A report on the visit by the Director for the Justice and Peace Department – Kampala Archdiocese, to St. Achileo Kiwanuka Catholic Parish, Migadde
On 21st June 2026
By HAPPY Immaculate
I am delighted to share with you this inspiring message from the Diocesan Director, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Sita, who came not only to encourage us but also to listen, pray with us, and witness the living faith that animates in our daily lives! The warm welcome and attentive hearts he encountered in Migadde re-affirmed that the Church is truly alive where her members strive to embody the mercy and justice of Christ.
In this heartfelt address, the Director reflected on the vital work of the Justice and Peace Department that is inspired by the Catholic Social Teaching to promote human dignity, integral development and peace-building within our Archdiocese. His message serves both as an encouragement and a practical call to action to every parishioner.
He highlighted key areas of focus in the department, being:
i. Raising awareness on rights and responsibilities, and calling for participation in political leadership positions as an avenue for action.
ii. Supporting urban refugees and host communities through vocational skilling and livelihood programs.
iii. Facilitating community peace initiatives, such as Peace runs and dialogues.
iv. Promoting Environmental Protection activities.
v. Monitoring and evaluating projects for vulnerable children, rent assistance and community harmony.
The Director delivered his message during the Eucharistic celebration (Plate 1) and subsequent gatherings, drawing from the words of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti, as well as the rich tradition of Catholic Social Doctrine. We invite you to read this report prayerfully and discern how you, your family, or your Small Christian Community can contribute to this important apostolate.
Plate 1. Director leading the Eucharistic Celebration
Raising Awareness on Rights and Responsibilities
Every baptized person is called to be a defender of human dignity. We must raise awareness about fundamental human rights i.e. the right to life, education, healthcare, decent work, and participation in public life while equally emphasizing our responsibilities as citizens and Christians.
The Director emphasized that Ignorance of these rights often leads to exploitation. Through workshops, homilies and formation programs, the Justice and Peace Department seeks to equip the faithful to speak truth to power and to hold leaders accountable, always with charity and prudence.
A Bold Call to Political Leadership
The Director made a heartfelt appeal that the time has come for more men and women of faith to courageously enter the arena of politics and public leadership. He noted that too often good people shy away, leaving governance to those driven by self-interest. However, we have to agree that the Church needs credible witnesses in decision-making positions, leaders who prioritize the common good, fight corruption, promote justice, and protect the vulnerable. Therefore, young professionals, educators and experienced laity are encouraged to discern this vocation seriously, supported by prayer, ethical formation, and the accompaniment of the Justice and Peace department.
Supporting Urban Refugees: Welcoming the Stranger
The Director began by remembering the words of Jesus: “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35). Many of our brothers and sisters arriving as refugees and displaced persons in our areas are seeking safety, dignity, and a new beginning. He noted that the Justice and Peace Department is committed to supporting refugees through practical acts of solidarity such as providing emergency assistance, legal guidance, skills training, and integration programs that honor their God-given dignity, and urged the parish to open its doors and hearts, forming welcome committees and partnering with other institutions to ensure that no one is left behind.
Community Peace Initiatives: Building Solidarity from Within
The Director noted that in a world marked by division, the Church must be a beacon of reconciliation. Through dialogue sessions, conflict resolution training and youth peace clubs, we are sowing seeds of harmony. Parishioners are encouraged to actively participate, reminding all that “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).
Plate 2. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Sita plants a tree in memory of his inaugural visit to the new Parish. The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Jude Kato (in white cassock) cheered him on.
Environmental Protection and Justice: Caring for Our Common Home
The cry of the poor and the cry of the earth are one as environmental degradation disproportionately affects the most vulnerable. The Director informed parishioners that the department promotes tree planting campaigns, proper waste management, climate education and advocacy for responsible land use. He called upon the congregation to see environmental stewardship as an integral part of our faith, and a concrete expression of love for future generations and for the Creator. In relation to this, but certainly in memory of his visit, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Sita planted a tree in the premises of the Parish (Plate 2).
Conclusion
Brothers and Sisters, the visit reinforced my conviction that our Parish is already doing much, yet the harvest is great and the laborers still too few. I therefore invite every individual, family or Small Christian Community to commit afresh to our department so that we move from words to action, trusting in the Holy Spirit who empowers us.
May the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace and Mother of Justice, guide us. May the Lord bless our efforts to build a more just, peaceful and sustainable society.
In Christ’s Peace,
HAPPY Immaculate
Justice and Peace Leader
St. Achileo Kiwanuka Catholic Parish, Migadde