Bishop Kisembo hailed for humility, integrity and love
Masereka said Kisembo's humility stemmed from his understanding and acceptance of God's word, which he allowed to transform his character and way of life.
Kisembo wife lays a wreath on the casket. (PHOTO BY JONAN TUSINGWIRE)
__________________ Bishops lay wreaths on the casket. (PHOTO BY JONAN TUSINGWIRE)
FORT PORTAL — Retired Bishop of South Ruwenzori Diocese, Zebedayo Masereka, has urged Christians to emulate the humility, hard work and spiritual discipline of the late former Bishop of Ruwenzori Diocese, Benezeri Kisembo, saying his life was an example of fighting a good fight of faith.
Masereka said Kisembo lived a life similar to that of the Apostle Paul in the Bible, who endured hardships in his Christian journey while remaining committed to fighting sin. He said Kisembo fought against sins such as dishonesty and selfishness, adding that his humility was one of the outstanding qualities Christians and families should emulate.
“The good fight is fighting sin, the sin of lies, and the late bishop fought all those. He fought egocentricity. He was humble, a quality that many people do not have. He had the gift of humility,” Masereka said.
He was speaking while presiding over Kisembo's burial ceremony at St. John's Cathedral in Fort Portal on Tuesday, November 11. Kisembo served as Bishop of Ruwenzori Diocese from 2000 to 2009. He died last Friday following multiple organ failures.
Masereka said Kisembo's humility stemmed from his understanding and acceptance of God's word, which he allowed to transform his character and way of life. He challenged Christians to embrace humility in their families and communities, saying many social challenges could be addressed if people lived according to biblical teachings.
Masereka also urged young people to fight laziness and embrace productive activities, saying idleness had become a concern in some communities. “The legacy of Bishop Benezeri is fighting a good fight, fighting sin and fighting laziness. Where I stay, you find young people just sitting and doing nothing. That is a sin that should be fought,” he said.
Loving husband and mentor
Florence said that Kisembo demonstrated unconditional love, companionship and spiritual commitment.
Children lay wreath on the casket. (PHOTO BY JONAN TUSINGWIRE)
She said the late bishop was not only a husband but also a father figure who guided and encouraged her to become a courageous woman.
“We prayed together, and he never wanted me to leave his side. He was not only my husband but was also a parent who advised me. He taught me many things, including being brave. Even while treating him during his illness, I handled the situation with bravery,” she added.
Florence said the bishop's guidance and encouragement had helped her develop courage, particularly during the difficult period when she cared for him in his final days. Kisembo was previously married to Rev. Canon Lovey Bawaya Kisembo, who died in 2021. He later married Florence in 2023.
Father's unwavering support
Josephine Kabasinguzi, Kisembo's one of the five bereaved children , described the deceased him as a loving and responsible father who ensured his children received a good education and never lacked basic necessities.
She said Kisembo extended the same generosity to other children under his care, giving them opportunities and support similar to those he provided for his biological children.
“We were very well provided for. We went to very good schools and never ever lacked. We were never sent home for school fees,” she said.
She expressed gratitude for the care, love and commitment he demonstrated throughout their upbringing.
Kabasinguzi said his contribution to their lives went beyond providing material needs, describing him as a present father whose support made a lasting difference to the family.
Tooro Kingdom pays tribute to his integrity
Tooro Kingdom also paid tribute to Kisembo, describing him as an upright, truthful and dedicated servant of God who loved the kingdom.
The kingdom's Musuuga, who represented the Omukama of Tooro, Rukirabasaija Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, said Kisembo was a man of integrity whose commitment to preaching the word of God and serving the community earned him respect.
“The late bishop that I knew and saw preaching the word of God was a man who was upright and spotless,” he said.
The kingdom expressed appreciation for Kisembo's contribution and service, saying his commitment to faith and the community would be remembered.