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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised the Church in Uganda for evolving from a divisive institution to one that now champions peace, responsibility, and spiritual development. He made these remarks while closing the Light Up Uganda for Jesus Mission Convention at Kololo Independence Grounds, a five-day event led by Pastor Patience Rwabwogo of Covenant Nations Church under the theme “The Crossing.”

Thousands of believers from across the country gathered for prayer, worship, and spiritual renewal, with a focus on national transformation. The event featured Bishop LaDonna Osborn as the main preacher, who encouraged unity, peace, and a shared national purpose. Drawing from biblical scriptures such as Philippians 4:5 and Ephesians 2:10, she called on Ugandans to live according to their divine calling.

Special intercessory prayers were also held for the Central Region, focusing on revival, healing, and national stability. President Museveni, accompanied by First Lady and Education Minister Maama Janet Museveni, commended Pastor Patience and the church for their spiritual leadership.

Reflecting on Uganda’s past, the President noted how religious institutions had once fueled divisions, particularly during the 1962 elections. He criticized the sectarian politics of the time and praised the National Resistance Movement (NRM) for rejecting religious-based political affiliations. He reminded Ugandans that African societies existed long before the arrival of Islam and Christianity, and that early colonial influences often pitted religious groups against each other.

President Museveni shared six biblical principles that have shaped his leadership:

1. Resurrection – Christianity’s promise of life after death.
2. Love and Selflessness – Jesus’ teaching to love God and others.
3. Responsibility and Productivity – Lessons from the parable of the talents.
4. Unity Over Sectarianism – Lessons from the Good Samaritan.
5. Work Ethic – Paul’s teaching that those who don’t work shouldn’t eat.
6. Leading by Example – Letting one’s actions reflect God’s light.

He urged religious leaders to examine cultural traditions critically, accepting only what aligns with moral and spiritual values. He also expressed joy over Pastor Patience being the first preacher in his family, celebrating her spiritual leadership and hoping to see her become a bishop one day.

Museveni reaffirmed his belief in religious tolerance, citing Jesus’ teaching not to oppose those who aren’t against you. He thanked Bishop Osborn and the global Christian community for their unwavering support, especially amid growing Western liberal influences like the promotion of homosexuality.

The First Lady, Maama Janet Museveni, applauded Pastor Patience for her obedience to God and described the current spiritual awakening as a “destiny-defining moment” for Uganda. Drawing parallels to the biblical crossing of the Jordan River, she called on the Church to lead with humility and prayer during this season of national transition.

She emphasized three pillars for spiritual success—Priesthood, Covenant, and Consecration—encouraging Ugandans to turn away from pride, division, and sin. She also shared her personal testimony, crediting Bishop LaDonna’s late mother, Dr. Daisy Osborn, for introducing her to Christianity. She praised the Osborn family’s long-standing friendship with Uganda and their impact on her family’s spiritual journey.

The First Lady highlighted the importance of spiritual vigilance as Uganda approaches critical moments like elections, urging the clergy to remain in constant intercession for the nation.

Pastor Patience offered a heartfelt testimony, describing the week-long convention as a time of divine restoration and spiritual breakthroughs. She spoke of emotional healing, transformation, and the overwhelming presence of God during the event. She also acknowledged her husband, Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, for his quiet strength and support behind the scenes.

In a moving tribute, she thanked President Museveni and Maama Janet for their unwavering presence at all six missions, describing them as shepherds chosen by God to guide Uganda. She prayed for God’s continued blessing upon them and the nation.

The event was also attended by prominent religious leaders, including Rev. Canon Michael Lubowa, Bishop David Kiganda, Pastor Jackson Ssenyonga, Pastor Robert Kayanja, and Dr. Joseph Sserwadda.