A sea of faith and devotion engulfed Kyebando Parish in Mayuge Town Council in the eastern district of Mayuge as thousands of Catholics gathered to commemorate the 60th anniversary of St Matia Mulumba's canonisation.
The air was filled with incense and the harmonious melodies of hymns as the faithful paid homage to one of Uganda’s revered martyrs.
Sixty years since his canonisation by the Pope, St Matia Mulumba continues to inspire and unite Catholics across Uganda.
Pilgrims from Mayuge and beyond gathered to venerate their saint amid chants, prayer, and reflection on his enduring legacy.
The Holy Mass was led by Fr Paul Musana, vicar-general of Jinja Diocese, standing in for Bishop Charles Wamika, who could not attend due to illness.
In his stirring homily, the Rev Fr Benedict Wakabi, the dean of Kamuli Archdeaconry, urged the faithful to emulate St Matia Mulumba's unwavering faith and ultimate sacrifice.
"Don’t just be followers," he said, "but be authentic Christians willing to make sacrifices for your beliefs."
Wakabi called on the faithful to reject sin, embrace goodness, and live lives of integrity.
Among the dignitaries present was Nyendo Mukungwe MP Mathias Mpuuga, who represented the Speaker of Parliament Anita Among.
In his address, Mpuuga urged leaders to focus on addressing the rising challenges facing the youth.
Instead of dismissing them as “spoilt,” he called for the creation of opportunities that would empower and guide them.
“The youth are the inheritors of tomorrow,” Mpuuga noted. “We must invest in their development and create an environment that nurtures their growth.”
Lukia Isanga Nakadama, the third deputy prime minister, echoed these sentiments and emphasized the importance of preserving religious heritage sites like St Matia Mulumba’s birthplace in Kyebando.
She called for further development of the site, recognising its significance not only for the faithful but also as a potential tourist destination.
“As we venerate the relics of St Matia Mulumba and seek blessings, healing, and guidance, let us remember his legacy of courage, faith, and sacrifice,” she said.
Nakadama also pledged her support in enhancing the shrine’s infrastructure.
"We are committed to tarmacking the path from the main road to the shrine to improve access for pilgrims and visitors," she said.
The commemoration served as a powerful reminder of the saint’s enduring influence, inspiring generations of Catholics with his story of sacrifice and unwavering faith.
