Ntagali vows cooperation with civil, political leaders
Dec 23, 2012
The newly enthroned Diocese of Kampala bishop, Stanley Ntagali has vowed to work together with civil and political leaders.
By Norman Katende
The newly enthroned Diocese of Kampala bishop, The Most Rev. Stanley Ntagali has vowed to work together with civil leaders for the betterment of his people.
He also stressed that he will maintain the unwavering stand on the sanctity of marriage between man and woman.
Speaking after being enthroned the new Bishop of Kampala by Luwero Bishop Evans Kisekka, Ntagali said that the Church can work together with government for the betterment of the Kingdom of God and well-being of the people.
“We shall promote dialogue and seek opportunities to discuss issues of social and political concern with the political and civic leadership for the purpose of improving social services and care to all the people without favour or discrimination.
“Working together for the good of all the city dwellers will give us the opportunity to move together and speak with confidence about the roles of our leadership positions,” Ntagali, who takes over from The Most Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, promised.
He becomes the seventh Bishop of the diocese.
He promises to involve the youth in leadership roles, support the Prisons ministry and also work with the Police to get the Christians to counsel law breakers.
Another key plan is to introduce a 30-minute praise and worship session in every Sunday service in the diocese.
The move is in response to numerous complaints to the Anglican Church, whose system of worship, it is said, does not suit the youth.
“We meet God as he ministers to us in special ways,” he reminded the congregation.
The bishop also promised to emphasize abstinence among the youth as a way of protecting them from HIV/AIDS.
This was in the wake of a strong sermon by retired bishop Edward Muhima of North Kigezi diocese who attacked Uganda’s degenerated morals, before turning onto those who are advocating for the use of condom.
“If I give you a pen, what am I telling you to do? If I give you a book, what I am telling you to do? If I am giving you a condom, what I am telling you to do?” he asked the attentive congregation.
The retired bishop also did not spare the government and political parties.
“It is too sad that people from the different political parties can’t meet and discuss issues for Uganda. Mr. Prime minister!” he directed the statement to Premier Amama Mbabazi, who was seated in the front row next to Chief Justice Benjamin Odoki.
“We need a political transformation. Let us preach the gospel of transformation. If Jesus could change me, then he can also change you,” he said, making a biblical allusion to Saul whose name changed to Paul.
He made it clear to the newly enthroned Bishop that the task ahead is huge.
“You will feel overwhelmed by it. At times you might feel like giving up. You remember that you can only bear fruits if you continue abiding by the Lord. God is not asking for your ability but your availability to be able.”
Ntagali’s predecessor The Most Rev. Luke Orombi handed over the church and its entire clergy, and asked them to be obedient to the new bishop.