Hundreds of Christians gathered at St. Adrian’s Seminary on Friday to celebrate the Seminary’s Patron’s Day and raise funds for the construction of a new students’ residence, St. Charles Lwanga Dormitory. The celebration was preceded by the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, presided over by Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira, Bishop of Kabale Diocese.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Frederick Rutinaki, Assistant Priest of Rushoroza Cathedral Parish and an alumnus of St. Adrian’s Seminary, called on Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and to continue praying for the pioneers who laid the foundation of the seminary.
“We have gathered here to celebrate the feast of St. Adrian, the patron saint of our Seminary. This celebration has coincided with the feast of St. Thomas the Apostle. We are therefore invited to bear witness to Christ just as these two saints did,” Fr. Rutinaki said.
He praised the founders of the institution for their remarkable vision, noting that the seminary has grown over the years to produce numerous priests and responsible citizens who continue to serve both the Church and society. He also commended the spirit of collaboration among the three Diocesan minor seminaries—St. Adrian’s Seminary Rubanda, St. Charles Lwanga Seminary Nyakibale, and St. Paul’s Seminary Rushoroza—and expressed gratitude to their alumni for their unwavering support.
Welcoming the Bishop and guests, the Head Prefect, Mr. Ronald Ainamaani, thanked all those who attended the celebration, with special appreciation to the Guest of Honour, Hon. Evelyne Ninsiima Kikafunda, on her election as the Rubanda District Woman Member of Parliament.
He applauded the seminary staff for their dedication to forming future priests and responsible citizens and thanked parents for the sacrifices they make to support the seminarians’ formation. He encouraged his fellow students to embrace hard work, discipline, and resilience, reminding them that today’s efforts lay the foundation for tomorrow’s success. He also acknowledged the generosity of alumni, political leaders, and other well-wishers who continue to support the seminary’s development projects.
In his address, the Rector, Rev. Fr. Gervase Tumwebaze, reaffirmed the seminary’s commitment to imparting sound values, knowledge, and practical skills to its learners while effectively implementing the new curriculum. He challenged the seminarians to work diligently in preparation for the forthcoming examinations, emphasizing that improved academic performance would benefit both the students and the institution’s continued growth and reputation.
Speaking as Guest of Honour, Hon. Evelyne Ninsiima Kikafunda, Woman Member of Parliament for Rubanda District urged the seminarians to remain focused on their education and future aspirations. She encouraged them to understand their background and appreciate the opportunities before them without allowing their circumstances to determine their destiny.
She reminded the students that success is built on discipline, commitment, and hard work, while also calling upon them to honour the sacrifices made by their parents and guardians in supporting their education. She further appealed to parents to continue investing in their children’s education and formation, describing their support as essential in nurturing responsible citizens and future leaders.
The fundraising drive realized a total of UGX 51 million, which will go towards the construction of St. Charles Lwanga Dormitory, a project aimed at improving accommodation for seminarians.
In his closing remarks, Bishop Callist Rubaramira expressed heartfelt gratitude to civil leaders, parents, members of the St. Adrian’s Seminary Old Boys Association (SASOBA), and all people of goodwill for honouring the celebration and generously supporting the seminary.
The Bishop observed that leadership is both demanding and challenging, and called upon Christians to continually pray for leaders at all levels so that they may be guided by wisdom, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving their communities.
The annual celebration concluded with award of certificates to former rectors who served the Seminary and a renewed appreciation for the vital role which St. Adrian’s Seminary continues to play in the formation of future priests, responsible citizens, and servant leaders, while reaffirming the community’s commitment to supporting its mission and development.
