With just 12 days remaining until the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations on June 3rd at Namugongo, parishes located along major pilgrimage routes are preparing to provide improved services for the thousands of foot pilgrims en route to the Catholic shrine.

Fr. Deogratius Kiibi, the Parish Priest of St. Joseph Parish in Mpigi, confirmed that preparations are underway to accommodate the large number of pilgrims expected to stop over at the parish.

Fr. Kiibi noted that starting Monday, May 26th, they expect to begin receiving foot pilgrims coming from the western part of Uganda.

This year’s celebrations will be animated by Lugazi Diocese, which expects over 25,000 foot pilgrims to participate in the pilgrimage.

These pilgrims will trek from all 33 parishes within the diocese to the Catholic Shrine at Namugongo.

According to Msgr. Dr. Richard Kayondo, the Vicar General of Lugazi Diocese, pilgrims will begin their journey on June 1st at 5:00 a.m. and are expected to arrive at Namugongo by 4:00 p.m. for a triumphant entry, followed by a celebration of mass.

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