tomorrow. 

He says the boy child also needs to be guided to the right path as early as possible.

Our reporter spoke to some of the participants in this year’s conference and they had this to say about it.

By Florence Nangendo

13 Dec 2024 

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