Archbishop Ssemogerere warns newly ordained priests against clericalism

What the report says

Archbishop of Kampala Paul Ssemogerere used an ordination Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral, Rubaga, in Kampala to warn newly ordained priests against clericalism and the pursuit of status. According to The Independent Uganda, he told the candidates that ordination is прежде всего a call to service, urging them to place the needs of the faithful ahead of personal interests and public recognition.

At the ceremony on Saturday afternoon, the archbishop ordained nine deacons as priests and elevated six seminarians to the diaconate. He also advised them to avoid judging their ministry by honours, positions or praise, and to follow the example of Christ as a servant. The message echoed concerns raised during Synod on Synodality consultations in Kampala Archdiocese in 2022, when some Catholics said certain clergy seemed distant from parishioners or overly conscious of rank. The article also noted that Pope Francis had frequently criticized clericalism.

Other speakers reinforced the same theme. Emily Ssekitto Mwaka, the head of laity, said priesthood should mean walking with the people rather than standing above them. Speaking for the newly ordained, Fr. Leonard Sserugo said they would serve with humility, faithfulness, justice and commitment, and seek God’s guidance in their ministry.

The Mass drew thousands of relatives, friends and parishioners. Ssemogerere also asked for reverence during the liturgy and, at the end, cautioned the new priests against soliciting gifts or holding fundraising events at their first Masses, saying they should accept only what is freely offered.