Message of Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere on 1st anniversary of the death of Archbishop Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga

HIS GRACE DR. CYPRIAN KIZITO LWANGA WAS A GOOD SHEPHERD

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today marks one year since the untimely and tragic death of our beloved Shepherd, the Late Archbishop, His Grace Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga. As we mark this anniversary, we not only pray for the eternal repose of his soul, but also contemplate his life and fruitful ministry as Priest and Bishop in our Archdiocese. The Gospel of John (Chapter 10) uses the image of a Good Shepherd to manifest the immense love of God for His people personified in Christ Jesus. In this Gospel, Jesus says, “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for his sheep” (John 10:11). As Good Shepherd, Jesus did not abandon his responsibility despite the challenges and suffering it involved. He even gave his own life on the cross that others may have life. Jesus gives an example to us, especially religious leaders, of how best we are to fulfill our responsibilities.

As we commemorate the life of the Late Archbishop, we thank God for his fruitful ministry in the Church. Standing in the midst of God’s People, the Late Archbishopmanifested the image of Christ the Good Shepherd. Despite the suffering he endured in carrying out his responsibilities, he did not abandon the flock. He did not flee for fear of the wolves. He defended the flock with all his might and resources at his disposal. He was uncompromising in standing for and defending the truth, and he spoke truth to power. He raised his voice for the voiceless sheep and defended the rights of the downtrodden against the violence ofthemighty.He was a great advocate of peace. And justice, and for this, he carriedhiscross to Calvary. He also worked tirelessly for the integral growth and development of God’s People, in accordance with his Motto, “Ora et Labora ut habeant Vitam” (Pray and Work, that you may have life). The abundant fruits of his policies and visionary leadership are manifested in various development initiatives like Wekembe, and projects like Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine, Munyonyo Martyrs’ Shrine, Mapeera House, the Archdiocesan Secretariat buildings, amongothers – all of which were accomplished under his ingenious and brilliant watch.

As we pray for his soul, we thank God for the gift of his ministry amidst us. Like JesusChrist, he gave his entire life, energy, intelligence and all he had for the good of the People of God had placed in his care. We pray that the Almighty and Merciful God may grant him eternal rest. Eternal Rest Grant unto him O Lord, and Let your Perpetual Light shine upon him, and may he rest in peace, Amen!+PaulSsemogerereSSAABASUMBA WA KAMPALA