Bishop Jacinto Kibuuka Ordains Nine Clergy, Speaks Tough Against Commercialization of Politics

The Presiding Bishop of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, Rt. Rev. Dr. Jacinto Kibuuka, on Sunday ordained one priest and eight deacons at Mamre International Prayer Centre in Namugongo Janda, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District. The ceremony was marked by a powerful message from the bishop warning against the growing commercialization of politics.

The ordination saw Rev. Emmanuel Okiria elevated to the priesthood, while eight others were ordained as deacons. The newly ordained deacons include: Alex Senyondo, Joakim Ojok, Jerald Ongara, Emmanuel Othi, Dominic Amanzuruku, Julian Wawa, George W. Magaja, and Abel Natale Amaza. They come from various dioceses including Kampala, Wakiso, Nebbi, Adjumani, Gulu, Lira, and Soroti, among others.

In his homily, Bishop Kibuuka expressed concern over the increasing influence of money in politics, saying it poses a serious threat to national development and effective leadership.

“The commercialization of politics is deeply worrying,” he said. “It leads to poor leadership because many leaders emerge through money rather than merit. As a result, accountability is lost—they enter office already in debt, needing to pay back those who funded them. This undermines democracy, promotes misappropriation of resources, and ultimately cripples the country with corruption and criminal governance structures.”

Bishop Kibuuka challenged the newly ordained clergy to take a stand against all forms of evil—including the corruption in politics—through truth, wisdom, and persistent prayer.

“You are entering a troubled world,” he told them. “But do not fear. God has ordained you for this purpose—to speak out against the vices in our nations, communities, homes, families, and even our hearts. You are called to uproot, tear down, destroy, overthrow—and also to build and plant God’s kingdom. That is the challenge before you as God’s servants.”

Quoting from the book of Hebrews, the bishop reminded them of their sacred responsibility:

“God chooses you from among the people to stand in for them—to preach, to pray, and to be a bridge between the people and God.”

In addition to the spiritual message, Bishop Kibuuka also encouraged both the clergy and the public to support government initiatives aimed at community development, such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga programs.

Speaking on behalf of the newly ordained, Rev. Father Emmanuel Okiria expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Church leadership, family, and friends for their unwavering support throughout their spiritual journey.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “We now step into a new phase of spiritual warfare, and we ask for your continued prayers and support.”

The ceremony was attended by members of the clergy, faithful from various dioceses, and community leaders, marking yet another significant moment in the growth and mission of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church in Uganda.