Churches have been urged to join the wealth creation campaign to help their congregations thrive and appreciate God's providence.
Minister for the Presidency and Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Women's League Chairperson, Milly Babirye Babalanda, made the call during a fundraising event for the SDA Kasambira Church Health Center at Nawanyago yesterday.
Babalanda, who contributed Shs3 million towards the Shs21 million target, stressed that poverty within congregations could drive people away from God and into dubious means of survival.
"The church cannot afford to preside over a poverty-stricken flock. Poverty will divert them from the Lord," Babalanda said. She commended the SDA church for supporting government programs aimed at fighting disease, poverty, food insecurity, and promoting education.
"I am glad the church has joined the government in its poverty eradication drive. We shall work together to achieve this goal," she added.
Babalanda also criticized the growing trend of young people seeking financial support from older partners, warning of its dangers.
"These days, young people are chasing after sugar mummies and daddies, calling it 'work' in exchange for financial support. This is embarrassing and satanic. Let us embrace a culture of hard work and saving," she urged.
The Minister launched a Shs1 billion savings and sustainability project, aiming to raise Shs350 million through contributions from 100 people giving Shs10 million each.
She also encouraged women to pursue economic empowerment to curb domestic violence and strengthen families.
"Economic empowerment will bring men back home, reduce stress, and promote family harmony," she said.
Bishop Kajura: "Work Is a God-Given Duty"
Busoga SDA Field Bishop Jimmy Kajura urged Christians to reject poverty, embrace hard work, and stop relying on handouts.
"Work was commissioned and blessed by God. As we wait for Jesus' return, we must change our mindset, become hard workers, and sustain our families and the church," Kajura emphasized.
The Bishop defended the launch of the diocese's healthcare arm, emphasizing the church's role in both spiritual and physical healing.
Condemnation of Drug Theft
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Bishop Kajura condemned health workers involved in stealing government drugs, particularly ARVs for HIV patients, labeling it as both a curse and an act of murder.
"Stealing drugs is murder. You are taking lives. Those who do this should be treated as murderers. Denying HIV patients their medication is morally, socially, ethically, and spiritually wrong," he stated.
Kamuli Assistant District Health Officer for Maternal and Child Health, Moses Lyagoba, welcomed the SDA Church's health initiative, noting it would enhance community health outreach and promote holistic healing.
