By Stanley Ebele
Bishop Emeritus James Nasak of North Karamoja Diocese used his Easter Sunday sermon to advocate for the consecration of female bishops in Church of Uganda.
He said that despite the women’s prominent role in the Resurrection story, the church is still debating elevation of women to the position of the bishop.
Preaching at Christ Church Cathedral in Kotido, bishop Nasak argued that God’s choice of women as the first witnesses to Jesus’ resurrection was a clear call for equality.
In his sermon, Bishop Nasak emphasized that God deliberately entrusted the news of the Risen Christ to Mary Magdalene and other female followers.
He pointed out that while women’s testimonies were often dismissed in the 1st century legal system, God used this moment “to show equality of man and woman” and demonstrate that He “uses anyone.”
The issue of women’s ordination remains a major point of contention globally.
While provinces like the Church of England ordain women to all levels (deacon, priest, bishop), others do not, leading to significant divisions.
The Church of Uganda ordained its first women priests in 1983 and permits the election of women bishops, though none currently holds the position.
