All Saints’ Cathedral Kampala has confirmed 80 students, mostly from international schools, in a service held under the theme “Persistence in Doing Good.” The service was presided over by the Rt. Rev. Fredrick Jackson Baalwa, the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala.
The confirmation followed several weeks of preparation tailored around international school academic calendars. The customized classes equipped the candidates with a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and the significance of the confirmation sacrament.
In his sermon, Bishop Baalwa reminded the students of the meaning and power behind their spiritual commitment. “When you received Jesus, you surrendered your life to Him and the Spirit of God came to dwell in you,” he said. “Through the laying on of hands, you are being empowered by the Holy Spirit, to witness, to serve, and to stand strong in your faith.”
He explained that the laying on of hands carries deep biblical meaning—symbolizing blessing, healing, ordination, and commissioning. “This is not just a personal confirmation of faith, but also a divine affirmation, God confirming your readiness to live and serve as His disciple,” he added.
The cathedral organizes two confirmation classes annually to accommodate students during school breaks. Those studying under international curricula typically attend in July and are confirmed in August, while those following Uganda’s academic calendar prepare in December and are confirmed in January.
Bishop Baalwa concluded his message by urging the confirmands to remain steadfast in faith. Citing Galatians 6:9–10 and Ephesians 2:10, he said, “We are created for good works. Though doing good may sometimes feel difficult or unrewarded, we must rely on God’s grace to persist; for in due season, we shall reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Confirmation is a rite where individuals affirm the vows made at their baptism and commit to following Jesus Christ. It is marked by the bishop laying hands on the confirmand’s head and praying for the strengthening power of the Holy Spirit.
