Catholic foot pilgrims from Nebbi Catholic Diocese are set to make their last stop-over at Naguru Catholic Church this evening. This marks the penultimate phase of their journey to the Martyrs’ shrine in Namugongo, Wakiso District, where they will lead this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations on June 3rd.
The journey, which has taken 15 days, involves over 700 pilgrims from various parishes across the Nebbi Catholic Diocese. This diverse group includes women, youth, and the elderly, all united in their devotion and determination to honor the Ugandan Martyrs. Their pilgrimage began with a ceremonial flag-off by His Grace Raphael Wokorach, the Archbishop-designate of Gulu Ecclesiastical Province, on May 6th.
Covering a distance of 450 kilometers, the pilgrims have faced various challenges along the way. In the interest of safety, especially due to potential wildlife encounters in national parks, the pilgrims were transported from Pakwach to Karuma using trucks. This precaution ensured that they could continue their journey without unnecessary risks.
Their trek resumed from Karuma, and this morning, the pilgrims set off from Matugga after spending the night there. They had walked several miles from Bombo, following the Kampala-Gulu Highway. Their progress has been a testament to their resilience and faith, drawing inspiration from the stories of the Ugandan Martyrs they aim to honor.
As they arrive at Naguru Catholic Church, the pilgrims are expected to receive a warm welcome and spiritual support before embarking on the final stretch to Namugongo. The journey's culmination at the Martyrs' Shrine will be a significant moment, not only for the pilgrims but also for the entire Catholic community in Uganda and beyond.
The Martyrs' Day celebrations at Namugongo hold a special place in the hearts of Ugandan Catholics. The event commemorates the 22 Catholic and 23 Anglican converts to Christianity who were martyred between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II. Their sacrifice is remembered every year on June 3rd, drawing pilgrims from all over the world.
This year's celebration, animated by the Nebbi Catholic Diocese pilgrims, promises to be particularly poignant. Their journey, filled with prayers, songs, and fellowship, embodies the spirit of the Ugandan Martyrs, whose faith and courage continue to inspire generations. As the pilgrims make their final steps to Namugongo, their pilgrimage serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the Martyrs and the strength of communal faith.
