By Mike Rwothomio

On Easter Sunday, a day celebrating Jesus Christ’s triumphant resurrection, believers in Zombo were encouraged to renew their hope in God amid life’s challenges.

Easter, commemorating Christ’s victory over death as described in the Gospels, marks the cornerstone of Christian faith, symbolizing salvation and eternal life.

Rev. Isaac Rwothomio, Parish Priest of Paidha Town Parish, Church of Uganda, in Goli Central Archdeaconry, Nebbi Diocese, delivered this uplifting message during his Easter Sunday homily at St. Paul Church of Uganda, Mvungu, in Paidha Town Council.

Addressing hundreds gathered for the first Easter service, he spoke to the struggles many face, particularly due to widespread poverty.

Drawing from Matthew 28:1-8, which recounts the discovery of Jesus’ empty tomb by Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, Rev. Rwothomio themed his sermon “Christ’s Resurrection: Our Hope for Salvation.”

He emphasized how Easter’s message of hope, self-worth, and the promise of eternal life through Christ’s resurrection offers strength to believers.

“Anchor your hope in God’s Word,” he urged, adding, “The resurrection of Jesus restored faith in the disciples. Let this Easter open your heart to God’s presence and transformative power in your life.”

St. Paul Church of Uganda, the headquarters of Paidha Town Parish, was filled to capacity, prompting Catechist Jimmy Bidong to announce plans for future church expansion.

He urged the church development committee to prioritize this need.

The Easter service, enriched by a spirited choir, was hailed by attendees as one of the most joyful celebrations in recent years, reflecting the vibrant hope of the resurrection.

Ivan Mungujakisa, a choir member, shared, “Easter’s message of hope is the message of life.”

Easter Sunday, the culmination of the Christian Holy Week, celebrates Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead, as recorded in the New Testament. Preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of reflection, and Holy Week, which includes Maundy Thursday (commemorating the Last Supper) and Good Friday (marking the crucifixion), Easter signifies God’s triumph over sin and death. It is a time of joy, renewal, and hope, as believers reflect on the promise of salvation and eternal life through Christ’s victory.

The empty tomb, as described in Matthew 28:1-8, serves as a powerful symbol of this hope, inspiring faith and resilience.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at Zoomer Africa