Christians Urged to Prioritize Baptism and Weddings Over Celebration Costs.
Rukungiri: Christians have been encouraged not to use the lack of funds for parties as an excuse to delay baptizing their children or having weddings.
This message was delivered by the lay leader of All Saints Church of Uganda under Rujumbura Archdeaconry, Hannington Tumutegyerize, during a church service held in Kifunjo cell, Kyatoko ward, Eastern Division, Rukungiri Municipality on December 9.
The service took place at the home of the late Canon Freddie Beyongera during a church visit to Kifunjo zone. Tumutegyerize pointed out that many Christians avoid baptizing their children because they feel they cannot afford a celebration party.
He clarified that church requirements for baptism do not include organizing a party, and baptizing a child without one costs nothing. He advised parents to prioritize saving for the future instead of making large expenditures on celebrations.
In the service that was led by the Archdeacon of Rujumbura Archdeaconry Dickson Kakanyisa. Tumutegyerize also noted that some couples delay getting married for similar reasons, believing they need money for a wedding party.
Tumutegyerize explained that weddings can take place in church without hosting a party immediately. Couples can choose to celebrate a year later or whenever they are ready. He urged Christians not to fear weddings or baptisms due to financial concerns about parties.
The wife of the late Canon Freddie Beyongera, Ketra Beyongera, expressed gratitude to God for preserving her life through various hardships and thanked the church for holding the service at her home.
The hopeful Member of Parliament for Rukungiri Municipality and son of the late Canon Beyongera, Richard Akanyijuka Beyongera, thanked the church for honoring his father’s wish by organizing prayers at their home. He also praised God for his mother’s recovery after a long illness.
During the service, three children were baptized, and a total of 1,130,000 UGX was collected to support the church’s Christmas programs within the diocese.