Kabale Diocese Celebrates 100 Years of the Catholic

NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 1

Uganda Catholic Secretariat An electronic news publication of the Uganda Episcopal Conference

ISSUE 1 VOL 1 2013 SEPTEMBER 2013 KABALE DIOCESE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF THE CATHOLIC FAITH IN KIGEZI Inside: DIOCESAN NEWS Aboke Seminary celebrates Golden Jubilee 3 Vocations to priesthood on the rise in Soroti Catholic Diocese 3-4 American Bishop Joseph Nathaniel Perry Nsubuga initiated into mamba clan 4 Mbarara Archdiocese elects new members for the lay apostolate council 5 Tree Planting project of Aripea Parish in Arua Diocese 5

INTERNATIONAL CHURCH NEWS

The Pope convokes a day of prayer and penance Christians singing during the Mass. (INSET) Bishop Callist Rubaramira (Centre with a crosier), Archbishop Michael Blume for peace in the (Centre –left) with other bishops and priests posing for a photo after Mass. Middle East 6 The death of His Eminence THOUSANDS of Christians from Kabale through the White Fathers and catechists Medardo Cardinal Joseph Diocese and beyond flocked to Rushoroza from Buganda. He greatly appreciated Mazombwe 7 in Kabale district to celebrate 100 years of their effort to bring the faith to the region Archbishop Parolin named the Catholic Faith in Kigezi region, the 10th amidst hardships such as, language barrier, Secretary of State 7 Episcopal Ordination Anniversary of Bishop absence of roads and mountainous terrain. Callist Rubaramira of Kabale Diocese, and the He particularly praised the catechists, Yohana UN dedicates international Year of Faith. The celebration that took place Sebalijja and Yohana Kitagana, who worked day of charity to Blessed Mother Teresa 7 on Sunday, 11th August 2013, started with tirelessly and courageously in a hostile Mass presided over by His Lordship Callist environment, traveling on foot amidst thorny World Youth Day 2013, News in Brief 8 Rubaramira. Among the concelebrants were, bushes and some times in darkness. These His Excellency Archbishop Michael August catechists, who first settled in Nyarushanje FEATURE Blume, the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, His in Rukungiri district upon their arrival from Zero poverty cannot be Grace Paul Bakyenga of Mbarara Archdiocese, Buganda, visited families, taught catechism, fought single handedly: Rt. Rev. Barnabas R. Halem’Imana, Bishop reading and writing. Caritas Uganda Emeritus of Kabale, Rt. Rev. John Baptist Bishop Rubaramira compared the coming experience 9 Kakubi, Bishop Emeritus of Mbarara, Rt. Rev. of the missionaries to the region of Kigezi to Egidio Nkaijanabwo of Kasese Diocese, Rt. the sending of Moses to Egypt to liberate the Aids Care and Treatment program (act) 10 Rev. Robert Muhiirwa of Fort Portal Diocese, Israelites from slavery. He urged the people to Rt. Rev. Henry Ssentongo of Moroto Diocese, receive, keep and proclaim the Word of God Grappling with the environment in Rt. Rev. Lambert Bainomugisha, Auxiliary daily as they seek the Kingdom of Heaven. Karamoja 11 Bishop of Mbarara Arhdiocese/Apostolic He challenged them to have faith like that of Administrator of Hoima Diocese, and several Abraham, who when called by God, did not The Church and preferential priests. look back but believed and followed the Lord. option for the poor 12 In his homily, Bishop Callist narrated The Prelate commended the White how the Catholic Faith reached Kigezi region Fathers, the bishops who preceded him, the CONT’D ON PAGE 2

New Contact is an electronic news publication of Uganda Episcopal Conference Nsambya Hill, 672 Hanlon Road, P.O. Box 2886 Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256-414-510570/0414-10544/ 0414-510571/0414-510398, Mobile Tel: +256-782746812, Fax: +256 414 510 545, E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.uecon.org 2 NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 THE EDITORIAL New Contact: Why? t is Iindeed “Go out to the not know what is happening in other a great joy peripheries dioceses of our country, within our and honour common family, the Catholic Church in for me to of our society Uganda; write this and world!” - other Christians and people of good very first will who may be interested in knowing editorial This is the better the real identity and activities of message pressing invitation the Catholic Church, often distorted in for New that Pope Francis secular media; Contact, a news publication of keeps addressing - Ugandans abroad, who would like to Uganda Episcopal Conference to all the members of the Catholic keep in contact with their home country (UEC). This publication is basically Church. The Church – he reminds us – is and Church, as well as foreign friends, a revival of the Contact Magazine not meant to be a club, centred and Church and civil organizations, NGOs… that UEC used to publish closed in itself, mostly concerned with To all of them we would like to present through its department of Social its own internal problems. We are called an up to date image of what the Communications. This explains the to reach out to all those who are “out Church is and does in our country, in choice of the name New Contact there”, far from us in many different communion and in touch with all our for the new publication. Contact ways and for various reasons: the brothers and friends throughout the Magazine folded about ten years marginalized, the poor first of all, but world. ago due to financial constraints. also those who have lost interest in the As we embark on this venture, we New Contact has started as Church, those who did not yet encounter invite you to come aboard. Keep in a monthly electronic publication, Jesus and his gospel as important and touch and contact us. We need you. but will eventually be available as relevant to their own life. Your contribution in news, reflections hard copy when funds permit. The “New Contact”, the electronic news and suggestions will make of this publication has as its main aim bulletin you are reading, is an attempt bulletin the New Contact we all wish it to disseminate Catholic related to get in touch and link up on the web to be information and news stories with some of the people who are far, + Joseph Franzelli of national interest. In addition, within and beyond the boundaries of Chairman of Social Communications the publication covers articles our country: Commission and commentaries on issues - the Catholics in Uganda, who often do Uganda Episcopal Conference that promote evangelization and integral human development. KABALE DIOCESE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS These include issues of faith, morals, culture, health, education, OF THE CATHOLIC FAITH IN KIGEZI business, environment, FROM PAGE 1 governance, justice and peace, to mention but a few. priests, the laity of Kabale Diocese and Diocese which up to 1956 formed part We invite our readers and from other parts of Uganda and else of the Apostolic Vicariate of Rwenzori. well-wishers to contribute articles, where for all they have done for the On its inception as diocese, the Most commentaries, views and feedback diocese. Rev. Bishop Gervase Nkalanga of geared towards the improvement The celebrations marked under Bukoba Diocese, a native of Tanzania of New Contact publication. the theme, “Let us be renewed in was appointed Apostolic Administrator Faith”, were graced by the presence of the newly erected diocese. Three Enjoy and support New Contact! of Rt Hon. Henry Muganwa Kajura, years later, on August 1, 1969, Bishop the Third Deputy Prime Minister Emeritus Barnabas R. Halem’Imana was Fr. Philip Odii, who represented President Yoweri appointed and consecrated as the first Editor/Executive Secretary of Social Communications Commission Museveni. Kajura applauded the Church native Residential Bishop. He retired Uganda Episcopal Conference for supplementing the efforts of the on July 15, 1994 and was succeeded government in providing services to by Bishop Emeritus Robert M. Gay, the people of Uganda, especially in the who was first appointed as Apostolic New Contact is an electronic news areas of education, health and poverty Administrator but was on March 9, 1996 bulletin of Uganda Episcopal Conference eradication. He called upon the Church ordained Bishop. He retired in 2003 and Nsambya Hill, 672 Hanlon Road, P.O. Box to increase its effort in the fight against was succeeded by the current Bishop, 2886 Kampala, Uganda HIV/AIDS. Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira. He was Tel: +256-414-510570/0414-10544/ Several Government Ministers, ordained Bishop at Rushoroza on June 0414-510571/0414-510398 Members of Parliament and various 8, 2003. Kabale is a suffragan Diocese Mobile Tel: +256-782746812 political dignitaries from the region and within the Archdiocese of Mbarara since Fax: +256 414 510 545 beyond attended the celebration. 1999 (Source: KKRA Newsletter and E-mail: [email protected] Kabale Diocese was erected on April www.uecon.org) Website: www.uecon.org 17 1966 being separated from Mbarara DIOCESAN NEWS NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 3 ABOKE SEMINARY CELEBRATES GOLDEN JUBILEE experiences with the seminarians and the faithful. He stressed that a seminary must be rooted in solid spiritual foundations because it is much more than an educational institution. It is, above all, a source of hope, love and pastoral care for the People of God. St. Joseph’s Seminary, located 35 km west of Lira, was founded by the Comboni Missionaries. Built in 1961 in Aboke, Oyam District, it started operating the following year. From 1963 onwards, the Marian Brothers joined the teaching staff of the seminary. In 1968, with the erection of Lira Diocese, Aboke Seminary became the diocesan minor seminary although it served other dioceses as well. Presently, it is a private O and A level Secondary School, registered with the Ministry of Education His Excellency Archbishop Michael A. Blume (centre), His Grace John B. Odama (centre-left), Rt.Rev. and Sports in Uganda. Joseph Franzelli (centre-right) with the seminarians of Aboke Seminary in traditional attire The Seminary has 250 students, 24 teaching staff and 5 support staff. In its HUNDREDS of faithful from Lira Diocese over the Mass. Present at the occasion 50 years of existence, more than 1000 and former students of St. Joseph’s were the Metropolitan Archbishop of students have studied in this institution. Minor Seminary from all over the Gulu, John Baptist Odama, the Bishop of A good number of them proceeded to country converged at the Seminary in Lira Diocese, Joseph Franzelli and Bishop the major seminary and are still serving Aboke to celebrate the 50th anniversary Emeritus of Lira Diocese, Joseph Oyanga. the people of God in different dioceses of its existence. The event took place The theme of the celebration was of Uganda and South Sudan. Among on 3rd August 2013. The occasion “Growing under Mary’s and Joseph’s the diocesan priests of Lira, 90% are was marked by a Solemn Eucharistic watchful care”. graduates of St. Joseph’s Seminary. celebration, followed by speeches and In his homily, His Excellency The most prominent among its alumni entertainment. Archbishop Blume spoke about the is Bishop Sabino Ocan Odoki of Arua The Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, virtues of St. Joseph and entrusted the Diocese Archbishop Michael August Blume, was Seminary under his paternal protection. (Source: Lira Diocese Communication the Chief Guest and he also presided He shared some of his seminary Office)

VOCATIONS TO PRIESTHOOD ON THE RISE IN SOROTI CATHOLIC DIOCESE By Fr. Robert Ecogu

ON SATURDAY, 17th August 2013, Soroti Catholic Diocese ordained six deacons and three priests, two diocesan and one missionary. This is the highest number of deacons and priests ordained in one single year since the creation of the diocese in 1981. The ordination ceremony, presided over by His Lordship Bishop Emmanuel Obbo, drew throngs of Christians from all directions of the diocese. Rev. Fr. Samuel Okiria from Ngora Parish, Rev. Fr. Samuel Ebietu from Soroti Cathedral Parish and Rev. Candidates for the priesthood and diaconate during the Ordination Mass in Soroti. (INSET) Bishop Emmanuel Obbo of Soroti Catholic Diocese ordaining the candidates to the Priesthood and Diaconate. Fr. Amos Michael Onyait (Clarecian CONT’D ON PAGE 4 4 NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 DIOCESAN NEWS

VOCATIONS TO PRIESTHOOD ON THE RISE IN SOROTI CATHOLIC DIOCESE FROM PAGE 3 Missionary) from Achumet Parish are 90km road has been under construction that Christian communities are longing the priestly fruits by the local Church of for over two years now. for the creation of new ones. Soroti this year. The 32-year old Diocese of Soroti now The Vocations Office has recorded the His Grace Archbishop Paul Bakyenga boasts of 63 diocesan priests; 53 of highest number of candidates in the from Mbarara attended the ordination these are working within the diocese major seminaries since the inception of ceremony. He expressed profound joy and 10 are serving outside the diocese. the Diocese. The office is now grooming at the depth and concreteness of faith This is still a very small number for 57 major seminarians, including the six demonstrated by the congregation the 20 parishes and chaplaincies, newly ordained deacons. The diocese during the ceremony. He regretted the departments and institutions of the appreciates this abundant harvest and sorry state of the Mbale- Soroti road, diocese. Some parishes still have only hopes that the number will double which he referred to as ‘purgatory.’ The one priest. Many parishes are so large within eight years AMERICAN BISHOP JOSEPH NATHANIEL PERRY ‘NSUBUGA’ INITIATED INTO MAMBA CLAN By Juliet Lukwago

AMERICAN Bishop, Joseph Nathaniel Perry Nsubuga (65) now belongs to the Mamba (Lung Fish) clan of the Baganda. He was initiated into Buganda’s most populous clan by the clan head Gabunga, Mubiru Zziikwa, on 15th August 2013. The colorful function was held at the residence of His Grace Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, the Archbishop of Kampala, who was the host. The function was graced by the Mamba clan Katikkiro, Dr. Adam Nsubuga Kimala, Prince David Wasajja and his wife (Omuzaana) Marion Wasajja and several priests. The Man of God was taken through the rudiments of Mamba clan by the Lukwago Juliet by Photo Bishop Joseph Nathaniel Perry Nsubuga receiving a gift from His Grace Dr. Cyprian K. Lwanga clan leader, Ggabuga, Mubiru Zzikwa, who also handed him a confirming “bulombolombo” and leaders like to receive you into our clan. I want to letter. Bishop Perry will hence forth not Gabunga who link the clan members assure you that from today onwards you eat lungfish. It is an abomination for the to the Kabaka. In the Baganda culture, will enjoy being with us after this official Baganda to eat their totem. if the members hear their clan icon initiation into the clan”, the Gabunga At the function, the Mamba “omubala”, which is sounded in drums, said Katikkiro Dr. Kimala announced the new they immediately have to gather to see member and grandson (Muzzukulu) what is happening in their clan. Who is Bishop Joseph Nathaniel to Gabunga and welcomed him thus: The Mamba drum icon was sounded Perry “I am happy that the Mamba clan has by one of the clan members during the BISHOP Joseph Nathaniel Perry is the got a new member from the United function to demonstrate to the new Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of States of America (USA), and I thank the member, Perry Nsubuga, with the words Chicago, Vicar for Vicariate VI. He was Archbishop, Dr Lwanga, who chose the accompanying it thus: “Sirya Mamba, born on April 18, 1948 at Chicago, name Nsubuga for the new member.” Amazzi Nnywa….”(I do not eat lung fish, Illinois, to the late Joseph Perry and Dr. Kimala told him that each clan I drink water…) as one of the Buganda Mary Young-Perry. in Buganda has its cultural norms cultural rites. The Gabunga Zziikwa thanked He was ordained a priest on May Archbishop Lwanga, who is also a 24, 1975, for the Archdiocese of I AM VERY HAPPY TO RECEIVE YOU INTO OUR Mamba clan member, for introducing Milwaukee. He served as a priest CLAN. I WANT TO ASSURE YOU THAT FROM TODAY into the clan a new member, who in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee ONWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY BEING WITH US became a Muzzukulu in their clan. from1975 to 1998. He received AFTER THIS OFFICIAL INITIATION INTO THE CLAN. “As the head of the Mamba clan Episcopal Ordination on June 29, 1998, - Gabunga Zziikwa - (Lungfish) of Buganda, I am very happy at Chicago, Illinois. DIOCESAN NEWS NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 5 MBARARA ARCHDIOCESE ELECTS NEW MEMBERS FOR THE LAY APOSTOLATE COUNCIL By Sr. Mary Germina Keneema

ON 4th September religious and 2013, the Archdiocese opinion leaders. of Mbarara elected In his closing new members for remarks, the its Lay Apostolate Archbishop Council. The election commended the took place after a work done by three-day workshop the lay people and annual general to make the meeting at St. Joseph Catholic Church Vocational School in grow in Mbarara Mbarara. Archdiocese. Mr. Gervaze He thanked Ndyanabo was them for their elected chairman for contribution which the Council, replacing made this year’s Professor Peter Uganda Martyrs Kasenene who has Celebration at held the position for Namugongo a nine years. success. He also The other persons announced that elected to the Council His Grace Paul Bakyenga and the newly elected Lay Apostolate Council members the Archdiocese of include: Mr. Bavis Mbarara will have Mr. Polly Turambure for Mbarara. Bitarinsha (Vice Chairman), Mr. Dan a Diocesan Synod next year. The theme of the workshop was, Tamwesigire (Secretary), Mrs. Angel The workshop was organized by The Mission of Jesus in the Archdiocese Keminyeto Byarugaba (Vice Secretary), the Diocesan Office of Lay Apostolate of Mbarara. The workshop was opened Mr. Leo Beyagira (Treasurer), Mrs. Lucy and the facilitators came from Kampala. by Archbishop Paul K Bakyenga on 2nd Nyehangane (Women Representative), Some of the topics discussed include: September 2013 and he closed it on and the members are Mr. Mary Darlson the mission of Jesus Christ, the 4th September 2013. It was attended Barugahare for Ntungamo, Mr. Chris leadership mindset and the role of the by more than 140 people who included Tibanyendera Kafura for Ibanda, leader, dealing with alcoholism, church priests, parish chairpersons, women and Engineer John Twesigye for Bushenyi, structures and economic emancipation youth representatives, head catechists, Tree Planting Project of Aripea Parish in Arua Diocese By Asindua Morris include mahogany, mvule, rose wood, The LC3 chairman for Aa-vu sub- eucalyptus, spruce, and pine. county, Mr. Afadriayo James, pledged The Christians of St. Peter Claver Parish, Fr Stanley intimated that the tree to support the project of tree planting Aripea, in Arua Diocese have embarked planting project was of great importance in the parish. It is expected that the on a massive tree planting project to because it will help in controlling vegetation cover of Aripea Parish will address the environmental challenges soil erosion, improving soil fertility, improve in the next four years in their area. The project is a brain child protecting houses against strong winds, of the parish priest, Fr. Stanley Candia, providing wood fuel, generating income and is greatly supported by the Finance, for the parish, and modifying the local Planning and Development committee climate by attracting rain. of the parish. The parish Finance, Planning and So far, the Christians have planted Development committee chairman, Mr. trees covering about 3 hectares of Ecea Remijo, urged the Christians within the parish land. Some of the trees and outside the parish to own the SO FAR, THE CHRISTIANS HAVE PLANTED TREES have been planted along the borders project and ensure its success. The tree COVERING ABOUT 3 HECTARES OF THE PARISH of the parish land to serve as border seedlings were provided by Christians of LAND. points. The tree species planted good will. 6 NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 INTERNATIONAL CHURCH NEWS THE POPE CONVOKES A DAY OF PRAYER AND PENANCE FOR PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST VATICAN CITY: On Sunday, 1st interests, September 2013, Pope Francis launched but rather a heartfelt appeal for peace in Syria, to look at expressing his pain and concern each other as regarding the conflict and asking the brothers and concerned parties and the international decisively and community to embark on the path courageously of negotiation, setting aside partisan to follow interests. His plea was made during the the path of Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square, in encounter and the presence of thousands of faithful. negotiation, We offer below the full text of the Holy and so Father’s homily: overcome Today, dear brothers and sisters, I blind conflict. With similar wish to add my voice to the cry which File Photo rises up with increasing anguish from vigour I Pope Francis every part of the world, from every exhort the people, from the heart of each person, international touch the heart of everyone so that from the one great family which is community to make every effort to they may lay down their weapons and humanity: it is the cry for peace! It is a promote clear proposals for peace in let themselves be led by the desire for cry which declares with force: we want that country without further delay, peace. a peaceful world, we want to be men a peace based on dialogue and To this end, brothers and sisters, I and women of peace, and we want negotiation, for the good of the entire have decided to proclaim for the whole in our society, torn apart by divisions Syrian people. Church on 7 September next, the vigil and conflict, that peace break out! War May no effort be spared in of the birth of Mary, Queen of Peace, a never again! Never again war! Peace is guaranteeing humanitarian assistance to day of fasting and prayer for peace in a precious gift, which must be promoted those wounded by this terrible conflict, Syria, the Middle East, and throughout and protected. in particular those forced to flee and the the world, and I also invite each person, There are so many conflicts in this many refugees in nearby countries. May including our fellow Christians, followers world which cause me great suffering humanitarian workers, charged with of other religions and all men of good and worry, but in these days my heart the task of alleviating the sufferings of will, to participate, in whatever way is deeply wounded in particular by what these people, be granted access so as to they can, in this initiative. is happening in Syria and anguished by provide the necessary aid. On 7 September, in Saint Peter’s the dramatic developments which are What can we do to make peace in the Square, here, from 19:00 until 24:00, looming. world? As Pope John said, it pertains we will gather in prayer and in a spirit I appeal strongly for peace, an to each individual to establish new of penance, invoking God’s great gift of appeal which arises from the deep relationships in human society under peace upon the beloved nation of Syria within me. How much suffering, how the mastery and guidance of justice and and upon each situation of conflict and much devastation, how much pain has love (cf. John XXIII, Pacem in Terris, [11 violence around the world. Humanity the use of arms carried in its wake in April 1963]: AAS 55, [1963], 301-302). needs to see these gestures of peace that martyred country, especially among All men and women of good will are and to hear words of hope and peace! I civilians and the unarmed! I think of bound by the task of pursuing peace. ask all the local churches, in addition to many children who will not see the light I make a forceful and urgent call to fasting, that they gather to pray for this of the future! With utmost firmness I the entire Catholic Church, and also to intention. condemn the use of chemical weapons: every Christian of other confessions, as Let us ask Mary to help us to I tell you that those terrible images from well as to followers of every religion respond to violence, to conflict and recent days are burned into my mind and to those brothers and sisters who to war, with the power of dialogue, and heart. There is a judgment of God do not believe: peace is a good which reconciliation and love. She is our and of history upon our actions which overcomes every barrier, because it mother: may she help us to find peace; are inescapable! Never has the use of belongs all of humanity! all of us are her children! Help us, Mary, violence brought peace in its wake. War I repeat forcefully: it is neither a to overcome this most difficult moment begets war, violence begets violence. culture of confrontation nor a culture of and to dedicate ourselves each day to With all my strength, I ask each conflict which builds harmony within building in every situation an authentic party in this conflict to listen to the and between peoples, but rather a culture of encounter and peace. Mary, voice of their own conscience, not to culture of encounter and a culture of Queen of Peace, pray for us! close themselves in solely on their own dialogue; this is the only way to peace. May the plea for peace rise up and INTERNATIONAL CHURCH NEWS NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 7 THE DEATH OF HIS EMINENCE MEDARDO Archbishop CARDINAL JOSEPH Parolin MAZOMBWE

ON THURSDAY, 29 Named August 2013, the Catholic Church in Secretary Zambia was befallen with the sad news of State about the death of (Source: Zenit.org) Archbishop Parolin (left) being greeted by the Pope their senior prelate, VATICAN CITY: On Saturday, 31 August in order publicly to thank Cardinal His Eminence 2013, The Holy Father accepted, in Bertone for his faithful and generous Medardo Cardinal keeping with Canon 354 of the Code of service to the Holy See, and to His Eminence Mazombwe Joseph Mazombwe. Canon Law, the resignation of Cardinal introduce them to the new Secretary The Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, his Secretary of State, of State. Archbishop Emeritus of Lusaka passed asking him, however, to remain in Archbishop Parolin, who is now away in Lusaka’s University Teaching office until 15 October, 2013, with all 58 years old, was born in Vicenza, Hospital (UTH) and was buried on Tuesday, the faculties proper to the office. Italy, on 17 June 1955. He has vast 3 September 2013 at the Cathedral of the At the same time, the Holy Father experience in the Holy See’s diplomatic service, which he began in 1986 as Child Jesus. He died of cancer. has named Archbishop Pietro Parolin, part of the Pontifical representation Cardinal Mazombwe was born on 24 Apostolic Nuncio to Venezuela, as the new Secretary of State. He shall take in Nigeria. In 1989 he was posted to September 1931 at Katete in the Eastern possession of his office on 15 October, Mexico. From 1992 he worked in the Province of Zambia. He was ordained a 2013. Secretariat of State for 17 years, before Catholic priest on 4 September 1960 and On that occasion, His Holiness shall being sent to Venezuela in 2009 as became Bishop of Chipata Diocese on 7 receive in audience Superiors and Apostolic Nuncio February 1971. Between 1996 and 2006, Officials of the Secretariat of State, he was the Archbishop of Lusaka until his retirement in 2006. On 30 November 2010 the then Holy UN Dedicates Father, Pope Benedict XVI created the Emeritus Archbishop of Lusaka, Medardo Joseph Mazombwe, as Zambia’s first InternationalDay of indigenous Cardinal, at a public consistory held in St. Peter’s Basilica, at the Vatican. Charity to Blessed Cardinal Mazombwe has held several senior positions in the local and regional Mother Teresa Church, such as Zambia Episcopal President (1972 – 1975; 1988 – 1990 and 1999 – ON 5th September 2013, the United governmental organizations and 2002); and as Chairman of the regional Nations (UN) commemorated the individuals, to commemorate the anniversary of Blessed Mother Teresa Day in an appropriate manner, by conferences of the Association of Member of Calcutta by declaring September 5th encouraging charity, including through Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa as the International Day of Charity. education and public awareness- (A.M.E.C.E.A.) (1979 – 1986). According to the UN website, the raising activities,” the UN stated in a In the months leading to the year initiative was proposed by Hungary, communiqué. 2000, Cardinal Mazombwe, as Archbishop “with the goal of creating a universal Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta, of Lusaka, was an ardent campaigner for platform to raise awareness about the who passed away on September 5th, the cancellation of Zambia’s international importance of benevolent giving.” 1997, worked tirelessly to alleviate debt, in the Jubilee 2000 movement. Most The UN headquarters in New York will the suffering of the poor in the streets visible among some of his numerous commemorate the day with panel of Calcutta. The order she founded, pastoral initiatives, is the sprawling discussions that will highlight the role the Missionaries of Charity, was Cathedral of the Child Jesus (Pope Square) of charity in alleviating poverty and established in 1950 and spread all over in Lusaka. promoting access to clean water and the world to serve “the poorest of the sanitation in the world. poor.” Cardinal Mazombwe’s optimism and “On this International Day of Blessed Mother Teresa was courage in the face of Cancer inspired Charity, the United Nations invites all beatified on October 19th, 2003 by many that visited him in the last twelve Member States and all international Blessed Pope John Paul II months. Even as he grew weak, Cardinal and regional organizations, as well Mazombwe never gave up his passion for as civil society, including non- (Source: Zenit.org) the affairs of the Church and the nation

(Source: Zambia Episcopal Conference) 8 NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 INTERNATIONAL CHURCH NEWS WORLD YOUTH DAY 2013 NEWS IN BRIEF UGANDAN YOUTH PARTICIPATE IN THE WORLD YOUTH DAY CELEBRATIONS IN BRAZIL (Source: Uganda Episcopal Conference)

Ugandan Youth who traveled to Brazil being flagged off by Msgr. John B. Kauta A GROUP of over 30 Ugandan youth, and giving talks about the Catholic priests and bishops”. He was touched chaplains and animators participated in Church in Uganda. They also participated by the commitment of the Catholics in the 28th World Youth Day celebration in the catechises organized for the youth Brazil to their faith. which was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in the different dioceses of Brazil. The “My impression of the Catholic from 22nd to 29th July 2013. catechism topics included, “Thirsting for faith in Brazil is that the people try The delegation that was flagged God”, “Being a disciple of Jesus”, “Go to live what they believe in, which is off on 16th July 2013 by the Secretary forth and make disciples”. evidenced in places of prayer, in the General of Uganda Episcopal Conference, The team had the opportunity to homes and places of work, participation Msgr. John Baptist Kauta, comprised visit various places of tourist attraction, in the small Christian communities of 4 animators from Uganda Catholic including the Cathedral of Sao Sebastiao, and in the Sunday Masses”, Fr Kotol Secretariat, chaplains and youth from Mountains of the Birds, and the observed. the dioceses of Arua (4), Kabale (1), monument of Christ the Redeemer. This He describes the final day of the Kampala (13), Kotido (1), Lugazi (1), monument is the best known symbol of World Youth Day as “ambivalent, full Moroto (1), Nebbi (4), and Soroti (1). Rio de Janeiro and it was inaugurated of joys and sadness”. Meeting and Another group of the Neocatechumenal in 1931. It is the image of the faith of celebrating mass with Pope Francis Way from Uganda traveled to Brazil a the people of Rio and has a sanctuary and having to leave the beautiful week later. where missionaries are carrying out Copacabana beach, the city of Rio, evangelization work. The Uganda team animated various departing from friends, families and According to Fr. Alfred Kotol, the Masses and para-liturgical activities all the places in which the youth were Youth Chaplain of Moroto Diocese, the during the Mission Week in the diocese hosted, was quite an experience for Fr people of Brazil are “friendly, simple of Cachoeiro, sharing faith experiences Kotol and hospital right from the laity to the FEATURE NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 9 ZERO POVERTY CANNOT BE FOUGHT SINGLE HANDEDLY: CARITAS UGANDA EXPERIENCE

CARITAS UGANDA is the • To influence pro small social pastoral arm of the holder farmer policies at local, Catholic Church in Uganda national and international and stakeholder member levels of Caritas Internationalis confederation and Values and Principles Caritas Africa Region • Transparency and commission. It is the Accountability voice of the voiceless and • Respect for human dignity disadvantaged members • Equity and Equality of society; promoting • Collective responsibility & integrated development, solidarity rehabilitation, peace • Integrity building and reconciliation; all done through Thematic areas advocacy. Uganda Governance and Poverty alleviation Programme Management Committee • Marketing and Agricultural With support from members pose for a photo with Caritas Denmark team after a meeting held in Pope financing different partners, Caritas Paul Memorial Hotel-Kampala • Climate Change and Uganda has promoted Environment the dignity of the human • Research & Innovations person through the • Information (IEC) & policy above programme. One Advocacy such partners is Caritas Denmark, which has Activities committed itself to fund • Discuss strategic policy the Uganda Governance issues regarding sustainable and Poverty Alleviation agriculture in Uganda using programme (UGOPAP); different media for wider which is a three year joint publicity. Caritas Denmark/DANIDA • Document evidence based supported programme advocacy issues on agriculture with an aim of improving and poverty reduction and livelihoods through Civil disseminate such research Society strengthening, Members of the Uganda Farmers Common Voice Platform Participate during the findings to the different good governance, platform Meeting held at Pope Paul Memorial Hotel-Kampala stakeholders and decision increased food security makers. advocacy issues for redress by the and incomes through sustainable and • Engage in dialogue meetings with decision makers. The Common Voice market oriented agricultural production relevant authorities on harmonized Platform that was born in 2012 has and advocacy. issues affecting the small holder farmers agreed on the following as its Vision, Despite the millennium Development in Uganda. Mission and Objectives; Goal number 1 “Eradicate Extreme • Conduct strategic planning meetings Poverty and half Hunger by 2015”, for the platform to review performance Vision: Caritas’ long experience of working with and generate advocacy issues unto the A Poverty-free and well governed rural people reveals that governance agenda for engagement periodically. society where farmers’ rights and in Africa is inter-twined and is a • Coordination and information sharing aspirations are fulfilled. perpetuator of poverty, which must among platform members and with be fought by putting in place and other existing networks. Mission: implementing the principles of good • Translating relevant publications in To be a collective voice of farmers and governance. local languages to enable the farmers CSOs that influence decision making for understand better. pro-small holder farmer policies. It is on that background that caritas Uganda saw a need to partner with By: Aguti Betty Rose Objectives other civil society organizations Policy and Advocacy Specialist • To improve public and private sector through the Uganda Farmers Common Caritas Uganda finance for agriculture voice Platform; with the major aim of [email protected]/baguti@ • To improve agriculture research, amplifying the small holder farmers’ caritasuganda.org.ug documentation and dissemination 10 NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 FEATURE AIDS Care and Treatment Program (ACT) By Mr. Ronald Kamara

THE UGANDA EPISCOPAL CONFERENCE services offered by the program include 40,000 people, ten percent of whom are (UEC) through its department of Uganda safe medical circumcision (SMC), children, with ART services. Catholic Medical Bureau is implementing HIV counseling and testing (HCT), the HIV/AIDS Care and Treatment ART, elimination of mother to child The ACT Program was transitioned from (ACT) Program. The program, which transmission (eMTCT) and laboratory a consortium of U.S. organizations to is supported by the U.S President’s services. These facilities are: Nsambya the UEC in the spirit of promoting local Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) Hospital, Kamwokya Christian Caring ownership and management of HIV/ through the U.S. Centers for Disease community , Nyenga hospital , Nkozi AIDS programs. In the same spirit of Control and Prevention (CDC), is hospital, Villa-Maria hospital , Virika transitioning, the UEC has now expanded providing comprehensive and quality hospital , Kyamuhunga Comboni the supported facilities from the initial services to people infected and affected hospital, Kasanga Primary Health Centre 12 to 18 with varying levels of support by HIV/AIDS through the Church’s health , St Mary Hospital, Lacor , St Joseph’s that enables the facilities to provide care network. Hospital, Aber hospital, Kalongo HIV/AIDS services to people in need hospital, Lubaga Hospital, Angal Hospital, irrespective of color, creed and any The program provides critical and Kisubi Hospital, Bishop Asili Hospital other considerations. innovative HIV services through the ,Kitovu Hospital and Naggalama Hospital. Health facilities by investing in health Currently, the program supports close to Moving forward, the UEC anticipates workforce training and retention, supporting additional facilities to mobilizing community-level actors provide quality HIV/AIDS services to THE ACT PROGRAM WAS TRANSITIONED FROM for peer education, referral to clinical God’s people through the ACT program. services and PLHIV and orphan and A CONSORTIUM OF U.S. ORGANIZATIONS TO The program remains committed to vulnerable children (OVC) support, and THE UEC IN THE SPIRIT OF PROMOTING LOCAL providing comprehensive prevention, improving infrastructure, management OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT OF HIV/AIDS care and treatment services in order to and governance in the facilities. Other PROGRAMS. enhance their quality of life RADIO MARIA UGANDA A CHRISTIAN VOICE IN YOUR HOME

GULU (Moro Hill) 91.2 FM FORT PORTAL 104.6 FM MASAKA 94.0 FM MBARARA 105.4 FM GULU-Holy Rosary 105.7 FM For Donations: Radio Maria Uganda Head Offices LuziraMutungo Hill P.O BOX 7488 KAMPALA TEL. 0414-220535/0414-505728/ Studio: 0414-222267/0414-505728/ 0772-720535/0754048818/0756757113 Fax: 04142505728 Email: [email protected] Website: www.radiomaria.org Or use Bank Account Centenary Bank: A/c Name: Radio Maria Uganda, A/c No. 3010309959 Stanbic Bank: A/c Name: Radio Maria Uganda, NEBBI 90.5 FM A/c. No. 9030005901544. MBALE 101.8 FM HOIMA 90.7 FM Mobile Money Numbers: KAMPALA 103.7 FM MTN 0776-220535 AIRTEL 0755- 222267 FEATURE NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 11 GRAPPLING WITH THE ENVIRONMENT IN KARAMOJA By Fr. Alfred Kotol

Sacks of charcoal for sale at a roadside in Moroto

ON THE SIXTH DAY of creation, when in form of firewood and charcoal. It is will definitely affect the climate as well. God finished to create man, we are very common to see trucks loaded with told that He blessed them and said, charcoal, which is transported out of It is important that the people are ‘Be fruitful, multiply and subdue the Karamoja to the neighbouring districts taught alternative sources of income and earth’ (Gen.1, 28). Many people have and sold even to the Kampala markets livelihoods. We have many development given subjective interpretation to these where huge profits are realised. partners and organizations as well as verses as a licence to produce as many churches working in the region, that children as possible and even to use One may wonder why this trade has should be tasked to channel their the resources (natural) the way they taken on such a trend to the extent that resources on afforestation, income want and yet we should be honest and businessmen from neighbouring districts generating activities, saving schemes, faithful stewards of creation. Such literal have pitched camp in the bushes of and mechanised agriculture. The interpretations have had and are having Karamoja with electric saws. It has local government should also come adverse effects among the Karamojong become a huge source of income at up with by-laws that are environment community. the expense of the ecosystem which friendly and make sure that they are Karamoja is blessed with good is being destroyed and yet very few implemented savannah vegetation and a variety of trees are being planted. On average, natural trees which cannot be replicated. a bag of charcoal in Karamoja is sold These trees are resistant to drought, at 10,000/=, but it is sold in the such as the “ekoreto” which are being neighbouring districts between 60,000/= depleted because they make very good and 100,000/=. charcoal. KARAMOJA IS BLESSED WITH GOOD SAVANNAH To make matters worse, it looks like the VEGETATION AND A VARIETY OF NATURAL A case in point is Nakapiripirit district district authorities are not bothered to TREES WHICH CANNOT BE REPLICATED. THESE and indeed most of the districts in the put checks on such trade whose impact TREES ARE RESISTANT TO DROUGHT, SUCH AS Karamoja sub-region, where there is is both short-term and long-term. This THE “EKORETO” WHICH ARE BEING DEPLETED rampant cutting down of trees for fuel will lead to desertification, drought and BECAUSE THEY MAKE VERY GOOD CHARCOAL. 12 NEW CONTACT September 2013 ISSUE 1 VOL 1 FEATURE THE CHURCH AND PREFERENTIAL OPTION FOR THE POOR By Sr. Dominic Dipio (MSMMC)

essential reliance on each other. The analogy of the body is often used to stress our indispensable unity. When one part is lacking, the healthy parts must fight to save the entire body from peril. The Social Teachings of the Church underscores the responsibility of each member to commit to the holistic development and progress of the human person. Therefore, staying aloof and non-committal in safeguarding the rights and uplifting the dignity of the less advantaged Sr. Angela Limio (MSMMC) in one of her health and hygiene classes among the Toposa of South Sudan. in our society is counter to the Kingdom Values. CHRISTIANS are often described as a poor” could not be more relevant. This is a responsibility “Pilgrim Church” because their life is The Missionary Sisters of Mary on every Christian, for we are each characterized by “motion”. Motion is Mother of the Church, a locally founded connected with the other’s history and an essential quality of discipleship as religious congregation in the 1970s, well-being although we are not often seen in Christ’s command to, “Go and by Bishop Caesar Asili, respond to this conscious of this. make disciples of all nations” (Matthew categorical call of sharing God’s love 28:19). This is where Christians get their through their apostolate that often A CHRISTIAN IS POSITIONED TO BE “BORDERLESS” “missionary” mandate. This characteristic take them to those on the periphery journey may be physical, as when a in the social hierarchy. The ministry of IN SHARING GOD’S LOVE. follower travels to declare God’s love to the Sisters among the Toposa of South INDEED, THE GOOD NEWS THAT WE ARE CALLED those who knowingly or unknowingly Sudan – nursing, teaching and sharing TO PROCLAIM WITH OUR LIVES IS MEANT TO BE AN thirst for it; or it may be intentional, as lives – is the Good News. Entering into INTEGRAL ONE, LEADING TO THE DEVELOPMENT when one prays for the success of the the cultures of the people in order to OF THE WHOLE PERSON: MIND, SOUL AND BODY. Mission that all humankind experience share God’s love creates opportunity for God’s love. A Christian is positioned to deep communication and enhances the In this global era of fluid cultural be “borderless” in sharing God’s love. dignity of the people the Sisters relate sharing, migrations and immigrations, Indeed, the Good News that we with. Christ, who embraces us as we are this need for solidarity is more urgent are called to proclaim with our lives is in order to enter into a relationship with than ever. We cannot be “alright” in meant to be an integral one, leading us, before he challenges our cultures our little comfort zones. We can only to the development of the whole with the transcendental values of do well by doing the kind of good that person: mind, soul and body. This is Christianity, is the model for the Sisters elevates the overall human dignity of what it means, when Jesus said, “I have in their apostolate. the other. Where the materially poor come that you may have life unto the Cultural diversity and uniqueness abound in a potentially rich community fullest” (John 10:10). In the context need to be experienced as it is, perhaps, an indicator that social of our continent, still deeply marked treasures rather than hindrances to justice needs to be addressed. The by the margin between the minority communication, for at the level of Church’s Preferential Option for the Poor rich and majority poor in accessing the values human beings have a great deal is our categorical call as Christians basic conveniences of life, the Church’s in common. The principle of solidarity categorical “preferential option for the and inter-dependence express our