Leaders within the Church of Uganda are sounding a clarion call to the faithful in Northern Uganda, urging them to exercise extreme caution regarding a newly emerged group known as the Reformed Anglican Church. This movement, which has recently begun spreading its influence across the Lango subregion, is being characterized by the established church as a misleading faction built on a foundation of deception rather than divine truth.
According to Reverend Canon William Ongeng, the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, this group lacks any official recognition and poses a significant risk to the spiritual unity of the region. The origins of this movement are reportedly tied to Rt. Reverend Charles Okunya Oode, a man whose previous bid to become a bishop in the Kumi Diocese was invalidated. Church officials reveal that Okunya’s appointment was overturned after investigations showed he had misrepresented his age and date of birth. Despite seeking a legal remedy, his case was dismissed by the courts, a move that the Church of Uganda claims led to the birth of this breakaway group out of personal frustration and a refusal to relinquish the title of bishop.
Reverend Ongeng argues that this movement is not rooted in genuine Christian theology but is instead fueled by a spirit of rebellion and self-promotion. He warns that a foundation built on protest and disobedience to established spiritual authority cannot lead believers toward eternal salvation. Reports have surfaced indicating that the group is now making inroads into Lira City and the Otuke District, sometimes causing friction and unrest within local parishes where followers refuse to acknowledge the authority of the mainstream church.
On the other hand, the Reformed Anglican Church presents a very different narrative. Speaking on behalf of the group in the Lango region, Reverend Sam Erik defends their presence as a necessary reform movement rather than a rogue sect. He describes their mission as one of spiritual renewal, focusing on a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a holistic approach to the gospel that empowers people socially and economically. According to Erik, Anglicanism is a broad tradition, and their goal is to reach those who feel marginalized or excluded by institutional structures. He maintains that true faith requires individual accountability rather than just an institutional identity.
The situation is further complicated by local church administrators in the Lango Diocese. Spokesperson DL Okello stated that the diocese does not recognize any official split within the Anglican communion in their area. He also raised questions regarding the leadership of the new group, noting that a clergyman with the same name as their representative had previously retired from the diocese due to significant medical challenges.
As this theological and organizational tug-of-war continues, the message from the Church of Uganda remains clear: believers must stay vigilant. They are encouraged to look beyond persuasive rhetoric and examine the roots and motivations of any group claiming to lead them, ensuring their spiritual path remains anchored in transparency, integrity, and the long-standing traditions of their faith.