Zadock Amanyisa | Tayari News
The Bishop of West Ankole, the Rt. Rev. Johnson Twinomujuni has spoken out authoritatively on celebrating soccer victories in the Church, stating that the Church is a sacred place and should not be used to exalt football.
According to the Bishop, while enjoying football and giving thanks for moments of joy is okay, knowing what to do and what not to do during the celebration matters.
“I congratulate Arsenal and all its fans upon the victory! There is nothing wrong with enjoying football, celebrating with others, or thanking God for moments of joy, unity, and safety. We should actually thank God that people gathered peacefully, without violence, injury, or tragedy. Every good gift ultimately comes from Him.
Bishop Twinomujuni’s remarks come after some clergy organized Arsenal Football Club fans and attracted their excitement to the sacred places, including animating pulpits with Arsenal flags. The events played out on the day Arsenal was being crowned the English Premier League champions for the first time in 22 years.
The Bishop guides that key liturgical focal points, including the altar, the pulpit and others, hold specific spiritual and practical roles during worship, ranging from reading scripture and delivering sermons to administering communion, and they should be left for the purpose for which they are designed and commissioned.
“The Church must always remain Christ-centred. The pulpit and altar are sacred spaces dedicated to the worship of God and the preaching of His Word, not to the exaltation of any football club, political group, or earthly passion.” He said
“Scripture reminds us: ‘All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify” (1 Cor. 10:23). We should, therefore, be careful not to turn the sanctuary into a stadium atmosphere or allow symbols of fandom to overshadow the reverence due to God.
Bishop Twinomujuni argues that a wise balance is possible, where during a service, leaders may briefly allow thankful fans to express gratitude to God in a respectful way, while ensuring that the focus of worship remains on Christ, the gospel, prayer, and spiritual edification.
“Football can unite people for a moment, but only Christ saves, transforms, and unites eternally. Therefore, let all things be done with gratitude, wisdom, moderation, and reverence before God,” the Bishop noted