The visit of the Rt. Rev Bishop to our school: Rev. Bishop Robert Muhirwa Akiiki, Bishop of Fort Portal Diocese. The Bishop was visiting Jinja Diocese to meet Catholic families from the Diocese of Fort Portal who now live in Jinja. He was accompanied by other leaders, including Fr. Fred Tusingire, Chaplain of KEJIFODA, Fr. Edward Muhumuza from the diocese, and other KEJIFODA representatives.

Fr. Douglas Alinaitwe C.S.C., the school Chaplain, and Fr. Prosper Atukwatse C.S.C., the Headteacher, welcomed the Bishop and his delegation to the school.

Fr. Fred Tusingire expressed gratitude for visiting Holy Cross Lake View S.S.S. He highlighted the longstanding relationship between the Congregation of Holy Cross and the Fort Portal Diocese, noting that Servant of God Bishop Vincent Joseph McCauley, the first bishop of the Fort Portal Diocese, established a legacy that endures today. Fr. Fred also shared that Fr. Bob Hesse, C.S.C., the founder of Holy Cross Lake View S.S., mentored him into the priesthood.

In his address, Rt. Rev. Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki encouraged the school community to continue growing in faith, character, and spirit. He posed three questions: Who am I? I am a child of God. Where am I? I am in a relationship with the Creator. Where am I going? I am moving towards the future, which is heaven. He emphasized “the importance of keeping one’s ultimate destiny in mind and letting faith guide decisions and actions”.

Quoting the Book of Sirach, the Bishop encouraged the young people to “frequent the company of elders.” He explained that elders have a wealth of experiences gained throughout their lives, even if they are not familiar with modern technology such as computers. He urged them to respect elders, learn from their experiences, and appreciate their family heritage and lineage.

He encouraged students to develop practical skills. He demystified the misconception in Uganda that practical skills are only for those who have not succeeded academically. He emphasized that practical skills are valuable and can lead to employment and self-reliance.

He advised candidates to remain calm, focused, and confident, reminding them that many exam questions have already been addressed by their teachers.

Before concluding his visit, Bishop Muhirwa Akiiki offered a special prayer and blessing for the 2026 candidates, asking God to guide and bless them in their upcoming examinations and future endeavors. He encouraged them to trust in God as they prepare for the next stage of their lives.

The Bishop concluded his visit by planting two trees on campus, symbolizing growth, hope for the future, and appreciation for the school’s commitment to caring for creation as outlined in Laudato Si’. In summary, the Bishop inspired our school community to respect elders, grow in faith and character, develop passion for practical skills, and lead a future anchored in Christ.

This visit left the Holy Cross Lake View community feeling blessed and inspired to begin the new term with passion. Students are encouraged to walk with Christ and elders on their journey to success, while teachers are guided by faith as they educate and help build a brighter future.

EDUCATION FOR SERVICE
AVE CRUX SPES UNICA