The leadership of the Uganda Union Mission of Seventh-day Adventists, has raised concern over the just announced national cleaning days scheduled to take place every Saturday, noting that it coincides with their sanctity of their Sabbath Day celebrations.
The President, Uganda Union Mission Seventh-day Adventist Church. Pr. Kajoba Samuel, in a letter to faithful’s on Friday noted that despite the church fully supporting initiatives that promote a clean and healthy environment, it, remains committed to the sanctity of the Seventh-day Sabbath as ordained by God.
“According to Scripture, the Sabbath is God’s holy day, observed from sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday (Gen 1:5, Gen 2:2, Leviticus 23:32, Mark 1:32). During these sacred hours, God calls His people to cease from their ordinary work and dedicate the time wholly to worship, fellowship, acts of mercy, and communion with Him. (Exodus 20:8-11)” he said.
Pr. Kajoba revealed that the Church leadership is actively engaging the Government, in a spirit of mutual respect to seek an amicable solution that upholds both the national objective and the church’s constitutional freedom of worship.
“Among the proposals presented is that Seventh-day Adventist members participate in the cleaning exercise on either Friday or Sunday, as may be agreed upon by both parties” he said.
He further appealed to the faithful to remain calm, prayerful, and steadfast in faith as the discussions continue and heed for God’s counsel rather than giving into anxiety or speculation.
“I therefore encourage every member to remain united, respectful toward those in authority, faithful to God’s commandments, and persistent in prayer as we await the outcome of these engagements” he said.
He added, “We are confident that the Lord, who has always preserved His church, will grant wisdom and lead us to a peaceful and God-honoring resolution”.
Pr kajoba’s remarks comes a day after Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, declared the last Saturday of every month a mandatory National Cleaning Day, during which all Ugandans will be required to participate in community clean-up activities as part of efforts to improve sanitation and prevent disease outbreaks.
The three-hour exercise will run from 7:00 am to 10:00 am, with non-essential movement prohibited, businesses closed and only emergency and security vehicles permitted on the roads.
