North Kigezi Diocese News
As part of efforts to strengthen leadership and governance systems in North Kigezi Diocese, the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe, today met Parish Heads of Laity for a one-day leadership training workshop held at the Emmanuel Cathedral Consecration Site.
Addressing the participants, Bishop Asiimwe said the workshop was part of his vision to bring together Parish Heads of Laity so they could know one another and better understand their roles and responsibilities in the Church.
He emphasized that being a Head of Laity requires one to be born again, noting that leadership positions do not guarantee salvation. He reminded them that leadership comes with greater responsibility and called on them to live exemplary Christian lives.
Referring to John 15:16, Bishop Asiimwe reminded the participants that God had chosen them to serve, not because of their own goodness but by His grace. He urged them to serve faithfully and with humility.
The Bishop also encouraged them to promote coffee growing on church land and among Christians instead of planting eucalyptus trees, saying coffee would provide greater economic benefits to both the Church and households.
He clarified that a Head of Laity is not the head of the clergy and should therefore work in harmony with parish priests while respecting the Church’s structures. He urged them to understand Church policies, mobilize resources, identify potential people for ministry, and serve as role models to Christians.
Bishop Asiimwe further advised the Parish Heads of Laity to maintain good working relationships with their parish priests, saying that conflicts between clergy and lay leaders weaken ministry and discourage Christians from active participation in the Church.
The Diocesan Human Resource Officer said leadership is about bringing positive change. He cautioned the participants against influencing Christians to hate their pastors and instead encouraged them to listen to both clergy and Christians in order to promote unity.
The Diocesan Internal Auditor, Mr. Michael Mukiza, urged the Parish Heads of Laity to exercise accountable leadership by maintaining proper records, documentation, reports, and responsible stewardship of Church resources.
The Diocesan Treasurer, Mrs. Olivias Tumwebaze, explained how the Diocesan quota is collected and utilized, noting that the largest share caters for staff salaries while the remainder supports administration.
She encouraged all Parish Heads of Laity to work closely with the Diocesan Empowerment Team, emphasizing that it exists to support every parish in strengthening financial sustainability, not only those facing challenges in paying the Diocesan quota.
