Col. Emmy Katabazi, Deputy Director General of the Internal Security Organization, has expressed his gratitude and admiration for Rev. Fr. Balthazar Ndyomugabe’s 37 years of dedicated service to the church and community.
Speaking at a thanksgiving ceremony held at Kyanamira Catholic Church Grounds, Col. Katabazi recounted his own journey, having aspired to priesthood during his time at St. Paul’s Seminary, Rushoroza. Though he did not become a priest, he affirmed his commitment to serving God and humanity in other capacities.
“I was unhappy that I didn’t make it to priesthood, my lord Bishop. I was told, while still a student at St. Paul’s Seminary Rushoroza, to try elsewhere. I thought I would be given an opportunity to repent during penance so that I make it to priesthood. I didn’t get that opportunity. I wanted to be a priest, but this wasn’t possible. Nonetheless, I’m serving God and humanity in a different capacity.” Col Emmy Katabazi was quoted.
Col. Katabazi, the Chief Guest, lauded Fr. Ndyomugabe for his exceptional ability to transcend religious boundaries, fostering harmony among various faith-based groups. He praised the priest as a pillar of hope and unity, respected and admired by religious leaders from diverse backgrounds.
Former Prime Minister of Uganda Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda echoed Katabazi’s sentiments, noting Fr. Ndyomugabe’s unwavering dedication to unity among people of all denominations.
“I have worked with him for most of his 37-year journey of priesthood,” Rugunda said. “He has provided excellent services to the community, especially in promoting unity.”
In his message, Fr. Ndyomugabe expressed gratitude to all Christians who have supported him throughout his priesthood. The Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt. Rev. Callistus Rubaramira, who led the mass, commended Fr. Ndyomugabe for his dedication and commitment. He asked christians to continue praying for Fr Balthazar Ndyomugabe in his journey of priesthood and his other colleague priests.
Fr. Balthazar Ndyomugabe was born on January 12, 1956, in Kabale, Uganda. He began his education at St. Francis Kyanamira Primary School in 1974, attended St. Paul’s Seminary, Rushoroza for secondary education, completed his studies at Katigondo Seminary, Masaka from 1979 to 1982, and later attended Ggaba National Seminary from 1983 to 1987. He was ordained a priest on June 28, 1987.
The celebration of Fr. Ndyomugabe’s 37 years of priesthood saw a total of Shs 32 million in cash and pledges raised for the completion of the priests’ house (rectory) at Kyanamira Catholic Church, along with more than 300 bags of cement.
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