Rt Reverend Bishop Christopher Kakooza of Lugazi Diocese has called on Christians to remain resilient in the face of life’s hardships, drawing inspiration from the unwavering faith of the Uganda Martyrs.
While delivering the homily at the Uganda Martyrs Day Mass at the Namugongo Catholic Shrine Basilica on June 3, 2025, Bishop Kakooza urged pilgrims and Christians worldwide to anchor themselves in faith, just as the martyrs did during their persecution in the late 19th century.
“As Christians, we go through a lot. But with faith, we can withstand all worldly challenges. The faith of Charles Lwanga, Matia Mulumba, and their companions turned into great strength. They were tested and persecuted, but nothing could separate them from the love of God and so can we,” he said.
The bishop emphasized the importance of selfless service and perseverance in the Christian journey. He called on believers to lead lives that reflect Christ-like humility, commitment, and purpose.
“We need lives that inspire us to serve selflessly. Life is full of doubt and difficulty, but we must endure just like the martyrs who suffered with hope for what was to come,” he added.
Among the many pilgrims who attended this year’s celebration was Mark Otim, who walked from Gulu District to Namugongo. He shared how the journey deepened his faith and renewed his strength.
“At first, I wasn’t sure I would make it to Kampala. But seeing other pilgrims walking even greater distances gave me hope. This experience has shown me that with resilience and faith, we can do more than we imagine,” Otim said.
The Uganda Martyrs were a group of 45 young men; 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans; executed between January 1885 and January 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda for their refusal to renounce Christianity. Their sacrifice has since become a cornerstone of Uganda’s religious history.
Each year, the Namugongo Martyrs Shrines attract over one million pilgrims from Uganda and beyond, who come to commemorate the martyrs’ legacy of courage, conviction, and enduring faith.
