ARCHBISHOP LAMBERT BEINOMUGISHA CALLS FOR RADICAL COMMITMENT AS NUNS PROFESS PERPETUAL VOWS ON VOCATIONS SUNDAY
ARCHBISHOP BEINOMUGISHA CALLS FOR RADICAL COMMITMENT AS NUNS PROFESS PERPETUAL VOWS ON VOCATIONS SUNDAY
By Editor
Christians have been urged to live authentic lives of faith, rooted in sacrifice and total commitment to the Gospel, as Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha presided over a moving celebration marking Vocations Sunday and Good Shepherd Sunday.
The event, held at Kyabirukwa Isingiro district,in a spirit of joy and reflection, brought together the Sisters of Our Lady of Good Counsel, clergy, and the faithful to witness a sacred milestone—perpetual profession of vows by a new group of nuns. Also present was Bishop Sabino Ocan Odoki,the Bishop of Arua diocese underscoring the importance of the occasion within the wider Church.
In his homily, Archbishop Bainomugisha delivered a powerful message about the meaning of religious vocation, describing it as a life of deep sacrifice, humility, and service to others.
“These nuns sacrifice a lot,” he said. “Many are highly educated, even professors, yet they surrender all their personal earnings to the congregation. What they receive in return is modest—sometimes as little as UGX 50,000—but their lives are full, dignified, and rich in purpose.”
He contrasted the simplicity of religious life with common societal tendencies, noting how some people accumulate possessions even for short journeys. “A priest friend once told me, ‘An African does not visit—he migrates,’” the Archbishop remarked humorously. “But when these sisters are transferred, they move with a single suitcase. They teach us how to use worldly things without being possessed by them.”
The Archbishop emphasized that religious men and women are not fundamentally different from the lay faithful. “We breathe the same air, eat the same food. There is no difference,” he said. “What matters is how we allow God’s grace to work through our ordinary lives.”
The celebration highlighted not only new beginnings but also decades of faithful service.
Among those recognized was Sr. Francisca Kamazooba, who marked an extraordinary 75 years in religious life. Described as a “shining lantern,” her journey has been one of resilience, wisdom, and unwavering faith.
“Her heart is always full of good words,” the Archbishop noted, referencing her well-known hymn: ‘Omutima gwangye gwijwire ebigambo birungi…’ Even in advanced years, she continues to serve as a formator, shaping younger generations.
Sr. Sapientia Kisembo was also celebrated for 50 years of dedicated service, particularly in education. Renowned as an exceptional English teacher, her influence spans generations of learners.
Marking their silver jubilee—25 years of religious life—were Sr. Prossy Naturinda, Sr. Winfreda Tugumusirize, and Sr. Adolphina Fideli Bikula. The Archbishop commended their generosity and encouraged them to emulate the enduring commitment of pioneers like Sr. Kamazooba.
The ceremony reached its peak as four young women made their perpetual profession of vows, committing their lives fully to God and service:
Florence Mutio
Vastina Twinomuhangi
Anna Atwijukire
Annociate Tumuhimbise
“You are beginning a journey that God Himself will sustain,” the Archbishop told them. “Trust in His grace as you sail through life’s challenges.”
Drawing from the message of Good Shepherd Sunday, rooted in the teachings of the Gospel of John, Christians were reminded of their responsibility to care for one another with love, compassion, and integrity.
“Each one of us is called to be a good shepherd in our own space,” the Archbishop said. “Whether in families, workplaces, or communities, we must reflect Christ through our actions.”
The celebration stood as a powerful testimony of faith lived out in simplicity and service. In a world often driven by material gain, the lives of these sisters offer a countercultural witness—one that speaks of generosity, discipline, and endless devotion.