Women encouraged in ministry as North Kigezi Diocese ordains seven

The Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, Rt Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe used Sunday’s ordination ceremony at Emmanuel Cathedral Kinyasano to reinforce appeals for more women to join church ministry, as six deacons and one priest were set apart.

Bishop Asiimwe who presided over the ordination of the five men and two women, was assisted by all archdeacons in the diocese.

They are Reverends Joshua Asiimwe, Nicholas Turyahabwe, William Birungi, Lewin Nimusiima, Ronah Akatukunda and Moses Naturinda. Rev Moses Tugume, curate at All Saints Church Rukungiri, was ordained a full priest.

Bishop Asiimwe said there is a need for more women to join church ministry just as men do.

"God gave us different talents. Some women have talents in leading service and preaching, even better than most men. That's why we need more women to join this ministry as they are not easily tempted by earthly things as we men are," he said.

Before the ordination, Bishop Asiimwe asked the congregation to come forward if they knew anything that could disqualify any of the candidates.

He reminded the ordinands and deacons that they had been called from among many people to serve God and obey their leaders, adding that anyone unwilling to do so should not proceed for ordination.

"Some people came into this ministry to look for a job. I want to assure you this is service and you are serving God, and when you serve him diligently, he will reward you, but if you think you have got a job to fulfil your needs, you are not fit to be here," he said.

He urged them to avoid involving themselves in politics, noting that the people they will serve come from different political groups and require spiritual guidance regardless of their affiliation.

"If you come out openly that you support NUP, it means others who are supporting NRM or PFF and others will not come to you for spiritual counselling and support," he said.

Rev. Dr Jesper Tumuhimbise, who delivered the sermon, urged them to look after the flock of God as Jesus did.

"You're going to be given flocks of God, do not mistreat or eat them, just look after them well by giving them the word of God as Jesus Christ did," he said.

He added that although Jesus was crucified, mistreated and stripped naked, he continued to love those who wronged him because they did not know what they were doing.

"In the field of work expect to meet more harassment than what Jesus Christ met, but be firm and know that who called you is trustworthy and let him be your hope," he said.

Tumuhimbise noted that some church leaders sometimes become harsh towards the flock of God, which he described as regrettable. He urged anyone with such tendencies to repent to avoid embarrassment.