The Archdiocese of Mbarara has today ordained 24 candidates during a colourful ceremony held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral in Nyamitanga.
The ordination ceremony was presided over by the Archbishop of Mbarara, the Most Rev. Lambert Bainomugisha, and brought together clergy, religious leaders, family members, friends and Catholic faithful.
Of the 24 candidates, 16 were ordained deacons, while eight were ordained priests, marking an important milestone in their religious vocation and service to the Catholic Church.
The newly ordained priests and deacons are expected to take up pastoral responsibilities, including preaching the Word of God, administering sacraments, offering spiritual guidance and serving communities across the Archdiocese.
The 16 candidates ordained deacons are Wilbroad Abenawe, Onesmus Arinda, Rodrick Asiimwe, Hillary Atwongyere, Hillary Bimanywa, Drakie Gumanamukama, Vincent Muhangi, Pastori Nabaasa, Chrispus Nasaasira, Aventino Ngabirano, Tedero Nuwamanya, Levi Tukamusiima, Julius Tumuhimbise, Emmanuel Tumusiime, Richard Tumwesigye and Benjamin Turinawe.
The eight ordained priests are Jude Ahimbisibwe, Derrick Aijukye, Evarist Baguma, Leonard Birungi, Sostine Nasaasira, Innocent Ninsiima, Gilbert Nomuhangi and Araphael Tumushabe A.J.
The Archdiocese had earlier scheduled 26 candidates for priestly and diaconate ordinations this year. However, two candidates, Deacons Marius Akoromwiguru and Felix Twinomugisha, will be ordained priests on September 26, 2026, at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in Mushanga.
The ordination is part of the Archdiocese’s efforts to strengthen its pastoral ministry and ensure continued spiritual service to Catholic communities across western Uganda.
During the ceremony, the faithful were encouraged to pray for the newly ordained priests and deacons as they begin their ministry, with emphasis on humility, commitment, discipline and dedication to serving God and the people.
The celebration also provided an opportunity for the candidates’ families, friends and Catholic faithful to witness and celebrate their commitment to religious service.