In preparation for the forthcoming Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations to be held at Namugongo on June 3rd this year, the Ordinary of the Diocese of Kasese, Francis Kibira Kambale, yesterday presided over a solemn Holy Mass attended by members of the Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Association (AMDA). The Eucharistic celebration, held , February 22, 2026, formed part of the spiritual and logistical preparations leading to the annual national pilgrimage that commemorates the heroic witness of the Uganda Martyrs.
During his homily, Bishop Kibira called upon Christians to prioritize the nourishment and care of the soul, emphasizing that spiritual well-being is essential for attaining eternal life. He urged the faithful to recognize that while human beings often dedicate considerable time and energy to material needs, greater attention should be directed toward spiritual growth and the strengthening of one’s relationship with God. The Bishop stressed that the soul, unlike the body, is destined for eternity and therefore requires constant formation through prayer, reflection, and righteous living.
The Bishop encouraged Christians to use the period leading to the Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations as a time for deep spiritual renewal, repentance, and acts of charity. He reminded the congregation that the witness of the Uganda Martyrs demonstrates the value of unwavering faith, sacrifice, and commitment to Christian principles even in the face of persecution. According to Bishop Kibira, the martyrs’ courage should inspire believers today to remain steadfast in their faith and to nurture their souls through devotion, service to others, and obedience to God’s commandments.
He further noted that caring for the soul involves living a life guided by moral values, practicing forgiveness, and cultivating love for one another within families, communities, and the wider society. Bishop Kibira emphasized that true preparation for significant religious celebrations such as Uganda Martyrs’ Day goes beyond physical arrangements and external activities, calling instead for inner transformation and spiritual readiness.
In a strong demonstration of solidarity and partnership, members of the Archdiocese of Mbarara, through their umbrella body AMDA, made a significant contribution to support the Diocese of Kasese in organizing and hosting this year’s celebrations at Namugongo. The Bishop expressed heartfelt gratitude for the generous support, describing it as a sign of unity within the Church and a reflection of shared responsibility in promoting faith and honoring the legacy of the Uganda Martyrs.
He commended AMDA for their commitment to fostering development, cooperation, and spiritual growth among Christians, noting that such collaborative efforts strengthen the Church’s mission and enhance the success of major religious events. Bishop Kibira highlighted that the contribution would greatly facilitate the preparations, including logistical arrangements, mobilization of pilgrims, and ensuring that the celebrations are conducted in a dignified and spiritually enriching manner.
The Bishop also called upon other Christian communities, institutions, and individuals to emulate the spirit of generosity and cooperation demonstrated by the Archdiocese of Mbarara. He emphasized that Uganda Martyrs’ Day is a national and spiritual event that unites believers from different dioceses and regions, and therefore requires collective effort, sacrifice, and participation.
The Holy Mass concluded with prayers for the continued spiritual growth of the faithful, the success of the upcoming celebrations, and God’s blessings upon all those involved in the preparations. As the Church continues to prepare for the June 3rd commemoration, Bishop Kibira reiterated his call for Christians to remain focused on spiritual nourishment, reminding them that the ultimate goal of the Christian journey is eternal life through a well-nurtured and faithful soul.
The upcoming celebrations at Namugongo are expected to attract thousands of pilgrims from across Uganda and beyond, making the ongoing preparations by the Diocese of Kasese, in collaboration with supporting partners such as AMDA, an important step in ensuring a meaningful and memorable commemoration of the Uganda Martyrs’ enduring legacy.