Gideon Tumwijukye | Tayari News
The Parish Priest of Rushoroza Cathedral, Rev. Fr. Christmas Austin, has called on men to take a more active role in food production within their households, saying this is key to improving family welfare and reducing poverty.
Fr. Austin made the remarks during the celebration of the Passion of Christ and the Veneration of the Cross, where he addressed hundreds of Christians who had gathered to commemorate the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
In his message, Fr. Austin urged families to embrace shared responsibility, noting that food security begins at the household level. He expressed concern that many homes rely on only one breadwinner, which puts unnecessary pressure on families.
“It is not right for a family to depend on only one person to provide food for everyone. God gave us strength and ability so that we can all work together and support our families,” Fr. Austin said.
He further pointed out that many men have abandoned agricultural activities, leaving the responsibility of working in gardens entirely to their wives. According to him, this has negatively affected food production in many homes.
“Men have left gardens to women, yet they are strong and capable. This has reduced production and exposed families to hunger and poverty,” he added.
Fr. Austin warned that the growing trend has contributed to escalating cases of famine at the household level, forcing some families into debt as they struggle to survive.
“When there is no food in the home, families are forced to borrow money to feed themselves. This leads to loans that become difficult to pay, yet all this can be avoided if families work together,” he noted.
At the same event, Fr. Austin also called on Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, especially during times of hardship and suffering. Drawing from the Passion of Jesus Christ, he reminded believers that challenges are part of life but should not weaken their trust in God.
“Jesus went through suffering, rejection, and death, but in the end, He was victorious. This teaches us that our struggles are not permanent,” he said.
He encouraged Christians to remain hopeful and prayerful, emphasizing that perseverance in faith brings eventual victory.
“We should not lose hope when we face challenges. If we remain faithful and trust in God, we shall overcome just as Christ did,” Fr. Austin emphasized.