Joy, music, and heartfelt prayers filled St. Barnabas Cathedral in Bumadu today, Wednesday, August 27, 2025, as thousands of Christians gathered to mark two years since the creation of the West Ruwenzori Diocese and the episcopal ministry of its first Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Barnabas Tibaijuka.
The thanksgiving service was led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, who is on an official pastoral visit to the Diocese. Delegations from across Uganda attended, and the celebration was marked by worship, traditional dance, and inspiring testimonies of transformation.
“This Diocese is a testimony that when God opens a door, no one can shut it. Two years ago, we planted a seed here. Today, we are witnessing its fruits souls coming to Christ, communities being transformed, and leaders rising in faith,” Archbishop Kaziimba said during his sermon.
The Archbishop highlighted that the West Ruwenzori Diocese was officially established on August 27, 2023, after being carved out of the larger Ruwenzori Diocese to bring church leadership and services closer to Christians in the remote western areas of Bundibugyo District. Before its creation, many believers had to travel long distances, often through challenging terrain, to attend diocesan events or receive pastoral care. The formation of the Diocese has since brought renewed hope, stronger community connections, and easier access to spiritual support.
Archbishop Kaziimba commended Bishop Tibaijuka for his leadership since the Diocese’s inception. “In just two years, the Diocese has made remarkable progress. Under Bishop Tibaijuka’s guidance, new churches have been built, existing ones renovated, and youth and women’s ministries revitalized. The Diocese has also actively engaged in education, health, and poverty alleviation programs,” he said.
“Bishop Tibaijuka has led with courage, humility, and a clear vision. He’s not only constructing buildings but shaping lives,” the Archbishop added. Local church leaders echoed this sentiment. “We have seen growth not just in numbers but in impact. The Church is helping people spiritually, socially, and even economically,” said Rev. Canon Grace Mbambu, a senior clergy member.
The anniversary celebration, themed “Rooted in Christ, Growing in Faith,” reflected both the Diocese’s strong spiritual foundation and its commitment to future growth. The service featured choirs, local dance groups, and heartfelt testimonies from Christians sharing how the Church has transformed their lives.
Archbishop Kaziimba encouraged the faithful to continue their spiritual journey. “We are not here just to celebrate what has been done, but to commit ourselves to what still needs to be done. The journey of faith is not over—it is just beginning,” he said.
With support from the Church of Uganda and local partners, the West Ruwenzori Diocese is expected to continue expanding both in numbers and community impact, with plans to invest further in education, health services, and church construction in underserved areas.
For the people of Bundibugyo, today’s celebration was more than an anniversary it was a testament to God’s faithfulness and a hopeful reminder of what’s possible when a community walks together in faith.
