By Ivan Naijuka
In a warm and deeply reflective gathering, the retired clergy of the Diocese of Kampala met on Tuesday 18 November 2025 at All Saints’ Cathedral, Kampala Nakasero for a special fellowship graced by the Diocesan Bishop and Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, and the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, The Rt. Rev. Jackson Fredrick Baalwa.
The meeting, the first of its kind in recent years, was marked by emotion, gratitude, laughter, and renewed commitment to the call of God that has shaped their lives for decades.
Drawing from the book of Numbers, Archbishop Kaziimba delivered a deeply pastoral message, reminding the retired clergy that the priestly calling is lifelong.
“You are not retired but required,” he emphasized; words that resonated powerfully with the team.
The Archbishop explained that the fellowship was to honor the retired clergy, reconnect them with the Diocese, and tap into their priceless wisdom for the ongoing mission of the Church. He described the gathering as “extremely important for; fellowship, prayer, and rebuilding hope,” noting that many of the retired clergy have faced illness, bereavement, or isolation since leaving active ministry.
He added that the Diocese seeks to cultivate a continuous relationship with the retired clergy, including future gatherings that will also involve their spouses.
Clergy Reflect on a Lifetime of Ministry
The fellowship was enriched by heartfelt reflections from several retired clergy.
Canon Grace Ndyabahika, ordained in 1973, shared moving memories of his early ministry:
“I was ordained in 1973 and worked as a curate under Archbishop Eric Sabiiti in the pro-cathedral here at All Saints. I am glad that our Archbishop now and Bishop look out for us. As he said, we are not tired but required to remain active. Today, the Archbishop has awakened us and empowered us again in this journey of service.”
Rev. Canon Christopher Onyuthi, two years into retirement, described the gathering as deeply restorative:
“This has been very pastoral, not only for the Bishops but also for us as clergy. It challenges us to reach out to others in different ways. This is something that can be extended across the entire Province as we meet and encourage one another.”
Rev. Canon Diana M. Nkesiga New pathways opened up for retired clergy:
“The Archbishop has opened new doors for us to mentor young clergy in counseling and guidance. He has encouraged us to write our memoirs and use our stories to inspire the coming generation.”
New Beginnings;
In a significant moment during the fellowship, the retired clergy elected a committee to coordinate their activities and deepen engagement with the Diocese.
Elected Committee Members:
- Chairperson: Canon Grace Sentongo
- Vice Chair: Canon Diana M. Nkesiga
- Secretary: Canon Joab Mbukure
- Treasurer: Canon Fred Komunda
- Publicity: Canon Dr. John Kateeba
- Committee Member: Rev. Moses Henry Isabirye
Speaking after his selection, Rev. Canon Grace Sentongo expressed deep appreciation for the Archbishop’s vision:
“We have not had a formal fellowship as retired clergy. As the Archbishop convened us, he challenged us to do advocacy, mentorship, and equipping others, and to plan with the Diocese. We also look forward to beginning a pension scheme for retired clergy.”
In an effort to promote the well-being of the retired clergy, the gathering also included free medical check-ups conducted by a professional team from Mengo Hospital.
The health team carried out screenings for high blood pressure, diabetes, body mass index (BMI), and other essential medical assessments.
The fellowship closed with prayer, thanksgiving, lunch and joyful conversations marking the beginning of a renewed bond between the Diocese and its retired clergy.
Through spiritual encouragement, wisdom sharing, leadership formation, and even medical care, the Diocese affirmed that these servants of God remain a cherished and vital part of the Diocese