UGANDA: Faith and Devotion Irradiate 2024 Uganda Martyrs’ Day in a Monumental Congregation.
Millions of Pilgrims Throng the Basilica of the Ugandan Martyrs in Namugongo for the 2024 Martyrs Day
Elizabeth Asasha
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 24:15.
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.
Despite the political undertones, the core of Martyrs’ Day remained a celebration of the people’s unwavering faith and unity. Pilgrims expressed a deep sense of fulfillment and spiritual rejuvenation. “I pray to God to bless my family and future paving the way for a bright tomorrow,” said a schoolgirl, capturing the hope and faith that drive thousands to embark on this annual pilgrimage.
With exhaustion etched on their faces, their spirits brimmed with excitement and reverence for this pilgrimage, an arduous journey that millions of devoted believers embark on every year, inspired by profound honor and veneration for the martyrs who perished in defense of their faith, embroidered in their hearts.
“We have to celebrate this day for these martyrs who died for us, who died for the religion,” asserted one of the pilgrims.
Among the sea of pilgrims was a poignant scene: a physically challenged schoolboy, aided by his friend, limped along in faith with a walking stick, “I just pray for my family’s peace and prosperity,” he said softly, embodying the spirit of determination that marked the day. “Life is ever-changing and we must always seek God’s guidance throughout our journey of life.”
The history of Uganda martyrs dates back to the late 19th century when Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda Kingdom ordered the execution of 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans between 1885 and 1887.
“They were unjustly killed; they were murdered in cold blood by Kabaka Mwanga for defying him.” Recounted Ugandan priest, Fr. Robert Ochola Lukwia (MCCJ), referring to the 45 martyrs canonized in 1964, with their sacrifice commemorated annually on June 3rd, a national holiday in Uganda since 1975.
The heroes and heroines of faith were brutally executed, some burnt alive, and some beheaded because they refused to renounce their Christian faith amidst political and religious upheaval. For Ugandans and millions of believers in the African continent and beyond, the martyrs’ legacy is a powerful message for them.
“Our Christian conviction should not be just nominal, neither should it be just verbal expression, but rather what we live; it should take us to the ultimate sacrifices, if it so requires, just as Christ did.” Urged Fr. Ochola.
Peregrinators, with some embarking on this journey for the first time while others marking their 30th visit, shared their deep-seated experiences, one of them highlighting personal and communal drivers to partake in this journey of faith noting that, “Whenever I set foot here, my faith is restored, my faith is rekindled.”
A middle-aged man who trekked more than 14 kilometers to Namugongo Shrine to participate in the Martyrs’ Day liturgical celebrations reiterated the significance of the day with a plea to all believers.
“What makes this day special lies in the bravery of those who sacrificed their lives for our faith centuries ago; those who took the courage to stand firm in their faith!” He added, “All of us are called today to uphold that same unwavering faith.”
The culmination of the service, accompanied by lively dances and hymns, crafted an unforgettable fusion of Africa’s tribal customs with Catholic ceremonies. The enduring spirit of Uganda’s martyrs serves as a wellspring of motivation and harmony, delivering a potent message of faith, tenacity, and solidarity in the face of adversity. This year’s Martyrs’ Day, akin to its predecessors, remains a tribute to the profound influence of these historical icons on Uganda and the wider African and Global landscape of faith.
