Youth in Ankole diocese have been urged not to put their trust in earthly things and short-lived pleasure but instead persevere in salvation even when they are in difficult situations.

The call was made by Rt. REV. Bishop Amos Magezi the bishop of North West Ankole Diocese who noted that the reason why many people have challenges is because they don’t have any hope in God.

Bishop Amos Magezi made the comment while giving his sermon as he closed the four-day 11^th annual Anglican Youth and Children Convention hosted by North West Ankole Diocese.

The convention which attracted thousands of youths from different parts of Ankole diocese was held under the theme: “Rise up and do it” Ezra 10:4

Geoffrey Rwobusisi, the Emeritus Anglican Bishop of Cyangugu Diocese in Rwanda was the guest preacher at the convention.

He also raised concern about many parents troubled, restless and engulfed in hopeless situations with their children lost in drug abuse, a sad trend he said was on the rise globally.

He encouraged youth to get saved but cautioned them that being saved alone is not enough as they need a continued repentance and restoration

Giving highlights on the harvest from the 11^th convention, Bishop Mwesigwa, said over 247 youths accepted Jesus as their savior, 525 youths renewed their faith, 119 attended special counselling while 535 signed sexual purity commitment men cards.

Bishop Mwesigwa was also happy to note that all youths who went for HIV testing turned negative results. He urged them to keep safeguarding their life against the deadly disease which has claimed millions of people across the world.