Members of the Kigezi Ankole Anglican Youth Missioners (KAAYM) have been challenged to embrace personal transformation and spiritual growth in order to effectively impact society and advance the Kingdom of God.

The call was made during a prayer and fasting retreat for KAAYM elders held at St. John’s Church of Uganda, Makerere, which also marked the conclusion of 3 days of prayer and fasting under the theme “Arise and Shine” drawn from Isaiah 60:1.

KAAYM elders from different parts of the country gathered at St. John’s Church of Uganda, Makerere, for a special prayer and fasting retreat aimed at strengthening spiritual growth, fellowship, and commitment to the mission of evangelism.

The retreat, which marked the end of 3 days of prayer and fasting, attracted both current and former leaders of the fellowship, including one of its pioneer leaders, Rev. Prof. Medad Birungibyayesu.

The day was characterized by Local praise and worship, prayer, teaching, deliverance sessions, and testimonies as members reflected on God's faithfulness throughout the years.

Preaching on the theme “Arise and Shine,” Mr. Jimrex Byamugisha challenged believers to confront attitudes and habits that hinder their spiritual growth and effectiveness in ministry.

He emphasized that every Christian has a personal responsibility to overcome spiritual complacency and allow God to use them as instruments of transformation.

Byamugisha also urged Christians to live lives that reflect the character of Christ, warning against actions that may discourage others from embracing the faith. He noted that it would be unfortunate for believers to lead others toward God while failing to remain faithful themselves.

One of the pioneer leaders of KAAYM, Rev. Prof. Medad Birungibyayesu, expressed gratitude that the ministry which began many years ago continues to grow and impact lives.

He encouraged members to embrace both transformation and transfiguration through the power of God, saying true spiritual growth enables believers to influence and transform others.

Rev. Prof. Birungibyayesu further called upon Christians to shine as lights in a dark world and to depend on the power of the Holy Spirit in fulfilling their mission.

He also challenged members to expand the ministry's outreach beyond Uganda and across Africa, urging clergy and bishops to continue supporting youth mission movements within the Church.

The organizer of the retreat, Dickness Amanya, expressed appreciation to God for the successful gathering and commended members for their continued commitment to the vision of KAAYM.

Amanya explained that the retreat was intended to renew spiritual commitment, strengthen fellowship among elders, and equip members for effective ministry.

He also expressed optimism about the ongoing revival of KAAYM and encouraged elders to remain active in the fellowship's activities and mentorship programs.

Amanya further revealed plans to organize more elders’ retreats aimed at strengthening the mission and preserving the ministry’s legacy for future generations.

As the retreat concluded, participants renewed their commitment to prayer, evangelism, discipleship, and spreading the Gospel, with leaders expressing confidence that KAAYM will continue to shape generations of young Christians across Uganda and beyond.