Catholic bishops from the Uganda Episcopal Conference are currently in Rome for the important Ad Limina Apostolorum visit, a significant moment in the life and mission of the Catholic Church.
The bishops departed Uganda on Saturday, March 14, and are now on the second day of their visit. The pilgrimage is expected to conclude on March 21, 2026.
The Ad Limina Visit is a periodic pilgrimage undertaken by Catholic bishops from around the world to Rome, typically every five years.
Each Episcopal conference is scheduled according to a plan set by the Holy See.
According to Philip Ngendo, a Catholic priest currently pursuing studies in Rome, the visit provides bishops with the opportunity to meet with the Pope and officials of the Vatican to present reports on the pastoral and administrative state of their dioceses.
During the visit, the Ugandan bishops are also expected to meet the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, and hold discussions with leaders of various Vatican departments.
The Ad Limina visit serves several important purposes. It strengthens the unity between local Churches and the Holy Father, while also allowing bishops to present the progress, challenges, and pastoral needs of their dioceses.
Additionally, the meetings provide an opportunity for the bishops to receive guidance, encouragement, and direction from Vatican authorities on matters concerning faith, Church governance, and evangelization.
A key spiritual highlight of the pilgrimage is prayer at the tombs of the Apostles, particularly Saint Peter the Apostle and Paul the Apostle, where the bishops renew their commitment to the apostolic mission of the Church.
The visit underscores the global nature of the Catholic Church and reinforces the shared mission of proclaiming the Gospel, promoting social justice, and strengthening faith communities in Uganda and around the world.
By Newsroom
16th March 2026
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