A Rib Restored: The Divine Union of Agaba Moses and Lillian Nkamwesiga at St Augustine Chapel Makerere University.. By Davis Owomugisha
The Wedding Homily of Agaba Moses and Nkamwesiga Lillian by Fr. Abel Beinomugisha
"God loves you," Fr. Abel Beinomugisha began, a reminder of the profound love that has guided Moses and Lillian to this sacred moment. Drawing from the first reading in Genesis, he reflected on God's creation of man in His image and His declaration that it was not good for man to be alone. God, in His wisdom, sought to provide a helper for man, starting with animals and other creations, yet none were found suitable as a companion. This preparation underscored the unique value of humanity. The beautiful detail of woman being formed from man’s rib reveals God’s intention for unity and complementarity in marriage. Adam’s joyful exclamation, "This is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh," was a declaration of thanksgiving to God. Similarly, today, Moses rejoices in finding his rib, and Lillian celebrates finding where she truly belongs. Together, they have come to the altar to thank God for their creation, their union, and the blessing of embarking on a shared journey of marriage.
Fr. Abel reminded the couple that being one is not automatic—it is a mission and a process. Marriage is a journey that requires deliberate effort to grow as one body. Even today, as Moses and Lillian stand at the altar, they are still discovering and building their unity. Fr. Abel shared that he often tells couples during the sacrament of marriage that they are still in the early stages of truly knowing each other. The journey to oneness involves laying bricks, one challenge at a time, with the aspiration of becoming one body in heart and spirit. This lifelong mission requires constant gratitude for how each partner came into the other's life and a commitment to walk together through the joys and trials of life. It is through these experiences that the couple becomes one, fulfilling God’s plan for them.
Drawing from the wisdom of those who have celebrated 25 or even 50 years of marriage, Fr. Abel noted that the maturity of vows and the deep bond of love are evident in how couples grow to think and act as one. The decisions they make together, the risks they share, and their dedication to family life bring them to a point where their unity becomes instinctive and complete. He wished Moses and Lillian the same journey of mutual understanding, forgiveness, and collaboration as they build a beautiful, successful family.
He emphasized that God, who created humanity in His image, established the family as the foundation of society. It is within this sacred institution that God’s love flourishes. Citing the second reading from St. Paul, Fr. Abel highlighted the profound faith and commitment to God that can overcome all life’s challenges. St. Paul’s declaration that "nothing can separate us from God’s love" serves as a reminder to Moses and Lillian to remain steadfast in their faith. In their marriage, they are called to walk in the love that God has placed in their hearts, a love that will sustain them through difficulties and give them the courage to embrace life’s challenges together.
Fr. Abel acknowledged the reality that friends may turn into enemies and that trials may test one’s faith. However, he urged the couple to anchor their commitment to God, whose love is unshakable. For believers, doubts may arise due to personal faults or feelings of inadequacy, yet God’s love remains constant. He called upon everyone present to renew their faith and trust in God’s forgiveness and mercy, which provide the strength to continue walking in His presence. The love of God, when invited into our lives, transforms us and empowers us to face life with courage and hope.
Reflecting on the Gospel, Fr. Abel highlighted the presence of Jesus and Mary at the wedding in Cana, where Christ performed His first miracle by turning water into wine. Mary, noticing that the wine had run out, interceded with Jesus on behalf of the couple, prompting Him to act. She instructed the disciples to "do whatever He tells you," a testament to her faith and intercessory role. Jesus responded by providing the best wine, a symbol of joy and abundance, without making a spectacle of the miracle. This story underscores the importance of inviting Christ into one’s life and marriage. Just as Christ transformed the wedding at Cana, He can bring sweetness and fulfillment to Moses and Lillian’s union.
Fr. Abel drew a humorous yet profound analogy from his childhood, recalling how local brew sessions would suffer when water was added instead of the recommended stone to maintain the brew’s quality. Adding water diluted the experience, just as failing to invite Christ into a marriage can diminish its joy and strength. He urged the couple to allow Christ and Mary to guide and sustain them, ensuring that their lives together remain filled with the sweet wine of love, joy, and faith.
As he concluded, Fr. Abel called upon all present to recognize the vital role of Mary and Christ in their lives. He prayed for their guidance and involvement in building the couple’s family, asking that their love and unity be a testament to God’s glory. He extended this prayer to all families, whether formed or yet to be, encouraging everyone to embrace the reality of God’s plan and the intercession of Mary and Christ. With these blessings, he wished Moses and Lillian a lifetime of happiness, love, and divine grace in their marriage. The Lord be with you.
