African Catholic Bishops Launch Golden Jubilee Year of SECAM in Uganda

Uganda Catholic Secretariat

Uganda Catholic Secretariat Uganda Catholic Secretariat A publication of the Uganda Episcopal Conference A publication of the Uganda Episcopal Conference

ISSUE 5 VOL 6 PRICE: USHS 2,000 JULY–AUGUST 2018

Pope denounces “slanderous communication” of dictatorships » VATICAN Page 18 AFRICAN CATHOLIC BISHOPS Inside LAUNCH GOLDEN JUBILEE YEAR OF SECAM IN UGANDA

Church pays tribute to late Bishop Oyanga of Lira Diocese »Page 11 Offering Responsible Sex Education »Page 13

UEC Chairman applauds Ethiopia- Eritrea leaders for peace deal »Page 14 Ethiopia hosts 19th AMECEA Plenary Assembly »Page 15 Bishop of Solwezi, Zambia elected New Chairman of AMECEA »Page 16 Bishops from SECAM’s eight regional conferences pose for a group photo with Pope Paul VI who priests and dignitaries after the official launch of SECAM’s Golden Jubilee year. died 40 years ago PHOTO BY: JACINTA W. ODONGO underscored the centrality of man Story on Page 3 »Page 19 New Contact is a publication of the Uganda Episcopal Conference Nsambya Hill, 672 Hanlon Road,New P.O.Contact Box is2886 a publication Kampala, ofUganda, the Uganda Tel: +256-414-510570/0414-10544/ Episcopal Conference 0414-510571/0414-510398, NsambyaMobile Hill, 672 Tel: Hanlon +256-782746812, Road, P.O. Box Fax: 2886 +256 Kampala, 414 510 Uganda,545, E-mail: Tel: +256-414-510570/0414-10544/[email protected], Website: 0414-510571/0414-510398, www.uecon.org Mobile Tel: +256-782746812, Fax: +256 414 510 545, E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.uecon.org 2 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6

DIVINE HOLY LAND SITES • Mt. of Temptation • Cana • Western wall • Mt Carmel • Mary’s Well • The shepherd’s ﬁeld • Garden of Gethemene • Uper Room • Church Of Holy Sepulchral • Mt Transﬁguration • Nazareth • River Jordan Baptism site • Church of All Nations • Garden Tomb • Banias, Caesarea Philipi • Mt of Olives • Sea Galilee Boat Ride • Jericho • Pyramids and sphinx of Giza • Pools Of Beatitudes • Church of Multiplication • Red Sea Close Over • Mt of Beatitudes • Plam Sunday Road • Virgin Mary church • Via Dolorosa • Dead sea • Mt Sinai • Mt Zion • Sycamore tree • Burning Bush

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UEC JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 3 Editorial African Catholic Bishops launch Golden Jubilee Year of SECAM in Uganda

On July 22, 2018, the Catho- lic Church in Uganda awoke to the sad news of the death of Rt. Rev. Joseph Oyanga, the Emer- itus Bishop of Lira Diocese. Bishop Oyanga, who was the Ordinary of the Diocese from 1989 to 2003, passed on at St. Anthony Hospital in the Archdi- ocese of Tororo, where he had served as a priest. I first met Bishop Oyanga in the 1980s when he was in Mbale College as a teacher Bishops from various SECAM regional conferences during the Eucharistic celebration in and later head teacher. He was Rubaga Cathedral then Father Joseph Oyanga By Jacinta W. Odongo and had come to our Sub par- Media Officer, Uganda Episcopal Conference ish for Mass. I was a little boy aspiring to be a priest and I On Sunday, July 29, 2018, Bishops rep- enable SECAM to do a lot more than it has was struck by his smile, friend- resenting various regional and national been able to do in the past fifty years,” said liness and simplicity. A few conferences and other Church institutions Bishop Sipuka. years later, I was privileged to in Africa converged at Rubaga Cathedral in Reflecting on Pope Francis’ encyc- be one of the choir members Kampala, to officially launch the year-long lical ‘The Joy of the Gospel’, in which that sang at his Thanksgiving Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Sym- the Holy Father expresses sorrow about Mass at Nagongera Seminary posium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa many pastoral workers, including conse- in Tororo, shortly after his Epis- and Madagascar (SECAM). crated men and women, who are con- copal ordination and installation The celebrations began with a proces- cerned more about their personal freedom, as Bishop of Lira Diocese. His sion of priests and Bishops from SECAM’s Bishop Sipuka urged Pastoral Agents to smile, friendliness and simplic- eight regional conferences. SECAM Presi- refrain from the temptation of materialism ity remained the same. What a dent, Most Rev. Gabriel Mbilingi, also the and corruption tendencies: individualism; humble servant of God! Archbishop of Lubango Archdiocese in self-seeking; love of money; power and The messages from vari- Angola presided over the launch of the comfort. ous Church leaders during year-long celebrations. He said that materialistic tendencies the requiem Masses, describe Hundreds of faithful including dignitar- have made many pastoral agents to see Bishop Oyanga as a simple, ies from Buganda Kingdom and religious their work as a mere appendage to their life humble, dutiful and loving per- men and women were in attendance at the and relaxation, than about evangelisation. son; a man of peace and cour- launch. “Pastoral workers who fall into a lifestyle age; a true shepherd, teacher While delivering his homily, Rt. Rev. which leads to attachment to financial and musician. All these and Sithembele Sipuka, Bishop of Mthatha security or to a desire for power or human many other attributes of Bishop Diocese in South Africa and second vice glory at all cost, rather than giving lives to Oyanga are special gifts and president of SECAM, appealed to his fellow others in mission,” Bishop Sipuka quoted blessings that God gave us Bishops and faithful to put their efforts and Pope Francis’ encyclical adding “If we are through him. We thank God for resources together to develop the Church. honest, we will realise that the Pope here the gift of our Bishop and we “In relation to us bishops of SECAM, is not only talking about Europe, this truth pray that He rewards him with today’s Gospel is teaching us that while we applies to us in Africa as well.” the Glory of Heaven. are not able to do everything we want to He appealed to his fellow bishops to do because of lack of funds, if we com- carefully select and form the next genera- Fr. Philip Odii bine the little monies we have, we can do tion of pastoral agents at the dawn of the Editor/Executive wonders. If each bishop can make his con- 50 years of the existence of SECAM, and Secretary of Social tribution of five barley loaves every year in told them to use their influence to engage Communications the form of five hundred dollars, we would with governments at national, regional 4 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 UEC

5. Regional Episcopal Conference of North Africa (CERNA); 6. Association of Member Episcopal Conferences of Eastern Africa (AMECEA); 7. Inter-Regional Meeting of the Bishops of Southern Africa (IMBISA) 8. Episcopal Conferences of the Indian Ocean (CEDOI)

JUBILEE CALENDAR

July 29, 2018: Opening of the Jubi- lee in Kampala, in all the churches Bishop Sipuka gives his homily of Africa and Madagascar and in all and continental level on broad issues African bishops during the Second communities and institutions. of human rights and environment in Vatican Council (1962-1965) as the August 2018: Jubilee around order to fight against poverty, diseases, bishops wanted to establish a forum in Ecclesial Communities social injustices, war and corruption. which they could speak with one voice The bishop emphasized the need for on matters pertaining to the Church in September 2018: Jubilee working hard to fight poverty by urging Africa. The establishment of SECAM is, around the word of God (The role the faithful to grow basic food for con- therefore, the result of the bishops’ res- of catechists or animators) sumption in their homesteads in order olution to build a continental structure October 2018: Jubilee around the to increase food security. in order to bring forth the African vision mission and the Movements for the In his speech, the Chairman of the to the whole Church. Apostolate (Religious) Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC) His Holiness Pope Paul VI presided and Archbishop of Gulu, Most Rev. over SECAM’s inauguration in July, November 2018: Jubilee around John Baptist Odama acknowledged 1969 in Kampala during his first visit to the saints and martyrs of Africa and with appreciation the presence of the Africa. Madagascar various representatives of the various Meanwhile, Archbishop Mbilingi December 2018: Jubilee around SECAM’s regional conferences and unveiled SECAM’s Golden Jubilee life and creation other Church institutions. logo and prayer toward the end of the He said it was a great honour for Eucharistic celebration. He said the January 2019: Jubilee around the Uganda to organize both SECAM’s monthly thematic celebrations will be Family (and interreligious dialogue) inauguration and the forthcoming held in all Catholic Church Dioceses February 2019: Jubilee around the Golden Jubilee, thus called upon across Africa until July 2019, under sick Ugandans to behave in an exemplary the theme: “Church-Family of God in manner. Africa, Celebrate your Jubilee! Proclaim March 2019: Jubilee around Earlier during Holy Mass, Most Rev. Jesus Christ your Saviour.” The jubilee refugees, migrants and displaced Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, the Archbishop celebrations will be held on 28th July, persons of Kampala Archdiocese welcomed 2019. April 2019: Jubilee around voca- the visiting Bishops from SECAM’s tions, childhood and youth eight regional conferences to Rubaga REGIONAL CONFERENCES Cathedral, and briefed them about the OF SECAM May 2019: Jubilee around Mary history of the Cathedral, which he said and the Woman 1. Association of Episcopal Confer- it hosted Blessed Pope Paul VI in 1969 June 2019: Jubilee around the ences of Central Africa (ACEAC), when he inaugurated SECAM. socio-professional groups and “This Cathedral has hosted three 2. Association of Episcopal Confer- political actors Popes who have visited Uganda in ences of Central Africa Region July 2019: Solemn celebration and the past years including Blessed Pope (ACERAC), closing of the Jubilee in Kampala Paul VI in 1969 when he inaugurated 3. Regional Episcopal Confer- and all the churches of Africa and SECAM. Moreover, it is built where ence of West Africa (RECOWA/ Madagascar the palace of the King of the Buganda CERAO); Kingdom, Muteesa I, used to be. This place, therefore, is of great signifi- 4. Assembly of the Catholic Hierar- cance,” he said. chy of Egypt - (AHCE); SECAM was born out of the will of UEC JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 5

Pictorial of SECAM Golden Jubilee Year Launch

H.E Berhaneyesus Cardinal Souraphiel, immediate former A section of the faithfull during the celebration at Rubaga chairman of AMECEA with Most Rev. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga of Kampala Archdiocese at the launch of year-long jubilee celebration of SECAM

The choir during the launch Children placing flags of SECAM’s regional and national conferences

SECAM President, Most Rev. Gabriel Mbilingi, the Archbishop Bishops from SECAM’s eight regional conferences pose for of Lubango archdiocese in Angola gives his final blessings a group photo after the official launch of SECAM’s Golden after the Eucharistic celebration Jubilee year.

Photos by: Jacinta w. Odongo 6 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 UEC the desert, wherever Africa may be SECAM unveils Logo on the occasion and within the wider SECAM frater- of its Golden Jubilee launch nity, which is celebrating the jubilee and proclaiming Christ,” he explained. He pointed out that the number 50 on the logo is designed in a free form to showcase and envisage a frame for a smooth-flowing celebration throughout the Golden Jubilee year. “The colors used for the logo are the colors you find in the SECAM logo. The additional golden color brings out the celebratory nature of this celebration today and of the entire Jubilee Year, and it also represents the colors of the Holy See. Therefore, the Church in Africa is one with the universal Church; Africa and SECAM’s Golden Jubilee logo that was unveiled at the launch the universal Church remain one, with Christ we remain one. May our unity By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla, and peace be one day completely Catholic News Agency for Africa restored through Christ our Lord,” Bishop Badejo concluded, receiving The President of Symposium of characteristics to the whole world. a resounding Amen in song from the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and The circle reflects unity and oneness: congregation of over 2000. Madagascar (SECAM), Most Rev. May Africa remain one Africa,” Bishop SECAM President then solemnly Gabriel Mbilingi, also the Archbishop Badejo revealed. declared the Golden Jubilee officially of Lubango Archdiocese in Angola has He added, “The cross found in the and formerly open in the words, “For unveiled the logo for SECAM’s Golden middle of the African map is the same the glory of God, for the salvation of all Jubilee year-long celebrations. as the cross in the SECAM logo, but in His people in Africa and in the world, Archbishop Mbilingi unveiled the this one, it reflects the victory of Christ and for the growth of the Church, logo on July 29, 2018, at Rubaga over death and trials: May Christ be family of God in Africa, I hereby for- Cathedral during the official launch for Lord over deaths and trials in Africa.” merly declare the Golden Jubilee Year SECAM’s 50th anniversary celebra- Bishop Badejo also said that the for the Symposium of Episcopal Con- tion that will climax on July 28, 2019. open African map reflects that the ferences of Africa and Madagascar The event took place at the end of Church in Africa is open to its Islands open, in the name of the Father, the the Eucharistic celebration after being and to the rest of the world as it has Son, and the Holy Spirit.” brought in front of the altar by two always been, and it shows the tradi- SECAM President then presented youth. tional warm welcoming of Africa, its to the representatives of the various Speaking at the unveiling cere- hospitality, and true sense of commu- regional Bishops’ conferences “tools” mony, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, the nity as we have witnessed today. that will be employed in celebrating Bishop of Oyo Diocese (Nigeria) who The prelate noted that the logo the Golden Jubilee across Africa in chairs the Committee of Bishops for depicts the theme of the Golden Jubi- parishes, devotional groups, homes, Communications in Africa (CEPACS) lee: “Church – Family of God in Africa! and institutions. Each pack contained explained the various symbols on the Celebrate your Jubilee, Proclaim hard copies of the Jubilee Logo, SECAM Golden Jubilee logo. Jesus Christ your Savior”. prayer, the working document, and “The circle and the African map are “The people in the logo, represent a memory stick will soft copies of all merged together, to give the idea and you and us, everybody; the people the material, which can be distributed the picture of Africa as a continental represent the larger family of Africa, in among clergy, religious and faithful in family; a family of pastoral collab- Africa, in Madagascar, in the Islands, the various regions of the Church in oration, solidarity, showing Africa’s in the diaspora, in the high seas, in Africa.

THE SECAM GOLDEN JUBILEE PRAYER God our Father, we praise you for your infinite goodness for the Church and natural resources with sincere gratitude in our hearts and help in Africa and Madagascar, particularly for the gift of SECAM. We thank us to use it for the good and well-being of all the people of Africa and you for the first missionaries. In your eternal wisdom, you have blessed beyond. our Continent with much human, spiritual and natural resources; for Almighty God, send us a fresh outpouring of your Holy Spirit in this this we thank you and we glorify you. year of jubilee, for a veritable conversion and reconciliation among As we celebrate the fifty years of SECAM, we acknowledge our sins ourselves, in order to bear greater witness to Jesus Christ our Saviour. and pray for repentance from our failings of bad governance, corrup- Mary Immaculate, Queen of Africa, pray for us! tion, violence and misuse of all your gifts. All you Holy Martyrs of Uganda and Saints of Africa and Madagascar, Give us greater love for our continent; help us to celebrate its rich pray for us! Amen. UEC JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 7 family planning include Standard Days Married couples urged to support Method (SDM) with cycle beads, Two Day Method and Lactational Amen- natural family planning methods orrhea Method (LAM). Couples using NFP to avoid pregnancy abstain from intercourse and genital contact during the fertile phase of the woman’s cycle. No drugs, devices, or surgical proce- dures are used to avoid pregnancy. In her presentation, Lauren Van Enk, the program officer of the Institute for Reproductive Health at Georgetown University in USA, noted the benefits associated with fertility awareness methods as compared to artificial family planning methods. She said that these fertility awareness methods are inexpensive and can easily be used by any woman irrespec- tive of her educational background. “NFP methods support reproductive health. They are good for the body. The natural methods have none of the harmful side effects caused by contra- ception, especially artificial contracep- tives (e.g., pill, injection, etc.). For the One of the natural family planning methods, the Standard Days Method with cycle beads woman, NFP charting can even assist in the diagnosis of underlying medical By Jacinta W. Odongo problems. And, if a couple find they are having trouble conceiving, NFP information can help them pinpoint the Married couples in Uganda have most fertile time of the wife’s cycle,” been urged to support natural family she noted. planning methods as it promotes a She added that NFP methods have holistic approach to family planning, a 98 percent success rate if used respects procreation and has the absolutely perfectly noting that these potential to deepen the intimacy of methods can be marriage strengthen- husband and wife. ing as it relies on couple communica- The call was made by the Natural tion and behavior change. Family Planning Project Coordinator of “NFP methods require husband the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau The NFP project coordinator of UCMB, Janet and wife to cooperate with each (UCMB), Janet Opota Komagum Opota Komagum addresses the participants. other in the most intimate area of their during the UCMB national dissemina- lives. During times of periodic sexual tion meeting on Natural Family Plan- ral methods, noting that the Church abstinence, husband and wife live a ning (NFP) in the Catholic network at through UCMB has trained providers renewed courtship as they discover Hotel Africana on July 10, 2018. in 31 Catholic health facilities to offer non-sexual ways to express their love Komagum told couples that by such services in all the dioceses in the for each other. Couples learn that they respecting the love-giving and life-giv- country. have a shared responsibility for safe- ing natures of marriage, NFP can ”The Catholic Church encourages guarding God’s gifts of human sexu- enrich the bond between husband use of ‘natural’ contraceptive methods ality, marriage and family. They also and wife. because they respect God’s design for grow in their understanding of God’s “NFP respects God’s plan for mar- married love. In fact, NFP represents will for their family size,” she said. ried love. It promotes respect for one’s the only authentic approach to family Meanwhile, since 2014, 0ver 330 spouse, the virtue of chastity, self-sac- planning available to husbands and UCMB health workers have been rifice, and mindfulness regarding the wives because these methods can be equipped with knowledge and skills meaning of married love. It may not used to both attempt or avoid preg- to offer modern fertility awareness always be easy, but if a couple per- nancy,” she explained. methods and provide informed choice severes, NFP can actually help them When learning about NFP, it is counselling on all methods. As a result deepen their relationship with each important to know that: these meth- of improved stakeholder collaboration, other and God,” Komagum said in her ods are based on observation of the the ministry of health has integrated presentation. naturally occurring signs and symp- fertility awareness methods into Ugan- She also said that the Catho- toms of the fertile and infertile phases da’s family planning policy documents lic Church accepts the existence of of a woman’s menstrual cycle. and UCMB are active members of the family planning, but through natu- These fertility awareness methods of NFP technical working groups. 8 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 UEC HUMANAE VITAE: Half a Century on—Remaining Faithful to Fertility Regulation with Human Dignity Dr. RONALD KASYABA Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau

July 25, 2018 is the 50th Anniversary bility’ of the two meanings of a con- cles to the transmission of life, they do of Pope Paul VI’s Encyclical Humanae jugal act—the unitive and procreative, not fall under the Catholic Church’s Vitae (Of Human Life). which as he pointed out, are written by official ban against artificial contracep- The encyclical, which restates the God himself into the nature of a human tion. The assumption is, of course, that Church’s teaching on human dignity, being (HV, no. 12). even when couples are using natural sexuality and its purpose including in The Church, aware of the various dif- methods, they are not using them to the transmission of life and responsible ficulties couples encounter proposed avoid conception for selfish motives regulation of births continues to be as responsible birth regulation options— but for sound reasons like physi- relevant as it was half a century ago. which in the last 50 years—in response cal or emotional health or economic The encyclical was explicit on the to Pope Paul VI’s urgent request of the circumstances. issue of population growth—which “commitment of scientists, doctors, Fertility awareness methods was ‘hot’ at the time, as it is today and healthcare personnel and pastoral (FAMs)—the Lactational Amenorrhea guided that interventions (to regulate workers to make available to married Method (LAM), the Standard Days fertility) must always take into account couples all those aids which prove an Method (SDM), and the Two Day and respect the primary and inalienable effective support for helping them fully Method (TDM)—are safe and effective, responsibility of married couples and to live their vocation” (cf. HV, no. 23 – and they have important additional families, and cannot employ methods, 27) are now available, internationally benefits that appeal to women and which fail to respect the person and recognized and classified as mod- men—in addition to their moral appeal. fundamental human rights, beginning ern and effective Fertility Awareness The World Health Organization with the right to life of every innocent Methods or Natural methods of Family (WHO) Department of Reproductive human being. …………..And further Planning. Health and Research and the United adds, “It is therefore morally unaccept- Natural family planning refers to States Agency for International Devel- able to encourage, let alone impose, methods of avoiding (or achieving) opment (USAID) in a technical con- the use of methods such as contracep- pregnancy that cooperate with a cou- sultation in January 2015 supported tion, sterilization and abortion in order ple’s fertility rather than suppress it FAMs as modern family planning meth- to regulate births”. through the use of drugs or contracep- ods because these methods meet the Pope Paul VI had observed that tive devices. These methods involve criteria for modern family planning: “man’s stupendous progress in the determining the woman’s fertile period Fertility Awareness Methods; domination and rational organization and abstaining from intercourse during • Are effective at pregnancy of the forces of nature to the point that that time to avoid pregnancy or having prevention, he is endeavoring to extend this control intercourse then to achieve pregnancy. • Are safe, over every aspect of his own life -- over Properly applied, these natural meth- • Are based on a sound under- his body, over his mind and emotions, ods are in full accord with the teachings standing of reproductive biology, over his social life, and even over the of Pope Paul VI and St. John Paul II on • Include a defined protocol for laws that regulate the transmission of the subject of family planning. correct use, and life”, was a dangerous path yet Human Because they take advantage of the • Have been tested in appropri- life came from God, belongs to God, body’s natural rhythms of fertility and ately designed studies to assess and goes back to God. infertility and place no positive obsta- effectiveness under various As St. Paul reminds us “You are not conditions. your own, you have been bought, and The Standard Days Method is an at a price” (1 Cor. 6:19-20), therefore a easy way to track the fertility cycle conjugal act and the openness to the and fertile window for women whose transmission of life as well as regulation menstrual cycle lengths are 26–32 of births should always be mindful of days and has proven to be effective the sacredness of the human person. from various studies which revealed Pope Paul VI stated in the encycli- 95% effectiveness rate in perfect use cal, “It is a serious error to think that a (when it is used correctly and consis- whole married life of otherwise normal tently all of the time) and an 88% typical relations can justify sexual intercourse use rate (takes into account how the which is deliberately contraceptive and average person uses the birth control so intrinsically wrong.” In this, Pope method in the real world); while The Paul reminded us of the Church’s Two Day Method showed an effec- teaching on the truth of the act of love tiveness rate of 96% with perfect use in which spouses become sharers of Author demonstrating the use of Cyclebeads, and over 86% with typical use, also God’s creative act and the ‘insepara- a Tool used for SDM commensurate with barrier methods UEC JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 9 while the Lactational Amenorrhea 7 (seven) selected hospitals across the male involvement in couple family plan- Method, which requires that a woman country in the last 4 years. The pro- ning discussions. be within 6 months postpartum, exclu- gram approach involved facility and And therefore, at the 50th anniver- sively or nearly exclusively breastfeed- community based Natural Family Plan- sary of commemoration of the encyc- ing, and amenorrheic showed an effi- ning trainings and service provision. lical Humanae Vitae, the same year cacy of 99% in perfect use and 98% at Since 2014, Natural Family Planning (October 2018) Blessed Paul VI is to 6 months in typical use. Clinics in hospitals have been equipped be canonized as Saint, the Church cel- These methods compare favourably with counselling aids and material, ebrates the prophetic message of the well with artificial methods of family 138 UCMB facility health workers encyclical and the fact that the encyc- planning and they pose no side effects and 53 community health workers lical message still holds true and has and foster communication and cooper- were equipped with knowledge and been validated by science and research ation among the users. skills to offer modern fertility aware- therefore, let us “Consecrate the fiftieth The Catholic Church, through its ness methods and provide informed year and proclaim liberty throughout Health Department—the Uganda choice counseling on family planning the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be Catholic Medical Bureau (UCMB)— and to-date 49,232 clients have used a a jubilee for you; each one of you is to with support from partners, has been modern Fertility Awareness Method— return to his family property and each to promoting and supporting FAMs pro- with remarkable increasing demand his own clan (Leviticus 25:10)—Return vider training and service provision in every year. The program increased to the Mother Church’s Teachings.

KEY LITURGICAL EVENTS FOR SEPTEMBER

September 3- Memorial of Saint Gregory the day of their death, because that is the date on which Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church they entered into eternal life. And, indeed, we also cele- St. Gregory was born at Rome in 540. He was suc- brate the Blessed Virgin Mary’s entrance into Heaven on cessively senator and prefect of Rome before the age August 15, the Feast of the Assumption. of 30. After five years he resigned and became a monk, There are only three people whose birthdays have transforming his own house into a Benedictine monas- traditionally been celebrated by Christians. Jesus Christ, tery, and founding six others. At the age of 50 he was at Christmas; Saint John the Baptist; and the Blessed elected pope, serving from 590 to 604. In 14 years he Virgin Mary. And we celebrate all three birthdays for the accomplished much for the Mystical Body of Christ. same reason: all three were born without Original Sin. England owes her conversion to him. At a period Mary was born to be the mother of the Savior of the when the invasion of the barbarians created a new world, the spiritual mother of all men, and the holiest situation in Europe, he played a considerable part in the of God’s creatures. Because of her Son’s infinite mer- transitional stage, during which a great number of them its, she was conceived and born immaculate and full were won for Christ. At the same time he watched over of grace. Through her, Queen of heaven and of earth, the holiness of the clergy and preserved ecclesiastical all grace is given to men. Through her, by the will of discipline, as well as attending to the temporal interests the Trinity, the unbelieving receive the gift of faith; the of his people of Rome and the spiritual interests of the afflicted are tendered the works of mercy; and the whole of Christendom. To him the liturgy owes several members of Christ grow in likeness of their Head. In of its finest prayers, and the name “Gregorian chant” Mary all human nature is exalted. We rejoice in her recalls this great Pope’s work in the development of the birthday, as the Church has done from the earliest Church’s chant. His commentaries on Holy Scripture times. This is one of the three birthdays in the Church exercised a considerable influence on Christian thought, Calendar — the Birth of Jesus (December 25), the Birth particularly in the Middle Ages. Together with St. of John the Baptist (June 24) and the Birthday of Mary. Ambrose, St. Augustine and St. Jerome, he is one of All three were born without original sin, although Mary the four great Doctors of the Latin Church. St. Gregory and Jesus were conceived without sin, and St. John died on March 12, 604. His body lies at St. Peter’s in was cleansed of original sin while in the womb at the Rome. Visitation of Mary

September 8 – Feast of the Nativity of Blessed September 14- Feast of the Exaltation of the Virgin Mary Holy Cross This is the day on which Christians commemorate the This feast was observed in Rome before the end of birth of Mary, the Mother of God. Her Feast Day has the seventh century. It commemorates the recovery of always been celebrated as early as the sixth century. the Holy Cross, which had been placed on Mt. Calvary Even though we cannot trace the celebration of the by St. Helena and preserved in Jerusalem, but then had Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary back fallen into the hands of Chosroas, King of the Persians. any further than the sixth century, the source for the The precious relic was recovered and returned to Jeru- story of the birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary is much salem by Emperor Heralius in 629. older. The earliest documented version is found in the This day is also called the Exaltation of the Cross, Protoevangelium of James, an apocryphal gospel writ- Elevation of the Cross, Holy Cross Day, Holy Rood Day, ten about A.D or Roodmas. The liturgy of the Cross is a triumphant The feasts of saints are traditionally celebrated on the liturgy. When Moses lifted up the bronze serpent over 10 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 the people, it was a foreshadowing of the salvation come in the person of Jesus. At the time that Jesus through Jesus when He was lifted up on the Cross. Our summoned him to follow Him, Matthew was a publican, Mother Church sings of the triumph of the Cross, the that is, a tax-collector for the Romans. His profession instrument of our redemption. To follow Christ we must was hateful to the Jews because it reminded them of take up His cross, follow Him and become obedient their subjection; the publican, also, was regarded by the until death, even if it means death on the cross. We pharisees as the typical sinner. identify with Christ on the Cross and become co-re- Not much else is known about Matthew. According deemers, sharing in His cross. to tradition, he preached in Egypt and Ethiopia and We made the Sign of the Cross before prayer which further places East. Some legends say he lived until his helps to fix our minds and hearts to God. After prayer nineties, dying a peaceful death, others say he died a we make the Sign of the Cross to keep close to God. martyr’s death. During trials and temptations our strength and protection is the Sign of the Cross. At Baptism we are sealed September 29- Feast of Saints Michael, with the Sign of the Cross, signifying the fullness of Gabriel, and Raphael, archangels redemption and that we belong to Christ. Let us look The liturgy celebrates the feast of these three archan- to the cross frequently, and realize that when we make gels who are venerated in the tradition of the Church. the Sign of the Cross we give our entire self to God — Michael (Who is like God?) was the archangel who mind, soul, heart, body, will, thoughts. fought against Satan and all his evil angels, defending all the friends of God. He is the protector of all humanity September 15- Memorial of Our Lady of from the snares of the devil. Gabriel (Strength of God) Sorrows announced to Zachariah the forthcoming birth of John This feast dates back to the 12th century. It was the Baptist, and to Mary, the birth of Jesus. His greet- especially promoted by the Cistercians and the Ser- ing to the Virgin, “Hail, full of grace,” is one of the most vites, so much so that in the 14th and 15th centuries it familiar and frequent prayers of the Christian people. was widely celebrated throughout the Catholic Church. Raphael (Medicine of God) is the archangel who took In 1482 the feast was added to the Missal under the care of Tobias on his journey. title of “Our Lady of Compassion. In 1817 Pius VII — The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us suffering grievously in exile but finally liberated by Mary’s that, “[T]he existence of the spiritual, non-corporeal intercession — extended the feast to the universal beings that Sacred Scripture usually calls “angels” is a Church. truth of faith. The witness of Scripture is as clear as the The title “Our Lady of Sorrows” focuses on Mary’s unanimity of Tradition.” intense suffering during the passion and death of Christ. Angels are pure, created spirits. The name angel “The Seven Dolors,” the title by which it was celebrated means servant or messenger of God. Angels are celes- in the 17th century, referred to the seven swords that tial or heavenly beings, on a higher order than human pierced the Heart of Mary. The feast is like an octave for beings. Angels have no bodies and do not depend on the birthday of Our Lady on September 8th. matter for their existence or activity. They are distinct from saints, which men can become. Angels have September 21- Feast of Saint Matthew, Apos- intellect and will, and are immortal. They are a vast tle and evangelist multitude, but each is an individual person. Archan- St. Matthew is known to us principally as an Evan- gels are one of the nine choirs of angels listed in the gelist, with his Gospel being the first in the New Tes- Bible. In ascending order, the choirs or classes are 1) tament. His Gospel was written in Aramaic, the lan- Angels, 2) Archangels, 3) Principalities, 4) Powers, 5) guage that our Lord Himself spoke and was written to Virtues, 6) Dominations, 7) Thrones, 8) Cherubim, and convince the Jews that their anticipated Messiah had 9) Seraphim.

WISE QUOTES FOR REFLECTION

“It’s not when my voice is raised that you should worry. “God has placed you where you’re at in this very It’s when I have nothing more to say,” – J. Iron moment for a reason, remember that and trust He is “Happiness cannot be travelled to, owned, earned, working everything out!” – Anonymous worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual “Wise men talk because they have something to say; experience of living every minute with love, grace, and Fools , because they have to say something,” – Plato gratitude,” – Denis Waitley “Even small waves make it to shore. Use the potential “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, you have through intention and action and enjoy your is not an act but a habit,” – Aristotle journey.” –Tony Curl, “Train your mind to see the good in everything. “Until you cross the bridge of your insecurities, you Positivity is a choice. The happiness of your life can’t begin to explore your possibilities,” – Anonymous depends on the quality of your thoughts,” – Anonymous “The one who walks with the crowd will usually go “If you don’t make mistakes, you aren’t really trying,” – no further than the crowd. But those who walk alone Coleman Hawkins are likely to find themselves in places no one has ever been before,” – Albert Einstein DIOCESAN JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 11 Church pays tribute to late Bishop Oyanga of Lira Diocese By Fr. Tobby Okello and Dorothy Anguparu

Catholic Bishops in Uganda, last month, paid tribute to the Bishop Emeritus of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Joseph Oyanga, who died on Sunday, July 22, 2018. Bishop Oyanga, 82, passed away at around 1.00 am at St. Anthony Hos- pital in Tororo Archdiocese where he succumbed to cardiac failure. His personal doctor, Fr. Dr. Sam Okori told mourners during a requiem Mass at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral Nyangole in Tororo on July 24, 2018, that the Bishop died after battling a long illness which caused him difficulty in breathing. In his condolence message, the Chairman of Uganda Episcopal Con- ference (UEC), Most Rev. John Baptist Odama, also the Archbishop of Gulu urged Christians to emulate the life of Bishop Oyanga. Archbishop Odama described him as an easy-going, simple and gifted person, who steered Lira Diocese well for 14 years. “The late Bishop was a man of Arts and Music. He exhibited this when he was a Choir Director at Ggaba Major Seminary. He loved local music and The late Bishop Oyanga was very fond of Jim Reeves song “HIS TIME IN LIRA WAS “across the bridge,” said Archbishop and a friend. Odama. A DIFFICULT ONE BUT Bishop Oyanga was born on Feb- He also recognised his special con- AS A GOOD SHEPHERD, ruary 28, 1936 in Omoro village in tribution in the field of education saying HE STAYED WITH THE Lira District. He was ordained a priest the late prelate served in the past years PEOPLE AND DIDN’T at Tororo Diocese on May 19, 1963, as the chairperson of the UEC Educa- RUN AWAY DURING THE and worked in the Archdiocese of tion Commission. Tororo until July 14, 1989, when he “His oversight role at Uganda Martyrs LORD’S RESISTANCE was elected the second bishop of University Nkozi and Rubaga Social ARMY INSURGENCY,” SAID Lira Diocese. He served as a formator Training Centre was commendable,” BISHOP FRANZELLI. and Rector of Nagongera seminary for the Archbishop added. many years, and as head teacher for The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Bishop Franzelli also delivered con- Mbale College and St. Peter’s College Joseph Franzelli, the successor of dolence messages from Pope Francis Tororo. Bishop Oyanga, thanked the late for his and Fernando Cardinal Filoni, the Pre- On October 1, 1989 he was ordained good work in the Diocese as a teacher fect of the Congregation for the Evan- bishop of Lira Diocese, and later retired and shepherd. “His time in Lira was a gelization of Peoples in Vatican, to the in December 2, 2003 after age 75. difficult one but as a good shepherd, mammoth congregation. He was laid to rest on Thursday July he stayed with the people and didn’t Meanwhile, Most Rev. Emmanuel 26, 2018, at Lira Diocese Bishops run away during the Lord’s Resis- Obbo, the Archbishop of Tororo said Ground. From the eulogies and the tance Army insurgency,” said Bishop Bishop Oyanga was a humble, dutiful magnitude of people who attended Franzelli. and loving person adding that he was this funeral Mass, the late Bishop left He recalled the last will of Bishop always smiling, even in suffering. a lasting legacy in the life of the Church Oyanga when he and a number of He noted that the people of Tororo in Lira, Uganda and beyond. He will be the clergy men and women as well as and Soroti Dioceses, who turned up remembered for his service during his the laity visited him at Aber Hospital, for the funeral in big numbers, did not 55 years of priesthood and 20 years of which called for unity and peace in the only come as neighbours but also as Episcopate. Diocese. mourners to bid farewell to a brother May his soul rest in eternal peace. 12 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 DIOCESAN Ediofe Cathedral in Arua marks 100 years

By Simon Onziga Radio Pacis

On August 5, 2018, Ediofe Cathe- dral Parish in the Diocese of Arua commemorated its centenary anniversary with a grand celebration that attracted thousands of faithful. The Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, H.E. Michael August Blume presided over the Thanksgiving Mass for the Centenary, which was concelebrated by several bishops and priests. Some of the bishops present were: Rt. Rev. Joseph Franzelli of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Santus Lino Wanok of Nebbi Dio- cese, Rt. Rev. Martin Luluga Emeritus of Nebbi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Giuseppe Filippi of Kotido Diocese and Rt. Rev. Sabino Ocan Odoki Bishop of Arua Diocese. In his homily, Archbishop Blume, who was recently appointed as the Papal Nuncio to Hungary, urged the faithful to embrace missionary work so as to support the work of evangeli- zation across the world. He also expressed his gratitude to the faithful for their efforts towards reconciliation and harmony in the The Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda lays the foundation stone for the construction of a multimillion diocese. storeyed parish hall project. While delivering his speech, Bishop Odoki congratulated all the parishio- ners of Ediofe parish for their support and paid great tribute to the Comboni missionaries who brought the faith in the diocese. He noted how the diocese has expanded to 52 parishes since its consecration with a population of over 2 million Catholic Christians. The prelate further said the celebration of the centenary was happening in a year when the diocese is also celebrating its 5th Synod, urging the faithful to pray for the success of the synod to live to its theme of growing together as a family church. The Mass concluded with the laying of the foundation stone for the construction of a multimillion storeyed parish hall project, centenary bell and the construction of the Cathedral tab- Bishops and priests pose for a group photo after the centenary celebrations ernacle, by the Papal Nuncio.

“To change the world we must be good to those who can’t repay us” POPE FRANCIS FEATURE JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 13 human sexuality through various forms Offering Responsible Sex Education of media and pornography that act only as stimuli and deform sexuality. He asserts that sex education that teaches “protection” by “safe sex” are incomplete and “convey a negative attitude towards the natural procreative finality of sexuality, as if an eventual child were an enemy to be protected against,” the Pope confirms. “This way of thinking promotes narcissism (van- ity and selfishness) and aggressivity in place of acceptance. It is always irre- Fr. Lazar Arasu SDB sponsible to invite adolescents to toy with their bodies and their desires, as Often newspapers report suspicious The Pope believes that it is the par- if they possessed the maturity, values, and unevaluated sex education being amount duty of the parents to impart mutual commitment and goals proper offered to children in our schools. It this education as a “parental concern”. to marriage.” is even surprising how faith based When sex education is offered within Amoris Laetitia highlights the educa- schools managed by religious people the family setting it is always done tor’s duty to teach children about the are trapped into this kind of education. with love, concern, sensitivity meeting biological realities of God’s creation, Sex Education is education to humane the needs of children in the family. Sex and this includes the reality of mascu- love and education to responsible fam- education ought to be personal paying line and feminine bodies. It is learning ily life. It ought to be given by people attention not only to the body, but also to accept oneself, respect each other of credibility, wisdom and human sen- to spirit and soul. and take responsibility for one’s actions sibility. Recently the Holy father, Pope In the global scene the Church pro- done on our body and by the body. Francis published a thought provoking poses and gives moral guidelines on The Pope also gives advice on prac- document on Family Life. Perhaps we human sexuality more than any other tical issues such as being modest and can take a leaf from it on sex education social institution. The Church does so dressing appropriately. He says can- When Pope Francis spoke on the in spite of its own limitations, failures didly, “A sexual education that fos- issues of sexuality people in popular and even amidst issues of scandal. ters a healthy sense of modesty has media pushed him aside and asked That is the prophetic vocation of the immense value, however much some him to concentrate on issues of the Church. Offering education to love and people nowadays consider modesty Church rather than issues of bedroom. sexuality is a teaching responsibility of a relic of a bygone era.” He warns But sexuality is not merely a bedroom the Church, which always remains its the youth against deceptive nature of issue. It envelops the whole human challenge. “It is not easy to approach sex and prays for mature love. Young nature, body, soul and spirit. The issues the issue of sex education in an age people should not be deceived into of sexuality touch the areas of faith, when sexuality tends to be trivialized confusing two levels of reality: “sexual moral, social, emotional and spiritual and impoverished,” writes Pope Fran- attraction creates, for the moment, the aspects. Surely this pontiff has shown cis. “It can only be seen within the illusion of union, yet, without love, this concern over many social and moral broader framework of an education for ‘union’ leaves strangers as far apart as issues that concern the world. He love, for mutual self-giving. In such a they were before”. believes that change can be brought way, the language of sexuality would The document also stresses the in the world and societies only if nec- not be sadly impoverished but illumi- parents’ right in educating their chil- essary changes are brought about in nated and enriched.” dren — a right which should be com- individuals and families. Offering sex education is a chal- plemented, not hindered, by schools, In his recent document The Joy of lenging task to anyone who honestly government bodies or other groups Love (Amoris Laetitia) he dedicates wants to offer to the young a love that and organisations. “The overall educa- an entire chapter on sex education is enduring and morally sound. It is no tion of children is a ‘most serious duty’ that ought to be given to children and place for compromise, negotiation or and at the same time a ‘primary right’ young people starting from homes. He trial and error method. It is an educa- of parents,” writes Pope Francis. “This acknowledges that in the early 1960s tion that affects life of people, espe- is not just a task or a burden, but an Church already spoke of “a positive cially the young. It is truly educational essential and inalienable right that par- and prudent sex education” to be to love responsibly. ents are called to defend and of which imparted in children and adolescents To keep this education integral and no one may claim to deprive them.” “as they grow older”, with “due weight upright, the educator should focus on Given to our own situation with the being given to the advances in the psy- providing information while keeping in weakening morals in sexuality, child chological, pedagogical and didactic mind that children and young people abuse, teenage pregnancy, abortion, sciences”. Due to the eroding of cul- are yet to mature and they ought to defilement and rape, paying attention tures and traditional modes of teach- receive them in right doses suitable for to the Pope’s simple, yet profound ing, the much needed sex education is their age and situation. message on love and sexuality will help missed out or pushed to others such Pope Francis feels that young people us to find joy in loving and growth in as schools, NGOs those who are less are often overwhelmed and overloaded mature love and responsibility. concerned or less prepared for it. with new ideas and suggestions on www.arasulazar.org 14 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 AMECEA “HUMAN BEINGS SHOULD NOT UEC Chairman applauds BE ENEMIES OF ONE ANOTHER AS THEY ARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS AND IMAGES OF GOD. Ethiopia-Eritrea leaders WE BECOME RICHER WHEN WE ARE LIVING IN HARMONY WITH ONE ANOTHER, AND WE for peace deal SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER WHEN WE ARE AT PEACE THAN WHEN DIVIDED WHICH BRINGS ABOUT POVERTY AND THAT IS NOT GOOD FOR HUMANITY,” The Peace deal agreement has coincidentally taken place when the bishops from the AMECEA Region are meeting in Ethiopia for the 19th AMECEA Plenary held under the theme ‘Vibrant Diversity, Equal Dig- nity, Peaceful Unity in God in the AMECEA Region’. Both Ethiopia and Eritrea are in the AMECEA Region. Archbishop Odama further said that the AMECEA bishops are proud of the Peace deal boost for regional security and economic growth. “Human beings should not be enemies of one another as they are brothers and sisters and images of God. We become richer when we are living in harmony with one another, and we support one another when we are at peace than when divided which brings about poverty and that Archbishop Odama greets the congregation during the AMECEA Plenary Mass in Ethiopia. is not good for humanity,” the Arch- PHOTO BY: JACINTA W. ODONGO bishop explained. Meanwhile, in 2017, a delegation By Jacinta W. Odongo, Addis Ababa of AMECEA Bishops visited Eritrea to express their solidarity with the The Chairman of the Uganda Epis- nary in Addis Ababa Ethiopia held Church in Eritrea in their concerns copal Conference (UEC), Most Rev. from July 13-23, 2018, Archbishop and challenges. The delegation met John Baptist Odama has lauded the Odama said that the new relation- with the Eritrea’s Religious Leaders efforts of Ethiopia’s new Prime Minis- ship between the two countries will (Muslims, Orthodox and Evangelical) ter Abiy Ahmed and President Isaias bring lasting peace in the Horn of at Regional level held a mutual dis- Afwerki of Eritrea in implementing a Africa. cussion that culminated with a rec- Peace Agreement that is expected “I have heard the good news that ommendation to have Inter-Religious to boost stability and peace between the President of Eritrea and the Prime cooperation and unity which is the the two countries, after a 20-year Minister of Ethiopia have removed best instrument of love and respect. border conflict. the boundaries that used to hinder They also encouraged all Govern- Eritrea’s President arrived in Addis them from meeting each other and ment officials to foster good work- Ababa, Ethiopia on Saturday July also the citizens of either side to ing relationships with the Church 14, 2018 for a three-day state visit, interact,” said Archbishop Odama and to create a good atmosphere for his first in two decades. His visit who is also the Archbishop of Gulu mutual dialogue, peace and stability came a week after Ethiopia’s Prime Archdiocese in Uganda. in the region. Minister also made a landmark visit He added: “This is the greatest The 20-year conflict between the to Asmara, Eritrea on Sunday July news for us people in the AMECEA two countries has torn apart families 8, 2018 in an effort to end the con- Region and I thank God for it. The and communities from both countries flict between his country and Eritrea. whole of AMECEA Region, Africa despite sharing the same culture and The two leaders signed a Peace deal as well as the world at large should speaking the same language. How- while in Eritrea and agreed to end appreciate this because it is a very ever, following the Peace deal, a new their two-decade conflict. good example. Therefore, I congrat- era is set to begin in both countries In an interview with AMECEA News ulate the Prime Minister of Ethiopia that will unite these families and Online during the 19th AMECEA Ple- and the President of Eritrea.” communities once again. AMECEA JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 15

Delegates during the 19th Plenary Assembly in Addis Ababa. PHOTO BY JACINTA W. ODONGO Ethiopia hosts 19th AMECEA Plenary Assembly By Jacinta W. Odongo, Addis Ababa

The 19th AMECEA plenary was The Workshop by the Dicastery on as Sustainability of AMECEA Insti- held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from the Promotion of Integral Human tutions and Ownership of AMECEA July 13-23, 2018. Development ran under the sub- Institutions respectively. The 10 day Plenary, which brought theme, AMECEA championing for The Closing ceremony for the Ple- together about 100 bishops from Integral Human Development. nary was held on Sunday July 22, the AMECEA region, was under the On the other hand, the Study Ses- under the sub-theme Celebrating theme, ‘Vibrant Diversity, Equal Dig- sion and Business Session, which Our Oneness. This is the first time nity, Peaceful Unity in God in the were held from July 18-21, 2018, for Ethiopia to host the AMECEA AMECEA Region’. ran under the sub-themes, Peace- Plenary. The former Deputy Secretary ful Coexistence and Unity as well Some of the delegates from differ- General of AMECEA, Rev. Fr. Chris ent Church institutions that took part Ndaga said the plenary featured six in the plenary included: delegates agenda items: Spiritual Recollection from Symposium of Episcopal Con- for the Bishops; the Official Opening ferences of Africa and Madagascar Ceremony of the Plenary; Workshop (SECAM), Missio AACHEN, Missio by the Dicastery on the Promotion of MUNICHEN, Roman Curia, United Integral Human Development, Study States Conference of Catholic Session, Business Session and the Bishop (USCCB), SIGNIS, Catholic Closing Ceremony. Relief Services (CRS) and CAMECO. Each Agenda of the plenary was Others were Church in Need, Inter- held under a different sub-theme. The national Missionary Society, Associa- Spiritual Recollection for the Bishops tion of Consecrated Women in East- ran under the sub-theme Solidarity ern and Central Africa (ACWECA), and Communion while the Opening International Young Christian Soci- Ceremony of the plenary, which was ety African Coordination Team, Archbishop Odama (left) shares a light launched in a grand Eucharistic Cel- International Young Christian Work- moment with one of the main sponsors ebration, was held under the sub- of the 19th AMECEA Plenary ers Coordination Team and CAFOD theme, Celebrating Vibrant Diversity. among others. 16 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 AMECEA ly-elected Bishop expressed gratitude Bishop of Solwezi, Zambia elected to the AMECEA Bishops for trusting and having confidence in him and New Chairman of AMECEA other office bearers, who were elected By AMECEA Online News, and appointed to various positions Addis Ababa during the !9th Plenary. “May I ask for your support and col- The Catholic Bishops of the Asso- laboration, in synodality and commu- ciation of Member Episcopal Con- nion,” he said adding that “As we are ferences in Eastern Africa (AME- closing our plenary Assembly, I want to CEA) have elected Rt. Rev. Charles ask you all to live the theme of the Ple- Kasonde, Bishop of Solwezi, Zambia nary: Vibrant Diversity, Equal Dignity, as Chairman of AMECEA. Peaceful unity in God in the AMECEA Bishop Kasonde, who was an AME- Region. And remain committed to the CEA Executive Board delegate from common initiatives of AMECEA.” Zambia and Chairman of the AMECEA Bishop Kasonde was born on 14 Social Communications Comission, December 1968 and was ordained as was elected on 21th July 2018 during a priest on August 4, 2001 in Ndola, the business session of the 19th AME- Former AMECEA Chairman, H. E. Ber- Zambia. He was appointed Bishop on haneyesus Cardinal Souraphiel (right) CEA Plenary Assembly. 23 March 2010 and consecrated as a introduces the new AMECEA Chairman, He takes over from H.E. Berhaneye- Bishop Kasonde. Bishop on 29 May 2010. sus D. Cardinal Souraphiel, Arch- The Chairman of AMECEA is elected bishop of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia who every Four Years during the business served as Chairman for one term of Mass of the AMECEA Plenary Assem- session of the Plenary meeting. The four years. bly on July 22 in Addis Ababa where position is held for a maximum of two Speaking at the Official Closing he was the main celebrant, the new- terms.

tion with all your brothers and sisters New Coordinator for AMECEA Social that you will find at the Secretariat Communications Department takes office help you to settle and succeed in doing the work of Christ with zeal By Pamela Adinda and vitality,” Bishop Kasonde who is AMECEA Online News the local Ordinary of the Diocese of Solwezi Zambia, said in a message Rev. Fr. Andrew Kaufa, a Montfort that he shared with the AMECEA Missionary from Malawi is the new Online News. coordinator for the AMECEA Social The outgoing coordinator of AME- Communications Department. CEA Social Communications Depart- Fr. Kaufa is taking over from Rev. ment Fr. Ndaga said that he believes Fr. Chrisantus Ndaga of Mahenge Fr. Kaufa will be able to steer the Diocese, Tanzania, who served the department to greater heights adding department for ten years. that change is good and when a new Speaking to AMECEA Online person comes in. News, Fr. Kaufa said that he is look- Born in 1969, Fr. Kaufa, SMM ing forward to collaborating with the who comes from Dedza Diocese in National Communications Coordina- Malawi was ordained a priest in July, tors from all AMECEA Countries in 2000. He holds a PhD in Business implementing the resolutions of the Management and Master’s Degree in just concluded 19th AMECEA Ple- Rev Fr Andrew Kaufa AMECEA PHOTO Media Studies from Daystar Univer- nary Assembly in Addis Ababa Ethi- sity, Kenya. opia as well as achieving the greater together and see how we can work He is the former Director of Lun- mission of AMECEA Bishops. towards achieving this,’ Fr. Kaufa tha TV, a National Catholic TV Sta- “In working together, we will iden- explained. tion run by Montfort Missionaries in tify the needs in the communications Rt. Rev. Charles Kasonde, the Malawi. Fr. Kaufa also worked as a apostolate and see how to address newly-elected chairman of AMECEA national Communications Coordi- them, guided by the strategic direc- has extended warm his welcome to nator for Episcopal Conference of tion of AMECEA. The just concluded Fr. Kaufa as he begins his tenure at Malawi (ECM) between 2013 and AMECEA 19th Plenary Assembly in AMECEA Secretariat in Nairobi. 2016 where he was instrumental in Addis Ababa Ethiopia emphasized “We say ‘Karibu sana’ and we wish communications during the prepara- on the importance of digital com- you success in your work as the new tions as well as the activities of the munication technology for pastoral Coordinator for Social Communica- AMECEA 18th Plenary Assembly, work, it is therefore upon us to come tion Department. May your coopera- which was held in Malawi in 2014. AMECEA JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 17

Pictorial of AMECEA Plenary in Addis Ababa

Bishops from AMECEA region in a procession for the opening Mass of A section of the faithful during the Opening Mass of the 19th the 19hth AMECEA Plenary AMECEA Plenary

Bishops during the AMECEA Plenary Closing Mass Delegates pose for a group photo with the sponsors (seated front row in suits), who sponsored the 19th AMECEA Plenary in Ethiopia

The former AMECEA Chairman, Cardinal Berhaneyesus, Arch- Uganda bishops and delegates bishop of Addis Ababa

Photos by: Jacinta w. Odongo 18 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 VATICAN

Pope meeting a family at Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico, on February 15, 2016. Pope meeting a family at Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico, on February 15, 2016.

The seduction of scandals Pope denounces “slanderous This also happens in daily life, the Pope pointed out, saying one begins communication” of dictatorships to destroy a person by starting with communication – speaking ill of By Robin Gomes others, slandering and spreading scandals, which he said have great If you want to destroy institutions were falsely condemned with slan- seductive power. or people, you start by speaking der. The episode also reflects the Good news doesn’t seduce, it ill of them. This is the “slanderous ways of “many heads of state or passes by, but a scandal draws communication” that Pope Francis government”. One begins with a lie attention. This is how a person, insti- exhorted Christians to watch out and, “after having destroyed both a tution and country end up in ruins. against in his homily at Mass on person and a situation with slander”, The Pope said many persons and June 18 in the chapel of the Vati- one judges and condemns them. nations have been destroyed by evil can’s Casa Santa Marta residence. and slanderous dictatorships, such Dictatorship of evil as in the last century. He particu- Slander makes martyrs of communication larly pointed to the example of the innocents Pope Francis pointed out that persecution of Jews, who because The Pope was reflecting on the even today this method of slander- of a slanderous communication did episode in the First Book of Kings, ous communication is used in many not deserve to live and thus ended where Jezebel, the cruel wife of countries. Media and communi- up at Auschwitz. King Ahab of Samaria, used slander cation law is brushed aside with Calling it a horror, the Pope said and falsehood to have Naboth killed the entire communication system it happens even today in small in order to take possession of his handed to a company or a group that societies, in persons and in many vineyard which her husband greatly weakens democratic life with slander countries. coveted. and falsehood. The judges then con- The Pope said James the Apostle The Pope described Naboth as a demn these weakened institutions speaks precisely of the “destructive “martyr of fidelity to the inheritance” and destroyed people. That’s how capacity of evil communication”. DDEMBE DESIGNED BY JOHN PAUL that he had received from his forefa- dictatorship works, the Pope said. The Holy Father thus exhorted thers: “an inheritance of the heart”. The Pope said all dictatorships Christians to re-read the episode of He said the story of Naboth is began by adulterating communica- Naboth and think of the many people repeated in the story of Jesus, Saint tion by putting it in the hands of an and countries destroyed by dictator- Stephen and all the martyrs who unscrupulous person or government. ships of ‘white gloves’. VATICAN JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6 19

Blessed Pope Paul VI

Pope Paul VI who died 40 years ago Unborn life Pope Paul’s landmark encyclical underscored the centrality of man “Humanae Vitae”, fifty years ago, affirmed the intimate union between Blessed Pope Paul VI who died on Second Vatican Council and taught conjugal love and openness to life. In August 6, 1978, will be declared a by Paul VI, which consists in putting this regard Fr. Marrazzo pointed out saint on October 14. On the occasion man at the center, not so much in his that both the miracles attributed to of his 40 death anniversary, his pos- anthropological aspect as an end in the intercession of Paul VI are regard- tulator, Fr. Antonio Marrazzo spoke to itself but rather as an image of God - ing foetuses, i.e. unborn life. Hence, Vatican News about the late pontiff’s man as willed by God in his likeness, a he said, Paul VI could be regarded as legacy. man who has value and dignity”. the protector of unborn life. Blessed Pope Paul VI who will be The Redemptorist priest explained The Redemptorist priest explained declared a saint on October 14, died that Paul VI had this outlook as a that the miracle considered for Paul 40 years ago on August 6, 1978. young priest and always showed his VI’s canonization is regarding a Looking back at the 15-year pontif- concern for the least, lost and last of woman from Verona whose unborn icate, his postulator or promoter for the world. According to Paul VI, we child was in danger of being born canonization, Redemptorist Father must regard man as God wants it – dead or heavily deformed with a very Antonio Marrazzo, spoke to Vatican with tender mercy and love that is not slim chance of survival due to the lack News saying Paul VI gave a new based on condemnation but on under- of amniotic fluid. direction to the Church’s journey on standing and saving because in every A gynecologist suggested to the earth. The Italian priest said that in man there is an image of God that we family to pray to Paul VI around the his writings and testament Paul VI must help re-emerge and resurface. time he was being beatified in Octo- revealed his understanding of man, Fr. Marrazzo said that Paul VI was ber 2014. The girl born on Christmas especially as the image of God. elected to carry forward the Second day that year is healthy today, he said. Vatican Council and guide it with a These two miracles, Fr. Marrazzo Man, image of God steady hand to make a “Samaritan” said, prove that from unborn life come The priest noted that 40 years after Church, the “handmaid of humanity” forth persons who have already been his death the Church continues to take that is more inclined to “messages of considered children by God. a different path as indicated by the trust” than “foreboding omens”. 20 JULY–AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 5 VOL 6

Uganda Catholic Secretariat A publication of the Uganda Episcopal Conference

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