By Andrew Bugembe
The Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University (UCU), Canon Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, has challenged clergy to embrace servant leadership and abandon what he described as the “I don’t care” attitude that leaves parishes stagnant or worse than they were before.
Speaking during the ongoing Provincial All Clergy Conference 2025 hosted at UCU, Prof. Mushengyezi urged church leaders to view leadership positions not as titles for self-advancement, but as opportunities to transform communities and strengthen the Church’s mission.
“Positions should not be for self-serving ambitions,” Prof. Mushengyezi said. “Some leaders take a laissez-faire approach, which many call the ‘I don’t care’ attitude. You inherit a parish and leave it the same or even worse. That is not the spirit of a servant of the Lord.”
He emphasized the need for a mission-driven mindset that adds value to institutions and communities.
“To be effective servants, we must punish the ‘I don’t care’ attitude and replace it with a transformative agenda that touches lives and builds stronger institutions,” he added.
On behalf of UCU, Prof. Mushengyezi pledged Shs 50 million in support of the clergy, a gesture that underscores the university’s commitment to strengthening the mission of the Church of Uganda.
The conference, which opened with registration on Monday, August 18, and officially began on Tuesday, August 19, with a powerful message from the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, has drawn hundreds of clergy members from across the country.
Preaching from Ezekiel 34:1, 13, the Archbishop reminded Christians of their responsibility to defend the Church and remain steadfast in their faith.
“Defend your church, defend the Christians. Don’t be enticed by the small things, they are very good for nothing,” he told the gathering.
Running until Thursday, August 21, the four-day conference offers a platform for prayer, fellowship, and reflection on the future of the Church in Uganda.
The sessions focus on pressing issues affecting Christian ministry, with an emphasis on leadership, mission, and service within communities.
The annual Provincial All Clergy Conference continues to play a key role in uniting spiritual leaders, renewing their commitment to guiding the flock, and shaping the Church of Uganda’s mission in this changing society.