Priestly Ordination 2024

On this historic day, our seminary community celebrated one of the most significant events in the life of our institution as eight remarkable deacons were ordained to the sacred priesthood. This solemn ceremony represented the culmination of years of intensive preparation, deep prayer, rigorous academic study, and extensive pastoral formation.

The ordination was presided over by His Lordship Bishop Dr. Callistus Rubaramira of Kabale Diocese, with the participation of Bishop Emeritus Dr. Paul Bakyenga and more than thirty visiting priests from across Uganda and neighboring countries. The presence of so many clergy highlighted the significance of this moment and the joy of the universal Church in welcoming new priests.

The eight newly ordained priests represented the fruit of St. Paul's Seminary's commitment to excellence in priestly formation:

• Rev. Fr. John Baptist Tumwesigye - assigned to Kabale Cathedral Parish
• Rev. Fr. Michael Asiimwe - assigned to Nyakishenyi Parish
• Rev. Fr. Peter Twebaze - assigned to Rushoroza Parish
• Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Tugume - assigned to Bukinda Parish
• Rev. Fr. David Muhanguzi - assigned to Kitanga Parish
• Rev. Fr. Francis Tumuhairwe - assigned to Kashusha Parish
• Rev. Fr. Joseph Bakashaba - assigned to Rwamucucu Parish
• Rev. Fr. Charles Byamugisha - assigned to graduate studies in Rome

The ordination ceremony followed the ancient rites of the Catholic Church, including the calling forth of the candidates, the homily by the ordaining bishop, the examination of the candidates, the litany of saints, the laying on of hands, the prayer of consecration, the anointing of hands with sacred chrism, and the presentation of the chalice and paten.

The newly ordained priests celebrated their first Masses the following day in their home parishes, marking the beginning of their priestly ministry. Each brought unique gifts and experiences to their calling, having excelled in various aspects of seminary life including academics, pastoral work, leadership, and community service.

The celebration continued with a festive reception where families, friends, and the entire seminary community gathered to congratulate the new priests and share in the joy of their ordination. Traditional Ugandan music and dance added to the celebratory atmosphere.

This ordination represents hope for the future of the Church in Uganda and demonstrates the continuing relevance of priestly vocation in our contemporary world. We pray for these new priests as they begin their ministry and trust in God's continued blessing upon their service to His people.