By Juliet Lukwago         

The Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese, Dr Cyprian Kizito Lwanga has called on religious leaders to stick to their holy vows as well as uphold their dignity and integrity.

He also made pointed references to the essence of obedience among the Faithful and dedication to serving mankind wholeheartedly.       

“In all your work you should stick to the three pillars of faith, truth and love, which should be your spiritual direction that will strengthen your vows which you have made,” he said.

The prelate was preaching during a religious service to mark the start of the congregation of the Brothers of St. Amans by the late Emmanuel Cardinal Nsubuga in 1984 at their Kisubi Mother House on Saturday.

He was assisted by Emmanuel Cardinal Wamala and several other priests.

During the service, Lwanga told the congregation to meditate over what they have been “chosen by God to serve” within their vocation.

But he was keen to caution against the many challenges that come with religious sects that have sprung up lately.

The Brothers, he said, need to be firm and use their knowledge to lead their flock in the right direction.

To be religious is a calling from God, he reiterated, “so, you should firmly adhere to that calling and as the Pope dedicates this year to faith, I also call upon you to keep your religious vows firmly.”

Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese, Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga and Emmanuel Cardinal Wamala (on his right) pose for a photo with newly ordained Brother Dennis Byamukama (in white cassock) from Kasese diocese and two Novitiates. PHOTO/Juliet Lukwago

 Kampala Archdiocese’s theme of this year is: “Seek reconciliation and justice to obtain true peace”.

The Brothers received praise for ‘choosing to remain poor and be obedient to God’ as they serve mankind.  And the Archbishop’s prayer was that God fulfills what He had started in them and also asked them to love one another.

In service, tribute was given to the outgoing council led by the director Fr Charles Kimbowa Junior and Brother John Kalama.

The late Cardinal Nsubuga Kiwanuka was remembered for his 25 years of commitment into starting the congregation.      

One novitiate Dennis Kyomukama, from Hima Parish, Kasese diocese made his first vow and two applicants, Charles Mubiru Abwooli (Kigoowa Parish) and Christopher Mayambala of Kasaala in Kasana-Luweero diocese for the Order of St Amans were also introduced to the congregation that day.