Canons John and Ruth Ssenyonyi renew marriage vows

Over the weekend, Canons John and Ruth Ssenyonyi celebrated 40 years of marriage by renewing their vows in a heartfelt ceremony at Namirembe Cathedral, where they were originally wed in April 1985—a testament to a journey marked by love, patience, and commitment.

The service was officiated by Archbishop Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, who led the couple in renewing their vows in front of family, friends, and fellow believers. Dressed elegantly—Canon John in a grey suit and Canon Ruth in a gold party dress— the couple walked down the aisle once again, symbolizing their enduring love and unwavering bond.

In his sermon, Archbishop Kaziimba praised the Ssenyonyis for their faithful union.

“John and Ruth stand before us to renew their consent to each other. They have undertaken their marriage reverently, responsibly, and with utmost dedication. On this special day, we pray that God continues to guide and strengthen them as they fulfill His purpose for their lives together,” he said.

He added that the couple has lived faithfully, supporting each other in times of need and joy.

“They’ve been blessed with children and grandchildren, and have remained committed to raising a godly offspring,” the archbishop noted. Reflecting on the significance of their 40-year journey, Archbishop Kaziimba said: “Marriage is a gift from God—a holy mystery where man and woman become one. Forty years represents trials, transitions, and triumph.

It’s a milestone of transformation, much like the biblical handover from David to Solomon after 40 years.”

A LOVE STORY ROOTED IN FAITH

The couple’s journey began when John met Ruth at the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, where John’s late brother, Peter Nyombi, worked.

At the time, Ruth was studying at Makerere University and was a member of the Joint Heirs Choir that ministered at Namirembe Cathedral. John was pursuing his PhD in Australia but maintained communication with Ruth, sending her multiple letters each week.

Encouraged by his brother, he finally expressed his feelings. Ruth fondly recalls a 1982 holiday memory when John, then still somewhat of a mystery, took pictures of her and her choir mates with a Polaroid camera during a concert at Makerere High School.

“I wondered who the handsome man taking photos was,” said Ruth, who is a daughter of the late Misaeri Kitemaggwa Kawuma, the former bishop of Namirembe.

“We later came to know each other, and here we are— husband and wife.”

A LIFE OF SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP

Ruth went on to work as a teacher at Gayaza High School, later joining the Bank of Uganda, where she rose to the level of Assistant Director after 22 years of service.

John, a former lecturer at Makerere University, later joined Uganda Christian University, where he served for 19 years. Their journey has not only impacted their family but also inspired many around them.

Ambassador Henry Mayega, John’s brother, praised the couple: “Because of them, many of us chose marriage in church. One man, one woman. We wish them joys, jokes, and laughter as they continue this journey.”

Ruth’s brother Moses Kawuma recalled delivering John’s letters from Australia to Ruth at Africa Hall, Makerere. He reminisced about Ruth’s wedding, remembering the emotions of their family: “Everyone at home cried—even though our father looked calm, we knew he was emotional. But 40 years later, we didn’t lose her—we gained grandchildren and so much more.”

Andrew Nyombi, son of the late Attorney General Peter Nyombi, added: “We’ve learned from them that it’s not about how long you’ve been married, but the quality of time you spend together. They walk the talk.”