MASAKA — St Paul’s National Major Seminary, Kinyamasika has announced the death of seminarian Mathias Ssali, who passed away on June 4, 2026 following a brief illness.
The announcement was made in a statement by the Rector of the seminary, Rev Fr Vincent Muhindo.
Reports indicate that Ssali fell ill on Sunday and had been receiving treatment before his condition worsened.
Born on August 22, 1997, to Vincent Ssentongo and the late Betty Nabukeera of Katimba Parish in Masaka Diocese, Ssali pursued his philosophical studies at St Thomas Aquinas National Major Seminary Katigondo before proceeding to theological formation.
He was installed as Lector and Acolyte on July 6, 2022, and later admitted to candidacy for Major Orders on July 6, 2025.
At the time of his passing, he had just completed his third year of theological and pastoral formation at St. Paul’s National Major Seminary, Kinyamasika, and had returned home on May 22, 2026, awaiting further ecclesiastical approval ahead of possible ordination to the diaconate.
The seminary described him as a committed and active student who served in various capacities, including overseeing the seminary grotto and serving as student leader of Cardinal Wamala House.
He also participated in sports and recreational activities such as football, Ludo and jogging.
In its condolence message, the seminary called on the faithful to pray for the repose of his soul.
“Join us in thanking God for his giftedness and openness to formation, as well as his dedicated service in the seminary. We pray for the peaceful repose of his soul as we condole with his family and the Diocese of Masaka,” the statement read.
Senior journalist Simon Kaggwa Njala also expressed condolences on social media, describing the news as deeply saddening.
Funeral arrangements indicate that Ssali will be laid to rest on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Kinoni Parish in Kyangwe Village, Masaka Diocese. A funeral Mass will be held at midday, followed by burial at 2pm.