New Karamoja bishop Chorey pledges diocese self-sustainability

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MOROTO - It was a colourful Sunday, August 25, 2024, in Moroto municipality as residents of the region showcased their traditional cultural performances.

The performances were ushering in the newly consecrated and enthroned fifth Karamoja Anglican Diocese bishop Michael Chorey.

Chorey replaces Joseph Abura, who had served for 17 years before clocking retirement age.

The ceremony, held at St Philip's Cathedral located in the heart of Moroto town fondly referred to as Marble City, was presided over by Church of Uganda Archbishop Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu.

Vice-President Jessica Alupo represented President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as the Chief Guest.

Kaziimba called for reconciliation and unity. (Courtesy Photo)

According to the statement from the province spokesperson, Sadiiki Adams, Bishop Chorey pledged to utilise Church land for production to ensure that the diocese becomes self-sustainable.

"Our Church is blessed with land resources that can be utilised for the benefit of our community. Developing these lands for agricultural and other productive purposes can create sustainable income streams, provide employment opportunities, and support those in need," Chorey said.

He added: "With the amount of land that this diocese has, we shall produce enough for commercial purposes, and in so doing, we will be moving towards a self-sustaining and self-supporting diocese. This will free us from the grips of mental dependency. Planning and working together in this venture with everyone in the Diocese and beyond shall help us achieve this."

He further pledged to prioritise capacity building and clergy welfare.

"Our clergy are the shepherds of the flock of God, guiding them with wisdom and compassion. It is crucial that we invest in their ongoing education, provide adequate support, and ensure their well-being. By building their capacity and attending to their welfare, the clergy will be able to lead with confidence and effectiveness, enriching the spiritual lives of individuals and strengthening the community within and outside the Diocese," Chorey said.

He pledged to focus on mission and evangelism, strengthen youth and women's ministry, support men's ministry, Mothers' Union and Fathers' Union fellowships streamline the education and health sectors in the diocese and encourage entrepreneurship within the congregation to foster economic growth and self-sufficiency.

Vice-President Jessica Alupo (R) represented President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as the Chief Guest. (Courtesy Photo)

Mindset and cultural transformation

Kaziimba called for reconciliation and unity.

"To the new Bishop and Mama Rev. Canon Jane Chorey, the Lord who has chosen you to serve Him at a time like this has good plans for you and the ministry ahead. Trust Him and seek to reconcile, reorganise and rejoice with God’s people. I charge the leaders and all the people of Karamoja to support the new Bishop. Together, you can achieve much," Archbishop Kaziimba said.

He added: "I urge the people of Karamoja to embrace a mindset and cultural transformation, knowing that God loves you and that you can be better without compromising your identity. You are people of great potential, wisdom, and energy — a people knit together — and this is strength, not weakness. Use it to develop your area. Karamoja has great potential to feed the whole of Uganda. We will support and develop Karamoja together, but you need to work on security and safety in this area".

President Museveni in his remarks read for him by Alupo commended the Church for its role in community transformation through its programs in Karamoja and other parts of the country.

He pledged to give Bishop Michael Chorey a car in the week to support his ministry in Karamoja and beyond.

During the service, the Vice-President launched the archbishop’s book: Authority that Turns Followers into Leaders and donated 100 copies to the clergy of Karamoja Diocese.

She also announced that the President would buy 5,000 copies for leaders in the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda to distribute to the people they lead.