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On Tuesday, 22nd December 2025, the curtains came down on what will be remembered as a landmark Christmas moment in Kampala. For three unforgettable nights, the Old Kampala Senior Secondary School playgrounds were transformed into a living stage as Watoto Church presented their annual Christmas Cantata, Son of God.
For over three decades, the English-based Christian church has faithfully retold the story of Jesus Christ, reimagining it each year with fresh creativity and depth. It is a story that has shaped generations, one that still stands unrivaled in its power and relevance. This year’s telling did not merely revisit the narrative. It embodied it.
Jesus Christ stands at the center of history like a living axis. Authority wrapped in humility. Eternity stepping into time. Kings once measured power by armies. He redefined it through surrender. Empires ruled through fear. He commanded hearts. He spoke and storms obeyed. He touched and sickness retreated. He restored broken lives without negotiation and confronted hypocrisy without hesitation. Gentle enough to carry children, yet powerful enough to shake eternity. Savior, King, Servant, Judge. The man who split history in two and still stands undefeated, inviting humanity to begin again.
It is this profound story that Watoto Church continues to tell with unwavering consistency, drawing thousands year after year, all yearning for more. From Friday through Tuesday, the crowds returned in numbers that affirmed why this production has stood the test of time.
This year marked a bold departure from tradition. For the first time, the Cantata moved from Watoto Church’s Downtown Central auditorium on Kampala Road to the expansive Old Kampala Senior Secondary School playgrounds. The decision sparked mixed reactions. Some questioned safety in an open venue, while others welcomed the move as long overdue given the ever-growing audiences previously locked out by limited space.
According to Watoto Church Lead Pastor, Julius Rwotlonyo, the decision followed extensive consultations with partners and authorities. “After thorough research, we agreed it would be best outdoors. We wanted to check every box to make this Christmas gift truly memorable,” he said.
And memorable it was. Security was visibly airtight, with personnel and ushers lining the entire perimeter and guiding guests to designated seating areas. Inside the venue, thoughtful planning was evident. A dedicated children’s zone featured bouncing castles, while adults enjoyed nostalgic games from their childhood.
Photography enthusiasts were treated to a designated photo area, and towering above it all stood Kampala’s tallest Christmas tree, officially lit during an inter-church carols night filled with praise and worship.
When the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived, Watoto delivered with precision and flair. The production opened with a breathtaking acrobatic performance by a group of young boys, instantly commanding attention. The story of Mary and Joseph unfolded with warmth, humor, and perfectly timed comic relief that kept even the most restless audience members glued to the stage.
In a striking commitment to authenticity, the production went a step further by featuring a live horse on stage, symbolizing the mode of transport used by imperial soldiers of the time.
It later emerged that four months of preparation went into training the animal to withstand bright lights, booming sound effects, massive crowds, and still respond calmly to commands.
The musical interludes were the icing on the cake. Simple yet elegant costumes, beautifully harmonized vocals, and meticulously choreographed dances, many performed by children, reflected months of disciplined rehearsal and artistic excellence.
For 96 minutes, beginning at exactly 8:05pm, the audience was immersed in the story of Christ’s birth and its meaning for humanity. The evening concluded with a powerful prayer led by Pastor Rwotlonyo, followed by offerings that demonstrated the church’s commitment to living out its message.
In a remarkable act of generosity, Watoto Church raised Shs 100 million to support children’s homes across Kampala; Mama Tulia, Sanyu Babies Home, Nsambya Babies Home, Gems Foundation, and Whispers of Love Children’s Home each received Shs 20 million.
As the lights dimmed and the final applause echoed across Old Kampala, one thing was clear. Watoto Church had not only passed the test of an outdoor experience, but done so with distinction.
The church has already promised an even greater production next year, leaving audiences eager, inspired, and confident that this Christmas tradition will continue to rise, year after year.
