In this 25th anniversary year of the Camillian missionary presence in Uganda, the Camillian community gathered in celebration for the diaconate ordination of three perpetually professed brothers—Gyaviira Matovu, Akewa Francis, and Tiigo Mathias. This momentous ceremony took place on November 1, 2024, at St. Paul’s National Major Seminary in Kinyamasika, Fort Portal, and was a profound blessing for the Camillian mission in Uganda.

The ordination ceremony began with a solemn procession, after which the seminary’s rector, Fr. Vincent Muhindo, welcomed the congregation warmly and expressed his appreciation to the Camillian community for organizing the celebration in the seminary. The mission superior, Fr. Babychan Pazhanilath, introduced the candidates, and their families presented them to the bishop, who then consecrated them, officially marking their transition to the diaconate. The ceremony was enriched by hymns and the Litany of the Saints in Gregorian chant, adding spiritual depth to the occasion.

The bishop shared his gratitude for the Camillians’ work and their ministry to the sick, emphasizing the impact of their service on the diocese.

With these ordinations, the Camillian Mission in Uganda now comprises 4 priests, 4 deacons, 7 temporary professed members, 5 novices, 10 philosophy students, and 9 aspirants. We thank God and St. Camillus for the gift of these new deacons, who are prepared to serve God’s people with faith, dedication, and compassion.