Ugandans told to shun tribalism

PIC: The Rt Rev Msgr Charles Kasibante delivering his homily during the memorial prayers for Cardinal Emmanuel Nsubuga.(Credit: Mathias Mazinga)

RELIGION | TRIBALISM

KAMPALA - The Vicar General of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Kampala, Rt Rev Msgr Charles Kasibante has asked Catholics and all Ugandans to emulate the charity and nationalistic character of the late Cardinal Emmanuel Nsubuga.

Kasibante described Nsubuga as an extra-ordinary prelate of great faith, determination and courage, who did many marvelous things for the Church and the country.

"Cardinal Nsubuga had a big heart. He helped all people, regardless of their tribe, religion or political affiliation.He knew only one tribe, the tribe of humanity," he said.

He was presiding over the prayers for the 27th anniversary of the death of Emmanuel Cardinal Nsubuga at Mapeera Bakateyamba's Home, Nalukolongo, Kampala on Friday.

Nsubuga, who died on April 20, 1991, was the first Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Kampala and first ever Ugandan cardinal. He is remembered for his dynamic leadership, piety, charity and passion for peace and socio-economic development.

Clerics and nuns pray at the tomb of Cardinal Emmanuel Nsubuga at Nalukolongo

During his episcopate, Nsubuga founded religious institutions such as St Mbaaga's Major Seminary Ggaba, The Good Samaritan Sisters, the Brothers of Saint Amans, Mapeera Bakateyamba's Home Nalukolongo and Pope Paul Memorial Hotel (Rubaga).

Kasibante asked Catholics and all Ugandans to emulate Cardinal Nsubuga's qualities by shunning vices such as tribalism, corruption, violence, murder, rape and environmental destruction. He also asked them to shun witchcraft and other satanic practices.

He called upon all Catholics to pray for the beatification and eventual canonisation of the pioneer Catholic missionaries, Fr Lourdel Mapeera and Bro Delmans Amans, who brought the faith in Uganda on February 17, 1979.

The function was also graced by the Very Rev Fr Richard Nnyombi, a senior member of the Missionary Society of White Fathers. The Mother General of the Good Samaritan Sisters, Sr Matthew Nakalema and the Rector of St Mbaaga's Seminary, Fr Dr Joseph Sserunjoji , also attended.