Maj Gen Leopold Kyanda, former UPDF Chief of Joint Staff, reminded all men and women in uniform (UPDF, Police, and Prisons Service) to maintain their spiritual connection with God for the success of their earthly missions. He made this remark while officiating at the Armed Forces Prayer Breakfast at All-Saints Cathedral Church of the Resurrection in Bugolobi, Kampala.
Maj Gen Kyanda reiterated the message of Reverend Dr. Canon Nyegenye about the purpose of life, referencing the Old Testament’s account of Angel Michael, a spiritual warrior who fought and defeated the devil in heaven. “The work that we do as men and women in uniform does not start today but started that time. The purpose that they are telling us here is deeper because it was a warrior that went out and threw the devil out of heaven,” he emphasised.
He expressed remorse for the pain God endures when His children turn against Him, acknowledging the devil’s continued rebellion against God despite receiving everything. However, he noted that men and women in uniform are blessed to have a strong spiritual heritage and urged them to glorify God in their work. “Know who you are, know your role and know your path, know what you can do. That is why you can go and defend your country no matter the place. We should remember that we still have that connection with the arch angel. This is because of the presence of the holy spirit,” Maj Gen Kyanda told the congregation.
Reverend Dr. Conon Rabecca Nyegenye, Provost of All Saints Church Cathedral Nakasero, spoke from John 10:1-11, highlighting the devil’s destructive nature and God’s restorative power. “We are all soldiers of Christ but armed forces are soldiers of what God has called them for. You battle with people who the devil has stolen their body self and have lost purpose in life. But it doesn’t matter where one has reached, the Lord makes his people whole again,” she encouraged.
The Reverend thanked the joint forces for their presence and commended them for their work, urging them to enjoy their service with exceeding joy, like onward Christian soldiers going to war with courage and purpose.
The event was attended by various senior and junior officers from the UPDF, Uganda Police Service, and Uganda Prisons Service, including Maj Gen (Rtd) David Wakalo, Maj Gen (Rtd) David Kasingwa, Brig Gen (Rtd) Rebecca Mpaji, and Defence Public Information Officer Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye.