By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
MBARARA
The Mbarara Archdiocese is set to officially approve hymns composed by late renowned Catholic composer John Bosco Kazoora for liturgical use in the Catholic Church.
The revelation was made by Lambert Bainomugisha, the Archbishop of Mbarara, during a requiem Mass held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Nyamitanga Cathedral on Thursday.
According to the Archbishop, Kazoora composed more than 600 Catholic songs during his lifetime, many of which have been widely used informally in churches across the region.
Archbishop Bainomugisha said that over the last two years, Kazoora had repeatedly approached him seeking official Church approval for the hymns to be incorporated into Catholic liturgy.
He noted that the Church advised the composer to first arrange the songs into proper musical notation in line with Catholic doctrine and liturgical standards before approval could be granted.
The Archbishop revealed that the process had already advanced, with the Vicar General, Rev. Fr. Dr. Servenius Ndugwa, reviewing the compositions and clearing them for approval.
“The songs are now only awaiting my final signature,” he said.
Archbishop Bainomugisha described Kazoora as “a teacher of theology through melody,” whose music brought many believers closer to God.
“He was a missionary through music and a devoted servant who dedicated his talent to the service of the Church,” the Archbishop said.
Kazoora died at his home in Kagoma, Ibanda District, after reportedly suffering diabetes-related complications, according to family members.
His death came barely a week after his wedding.
He is expected to be laid to rest today at his ancestral home in Ibanda District.
