The Church of Uganda has officially unveiled a new Provincial Youth Policy aimed at mentoring and nurturing young people into strong Christian discipleship and leadership.
The policy was launched on Friday, May 30, 2025, during the youth pilgrimage conference held at the Namugongo Anglican Shrine ahead of this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations.
Speaking at the launch, the Rt Rev Pons Awinjo Ozelle, Bishop of the Diocese of Nebbi, described the policy as a critical step towards empowering young people within the Anglican Church to grow in faith, fellowship, and service.
“We have officially launched the Provincial Youth Policy, a powerful step forward for the youth in our Church. We are excited to see a new generation rise up, rooted in Christ and ready to imitate God’s goodness,” Bishop Ozelle said.
The bishop called on the youth to be selfless and committed to doing good, echoing the theme of this year’s celebrations: “A Young Generation That Imitates God’s Goodness.”
The policy is expected to strengthen youth fellowship activities across dioceses, encourage regular Sunday worship attendance, and build a support system for spiritual and moral growth among young Anglicans.
“Young people, let’s not be selfish or self- centred. We are called to do good for others. Let’s commit to shining God’s love in all we do,” he added.
Prof Elizabeth Kukunda Bacwayo of Uganda Christian University (UCU) challenged young people to live lives of integrity and boldness in their Christian walk.
“Dear young people, you are the heartbeat of this generation. The Church and the nation are not waiting for you to be future leaders. You are today’s agents of transformation,” she said.
“God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. To imitate God, you must walk in light and live with honesty and integrity. No double standards,” she said.
She noted that the world needs young people who are not afraid to stand for truth, even when it costs.
The youth conference is one of the major activities leading up to the Martyrs’ Day celebrations, which commemorate 140 years since the Uganda Martyrs were killed for their Christian faith.
