Gideon Tumwijukye | Tayari News
KABALE – The Bishop of Diocese of Kigezi Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna has challenged the youth to concentrate on spiritual transformation during the ongoing Diocesan Youth and Students Convention taking place at Rugarama Hill in Northern Division, Kabale Municipality.
The convention, which has attracted hundreds of youths from across the diocese, officially opened today and will run until Monday next week under the theme, “Anchored in Christ for Unity, Stability and Peace,” drawn from Ephesians chapter 2 verses 14 to 17.
While addressing the congregation at the convention grounds, Bishop Akanjuna urged the youth to seek lasting peace through Christ, saying true and permanent peace can only be found in Him.
He called upon the young people to open their hearts, remain focused throughout the convention, and ensure they leave the gathering spiritually transformed by the end of the program on Monday.
Bishop Akanjuna said, “Young people should use this convention as a turning point in their lives. Open your hearts to Christ, remain focused in prayers and teachings, and by the end of this convention you should leave here transformed with the peace of Christ in your lives.”
He added, “The world today is full of confusion, violence and hopelessness, but Christ gives lasting peace. When you are anchored in Christ, you become stable, united and useful to your communities.”
Meanwhile, the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese Rt. Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe challenged the youth to remain patriotic to their country while maintaining a broader vision for the future.
While preaching during the opening service, Bishop Asiimwe warned the youth against promoting violence and conflict in the country, reminding them of Uganda’s painful history of wars and instability. He instead encouraged them to become ambassadors of peace and unity within their communities.
Bishop Asiimwe said, “Love your country and work for its development, but do not limit your dreams. Be patriotic Ugandans with a borderless vision capable of transforming not only your communities but also the world around you.”
He further warned, “Do not create violence or hatred in this country. Uganda has gone through painful times of war and instability before, and as young people you must become agents of peace, reconciliation and unity.”
Bishop Asiimwe also cautioned the youth against sexual immorality, noting that many young people today are being misled by pornography, sexting, masturbation and other immoral behaviors. He urged them to remember their Christian values and cultural background as they grow in faith and character.
He said, “Many young people are being destroyed by immoral practices promoted through social media and peer pressure. Protect your future, respect your bodies and remain faithful to the values you have been taught by your families and the church.”
The bishop added, “Never forget where you come from. Your background, your culture and your faith should guide you in every decision you make as you grow into responsible men and women.”