On December 10, 2023, Rt. Rev. Canon Moses Banja formally received enthronement as the sixth Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, succeeding Bishop Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira. The enthronement ceremony occurred at St Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe, with notable dignitaries in attendance.
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Who is Rev. Moses Banja?
Moses Banja, born on October 20, 1964, in Nakabugo Bbira, Busiro, entered the ministry in 1996 and became a priest in 1998. Before his episcopal role, he served as the Archdeacon of Luzira Archdeaconry. Banja holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity and a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from Makerere University. The new Bishop’s wife is Rev. Canon Prof. Olivia Nassaka Banja. Together, they live with three children.
Who Selected or Elected Rev. Moses Banja?
The House of Bishops of the Church of Uganda elected Banja on November 20, 2023, during their session at St Stephen’s Cathedral Naluwerere in East Busoga Diocese. Banja and his wife, Rev. Canon Prof. Olivia Nassaka Banja, expressed their commitment to continuing the positive work of their predecessors. The couple, parents of three children, has been actively involved in the Church.
How was Rev. Moses Banja Enthroned as Namirembe Diocese Bishop?
The consecration ceremony, led by Church of Uganda Provincial Secretary Canon Captain William Onen, commenced at 10:43 am. Various legal and ceremonial steps confirmed Banja as the newly elected Bishop.
Who certified if Moses Banja was fit for the role?
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu examined Banja, ensuring his suitability for the role. Eventually, after a thorough examination, Banja took three oaths and officially robed in his bishop’s attire. Bishop Luwalira handed the pastoral tools to Archbishop Kaziimba, expressing gratitude for his 14-year tenure. He encouraged Banja and emphasized collaboration among the clergy and the faithful.
Enthronement
The Archbishop officially consecrated Banja and introduced him to the congregation as the new Bishop of Namirembe Diocese. The congregation welcomed Banja with enthusiasm as he assumed his role. Bishop Nathan Ahimbisibwe delivered a sermon highlighting the responsibilities awaiting Banja. He emphasized the importance of leadership collaboration and urged Banja not to become a burden to his flock.
What advice did the new Bishop receive?
Bishop Ahimbisibwe used symbolic elements, including a cake and a stone, to convey the challenges and responsibilities of leadership. He advised Banja to share power and collaborate with clergy and lay members.
While encouraging collaboration, the preacher told Banja about potential challenges from individuals who may work against the leadership’s interests, underscoring the complexities of church leadership.
