By Sr. Agnes Nanyonjo, DM
The Uganda Spiritual and Formation Center Namugongo (USFCN), a program under the Association of Religious in Uganda (ARU), on 5th of February 2026, officially inaugurated its 2026 Spiritual Renewal/Sabbatical and Formation Programs, joyfully welcoming 37 participants drawn from various Institutes and Dioceses across Africa.
The welcoming Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Joseph Luyombya, O.S.M., a member of ARU’s Executive Committee. Fr. Joseph warmly received the participants and thanked them for choosing USFCN as a place for their spiritual journey with God. He assured the participants that the Centre offers a conducive environment, experienced facilitators, and a supportive community ready to accompany them throughout their stay.
Reflecting on the 2026 theme, “Yes, I know the plans I have in mind for you” (Jeremiah 29:11), chosen by the Centre staff, Fr. Joseph encouraged the participants to remain grateful to God who has called and chosen them from different places for this Sacred time of renewal and formation.
The Centre Director, Sr. Daisy Nakanwagi, DST, echoed the same message of hope. She urged the participants not to be afraid, but to fully embrace the special time God has granted them. Sr. Daisy emphasized that the participants’ decision to attend the programs, was not a mistake, rather, part of God’s loving plan and purpose for their lives. She further explained that the programs would run for nine months and would conclude with an optional 30-day Ignatian Retreat scheduled from 20th October to 20th November 2026, a profound opportunity for deeper reflection and encounter with God.
Out of the 37 participants, 25 are for the Sabbatical program and 12 for Formation. They represent 8 countries: Uganda, Cameroon, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia, Benin and South Sudan. USFNC has always had participants from different countries and cultural backgrounds, which is a great blessing to the Centre. Participants experience a rich environment that allows sharing of diverse experiences, different pastoral realities, and spiritual traditions. Each participant brings a unique story, shaped by the needs and challenges of their background.
