Didausug.
On Monday, June 3, millions of pilgrims congregated at the magnificent Basilica of the Ugandan Martyrs in Namugongo in Central Uganda, Kira Municipality of Wakiso District to partake in the annual memorial Uganda Martyrs’ Day Celebrations.
The outskirts of Kampala, the bustling capital of Uganda, transformed into a vibrant sea of faith as throngs of believers gathered to commemorate this day, a cornerstone event in Uganda’s cultural and religious calendar, in honor of the Holy Martyrs killed between 1885 and 1887 on account of their faith.
For weeks, throngs of believers embarked on arduous journeys spanning hundreds of miles from across Africa and beyond including the neighboring states of Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), all converging in a powerful demonstration of devotion and fortitude guided by the theme, “but as for me and my house, we will serve the lord!” inspired by Joshua 24:1
The centerpiece of the celebration was the solemn and vibrant Eucharistic celebration held at the Basilica of the Ugandan Martyrs, a tribute to their memory. The Holy Mass, an electrifying spectacle of faith, presided by Archbishop-elect of Gulu, Most Rev. Raphael p’Mony Wokorach, M.C.C.I., drew in scores of bishops, hundreds of clergy members and thousands of religious men and women, most of whom hail from African.
The atmosphere within the Basilica was a rich and vivid mosaic of African culture and Catholic liturgical rites. A choir from the Catholic Diocese of Nebbi in the ecclesiastical province of Gulu filled the air with soulful hymns, setting a spiritual ambiance for the mass.
Standing on the very grounds where some of the martyrs were executed, Archbishop Raphael p’Mony also honored the missionaries who planted the first seed of faith in Uganda in 1879.
“We also celebrate the 145th anniversary this year of the inception of the Catholic faith in Uganda, we are proud to be Ugandans, we take pride in being Catholics,” proclaimed the prelate, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the martyrs.
He continued, “The story of the Ugandan martyrs is one of unwavering faith in the Lord, it is a story of those who chose the way of the Lord.”
The significance of the event extended beyond spiritual renewal, serving as a platform for discussions of contemporary issues. Addressing congregants after the Mass, Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa, drew parallels between the martyrs’ defiance of the former king’s depraved demands and modern challenges confronting the country.
The president’s remarks touched on the controversial anti-homosexuality bill, which has sparked international outrage.
“Today Uganda is a country of martyrs like on the issue of the homosexuals, if you want to play around, you play around with Uganda, you will see. You will not like it,” cautioned President Museveni, linking the historical sacrifice of the martyrs to Uganda’s current stance against negative Western influences. The bill, which criminalizes homosexuality with severe penalties, has sparked criticism with the USA and the UN labeling it a violation of human rights.