In a heartfelt call to service, the Rt. Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe, Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, has encouraged Lay Canons not to grow weary in their commitment to the work of God. Speaking during a thanksgiving service held at Emmanuel Cathedral, Kinyasano, the Bishop commended the Canons for their unwavering dedication to the growth and spiritual nourishment of the diocese.

The thanksgiving celebration, organized by Lay Canons to give a hand on the on going construction of the cathedral, brought together members of the clergy, and faithful congregants. Bishop Onesimus emphasized, particularly Lay Canons, should use their God-given expertise in various sectors such as finance, education, health, and mission/evangelism to serve the diocese in helping the Bishop and avoid bringing divisions in church.

> “Your calling is not in vain. Let your strength be renewed as you serve,” the Bishop urged, reminding the Canons that their roles are vital in spreading the gospel and upholding the values of the Church.

Drawing from Luke 12:35–47, Bishop Onesimus likened salvation to a passport and the confession of sins to a visa, urging Christians to be spiritually prepared at all times. He condemned the rising tide of sin, particularly sexual immorality, warning that greater accountability will be demanded from those who have heard the gospel yet choose not to live by it.

> “Those who know the truth and ignore it will be judged more harshly than those who have never heard,” he cautioned.

Also speaking at the event, Canon Benon Kwikiriza Baabo, Chairperson of the Council of Canons, pledged the full support of the Lay Canons in aiding the Bishop’s vision for the diocese, particularly in evangelism and development.

The Guest of Honour, Hon. Canon Dr. Justice Andrew Bashaija, expressed deep appreciation for the mission and evangelism work ongoing in the diocese. He encouraged clergy to focus on heart transformation through the preaching of the Word.

> “In heaven, we shall not be asked about the good works we did on earth, but whether our hearts were transformed,” he said, underscoring the centrality of salvation over earthly achievements.

The event was also marked by remarkable generosity from congregants, with a total of UGX 60,355,000 raised to support the ongoing construction of Emmanuel Cathedral.

Other members who were present include; Rev. Canon Eric Baingana Mugyenzi DS North Kigezi Diocese, Mr. Abel Turyabe Matita Diocesan Head of Laity Maama Florence Asiimwe, Maama Eva Tugume, Tumwebaze Olivias Treasurer North Kigezi Diocese, The Very Rev. Amatsiko Niwegariho Dean Emmanuel Cathedral, Rev Francis Baker Acting Deacon Bwanga, Rev. Canon Polycarp Katwesigye Archdeacon Kyamakanda, Rev. Canon Waswa Archdeacon Rujumbura among others.