MUGABE R
Rev. Gershom Muhumuza, the former priest of Kitazigurukwa Church of Uganda in North Kigezi Diocese, Kanyinya Ward, Southern Division, Rukungiri Municipality, received a regretful farewell on Sunday. Christians described his early transfer as a surprising and disheartening move.
Rev. Gershom Muhumuza served faithfully for 11 and a half months, succeeding Rev. Benson Akankwatsa, currently the Archdeacon of Buhunga Archdeaconry, whose cattle were slaughtered during a protest.
Mr. Jackson Tumwesigye, the chairperson of the Father’s Union, reiterated the broken hearts of Christians over the early transfer of their beloved priest. He acknowledged that politics, hatred, and strong orders from higher authorities, masterminded by certain influential church members, disrupted the farewell party, the gifting of a motorcycle, and other church development initiatives. He lamented that Kitazigurukwa Church of Uganda has become infamous for conflicts targeting clergy.
Retired Venerable Geoffrey Izooba, the former Archdeacon of Kashenyi Archdeaconry, who presided over the service, challenged Christians to rally behind their servants of God. He emphasized the unique gifts bestowed by God upon His people and praised Rev. Gershom Muhumuza as the first priest to complete the diocesan quota during Christmas. He also condemned gossip, which he said hinders church development.
Henry Twehangane, the Head of Laity at Kitazigurukwa Church of Uganda Parish, highlighted the achievements during Rev. Gershom’s tenure, including fostering a conducive environment, initiating enhanced projects, and encouraging voluntary support. He implored Christians to understand and respect their limits.
Rev. Gershom Muhumuza, who has been transferred to Nyamabale Church of Uganda Parish in Nyarushanje Sub-County, called on Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all matters. He attributed his transfer to a misunderstanding involving the mistreatment of a villager, even though he is a native of the municipality.
During the service, prizes were awarded to the best supporters of the Christmas Thanksgiving Competitions, which raised 72 million Ugandan Shillings. The prizes, worth 5,560,000 UGX, were distributed as follows:
