Jinja Catholic Diocese welcomes three new priests, seven deacons
Saturday's ceremony also saw the admission of eight serious candidates to further formation and the institution of nine individuals to the minor orders of Lectors and Acolytes.
Candidates of priesthood and diaconate lying prostrate as a sign of total surrender to God during their ordination at St Gonzaga Minor Seminary School in Iganga district on August 16, 2025. (Credit: George Ofwono)
By George Ofwono
Journalists @New Vision
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The Catholic Diocese of Jinja has welcomed three newly ordained priests and seven deacons, bolstering its pastoral workforce.
The ordination ceremony took place on Saturday (August 16) at St Gonzaga Minor Seminary School in Iganga district.
The function was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Obbo, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tororo Ecclesiastical Province. He stood in for Bishop Martin Charles Wamika, the Ordinary of Jinja Diocese, who is away on a medical trip abroad.
The new ministers of the Church were urged to "embrace humility and lead with compassion". (Credit: George Ofwono)
Obbo told the newly ordained ministers of the weight of their new responsibilities.
"My sons, you stand today at a sacred threshold. The mantle of priesthood and diaconate is not one of personal glory, but of selfless service," he said.
"Remember always the gravity of your calling – a calling from God Himself. Embrace humility, lead with compassion, and let your lives be a testament to the unwavering faith you represent."
The archbishop also addressed the urgent need for more ministers in the church.
"The Church in Jinja, like many across the nation, faces a shortage of dedicated servants. I urge you, my newly ordained brothers, to make the promotion of vocations a cornerstone of your ministry.
"Pray for future priests and deacons; mentor young people; and be living examples of faith that inspire others to answer God's call," said Obbo.
The three new priests are Rev. Francis Akewa MI, Rev. Jude Tadeo Tikiryamunaku and Rev. James Kanakilya.
The new deacons are Emmanuel Wamala Mukose, John Izizinga, Emmanuel Muzeeyi, Nicholas Kidhekirye, Godfrey Kikonyogo Ssempijja, Samuel Mukose, and Charles Lwanga Akiiki.
The 10 are expected to be deployed across various parishes within Jinja Diocese in the coming weeks.
Saturday's ceremony also saw the admission of eight serious candidates to further formation and the institution of nine individuals to the minor orders of Lectors and Acolytes.