MASAKA — Hundreds of Christians from across the Catholic Diocese of Masaka gathered at Birinzi Shrine to commemorate the martyrdom of St Charles Lwanga, popularly known as Kalooli Lwanga, through prayer and pilgrimage, with church leaders urging the faithful to remain steadfast in their faith despite today's social and economic challenges.
The pilgrimage was led by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Masaka, Rt Rev Severus Jjumba, who celebrated Holy Mass and presided over the institution of 13 seminarians into the Ministry of Lector, marking a significant step in their journey towards the priesthood.
In his homily, Bishop Jjumba said Christians today are confronted by numerous challenges, including the effects of climate change, unemployment and other hardships, but encouraged them to remain hopeful by placing their trust in God through the intercession of St. Charles Lwanga.
"Every person today is facing different challenges, including the effects of climate change, lack of employment and other hardships. We should entrust ourselves to God through the prayers of St. Charles Lwanga, who remained faithful even in the face of suffering," Bishop Jjumba said.
He urged Christians to emulate the Ugandan martyr by carrying out their responsibilities with commitment, courage and integrity.
"Let us learn from St Charles Lwanga's example of faithfully fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to us. His courage and unwavering faith should inspire us in our daily lives," he added.
During the Mass, the bishop formally instituted 13 seminarians into the Ministry of Lector. Addressing the candidates, the Rector of Butende Major Seminary, Rev Fr Timothy Semwogerere, challenged them to begin living lives that reflect the character and discipline expected of future priests.
"This ministry is a call to deeper service. From today, let your lives reflect the discipline, humility and commitment expected of future priests," Fr Semwogerere said.
The diocesan coordinator for men's affairs and caretaker of Birinzi Shrine, Rev. Fr. Michael Kamulegeya, thanked all individuals and organisations that have supported the development of the shrine but appealed for additional assistance to complete ongoing construction projects.
"We are grateful to everyone who has supported the development of Birinzi Shrine. The work has progressed well, but we still need more assistance to complete the remaining projects," Fr. Kamulegeya said.
St Charles Lwanga was a Ugandan Catholic convert, royal page, and the leader of the group now known as the Uganda Martyrs. He is one of the most revered Christian figures in Africa and is the patron saint of Catholic youth and youth action.
Pilgrims led by Masaka City Mayor Florence Namayanja and Gyaviira Lubowa Sebina said the annual pilgrimage had provided spiritual comfort to many Christians who were unable to travel to Namugongo for the national Martyrs Day celebrations.
They also called on Christians, particularly those serving in public leadership, to emulate St. Charles Lwanga's courage, honesty and spirit of selfless service.
"Leaders should borrow a leaf from St Charles Lwanga by serving the people with courage, integrity and dedication rather than pursuing personal interests," the pilgrims said.
The annual pilgrimage at Birinzi Shrine has grown into one of the major Martyrs Day commemorations within the Catholic Diocese of Masaka, attracting hundreds of faithful each year to honour St. Charles Lwanga while renewing their commitment to Christian values and service.
