St. Joseph’s Nkooko Church Granted Parish Status

The Hoima Catholic Diocese, led by Bishop Vincent Kirabo, has elevated St. Joseph’s Nkooko Catholic Church to parish status, making it the 53rd parish in the diocese.
The consecration ceremony was attended by Uganda’s Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, who hails from the area. During the event, Bishop Kirabo urged Christians to embrace unity and pray for peace in the country.
“There is a lot of disunity, sometimes due to politics and domestic violence. Let’s be united as the Bible calls us to be. Pray for peace in our country. Without peace, whether in a family or a nation, achieving development is difficult,” Bishop Kirabo said.
Prime Minister Nabbanja, who played a pivotal role in advocating for the parish status, encouraged parents to raise their children within the church.
“I’m very grateful that the church that raised me is now a parish. I will do what I can to help develop it, but I also urge the community to support it. Let’s encourage our children to attend church. With God in their lives, we can reduce immorality among the youth,” Nabbanja stated.
Bishop Kirabo also highlighted the historical significance of Nkooko Church, acknowledging the contributions of the late John Mangazi in strengthening evangelism in the area in 1918.
“I remember Mzee Mangazi as a strong advocate for spreading the word of God here. I also want to thank the Prime Minister for her efforts in helping this church attain parish status,” he said.
St. Joseph’s Nkooko Parish, carved out of Bukuumi Parish, comprises two zones with 12 sub-parishes. The parish spans 65 acres and hosts various projects, including farming, grazing, and educational institutions.
The new parish will be led by Rev. Fr. Joachim Kisakyamaria, assisted by Rev. Fr. Christopher Tusiime.