STELLA T
Rt Rev. Bishop Callist Rubaramira has marked a significant milestone—his 50th anniversary of priestly ordination—in a colourful and spiritually uplifting celebration held at Our Lady of Good Shepherd, Rushoroza Cathedral Parish, in Kabale Diocese.
The golden jubilee celebration, attended by hundreds of Christians, dignitaries, and government officials, commemorated Bishop Rubaramira’s ordination which took place on 18th May 1975 at the same cathedral.
Delivering the homily during the Thanksgiving Mass, Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha of Mbarara Archdiocese praised Bishop Rubaramira’s decades of devoted service, attributing his exemplary leadership to a life guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Archbishop Bainomugisha emphasized the importance of love and faith in Christian life, urging believers to emulate Bishop Rubaramira’s love for people. He also reminded the congregation that joy often follows hardship, noting that the Bishop’s priestly journey was not without trials.
The Vicar General of Kabale Diocese, Msgr John Vianney Sunday, who spoke on behalf of the central organizing committee, expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event. He commended the committee members, leaders, and faithful for their generosity and commitment, which made the day vibrant and memorable.
Representing the government, Security Minister Gen Jim Muhwezi applauded Bishop Rubaramira for his transformative initiatives, particularly the Bishop’s Annual Appeal Fund (BAAF), which he said has positively impacted both the Church and the community.
The celebration was graced by Vice President Jessica Alupo, who delivered a message from President Yoweri Museveni. She hailed Bishop Rubaramira’s dedication to national development, noting his contribution to the social, economic, and political progress of Kigezi and Uganda at large through community-centered projects that uplift livelihoods and combat poverty.
In his thanksgiving speech, Bishop Callist Rubaramira expressed deep gratitude to the faithful and his family, especially his late parents and relatives, for their unwavering support. He used the occasion to seek forgiveness from anyone he might have wronged during his ministry and also extended forgiveness to those who may have wronged him.
The grand celebration was attended by several dignitaries, including David Bahati, Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives; Henry Musasizi, State Minister for Finance, Planning, and Economic Development in charge of General Duties; and ten Members of Parliament from the Kigezi region.
The jubilee not only celebrated a remarkable journey of faith and service but also showcased the unity and admiration of a community proud of one of its most dedicated shepherds.
