JINJA. Christians in Busoga Diocese were filled with excitement on Sunday after Rev. Canon Prof. Grace Lubaale was consecrated and enthroned as the 4th Bishop of Busoga Diocese .
Prof Lubaale succeeds Rt. Rev. Paul Moses Samson Naimanhye, who retired in October 2025 after years of dedicated service, having led the Diocese for 10 years .
The event drew clergy, dignitaries, politicians, and thousands of faithful from across the region, marking a significant moment in the life of the Diocese. Bishop-elect Lubaale was presented to the congregation by bishops before the consecration, symbolizing the Church’s endorsement and the continuity of leadership.
Before taking his seat, Rev. Canon Prof. Lubaale took an oath before the Church clergy, pledging to uphold the duties of his office. He also signed the official documents confirming his consecration, making his leadership formal and binding under Church law.
During his consecration, Bishop Lubaale pledged to uphold the teachings of the Church and to oppose all erroneous and unbiblical doctrines, including homosexuality, lesbianism, secularism, materialism, consumerism, and liberalism.
“While taking my oath, I commit to showing mercy and compassion for the poor, the needy, strangers, and all who are destitute or helpless, serving faithfully in the spirit of Christ,” said Bishop Lubaale.
His Grace, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, led the consecration service, formally presenting Dr. Lubaale to the congregation. He highlighted that the new Bishop is called to follow the example of Christ and His apostles, guiding the Diocese with faith and dedication.
“Following the example of Christ and His apostles, I present Dr. Lubaale to you. We trust that the Holy Spirit has called him to lead faithfully,” said Archbishop Kaziimba.
Archbishop Kaziimba formally declared Prof.Lubaale as the new Bishop of Busoga Diocese. Standing before the congregation, he pronounced the consecration, saying:
“The clergyman, commonly known as Rev. Canon Prof. Grace Lubaale, is now consecrated as Bishop of Busoga Diocese in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” announced Archbishop Kaziimba.
The consecration was followed by prayers, hymns, and blessings for the new Bishop’s tenure. Archbishop Kaziimba also declared Bishop Lubaale as the Coordinator of the Children of Clergy Ministry in the Province of the Church of Uganda.
After the consecration, Bishop Lubaale introduced his wife, Clare Lubaale, to the congregation, along with their four children: Abigail Gonza, Nathan Suubi, Joanna Kisakye, and Cranmer Kiriza.
Bishop Naimanhye, was present and received a heartfelt send-off from the congregation, waving to the faithful as a sign of gratitude for his years of service.
He thanked the clergy and faithful for their support throughout his tenure, noting that he was stepping down with joy and gratitude.
Marking his 65th birthday, he said retirement was both his responsibility and a moment of fulfillment.
“Today I am 65 years old, and it is my responsibility to retire. I am retiring when I am very happy. The Diocese of Busoga has stood with me and supported me throughout my tenure. To the Bishops and clergy whom I may have annoyed in any way, I ask for forgiveness,” Bishop Naimanhye said.
Formally relinquishing office, he added:
“In accordance with the will of the Church of Uganda, and with the full agreement of the Synod of Busoga Diocese and the House of Bishops, I, Samson Paul Naimanhye, do now relinquish episcopal jurisdiction over Busoga Diocese, praying that God’s blessings may continue upon His servant, Grace Lubaale.”
Bishop Lubaale, 47, was later enthroned by Archbishop Kaziimba after the Diocesan Chancellor of Busoga Diocese, who is also a Commissioner for Oaths in Uganda, Emmanuel Bamwite, formally declared the seat of Busoga Diocese vacant.
Ms Jessica Rose Epel Alupo, Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, represented President Museveni at the function.