Thousands of Catholic came together at Kigungu, Entebbe, to mark 146 years since the first Catholic missionaries arrived in Uganda. This special event happens every year on February 17 to remember when Père Simeon Lourdel Mapeera and Brother Amans Delmas first set foot in Uganda in 1879, bringing the Catholic faith to the country.
Bishop Severus Jjumba of Masaka Diocese led the celebrations. In his sermon, he spoke about the power of faith, unity, and courage in today’s world. He warned people not to let fear control their lives, reminding them that trust in God is most important.
“Fear has led many into trouble,” the bishop said. “In the Bible, Cain killed Abel because of fear. He was afraid Abel would be favored by God. But no one is greater than God.” He encouraged the faithful to stay strong in their belief and not let fear weaken them.
He also gave special advice to married couples. “When people make vows, Jesus is at the center of their marriage. Do not let fear shake your commitment to one another,” he told them.
Many people traveled long distances to take part in the pilgrimage. For them, Kigungu is not just a historical place—it is a sacred site for prayer and spiritual renewal. Each year, the quiet fishing village on the shores of Lake Victoria becomes a center of faith as thousands gather to honor the early missionaries and celebrate Catholicism in Uganda.
The place where Père Mapeera and Brother Amans first arrived is now a holy site. Pilgrims, young and old, come to Kigungu to pray, reflect on their faith, and grow closer to God.
At the end of the mass, Bishop Jjumba encouraged the faithful to follow the example of the first missionaries by deepening their faith and serving others. The event ended with a solemn procession to the monument marking the missionaries’ arrival. There, pilgrims knelt in prayer, thanking God for 146 years of Catholicism in Uganda and asking for His continued guidance.
Source: CISA
