[KAMPALA, 20-01-2024] – We are deeply troubled and saddened by the recent actions taken by Bishop Johnson Twinomujuni, West Ankole Diocese Bishop, in response to the marital crisis faced by Reverend Nice Nahwera, a curate at Nyakabirizi Church of Uganda. It is with heavy hearts that we express our utter dismay at the decision to terminate her from her position and subject her to public ridicule in the wake of her husband’s adultery.
As followers of Christ, we are called to show compassion, understanding, and support to those who are facing personal challenges. The actions of Bishop Johnson Twinomujuni do not align with the principles of love, forgiveness, and grace that lie at the core of the Christian faith. We believe that the treatment of Reverend Nice has been unjust and lacks the pastoral care and empathy that she deserves during this difficult time.
We urge the leadership of Church of Uganda, specifically;
- The Most Reverend Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu to reconsider this decision and extend the necessary support and pastoral care to Reverend Nice Nahwera. It is crucial that Church of Uganda exemplifies the teachings of Jesus Christ by offering a spirit of restoration, healing, and understanding to all individuals involved in this situation.
- Furthermore, we call for a thorough review of the church’s policies and procedures relating to marital crises within the clergy and their families. It is imperative that the Church establishes guidelines that prioritize the well-being and fair treatment of all individuals, while upholding the values of integrity and compassion that define the Christian faith.
The Church of Uganda has been at the helm of promoting the ordination of women in church leadership and ministry. The actions of Bishop Twinomujuni Johnson could be judged as unjust, abusive and to say the least unacceptable in a church that upholds principles of fair hearing.
Women constitute the largest population of Church of Uganda. Casting Rev. Nice out of leadership makes a statement about the value that the church attaches to women’s role to ministry in the church. She ought not suffer the wrath of being disserted by her spouse and being shunned by the church she has served so faithfully for so long. This SHOULD NOT BE ACCEPTABLE TO THE CHURCH.
As women that believe in Just and fair communities, we commit to upholding Reverend Nice in our prayers and providing her with the support she needs during this challenging time. May we move forward with a spirit of reconciliation and grace, striving to reflect the love of Christ in all our actions and decisions.
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About WPI: The WPI is a non-profit organization with a reputation of boldly advancing equity, challenging discrimination and violence against women and girls, through advocacy and creative lawyering. We envision a just and equitable society where women and girls are free from ALL forms of discrimination and violence. Through our various programs and initiatives, we strive to create lasting change and promote gender equality at all levels.
Press Statement _ ADDRESS REVEREND NICE NAHWERA’S CRISIS
