On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa traveled to Lwemiyaga, Uganda, by helicopter, provided by the President of Uganda for his pastoral visit. Upon landing in the courtyard of the Orthodox School, the Patriarch was greeted by hundreds of children and local authorities. Representing the President, Minister of Health Jane Aceng officially welcomed him, alongside Orthodox Members of Parliament, regional MPs, and representatives from the military, police, and judiciary.
Accompanied by Metropolitan Ieronymos of Kampala, Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea, Bishop Silvestros of Tzintza, Bishop Nektarios of Gulu, and clergy of the Holy Metropolis of Kampala, the Patriarch proceeded to the newly built Church of Saint Catherine, where he celebrated a Patriarchal Divine Liturgy.
During his address to the hundreds of faithful gathered, Patriarch Theodore expressed words of love and encouragement, thanking the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) and Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain for their support in building the Orthodox School adjacent to the church. In a significant announcement, he revealed plans for the construction of a nursing and midwifery school to empower women in the region with educational and employment opportunities. The news was met with enthusiastic cheers and applause.
Following the service, a traditional celebration took place, featuring dances, songs, and a communal meal shared among the attendees. Later in the afternoon, the Patriarch met with the clergy of the Holy Metropolis of Kampala, offering them words of encouragement and gratitude for their dedication to the Patriarchate of Alexandria. He urged them to continue their mission with zeal and devotion, emphasizing the importance of preserving the legacy of Orthodoxy in Uganda.
In the evening, Orthodox MP Theodore Ssekikubo hosted a formal dinner in honor of the Patriarch at his residence. The gathering served as an opportunity for further discussions about strengthening Orthodox presence in Uganda and reinforcing the spiritual and social mission of the Church in the country.
The visit highlighted the growing role of the Orthodox Church in Uganda, not only as a spiritual guide but also as a key contributor to education and healthcare in the region.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
