Rev. Fr. Austin Christmas Delivers Heartfelt Homily on Joy and God's Love during the Christmas Vigil Mass at Rushoroza Cathedral

Christmas Night Vigil Homily by Fr. Austin Christmas at Rushoroza Cathedral Parish
Rushoroza Cathedral Parish: On the joyous occasion of the Christmas Night Vigil Mass, Rev. Fr. Austin Christmas, the Rector and Parish Priest of Rushoroza Cathedral Parish, delivered a heartfelt homily, emphasizing the profound joy and gratitude associated with the birth of Christ. He began by wishing the congregation a happy Christmas, expressing immense joy and thanksgiving to God for the gift of this sacred day.
In a unique and personal introduction, Fr. Austin shared the story behind his own name, drawing a connection to the celebration of Christmas. He narrated how, before he was born, his mother, Topista, from Kanungu District, was carried to Kambuga Hospital on an ancient local ambulance. Her husband, Philip, was away working in Mbale. Topista, holding a rosary, requested prayers from those accompanying her. Exhausted, she stopped midway to pray before proceeding to the hospital.

Upon arrival, she delivered a baby who, to her dismay, did not cry immediately. Topista’s mother-in-law reassured her, saying, "On Christmas, people don’t cry; they are always happy." Three minutes later, the child cried, and the grandmother comforted her, saying, “On Christmas, children are happy first, then cry to allow their parents to be happy.” On that day, it was discovered that Philip had gone to pray at a parish in Mbale named St. Austin, which inspired the baby’s name—Christmas Austin. Fr. Austin humorously shared this story to emphasize the joy of Christmas.

The congregation was uplifted as the choir performed the hymn “Embaju zoona z’ensi zareeba okujuna kwa Ruhanga waitu” (The Ends of the Earth Have Seen the Salvation of Our God). Fr. Austin encouraged the faithful to clap with joy in celebration of this momentous day.


Reflecting on the readings, Fr. Austin highlighted the theme of God’s enduring love and light, as well as the fulfillment of His promises:

He recounted the struggles of the Israelites, who felt abandoned by God during times of great suffering. Prophets like Isaiah and Micah were sent to comfort them, assuring them of a Savior who would dispel darkness. Fr. Austin reminded the faithful of this long-awaited prophecy, which was fulfilled in the coming of Christ.

The second reading emphasized God’s immense love for humanity, demonstrated through the sending of His only Son. Fr. Austin urged everyone to recognize and celebrate this profound love, which brings light to our darkest moments.

Fr. Austin echoed the Christmas message shared by Bishop Callist Rubaramira, who reminded the faithful of God’s full and unconditional love. He stressed that Christ’s birth brought divine light into a world of darkness, offering salvation and understanding human struggles.

“Let us move in the light of God,” Fr. Austin said, encouraging the congregation to embrace this light in their homes and communities. He cited St. Augustine’s words, “Deus te creavit sine te, sed non te salvabit sine te” (God created you without you, but He will not save you without you), urging everyone to cooperate with God in working for their salvation.

Fr. Austin also emphasized the need for joy rooted in God’s presence, not in life’s circumstances. Using the example of the shepherds—who were often marginalized in society—he reminded the faithful that God’s love extends to everyone, even those facing challenges. “Joy is rooted in God’s presence,” he said, “not in our circumstances.”

Fr. Austin encouraged the faithful to embody the spirit of Christmas by welcoming Jesus into their hearts, sharing love with others, and being a source of goodness and joy in their communities. He referenced Louis’ words, “He who has no Christmas in his heart won’t find Christmas down the tree,” and reminded everyone that the essence of Christmas lies in opening our hearts to God’s love.

As Jesus received gifts at His birth, Fr. Austin invited the congregation to offer gifts of thanksgiving, joy, and smiles during this Christmas season. He concluded by praying for open hearts, a renewed spirit, and the recognition of God’s constant presence in all aspects of life.


The homily ended on a note of hope and celebration as Fr. Austin reminded the faithful of God’s unwavering love and called for unity in living righteously under Christ’s light. He urged everyone to carry the joy of Christmas into their daily lives, confident in the knowledge that God is with us in every moment.

The Christmas Vigil Mass at Rushoroza Cathedral Parish was marked by joy, reflection, and a renewed commitment to faith. Fr. Austin’s heartfelt homily, infused with personal anecdotes and spiritual wisdom, resonated deeply with the congregation, setting the tone for a truly blessed Christmas celebration.

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