Thousands of worshippers and families gathered at Old Kampala Senior Secondary School on Tuesday night for Watoto Church’s City’s Carols Night, marked by the lighting of Uganda’s tallest Christmas tree and the official launch of the church’s Christmas Cantata season in Kampala.
Organisers said more than 12,000 people attended the first night of the celebration, which featured music, praise and carols performed by a combined citywide choir drawn from churches across the capital.
A major highlight of the evening was the lighting of a 20-metre Christmas tree, described by organisers as the tallest in the country. The tree was presented as a symbol of hope, peace and God’s love during the Christmas season.
Churches that participated in the celebration included Watoto Church, All Saints Cathedral Kampala, Deliverance Church Makerere, Community Life Church Busega, Life Church Namasuba, House of Revival Kisaasi, AfriChorus Choir and Elim Evangelistic Church.
Speaking as the chief guest, Ms Allen Kagina said Christmas serves as a reminder that God chose to enter the world humbly through Jesus Christ, who was born in a manger and raised among ordinary people.
“This shows that God is present in every situation and faithful in every season of life,” Kagina said. She added that events such as City’s Carols Night help strengthen society by bringing churches and communities together before God.
Kagina challenged parents and leaders to raise a God-fearing, respectful and upright generation, and encouraged young people seeking purpose in life.
Watoto Church Team Leader Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo told the audience that the Christmas season should go beyond entertainment to reflect its deeper meaning.
“Christmas is a time when faith and celebration come together. We are opening our hearts and our city so that everyone can hear and experience the story of Jesus Christ,” Rwotlonyo said.
The event was organised as a family-friendly gathering open to people of all ages and backgrounds. Looking ahead, Pastor Brian Abaho said the upcoming Christmas Cantata, titled Son of God, will use music and drama to creatively tell the story of Jesus.
“The Cantata helps people connect with the message of Christ simply and enjoyably,” Abaho said.
The Son of God Christmas Cantata will run from Dec 19 to Dec 22, starting at 8:00 p.m. each night, with free entry for the public.
With large crowds expected, security arrangements have been put in place. Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire said police are working closely with organisers to manage crowd control and traffic.
“We have enough security officers in place to ensure everyone’s safety and smooth movement,” Owoyesigyire said, calling on the public to cooperate with security teams.
As Kampala enters the festive season, Watoto Church’s Christmas celebrations continue to draw thousands together in a spirit of hope, love, peace and unity.
