A total of 31 candidates were ordained into the Holy Orders of Priesthood and Diaconate at Lubaga Cathedral in a landmark event for the Kampala Archdiocese.
Among them, 24 were ordained as priests and 7 as deacons, marking the largest number of priestly ordinations in a single day in the history of the Archdiocese.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, who led the congregation in prayer and thanksgiving for the new servants of the Church.
In his homily, Archbishop Ssemogerere began by congratulating jubilant priests within the Archdiocese celebrating 25, 50, and 60 years of priestly service including Vicar General Msgr. Gerald Kalumba and Fr. Sylvester Kityo, who is marking 60 years in ministry.
Addressing the ordinands, the Archbishop offered fatherly guidance, urging them to emulate Jesus Christ, who “came not to be served, but to serve.”
He warned against the temptation of materialism, which can easily divert one from the true mission of the priesthood.
He reminded the candidates that the priesthood belongs to Christ, not to the individual, emphasizing that they now share in the priesthood of their bishop and should carry out their duties with humility and obedience.
His Grace further encouraged the new priests and deacons to foster unity and collaboration with their fellow clergy in the parishes and institutions where they will serve.
Lubaga Cathedral was filled to capacity, with hundreds of faithful overflowing into the cathedral grounds; all gathered to witness and celebrate this historic milestone in the life of the Church in Uganda.
By Gideo P Ssebulime
9th Aug 2025
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