By Editorial
Emotions ran high yesterday as renowned Teso priest, Reverend Father Athanasius Mubiru, celebrated 40 years of priesthood.
Fr. Mubiru is a former long serving development coordinator for Soroti Catholic Diocese who spearheaded relief and socio-economic development activities in Teso during some of the most difficult years.
He told the congregation gathered for the celebrations at St. Peter Canisius Parish Orungo in Amuria district that his 40 years of priesthood have been characterized by suffering and misunderstanding.
The function that attracted hundreds of jubilant celebrants across Teso, Mityana and Kampala went cold when Fr. Mubiru narrated the ordeals that shaped his 40-year journey as a priest.
Fr. Mubiru’s appointment in 1989 as the Diocesan Development Coordinator came in the middle of an insurgency waged by the rebels of the Uganda People’s Army in Teso.
In 2001 Fr. Mubiru established Kyoga Veritas Radio which helped in the mobilisation of the population for development, empowering people through development information and speaking out against injustices.
Fr. Mubiru also narrated how he suffered ambushes and terror from the rebels of Uganda Peoples Army in Teso, ambushed twice where the rebels undressed him, beat him up and took all his belongings while returning from work in Oculoi and around Awoja bridge.
Quoting from the gospel of Mathew 16:24, Father Mubiru said that his priesthood has been filled with various experiences that have informed and made him the priest he is today, asking Christians for forgiveness where he had not done as expected.
Fr. Mubiru speaking……
Mr. Stephen Ochola, the Serere District Chairperson who officiated as chief guest said that Fr. Mubiru’s 40 years of service have contributed greatly to the peace building, economic recovery and freedom of expression in Teso sub region. Born in Mityana district, Fr. Mubiru has lived and worked in Teso sub region almost all his priestly life. END