Bishop Paul Ssemwogere is flanked by some of the seminarians learning how to be Jesus-like Leaders.
What brings about 180 seminarians from five major seminaries representing all 19 dioceses in Uganda together right before Christmas?
The opportunity to learn more about being Jesus-like S3 Leaders.
The occasion was Uganda’s annual Seminarian Fraternity Retreat, held Dec. 16-19 at Emmaus Catholic Retreat Centre in the Diocese of Kasana-Lueeero. The Yeshua Catholic International Leadership Institute was primary sponsor of the event.
Bishop Paul Ssemwogere, head of the diocese, celebrated Mass for the seminarians and spoke on the topic "Called to lead Like Jesus." The event was coordinated by Javis Mugagga, the Yeshua Institute’s Facilitator in Uganda, who was the primary presenter during the retreat.
Many of the seminarians expressed their gratitude for the experience and some indicated it was the first time they had given much thought to their own personal vision of servcie when they become priests.
"I am a leader now. Not only that, but a leader who is vibrant, who has visions, goals, dreams and aspirations,” said Brian Odubugiu from St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Katigondo.
“What a moment to be part of this Seminarians Fraternity here at Emmaus Center,” he added. “From now on, my aspiration is to work to influence others to become leaders. I am focused. What an inspiration of leadership I have gotten from this gathering. I am determined to lead like Jesus."
The Yeshua Institute also sponsors an ongoing small group experience for seminarians in the Archdiocese of Kampala, which includes 27 young men, four who are slated to be ordained in the coming year.