Commemorating Uganda Martyrs Day 2023.

Sr. Georginia Chidalu Ohalete PHJC - Vatican City.

As always, the Eucharistic celebration of the Uganda Martyrs was held at Namugongo Martyrs Shrine. Addressing journalists in Kampala this week, police spokesperson Fred Enanga said three million pilgrims, both Ugandans and foreign visitors, were in attendance at this year’s celebrations.

The incredible power of witness

During the homily, Ugandan Bishop Charles Martin Wamika of Jinja Diocese said the celebration was a testament to the incredible power of faith even in the face of death. The ultimate sacrifice that Saint Charles Lwanga and his Companions made for the sake of their belief can be an inspiration and contagious, in a positive sense, if one mingles with those who are firmly rooted in their faith. He said that Christians must emulate the virtues of Saint Charles Lwanga and companions.

Faith translated into action

The prelate of Jinja gave further examples from the Bible of men and women who demonstrated their faith throughout their lives. Some include Abraham, whom God asked to leave his country and sacrifice his only son Isaac. Similarly, the Blessed Virgin Mary gave her Yes (fiat) without considering the consequences. Two thousand years after Mary said yes to God, her example of how to follow God’s will in our lives endures. Joseph did not divorce Mary but did as instructed -taking her as his bride. In the New Testament, Saint Peter, who denied Jesus, became leader of the Apostles and the early Christian Church. 

“Faith is the life-blood of heaven and the victory of this world and eternal life,” Bishop Wamika told pilgrims in Uganda.

Jinja Diocese animate Liturgy

The rest of Martyrs Day in Uganda was marked with religious and cultural performances and various charity and social events.

As the country marches towards the future, the amazing story of the Martyrs remains relevant and challenging to all in Uganda and the Church.