The Anglican Church of Uganda was filled with joy as the Diocese of West Buganda, based at Kako in Masaka City, officially installed its new bishop, Rt. Rev. Gaster Nsereko, on a historic occasion.
He becomes the seventh bishop of the diocese, succeeding Bishop Henry Katumba Tamale, who retired at the age of 66 after serving for eight years.
The grand ceremony, held at St. Paul's Church in Kako, Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, Masaka City, drew a large congregation of Christians, religious leaders from various faiths, and government officials, including representatives from the central government and Buganda Kingdom.
Faithful gathered early to witness this important moment in the life of the diocese.
The installation event began with a Holy Mass, led by the Bishop of Bukedi Diocese, Rev. Samuel Bogere Egesa. During his sermon, Rev. Egesa spoke out against the growing corruption in Uganda, urging leaders to serve with integrity and to prioritize the needs of the people.
"There are some who have climbed the trees of corruption, and it is eating away at our nation. It is our duty as leaders to stand firm against it. Let us serve with honesty and dedication," he said.
The Most Rev. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, officially installed Bishop Nsereko, sparking celebrations among the congregation.
Archbishop Kaziimba encouraged the new bishop to lead the diocese with diligence, ensuring the spiritual growth of his flock.
"I want to remind you, Bishop Nsereko, that this position is not about becoming a boss but following in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are called to serve, not to boss around. Continue preaching and equipping God's people for change," the Archbishop said.
Archbishop Kaziimba also praised the retiring Bishop Katumba Tamale for his dedicated service, encouraging the new bishop to continue the ongoing projects left behind.
"We are grateful for Bishop Katumba's leadership. Despite many challenges, his work has inspired hard work and progress. Bishop Nsereko, embrace the ongoing projects left by Bishop Katumba, and completing them will bring joy to you and your diocese," he added.
In his first remarks as bishop, Rt. Rev. Gaster Nsereko pledged to serve God and the people of West Buganda with dedication.
He also called on the government to support communities by providing clean water, better markets for farmers, and other essential services.
Bishop Nsereko, formerly the Archdeacon of Kakoma, expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him and vowed to work hard to uplift the diocese and its people.
Retiring Bishop Henry Katumba Tamale reflected on his time as bishop, expressing gratitude to God for guiding him through his tenure. Despite facing challenges, he celebrated the progress made during his leadership.
"It has been an honor to serve as bishop. I am grateful to God for allowing me to complete my mission," he said.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was represented at the event by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Canon Ruth Nankabirwa, who delivered the President's message. Nankabirwa encouraged Christians to actively participate in government development programs to improve their livelihoods.
"The scriptures tell us that even our Lord Jesus Christ prioritized work alongside his father, Joseph, who was a carpenter. I thank religious leaders for embracing our message on social and economic transformation and teaching it to their followers. We will ensure that business enterprises benefit from good roads, electricity, security, and policies that favor the private sector," she said.
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Nankabirwa also emphasized the importance of the Parish Development Model, which aims to increase the number of wealth creators in households and drive economic prosperity.
She urged the faithful to prioritize the development and maintenance of their churches, calling it a crucial part of their spiritual and community growth.
To mark the occasion, President Museveni, through Nankabirwa, gifted Bishop Nsereko a new vehicle to assist with his pastoral work.
Local leaders and Christians expressed their support for the new bishop, pledging to work closely with him and calling for improvements in Anglican-founded schools, which are currently facing challenges.
Christians in West Buganda Diocese are filled with hope and excitement, eagerly anticipating the leadership of Bishop Nsereko and his efforts to strengthen their faith and improve the welfare of their community.
