MBARARA, Uganda — The Church of Uganda’s Ankole Diocese has suspended the administration of Holy Communion and confirmation services following the Ebola outbreak in Uganda.
In a letter dated May 20, 2026, addressed to archdeacons, parish priests and lay readers, the diocese announced a series of measures aimed at preventing the spread of the virus in churches.
The letter, signed by the Diocesan Secretary and Registrar, Rev. Canon Edson Abaasa, said the bishop would no longer administer confirmation during pastoral visits “until further notice.”
The diocese also directed that Holy Communion should not be administered in all church services until further notice.
“Handshaking and any other physical contact are prohibited,” the letter stated, adding that the directive applies to all Christians, clergy and the bishop.
Churches across the diocese have also been instructed to ensure that all entry points have hand washing facilities and sanitizer available for worshippers.
The diocese further asked church leaders to sensitize congregations about the Ebola outbreak and the guidelines put in place to control the disease.
Despite the restrictions, the diocese said communal worship, sermons, singing, prayers, entertainment and speeches would continue.
The Church of Uganda directive follows heightened vigilance across the country as authorities work to contain the Ebola outbreak. Religious institutions have in previous outbreaks adopted public health measures such as limiting physical contact and suspending certain religious practices to reduce the risk of transmission.
