FROM STREET VENDOR TO PRIEST! Pope Leo Honours Kasana-Luweero’s Fr Kimbowa on 25th Anniversary

Pope Leo has granted a special Apostolic Blessing to Rev. Fr. Dr. Lawrence Kizito Kimbowa, Judicial Vicar of Kasana-Luweero Diocese, in honor of his Priestly Silver Jubilee and 25 years of dedicated service.

The celebrations took place at St. Anthony Catholic Parish, Migyera, where Fr. Kimbowa serves as Parish Priest and Dean of Nakasongola Deanery.

During the Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Lawrence Mukasa announced the Holy Father’s recognition of Fr. Kimbowa’s faithful ministry.

Ordained on August 18, 2001, Fr. Kimbowa has devoted his life to the Church through Gospel proclamation, the celebration of the Sacred Mysteries, and pastoral care. Bishop Mukasa invited the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Emmanuel Ssekyanzi Lyevuze, to formally read the Apostolic Blessing.
Bishop Mukasa commended Fr. Kimbowa for his unwavering commitment and generous service over 25 years, highlighting his leadership of the Diocesan Construction Committee and his contributions to the Diocese’s growth. He encouraged Fr. Kimbowa to continue his ministry with renewed zeal and devotion.
Fr. Kimbowa expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who supported him throughout his priestly journey.

He shared how the late Archbishop Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, whom he regarded as a father, profoundly influenced his life and vocation.

Facing financial hardship as a child, Kimbowa sold polythene bags and paraffin in Ndeeba to support himself.

Despite these challenges, his father encouraged him to attend catechism classes, which led to his involvement in church life and brought him to the attention of Fr. Lwanga.

Recognizing Kimbowa’s dedication, Fr. Lwanga invited him to serve as an altar server and later discovered he was not attending school.

Fr. Lwanga persistently encouraged Kimbowa to return to school, eventually enrolling him at Lubaga Boys’ Primary School.

Although Kimbowa continued his small business, his admiration for Fr. Lwanga inspired him to pursue the priesthood.

After completing Primary Seven, Fr. Lwanga helped him enter Nnyenga Seminary, setting him on the path to priesthood.

Fr. Kimbowa also shared that he received the name Kizito through his close relationship with the late Archbishop, who played a pivotal role in nurturing his vocation.