The Catholic Church in Uganda has on Friday held its first-ever National Schools Pilgrimage to Namugongo in celebration of Uganda Martyrs Day.
This historic event was organized by Lugazi Catholic Diocese, the animating diocese for this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations.
School administrations from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions transported children in large numbers to Namugongo, where they participated in a special Mass led by the Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere.
In his homily, Archbishop Ssemogerere expressed gratitude for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of children having a special moment with God and learning about the lives and sacrifice of the Uganda Martyrs.
He questioned why such an initiative had taken so long to organize, despite children’s active participation in church life.
He echoed the late Pope Francis’ call for the Church to support young people in discovering the richness of faith and the love of Jesus Christ.
The Archbishop also challenged the young pilgrims to place their faith in the risen Lord, Jesus Christ, and to be cautious of false prophets who offer enticing yet harmful messages.
He encouraged them to seek guidance from parents and elders and to live inspired lives based on the virtues of the Uganda Martyrs.
He warned against vices such as drug abuse, secularism, pornography, selfishness, and other destructive behaviors.
Today’s National Schools Pilgrimage officially marks the beginning of this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations, being led by Lugazi Diocese under the theme: “Oh Lord, Let Me See Again – I, Your Pilgrim of Hope.”
By Gideon Ssebulime
30th May 2025
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