Namirembe Diocese Marks International Widows' Day With Thanksgiving Service

As the world commemorates International Widows' Day, widows in Namirembe Diocese have been encouraged to place their trust in God and remain steadfast in faith despite life's challenges. The message was delivered during a special fellowship organised by Naomi Ministries at St. Stephen's Church of Uganda in Kabowa ahead of this year’s International Widows’ Day. Hundreds of widows from different parishes across Namirembe Diocese gathered at St. Stephen's Church of Uganda, Kabowa, for a thanksgiving service held under the theme, "From Grief to Growth," drawn from Proverbs 31:25. Observed annually on June 23, International Widows' Day seeks to raise awareness about the challenges widows face while promoting their rights, dignity, and well-being. Leading the service was Rt. Rev. Dr. HanningtonMutebi, Assistant Bishop Emeritus of Kampala Diocese, who based his sermon on Ruth Chapter 2, verses 8 to 23. Drawing lessons from the biblical story of Ruth, Bishop Hannington reminded widows that God remains their provider, protector, and source of hope. He encouraged them to remain prayerful and trust in God's timing, assuring them that He never abandons those who faithfully seek Him. The bishop further urged widows to support one another and remain active in church and community life. Mama Faith Luwalira, one of the founders of Naomi Ministries, applauded the widows for their resilience and commitment to ministry despite the hardships they encountered. She said their unwavering faith continues to inspire families, communities, and the church. Despite the spirit of hope and fellowship, widows say they continue to face numerous challenges. The Chairperson of Naomi Ministries, Anne Munywevu, cited land grabbing, financial hardship, social isolation, and limited access to economic opportunities as some of the major issues affecting widows across the country. She called upon the government and development partners to ensure widows are fully included in programmes aimed at improving household incomes, including the Parish Development Model. International Widows' Day serves as a reminder that widows deserve equal rights, protection, and opportunities to live meaningful and dignified lives. As songs of hope filled the church compound, the gathering ended with renewed faith and a shared commitment to stand together through life's challenges.