The Church of Uganda is worried about the growing number of young people who are not participating in church activities. This concern was highlighted during the Youth Celebration of Martyrs’ Day at Namugongo on Friday.
Retired Bishop James William Ssebaggala, who spoke on behalf of Archbishop Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, expressed that many young people have abandoned church responsibilities, leaving the work to older members who may not have the energy to manage all tasks effectively.
The Youth Celebration of Martyrs’ Day is one of several events held by the Church of Uganda in preparation for the main celebrations on June 3rd. Ssebaggala noted that even the few young people who attend church are often more interested in seeking leadership positions than contributing to the church’s development.
He mentioned that the church faces various challenges, such as land grabbing, and it is disheartening to see young people not stepping up to support the elderly in these struggles. Additionally, he observed that many young people are becoming lazy, relying on their aged parents instead of working to support themselves.
This trend is affecting not only the church but also the nation’s development, as fewer resources are being collected in taxes to provide public services. The church’s goal in inviting youth to the Martyrs’ Day celebrations is to encourage them to reform and follow Christian teachings.
“The men we are here to remember sacrificed their lives for their faith,” Ssebaggala emphasized, urging the youth to get involved in church activities to ensure its future.
Rev. Simon Peter Dembe Lya Yesu, the director of mission and outreach at the Church of Uganda, reminded the youth of their identity in Jesus Christ, their dignity as children of God, and their destiny of eternal life. He encouraged them to reflect these values in their lives, from their speech and dress code to their interactions with others.
Dembe also addressed the rising criminality among youth, attributing it partly to parents neglecting their responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of parental involvement in children’s lives and taking them to church, which he believes is the best place for raising responsible individuals.
Rev. Tom Otai, the youth coordinator for the Soroti Diocese, led discussions on youth responsibilities in the church during the celebration at Namugongo. He emphasized the importance of youth participation in church activities to foster a sense of responsibility and leadership.
Rev. Richard Rukundo, the coordinator of children and youth affairs in the Church of Uganda, highlighted that these celebrations are an opportunity to empower the youth. He reminded them that, like the martyrs, they must stand firm in their faith despite challenges.
Rukundo expressed concern about the youth’s attraction to free things and the disturbing trend of some even committing crimes against their parents for material gains. He stressed that involving youth in church activities can help reform their behavior and empower them to become responsible citizens.
He also pointed out the challenge the church faces in competing with concerts and social media, which can distract the youth from meaningful engagement. The church aims to not only have the youth attend services but also inspire them to make positive changes in their homes, schools, and workplaces.
This year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations at the Anglican shrine are organized by a cluster of Rwenzori dioceses, including East Rwenzori, South Rwenzori, West Rwenzori, and Bunyoro Kitara. Youth from various dioceses, including Madi West Nile, Masindi Kitara, Rwenzori, Busoga, Bukedi Namirembe, and Kigezi, gathered at Namugongo.
Lucy Karungi from Ruwenzori Diocese shared that making a pilgrimage to the shrine helps her reflect on her commitment to serving Jesus Christ. Marvin Isingoma from Kibiito Secondary School in Bunyangabo District said the celebrations allow him to surround himself with faithful people who can help him grow in his faith, just like the martyrs did.
