Church to Bid Farewell to Rev. Dr. Fr. Sylvester Arinaitwe Rwomukubwe Today in Nakaseke

The Catholic Church in Uganda is today gathering in solemn reflection and prayer as Rev. Dr. Fr. Sylvester Arinaitwe Rwomukubwe AJ is laid to rest at the Apostles of Jesus Lima Farm in Nakaseke, within Luwero Diocese. The burial, scheduled for 10:00 AM, has drawn clergy, faithful, and dignitaries from across the country to honor a man remembered for his service, humility, and unwavering commitment to the Church.

Fr. Sylvester, a member of the Apostles of Jesus congregation and former General Secretary of the Uganda Joint Christian Council, is being mourned not only for his leadership but also for the profound mystery surrounding his sudden passing.

On Wednesday, a requiem Mass held at Rubaga Cathedral brought together mourners in prayer and remembrance. The Mass was led by Archbishop Emmanuel Obbo, who delivered a deeply reflective homily centered on the realities of human existence—birth, life, and death.

He acknowledged the shock and pain that comes with sudden loss, noting that Fr. Sylvester showed no signs of illness prior to his death. “He had a meal, went to rest, and was expected to travel later that afternoon, but he never returned. Indeed, he went and did not come back. This is a mystery,” the Archbishop said.

Drawing from his own experiences, Archbishop Obbo recalled the uncertainty faced by clergy during his time in Moroto, where danger and death often felt imminent. He reminded the faithful that while death may come unexpectedly, it remains within God’s divine plan.

“This is not the first time we are mourning a priest from the Apostles of Jesus,” he added, referencing the late Fr. Paul Onyango Gagawals, whose passing also left many searching for answers.

Despite the grief, the Archbishop urged Christians to hold firmly to their faith, emphasizing that death is not the end but a transition into eternal life. He encouraged the faithful to honor Fr. Sylvester’s legacy by continuing the good work he began and remaining steadfast in prayer.

“People are remembered by what they leave behind,” he said, drawing a parallel with global figures like Princess Diana, whose legacy continues to inspire long after her passing.

As part of the ongoing tributes, the Kigezi Kampala Catholic Residents Association (KKCRA) held another requiem Mass yesterday evening at Nsambya Cathedral Parish, led by Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere.

Today’s burial marks the final earthly farewell to a devoted servant of God, but for many, Fr. Sylvester’s life and ministry will continue to resonate in the hearts of those he touched. In faith and unity, the Church bids him rest, trusting in the promise of eternal life.