The Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Michael August Blume addresses the delegates of the missionary congress at Pope Paul Memorial. Photos by Mathias Mazinga

The Apostolic Nuncio in Uganda, Archbishop Michael August Blume has called for the promotion of strong families that can withstand the forces of secularism.

He said that families faced immense challenges which required them to be solidly grounded in the Catholic values. The prelate mentioned cultural imperialism, materialism, poverty and moral decadence as some of the problems that made the institution of the family very vulnerable.

He was speaking to delegates of the Catholic Missionary Congress at Pope Paul Memorial Hotel, Rubaga on Wednesday.

A cross-section of the delegates during the missionary congress on Wednesday.

 
Blume asked Catholics to seek the inspiration of saints Andrew Kaggwa and Matia Mulumba, who abandoned their polygamous practices and embraced Biblical monogamy upon their conversion.

"Never forget that you are people from the land of martyrs. Emulate the extra-ordinary faith and Christian witness."

Blume later called for a "missionary enterprise" that is able to transform. He also proposed missionary outreach strategies, to take the gospel of Christ to people beyond the confinements of the Church. He further advocated greater commitment to the poor, the sick, refugees, prisoners, migrants and needy children.