Message from Bishop Paul Ssemwogerere on the Occasion of the Golden Jubilee of Nswanjere Seminary
Those of us who lived or worked in Nswanjere Junior Seminary either as teachers, support staff or students, have through the years, come to know and appreciate it as kalimiro k’Omukama (a small nursery bed for the Lord to prepare his future shepherds and leaders). As we celebrate fifty years of existence, I proudly confirm that it has successfully played its intended role as its founder, Archbishop Dr Joseph Kiwanuka had wished. I would like to thank and congratulate the seminary for providing quality education and holistic formation since its inception in 1964. Personally, as you may be aware, my last period of formation was spent in this seminary as a teacher. Although the situation at the time was marred by turmoil amid experiences of war activities, I still regard it as one of the most profitable moments of my formation to the priesthood. It is here that I came in contact with the people who were highly motivated, unselfish in giving time and talent, compassionate, exemplary and God-fearing.
In the Old Testament times, the symbol of Israel was a vineyard that produces a grapevine full of fruit. Nswanjere’s 50-year fruitful legacy is like that Lord’s vineyard, part of the Kingdom of God, who rejoices due to the abundant harvest reaped all through these years. The good Lord has always faithfully provided and protected his vineyard that even during those days of disturbance of civil wars; Nswanjere endured and maintained its repute and quality performance.
Virtually everywhere one goes, there can be found footprints of Nswanjere legacy, not only in the priesthood, but also in many significant positions in various professions, there can be traced footsteps of Nswanjere spirit. Countless members among the distinguished old students have contributed to the building and development of Uganda.
Nswanjere has contributed immensely to the call to the priesthood. Today, more than ever, the Church and society need generous and faithful witnesses to the values and truths of the Gospel. Our Baptismal call can be exercised in different ways marriage, religious life, single life or ordained ministry. But this life is sustained by the Eucharist which is the source and summit of our faith life and so the necessity of priests for the well-being of the pilgrim Church, the mystical body of Christ… “Do this in the remembrance of me”. The Church must never cease to pray to the Lord of the harvest that he sends more labourers into his vineyard. She must propose clearly and courageously to each new generation the vocation call. For the last fifty years, Nswanjere has ventured to respond to this challenging invitation. The steps these very young seminarians are making now may look too small and insignificant in their journey of priestly formation but they are indeed giant leaps for the future.
Pray that this golden jubilee celebration may provide grace-filled opportunities for the renewed appreciation of the gift of the priesthood to entice increased support for all those who have been called to the sacred ministry.
+Paul Ssemwogerere
Bishop of Kasana Luweero Diocese
