The Diocese of South Ankole has recognised 10,287 individuals as “church pillars” for supporting church development projects, in a move that comes after the Church of Uganda halted the installation of new lay canons and church elders over ethical concerns.
The awardees received certificates, badges and gifts during a ceremony at St Matthew’s Cathedral Kyamate on Sunday, marking a year-long fundraising campaign that supported diocesan development initiatives, including the construction of a new headquarters building.
The recognition programme follows a decision by the trustees of the Province of the Church of Uganda to stop dioceses from installing new canons and church elders after concerns emerged over the practice of awarding honorary church titles to lay people.
“The trustees of the province decided that we shall not have new canons and church elders given robes and certificates, but our development partners can never go unrecognised,” South Ankole Bishop Rt Rev Nathan Ahimbisibwe said.
He added: “People who support us every day are our great pillars and as a diocese we hold them dearly. It is through their efforts that the church has achieved a lot.”
Bishop Ahimbisibwe said those recognised had each contributed at least Shs500,000 through their parishes and archdeaconries during the Christian year.
The top fundraiser was Ms Scovia Sajja of Nyaburiza Parish, who mobilised more than Shs130 million for church projects, while Mr Jomo Kindyomunda of Kibatsi Archdeaconry raised over Shs120 million.
Diocesan Secretary Rev Canon Alfred Turyamureba said the awards were divided into categories for men, women, youth and children, with churches and clergy who excelled in fundraising also receiving recognition.
“We open the competition during Christmas and Easter seasons. People mobilise support from friends and organise thanksgiving functions, which helps keep church activities vibrant while generating resources for development projects,” Rev Canon Turyamureba said.
The diocese is currently constructing a Shs700 million multi-storey office block at the cathedral complex that will house offices, boardrooms, a gymnasium and other facilities.
Founded in 2012, the Diocese of South Ankole has undertaken several development initiatives, including coffee-growing campaigns, irrigation projects, fish farming and the establishment of schools and health facilities.
Bishop Ahimbisibwe urged Christians to balance financial support for church projects with spiritual growth.
“We should understand the scriptures and seek the Lord as our personal saviour. Some people support church development but do not fully appreciate the essence of Christianity, which is to preach the word of God,” he said.