We Must Manage Our Affairs with Due Diligence and Dignity, Says Bishop Lawrence Mukasa as Kasana-Luweero Diocese Marks 29 Years

By BERNARD BAKALU

Luweero

On Sunday, March 1, 2026, the faithful of Kasana-Luweero Diocese gathered at the Diocesan Headquarters in Kasana, Luweero Town Council, to solemnly celebrate the 29th anniversary of the Diocese’s erection.

Established on March 1, 1997, the Diocese has, over nearly three decades, steadily grown in faith, structure, and mission.

The anniversary celebrations commenced with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, presided over by the Ordinary of the Diocese, the Right Reverend Lawrence Mukasa.

The liturgy was animated this year by Nakaseke Deanery under the theme: “Our Martyrs: The Light of Our Faith and Witness.”

A Call to Renewal After the Electoral Season

In his homily, Bishop Mukasa first congratulated the faithful and the nation for peacefully traversing the recent general electoral period, most notably the presidential elections held on January 15, 2026.

He observed that, having concluded this significant national exercise, it is now time for citizens to return to their respective duties with renewed focus and responsibility.

With pastoral warmth and characteristic candor, the Bishop remarked, “Nakaseke has become Nakaseke,” expressing his admiration for the remarkable organization and dignified preparation of the celebration by Nakaseke Deanery.

He commended the Deanery for its colorful, prayerful, and well-coordinated animation of the Diocesan Day.

The Prelate also acknowledged Mulajje Deanery for having set the precedent last year when it first animated the Diocesan celebration in this now-established rotational format among Deaneries—a model that has fostered unity and healthy collaboration within the Diocese.

 Pilgrimages and Ecclesial Vitality

Bishop Mukasa warmly welcomed back the diocesan pilgrims to Rome—popularly known as AbaRoma—who undertook their pilgrimage in July 2025.

On that occasion, the Diocese sent 241 pilgrims to the Eternal City, a sign of vibrant faith and attachment to the See of Peter.

He further noted, with a touch of encouragement, that those preparing for the forthcoming pilgrimage to the Holy Land appear determined to surpass the Rome contingent in number.

The Bishop also expressed gratitude to the Buganda Kingdom for selecting the Diocese to host the Kingdom’s free medical camp for Bulemeezi County at Kasana St. Jude Primary School from February 24–25, 2026.

This gesture, he said, was both an honor and a testament to the Diocese’s commitment to integral human development.

In the same spirit of celebration, he congratulated Kkangaawo Ronald Mulondo upon attaining his Doctor of Philosophy in Education from Makerere University on February 24, 2026.

The Bishop also introduced three missionaries from Vietnam who have come to serve in the Diocese for one year, with the possibility of extended ministry should circumstances permit.

“At 29, We Must Manage Our Affairs”

Reflecting on what 29 years signify in the life of a local Church, Bishop Mukasa emphasized that the Diocese has reached a stage of maturity. “At 29,” he observed, “we must now manage our affairs.” This management, he stressed, must be exercised with due diligence and dignity.

He cautioned that it would be incongruous for a Diocese approaching three decades of existence to conduct itself with the immaturity of infancy. The faithful, he urged, must take seriously their Christian identity and responsibility in both ecclesial and civic life.

Again commending Nakaseke Deanery, he remarked enthusiastically, “Nakaseke, you have delivered superbly,” humorously adding that if such high standards continue, future organizers—particularly Kasana Deanery—might require “storeyed tarpaulins” to match the scale and excellence displayed.

Nakasongola to Lead the 30th Anniversary

Looking ahead, Bishop Mukasa announced that Nakasongola Deanery will animate the 30th Diocesan Anniversary in 2027, while Kasana Deanery will take the lead in 2028. He indicated that 2028 would mark the final year under the current deanery-led structure, after which a new organizational approach for the Diocesan Day would be introduced.

A Prophetic Warning Against Dishonesty

In a sobering segment of his homily, the Bishop decried moral decline in society, particularly in business practices. He lamented the proliferation of dishonesty—ranging from fraudulent herbal remedies to deceptive street vendors whose products fail moments after purchase.

Such conduct, he warned, reflects a world that has “lost direction.” Christians, especially those within a maturing Diocese, must instead embody integrity, fairness, and transparency. The faithful are called to be leaven in society, restoring moral clarity and bearing credible witness to the Gospel.

SPEECHES AFTER MASS

Organizing Committee

Mrs. Thereza Muluuta Samanya, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, lauded Bishop Mukasa for the deanery-based initiative, noting that it has deepened unity within Nakaseke Deanery. Preparations, she reported, engaged families, schools, and even members of the diaspora, fostering renewed communal bonds.

Head of the Laity, Nakaseke Deanery

Mrs. Teddy Nakaye, Head of the Laity for Nakaseke Deanery, expressed gratitude to all who supported the preparations and extended best wishes to Nakasongola Deanery as it prepares for 2027.

Dean of Nakaseke

Rev. Fr. Achilles Ssemakula, Dean of Nakaseke, observed that preparations unfolded amid a politically charged season. He expressed appreciation to Hon. Robert Ssekitooleko, Member of Parliament for Bamunanika County, for his generous support.

Diocesan Head of the Laity

Mr. Ronald Ssemakula, Diocesan Head of the Laity, voiced concern that despite the Diocese overseeing more than 180 schools, some Catholic families are failing to enroll their children. He warned that such trends could adversely affect the future vitality of the Church in the region.

Diocesan Pastoral Coordinator

Rev. Fr. Cyril Kasigwa, Diocesan Pastoral Coordinator, highlighted the Diocese’s rapid expansion. In 2025, at its 28th anniversary, the Diocese had 20 parishes; within a single year, 12 additional parishes have been erected, bringing the total to 32.

He urged early registration for the upcoming pilgrimage to the Holy Land, reminding the faithful that necessary documentation requires time. He also joyfully announced that, God willing, the Diocese anticipates the ordination of seven priests and seven deacons in August 2026.

Vicar General

Msgr. Vincent De Paul Mukiibi, Vicar General, expressed concern regarding public health. Citing reports from the recent medical camp in Bulemeezi County, he noted that approximately 11,000 individuals received treatment for ailments that significantly threaten productivity and well-being. He called for heightened awareness and proactive health measures among the faithful.

Special Guest’s Remarks

The State Minister for Kampala, representing Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho (popularly known as Salim Saleh), Chief  Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation, urged a “ceasefire” following the elections. With the political season concluded, he said, citizens must now redirect their energies toward work and national development.

He encouraged the youth of Greater Luweero to seek employment opportunities within local industries. He further disclosed that Gen. Saleh had contributed Shs 20 million toward the event and pledged an additional Shs 10 million to support the formation of seminarians.

 

DIOCESAN DAY CELEBRATIONS IN PICTURES.

Participants in the procession preceding Holy Mass during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU. 

Rev. Frs. in the procession preceding Holy Mass during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU. 

 Rev. Fr. Dr. Emmanuel Ssekyanzi Lyevuze, Chancellor of Kasana–Luweero Diocese, chats with Msgr. Vincent De Paul Mukiibi, Vicar General of Kasana–Luweero Diocese, as Rev. Fr. Dr. Lawrence K. Kimbowa, Dean of Nakasongola Deanery/Parish Priest Migyeera Parish,  communicates on his phone, with Msgr. Francis X. Mpanga ahead of them in the procession preceding Holy Mass during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026.PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU. 

 Bishop Lawrence Mukasa sprinkles holy water on the faithful during the procession preceding Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026, as dancers perform for the congregation. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 The choir mistress leads the choir during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026.PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Bishop Lawrence Mukasa delivering his homily, during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Bamunanika County MP Hon. Robert Ssekitooleko, dressed in a coffee-brown suit, whispers to a fellow dignitary during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Nakaseke District Woman MP Hon. Sarah Najjuma sits next to Luweero District LC V Chairperson Erasto Kibirango during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Dr. James Kyeyune (right), Bulemeezi County Treasurer, whispers to Kkangaawo Dr. Ronald Mulondo during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Some of the parish executive secretaries during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 

Some of the members of the Kasana-Luweero Diocesan Women’s Guild during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Bishop Lawrence Mukasa, joined by other priests, waits for the offertory during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Children leading the procession of the faithful for the offertory perform during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 The faithful in the offertory procession during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 

The faithful carry the offertory after being blessed by Bishop Lawrence Mukasa during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Bamunanika County, MP Hon. Robert Ssekitooleko (right) stands with other dignitaries during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Bishop Lawrence Mukasa distributes Holy Communion to the faithful during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Rev. Fr. Tonny Nsumba Lyazi speaks with Fr. Boniface Muzira as the choir performs during Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Performances at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Priests participating in Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Dressed in black is Papal Knight Joseph Lwevuze. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Bishop Lawrence Mukasa celebrates Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 

A wide view of the altar area prepared for Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Bishop Lawrence Mukasa poses for a group photo with co-celebrants after Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Bishop Lawrence Mukasa poses for a group photo with co-celebrants and members of the clergy and religious community after Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Bishop Lawrence Mukasa poses for a group photo with co-celebrants and the three missionaries from Vietnam after Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Bishop Lawrence Mukasa poses for a group photo with Nakaseke Deanery leaders after Holy Mass at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026.  PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Mrs. Thereza Muluuta Samanya, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee for the 2026 Diocesan Day, addresses the gathering at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Rev. Fr. Achilles Ssemakula, Dean of Nakaseke Deanery and Parish Priest of Our Lady of Epiphany Kijaguzo Parish, addresses the gathering at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Bishop Lawrence Mukasa, joined by other clergy and dignitaries, cuts the cake during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Nakaseke Deanery representatives present a gift to the State Minister for Kampala, Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, the special guest at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026.  PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Vicar General, Msgr. Vincent De Paul Mukiibi, addresses the gathering at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Kkangaawo Dr. Ronald Mulondo addresses the gathering at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 

The State Minister for Kampala, Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, delivers his speech as the special guest at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

Priests depart from the altar area during the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 Some youths pose for a group photo at the 29th Kasana–Luweero Diocesan Anniversary celebrations on Sunday, March 1, 2026. PHOTO BY BERNARD BAKALU.

 

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