A close look at the changing face of Zumbu Town Parish Church of Uganda

Nebbi: The Church of Uganda Zumbu Town Parish in Nebbi Diocese has marked 2024 as a historic year, marked by unprecedented growth in construction projects and spiritual development.

Under the leadership of Parish Priest Rev. Francis Uyirwoth Kubi and the head of laity, the parish has achieved what many consider its busiest and most successful year in nearly seven decades.

Major milestone

The highlight of the year has been the ongoing construction of a new church at the parish headquarters a project that was blessed by The Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, during his 2023 visit to Ukuru Archdeaconry.

Described as the “main agenda of the parish”, the construction project saw a significant boost on October 19, 2024, during a mega fundraising event attended by notable dignitaries, including first Deputy Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga and Bishop Rt. Rev. Ozelle Awinjo.

The event raised over 20 million shillings, with Hon. Gabriel Okumu making a remarkable contribution of 10 million shillings.

With construction continuing into 2025, the parish has made completing the new church building its top priority.

Beyond the church project, Zumbu Town Parish celebrated several key achievements, including increased Participation in Sacraments and Religious Events where the parish officiated numerous weddings, including the high-profile union of Jared Opyem and Moureen, leading to increased Holy Communion participation,  76 candidates were confirmed on July 11, 2024, by Bishop Pons and 82 infants were baptized, expanding the parish congregation.

Infrastructure Development whereby the parish completed several projects, some supported by government funding, including; a multi-million-shilling theatre at Zumbo Health Centre III, a doctor’s residence, water-borne toilets at Zumbo Health Centre III, new structures at the parish headquarters and upgraded facilities at Zumbo Lower Primary School were some of the achievements.

Others are strengthening community engagement where Rev. Uyirwoth led pastoral visits to schools and health facilities, fostering closer ties with institutions such as Acamukech Parents’ Primary School and Zumbu Health Centre III and the parish hosted the Nebbi Anglican Diocese Evangelistic Band, which resulted in numerous conversions to Christianity.

Leadership changes

Mummy Peggy Koi was elected as the new Mothers’ Union President for Nebbi Diocese, replacing Mummy Norah Alirach.

The Women’s Department, led by Mummy Winnie Pitic, improved parish hospitality by purchasing 14 new seats for the guest house.

Clergy and catechists were transferred as part of diocesan restructuring and the parish clergy participated in a priests’ tour to Kampala, strengthening diocesan unity and collaboration.

Challenges amid triumphs

Despite remarkable progress, the parish faced some challenges, including; limited financial support for the church construction project, low attendance in key parish meetings and the loss of beloved members, such as Mama Miriam Munguacel.

These challenges have prompted a renewed call for unity and mobilization efforts in 2025.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Rev. Uyirwoth expressed deep gratitude for the parish’s achievements and emphasized the need for continued collaboration, particularly toward completing the church project.

Other key goals for 2025 include; evangelistic missions and outreach programs, youth seminars and leadership training, celebrations of Christian events such as Easter and Martyrs’ Day.

The parish theme for 2025, inspired by Matthew 6:33, will be:
“Seek first the Kingdom of God and all other things will be given unto you.”

Rev. Uyirwoth thanked families and local leaders for their unwavering support.

With its new church construction progressing steadily, Zumbu Town Parish stands poised for an even brighter future as a beacon of faith, growth, and community transformation.

The ongoing construction of Zumbu town Parish Church of Uganda, Ukuru Archdeaconry, Nebbi Diocese

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