The funeral service for Emeritus Bishop Benezeri T. Kisembo Araali was held at St. John’s Cathedral Cemetery in Fort Portal City, with thousands of mourners in attendance. The service was led by retired Bishop of South Rwenzori Diocese, Rt. Rev. Zebidayo Masereka, who represented the Archbishop of Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu. Bishop Kisembo died last week at the age of 82 after suffering multiple organ failure.
During the service, Bishop Masereka described the deceased as a devoted servant of God who lived a repentant Christian life. He urged Christians to shun sin, including witchcraft, fornication, and corruption. The late Bishop’s children remembered their father as a caring, principled, and selfless man who served people without discrimination. They thanked him for his commitment to their education and the opportunities he gave them in life.
The late Bishop’s widow, Mrs. Florence Kajumbikire Kisembo, described him as a loving and faithful husband whose memory she will always cherish. Bishop Kisembo is survived by his widow, five biological children, and 17 grandchildren. He served as Bishop of Ruwenzori Diocese from 2000 to 2009 and had a long career in various roles, including Translation Advisor with the United Bible Societies and General Secretary of the Bible Society of Uganda.
Bishop Kisembo also worked as a Lecturer in Religious Studies at Makerere University. His burial was attended by bishops from various dioceses, political and cultural leaders, members of the legal fraternity, including the Fort Portal Resident Judge, and other religious leaders. The ceremony was a testament to his impact on the community and his legacy.
The late Bishop’s commitment to education and his family was evident in his children’s tributes. They praised his selflessness and dedication to serving others. His legacy will be remembered through the many lives he touched during his lifetime.
Bishop Kisembo’s contributions to the Church of Uganda and his community will be remembered for years to come. His service to the Ruwenzori Diocese and his work with various organizations left a lasting impact. The Church of Uganda continues to mourn the loss of a devoted servant of God.
The burial of Emeritus Bishop Benezeri Kisembo marks the end of an era for the Church of Uganda and his family. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to serve God and their communities with devotion and selflessness.
Key points
- Thousands attend funeral of former Ruwenzori Diocese Bishop in Fort Portal City
- Bishop Kisembo served as Bishop of Ruwenzori Diocese from 2000 to 2009
- He had a long career in various roles, including Translation Advisor with the United Bible Societies and General Secretary of the Bible Society of Uganda
