RUKUNGIRI
During Christmas Mass at St. Peters Buyanja Parish, Father Benjamin Tukamushaba delivered a powerful message to the congregation, emphasizing the importance of keeping blessed sacrifices fresh in their hearts to fully receive God’s blessings.
Father Benjamin noted that believers from other denominations often come for blessings and gain more from them compared to Catholics, who sometimes become accustomed to the rituals and underestimate their power. He urged the faithful to rekindle their faith and approach the sacred practices with renewed reverence and belief.
“Blessed sacrifices in the Catholic Church should remain new in our hearts if we are to get blessings from them,” Father Benjamin stated. “This Christmas Day, let’s use this opportunity to renew ourselves and tap into God’s abundant blessings.”
The mass saw a large attendance of parishioners celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and reflecting on the spiritual guidance provided by their devoted pastor. The message resonated deeply, reminding them of the profound significance of their faith and the blessings it brings.
Maj Gen David Kasura, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, also addressed the gathering. He emphasized the importance of hard work, both physically and spiritually, to prepare for eternal life. He reminded the faithful that their bodies are temples of the Lord and encouraged them to do only good things.
As people prepared to feast, Maj Gen Kasura advised them to eat healthily, remembering that there are other days ahead. He urged them to eat with a purpose and share with those who cannot afford food on such a day.
He also cautioned against borrowing money to facilitate Christmas festivities, noting that it leads to debt. Instead, he encouraged the community to grow crops and rear animals, ensuring they have enough surplus for sale.