Archbishop warns on prosperity gospel

Archbishop Emmanuel Obbo speaks to the newly ordained priests and deacons during a church service at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral Nyangole Tororo last Saturday. PHOTO BY JOSEPH OMOLLO

Tororo- Archbishop of Tororo Archdiocese Emmanuel Obbo has warned against promotion of the gospel of prosperity in the Church, saying it derails Christians from understanding God’s gospel.

Archbishop Obbo said although the church is interested in having a congregation that is wealthier, the teaching on wealth creation should not be at the expense of God’s word.

He was speaking during the ordination of three priests and eight deacons at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral Nyangole in Tororo District at the weekend.

“You have been ordained to preach the gospel of God, not prosperity. Therefore, you should not be seen serving two masters at a go. Preach the word of God, truth and not your own words or speculations,” Archbishop Obbo said.

He asked the newly ordained priests to reflect on principles of true Christianity and follow God’s will, adding that the position they have been elevated to is a gift from God.

He said they would be held responsible for any misconduct.
“We have often seen people who downplay priesthood and the church has not tolerated them, the offenders have been shown the exit,” the Archbishop said.

He asked parents to encourage their children to join seminaries to address the existing shortage of priests, saying in Africa, one priest serves more than 12,000 flock.