By Kabuye Ronald
The Presiding Bishop of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church (AOCC), Rt. Rev. Jacinto Kibuuka, has called on the public and security agencies to remain calm and uphold peace during the ongoing election period, emphasizing that peace should be a national priority, especially at Christmas.
While delivering his Christmas homily at Mamre International Prayer Centre in Namugongo, Janda, Bishop Kibuuka reminded Ugandans that elections are temporary but life continues beyond them. He urged citizens to remember God, who sent Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace whose birth is celebrated on Christmas Day.
“Above all elections, there is God who sent us the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. As we celebrate His birth today, peace should be our priority, especially in this tough election period,” Bishop Kibuuka said.
He particularly appealed to security officers, the youth, and the general public to avoid violence and unnecessary confrontation.
“I urge the security officers and the general public, especially the youth, to keep calm during these general elections. I see no reason why security organs should use excessive force. Violence only causes more pain. Uganda will remain even after elections, so let us work for peace as the Prince of Peace is born,” he said.
The Bishop added that peace begins with individuals and families before spreading to communities and the nation at large.
“When you have peace, you bring peace to your family, your village, your district, and the nation by not oppressing others or engaging in crime,” he noted.
Significance of Christmas
Bishop Kibuuka also explained that Christmas is a time for reflection, repentance, and personal transformation. He urged believers to abandon bad habits and commit to living righteous and godly lives.
“Celebrating Christmas means making resolutions to leave sin and bad behaviours behind and choosing to change for good. Ask yourself how many Christmases you still have. This is the time to change urgently, not tomorrow,” he said.
He encouraged Christians to pray more, adopt new Godly strategies in life, and make positive changes without delay.
In addition, Bishop Kibuuka invited the public to attend a Cross Overnight Healing and Deliverance Prayer service scheduled for December 31 at Mamre International Prayer Centre, saying the prayers would bring lasting change to participants’ lives. Besides the prayers there will be entertainment from renowned gospel artists and fire works.
Among those present was Daniel Kananura, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party flag bearer for Kira Municipality Member of Parliament. He echoed the Bishop’s message of peace and urged the congregation to support the NRM, citing service delivery and the need to build on government achievements.
The Christmas service concluded with prayers for peace, unity, and a calm electoral process across the country.
