Hundreds of people have gathered at the Mother House of the Institute of Daughters of Mary (Bannabiikira) at Bwanda in Masaka Diocese to witness the taking of perpetual vows by 20 Religious Sisters in this Institute.

The ceremony marked every 8th of January started with a Eucharistic ceremony led by the Ordinary of Masaka Diocese, Rt. Rev. Serverus Jjumba who was joined by Rt. Rev. Lawrence Mukasa, the Bishop of Kasana-Luweero and Rt. Rev. Vincent Kirabo Akiiki, Bishop of Hoima diocese.

In his homily, Bishop Jjumba borrowed the words of Saint Pope John Paul II telling the religious to be spiritual mothers to all, the sick, children and the abandoned, among others.

He reminded them that they are brides of the jubilee year, which calls for hope, peace and reconciliation.

He was grateful to God that in spite of the tough situations; many girls continue to commit themselves to religious life that is why the Institute has lived since 1910 when it was founded by Archbishop Henry Stretcher.

Sr. Maria Alma who is 106 years old is celebrating her 84th anniversary in religious service, whereas Sr. Maria Germa who is 104 years old is celebrating her 82nd anniversary in religious life. The two are the oldest Religious Sisters in Uganda.

Seven religious sisters have celebrated Diamond Jubilees, three have celebrated Golden Jubilees and six celebrated Silver Jubilees.

The function has been attended by the Vicar General of Kampala, Msgr. Charles Kasibante, Msgr. Francis Xavier Mpanga, the Vicar General of Kasana Luweero Diocese, Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga, among other guests and Christians.

By Gideon Peter Ssebulime

8 Jan 2025

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