By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
MBARARA
Journalists from across the Ankole sub-region gathered at All Saints Church, Mbarara, for a thanksgiving service that highlighted both their challenges and their vital role in informing the nation.
The service was hosted by Ven. Rev. Patrick Atuhaire, Archdeacon of All Saints, who warmly welcomed media practitioners from different outlets. He commended them for their resilience, noting that journalists often endure harassment and destruction of equipment while covering events, particularly during elections.
“I thought about inviting journalists after the recent general elections where many were beaten and their machines destroyed as they tried to inform the nation,” Rev. Atuhaire said, adding that the church remains open to them as a place of refuge and thanksgiving.
Call to Truthfulness
The guest preacher, Betty Komujuni, host of Emikoro and Reeba Ahindugire programs on TV West, urged the congregation to abandon “small gods” such as adultery, hatred, and deceit, and instead embrace truthfulness.
Illustrating her sermon with a story of a public figure in the region who appeared faithful to his family but was later revealed to have fathered children outside wedlock, Komujuni emphasized the importance of honesty in marriage and relationships, warning that hidden sins eventually come to light.
Commitment to Faith
Her message resonated strongly with the congregation, leading close to 10 Christians to accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior, denouncing “small gods” ‘Emandwa ‘of hatred, malice, and murder.
Ven. Rev. Atuhaire concluded by reminding journalists that thanksgiving is essential, given the hardships they face in their profession.
The thanksgiving service not only celebrated the work of journalists but also served as a spiritual reminder of integrity, resilience, and the need for truth in both personal and professional life.
