The Association of Religious in Uganda (ARU) held its November General Assembly from 3rd to 7th November 2025 at the ARU Secretariat.
The Assembly was held under the inspiring theme which was specifically for the Religious during the Jubilee Year of Hope “Pilgrims of Hope on the Way to Peace,” calling religious men and women to renewed commitment in their consecrated life and mission. The Assembly officially opened with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by His Grace Emmanuel Obbo, AJ. In his homily, Archbishop Obbo reminded the members of the words of the Holy Father during the Jubilee Year: “The Church needs you.” He emphasized that religious men and women have already been entrusted with the mission to “wake up the world,” and that the Church continues to rely on their prophetic witness today.
His Grace encouraged the religious to allow Christ to be the center and Lord of all that they do, noting that only by remaining rooted in Christ can their lives and ministries bear lasting fruit. He further called upon major superiors to exercise patience in leadership and to promote domestic dialogue within their Institutes.
Also present at the Assembly was Rev. Fr. Georges Kwami Kouwonou, who oversees the affairs of the Apostolic Nunciature in Uganda. Fr. George addressed the Assembly and highlighted several important matters of interest to religious institutes. He encouraged superiors to take time to read and reflect on Dilexit Dei, underscoring its relevance for consecrated life today.
Fr. Georges also provided clarification on visa application procedures, reminding members that: • Invitation letters must be
stamped by the Secretary of State,
- Applicants should attach a letter from the local superior,
- Non-Ugandan applicants must include a valid work permit, and
- Visa appointments should be made at least one month prior to the intended travel date.
In addition, he invited all members to pray for the bishops of Uganda, who are scheduled to travel to Rome for their official visit (Ad Limina) in March 2026.
During the Assembly, the superiors received an input on spirituality from Sr. Justine Nalugya, IHMR, who is also the Assistant Secretary General of ARU. They also listened to presentations from ACWECA– Strathmore University on the Sister Blended Value Project, launched in 2017, as well as on the Counselling Hub, which engaged the superiors in discussions on its sustainability.
