EDITOR
A group of 230 pilgrims from Kabale Diocese has embarked on a ten-day spiritual journey to Namugongo Shrine, driven by personal intentions, national prayers, and the spirit of unity across districts. The pilgrimage, ahead of Uganda Martyrs Day on June 3, has become a blend of tradition, hope, and communal reflection.
Drawn from Kisoro, Rubanda, Kabale, and Rukiga districts, the faithful gathered at Our Lady of Good Shepherd Rushoroza Cathedral on Tuesday evening for a Holy Mass before setting off. The pilgrims were flagged off at dawn on Wednesday by Rev. Fr. Bruno Byomuhangi, Director of the Lay Apostolate Commission in Kabale Diocese.
Fr. Byomuhangi challenged the pilgrims to embrace the journey not just as a walk, but as a spiritual mission inspired by the courage of the Uganda Martyrs, calling on them to renew their faith and resilience.
The pilgrimage has also become a moment for mentorship and intergenerational spiritual bonding. Alphonse Biraho, Chairperson of the Uganda Martyrs Association in Kabale Diocese, reminded the group of the importance of discipline and teamwork as they head toward Namugongo.
Beyond religious tradition, the journey is deeply personal for many pilgrims. Cynthia Tushabomwe, a 20-year-old Senior Six student, is undertaking her first pilgrimage with hopes of academic excellence and peace at home.
Raulent Nsengimana, a 62-year-old veteran of the pilgrimage, said his prayers are with the Church and the country, reflecting a long-standing commitment to spiritual growth and national harmony.
As the pilgrims continue their trek with songs, prayers, and reflection, they carry not just their luggage, but the hopes of a diocese and a nation inspired by the legacy of the Uganda Martyrs—young converts who paid the ultimate price for their faith between 1885 and 1887 under the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II.
