In a spirit of faith and with a shared commitment to God's precious gift of life, the Church of Uganda has entered into a powerful partnership with LIFE International. This exciting collaboration promises to strengthen families and equip church leaders to be beacons of hope and "life-givers" in their communities, reflecting Christ's love and compassion.

A Landmark Agreement Rooted in Faith

The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, and Chris Rookus, Vice President of LIFE International, formalized the partnership on Friday, February 28th, 2025, at Namirembe Guest House in Kampala. Rev Canon William Ongeng, the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, witnessed this momentous occasion, a testament to God's guiding hand in this endeavor.

Empowering Leaders to Minister to Families

According to Rev. Simon Peter Ddembe Lya Yesu, Director of Mission and Outreach, the partnership is focused on empowering Church of Uganda leaders with the biblical wisdom, skills, and resources they need to support thriving, Christ-centered families and to uphold the sanctity of every human life, from conception to natural end.

"Through comprehensive training, mentorship, and resource development grounded in Scripture, we will integrate the message of life into the very fabric of our Church's ministry, reflecting God's heart for families and His creation," Rev. Ddembe Lya Yesu shared.

Archbishop Kaziimba: Embracing God's Vision for Life

Archbishop Kaziimba emphasized the importance of the partnership in advancing the Church's mission: “As the Church of Uganda, we are committed to promoting a biblical understanding of life and family, rooted in God's Word. This partnership with LIFE International will equip our leaders to be life-givers in their communities, addressing both spiritual and practical needs, shining the light of Christ into every corner. This is a great addition to our call for an end to abortion.”

LIFE International: Partnering in God's Work

Chris Rookus of LIFE International echoed this sentiment, expressing his organization's enthusiasm for the collaboration. "We are honored to work alongside the Church of Uganda, united in our faith, to foster a culture that values and protects human life, recognizing the inherent dignity bestowed upon each individual by our Creator. Through these training programs and ongoing mentorship, we pray to see a lasting impact, transforming communities across Uganda with the love and grace of God."

Training and Initiatives Guided by Faith

Rev. Barbara Mugisha, the Provincial Family Life Coordinator, reports that the partnership is already bearing fruit. Key training programs, such as "Journey of a Life-Giver" and "Redemptive Conversations," have already been launched in Busoga Diocese, equipping participants to offer spiritual, emotional, and practical support to those in need, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Key initiatives of the partnership include:

• Regional training sessions in five regions of Uganda, reaching up to 50 participants in each session, all centered on biblical principles and God's design for family.
• Equipping Diocesan Mission Coordinators, clergy, lay readers, and leaders from Mothers' Union, Fathers' Union, and Christian Women Fellowship with skills in biblical counseling, family support, and life-affirming ministry, empowering them to minister effectively to the needs of their congregations.
• Developing sustainable life-giving ministries within the Church of Uganda to address community needs such as post-abortion healing (offering God's forgiveness and restoration) and biblical sexuality education, grounded in God's truth and love.

A Three-Year Commitment to God's Purpose

This agreement will be in effect for three years, with annual reviews to ensure the ongoing success and sustainability of these vital initiatives, all for the glory of God.

About LIFE International

LIFE International is a Christian organization based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, dedicated to equipping leaders worldwide to champion the value and dignity of human life through training, mentorship, and support for life-giving ministries, all in accordance with biblical values.

What This Means for Our Church Family

This partnership represents a significant opportunity for the Church of Uganda to deepen its impact on families and communities across the nation, furthering God's Kingdom. By equipping our leaders with the tools and resources they need, we can create a culture that values and protects human life at every stage, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ.

Get Involved!

• Pray fervently for the success of this partnership and the transformative impact it will have on families across Uganda.
• Stay informed about upcoming training opportunities and resources, and consider how you can participate.
• Seek God's guidance on how you can be a "life-giver" in your own community, sharing the hope and love of Christ.
• Support this vital ministry through your tithes and offerings, knowing that you are investing in God's work.