The Anglican Church of Uganda was overjoyed when the Diocese of West Buganda, based in Kako, Masaka City, officially installed its new bishop, Rt. Rev. Gaster Nsereko, during a historic occasion.

He is the seventh bishop of the diocese, succeeding Bishop Henry Katumba Tamale, who retired at 66 after eight years of service.

The grand event took place at St. Paul’s Church in Kako, Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, Masaka City, and was attended by a big number of christians, religious leaders, government officials among others.

The installation ceremony began with a service led by the Bishop of Bukedi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Bogere Egesa. During his sermon, Bishop Egesa spoke out against the ever growing corruption habits in Uganda, calling leaders to serve with honesty while prioritizing the needs of their people.

“Some people have climbed the trees of corruption, and this is eating away our nation. It is our responsibility as leaders to stand firm against this. Let us serve with honesty and dedication,” he stated. 

Bishop Egesa drew inspiration from the biblical narrative of Zacchaeus, likening Uganda’s current predicament to people climbing various “trees” of corruption, hypocrisy, immorality, unkindness, and drunkenness.

“What kind of tree are you climbing?” he challenged the congregation.

Bishop Egesa also cautioned Anglicans in West Buganda not to compare Bishop Nsereko to his predecessor, pointing out that each leader is individually gifted for their service of the people of God in the church and community. 

The ceremony was presided over by His Grace The Most Rev. Samuel Kazimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda. 

Archbishop Kaziimba encouraged the incoming bishop to lead the diocese with diligence, ensuring his flock’s spiritual growth.

“I want to remind you, Bishop Nsereko, that the purpose of this position is to follow in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ, not to become a boss. You are called to serve, not to boss around. Continue preaching and preparing God’s people for change,” the Archbishop stated. 

Archbishop Kaziimba also complimented retiring Bishop Katumba Tamale for his dedicated work, encouraging the next bishop to carry on all the projects started and ongoing in the diocese and beyond.

“We appreciate Bishop Katumba’s leadership. Despite numerous hurdles, his work has encouraged hard effort and progress. Bishop Nsereko, embrace the ongoing projects left by Bishop Katumba, completing them will bring joy to you and your diocese,” Archbishop Kaziimba said. 

In his first message as bishop, Rt. Rev. Gaster Nsereko promised to devote his life to God and the people of West Buganda.

He also urged the government to help communities by providing clean water, better markets for farmers, and other basic amenities.

Bishop Nsereko, formerly Archdeacon of Kakoma Archdeaconry in West Buganda diocese, expressed gratitude for the faith entrusted in him and promised to work hard to improve the diocese and its people.

Retiring Bishop Henry Katumba Tamale reminisced on his experience as bishop and thanked God for guiding him throughout his term. Despite the hurdles, he celebrated the accomplishments registered under 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. Hon. Nankabirwa urged Christians to actively participate in government development projects to enhance their livelihoods.

“The scriptures tell us that even our Lord Jesus Christ prioritized working alongside his father, Joseph, a carpenter. I congratulate religious leaders for embracing our message of social and economic development and passing it on to God’s followers who they lead. We will ensure that businesses have access to good roads, electricity, security and policies that favor the private sector,” she stated. 

To commemorate the event, President Museveni offered Bishop Nsereko a new vehicle to aid his pastoral work. This vehicle was delivered by Hon. Nankabirwa.

Representing the Vice Chancellor Canon Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi at the consecration ceremony, Mr. David Mugawe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration delivered a package and a message from the Vice Chancellor to the newly installed Bishop of West Buganda, Rt. Rev Gaster Nsereko. 

Mr Mugawe emphasized that UCU is eager to collaborate with the new bishop and noted that the university played a role in organizing the consecration ceremony. 

This marks a continued commitment to strengthening ties between UCU and the Anglican Church of Uganda fostering collaboration in education, community development, and spiritual growth across the church’s dioceses.

Mr. David Mugawe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, who represented Vice Chancellor Canon Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi at the consecration ceremony.

#Apply2UCU #JoinUCU