ARCHBISHOP CALLS FOR PEACE DURING CHRISTMAS SERVICE
By Ivan Naijuka
The call for peace, unity, and calm hearts rang clearly through congregation as the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, The Most Rev Dr. Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, preached at Christmas morning services; 8:00am, 10:00am, and 12:00 noon.
In his Christmas sermon themed “God With Us (Emmanuel)”, the Archbishop anchored his message on Isaiah 9:1–7 and Matthew 1:18–25, urging Christians to embrace Jesus Christ as the Prince of Peace, especially as Uganda approaches a sensitive election period.
Drawing from the prophecy of Isaiah, delivered around 740 B.C. to a nation experiencing political and spiritual darkness, the Archbishop noted that oppression, fear, uncertainty, and anxiety were not unique to biblical times. He said similar challenges confront societies today, including political tension, conflict, economic hardship, grief, and fear of the unknown.
“The light promised in Isaiah is not political or temporary,” the Archbishop emphasized. “It is a divine intervention from God. Jesus Christ is the true light that drives away darkness and establishes peace.”
He reminded worshippers that the birth of Christ reveals God’s decision to dwell among humanity, identifying with human suffering while possessing divine authority to intervene in human affairs.
Quoting Isaiah 9:6, he reflected on the names of Jesus—Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace—describing them as assurances of God’s wisdom, power, protection, and lasting peace.
As the nation prepares for elections, the Archbishop challenged Christians to become ambassadors of peace in their communities. He cautioned against violence, intolerance, and division, calling instead for respectful engagement despite differences in political parties, tribes, ideologies, or personal opinions.
“Emmanuel, God with us—means God’s presence even in times of tension and transition,” he said, urging believers to participate in electoral processes with responsibility and a commitment to peace
Referencing Mark 4:35–41, the Archbishop acknowledged that faith does not eliminate storms of life, but emphasized that Christ’s presence calms them. “Even with Jesus in the boat, the storm came,” he said, “but His presence brought peace.”
As the Christmas services concluded, the Archbishop prayed for individuals, families, the Church, and the nation, affirming that God’s promises remain firm and that His presence continues into the year ahead.
“As we move toward 2026,” he said, “God is with you, God is with us, and God is with Uganda.”
The Christmas season, was marked by celebrations and the services were attended by many people.
