The Role and Significance of Bishop Amos Betungura in the Growth and Development of Ankole Diocese 1970-1992
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Date
2023-09-01
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study aimed at assessing the role and significance of Bishop Amos Betungura in the growth and development of Ankole Diocese from 1970 to 1992. The study was guided by the following objectives: establishing Bishop Amos Betungura’s early life and church ministry; examining Bishop Amos Betungura’s contributions towards church leadership in Ankole Diocese; and assessing Bishop Amos Betungura’s vision for Ankole Diocese. The study adopted a qualitative, descriptive approach that utilized content analysis. Secondary sources of information from the UCU Old Library and St.James Cathedral, Ruharo, and Mbarara were used. The study findings revealed that Amos Betungura, a man elevated from a poor home background in Rwampara district, contributed a lot to Ankole Diocese in particular and Uganda at large. In his religious and academic circles, Amos served Ugandan society wholeheartedly for twenty-two years, from 1970 to 1992, as bishop of Ankole Diocese. As regards his church ministry, Amos strived to uplift religious work in the diocese; he established theological colleges and emphasized more training in other trades for a future and better church. He is well known for having trained clergy, crowned many canons, and increased the number of archdeaconries and parishes in the diocese. Economically, Amos established projects like the diocesan ranch, carpentry, health centers, hostels, afforestation, grain mills, a vocational institute, and a church community center that have contributed to the development of the diocese. It can therefore be concluded that Bishop Amos Betungura attained great achievements as a Bishop of Ankole in his tenure, although he also faced some challenges like any other person. It can also be concluded that his vision for the Church has been achieved to a great extent by the people he left in charge, especially his predecessors, although much more needs to be done to fully achieve his vision for the church. Therefore, it is recommended that Ankole Diocese continue to build on the foundation that Bishop Betungura laid during his tenure. Ankole Diocese should also continue to foster this spirit of collaboration with various stakeholders, such as the government, NGOs, and other religious denominations, to ensure sustainable development. Ankole Diocese should also continue to prioritize education by providing scholarships, improving school infrastructure, and hiring qualified teachers. Finally, Ankole Diocese should continue to support programs that empower communities economically, such as microfinance, agriculture, and vocational training.
Description
Masters dissertation.