JOURNEYING WITH THE UGANDA MARTYRS
Aware of the numerous ideologies, philosophies and creeds that exist in the world, the story and life of Jesus Christ remains a focal point of direction for many ages. In the shaping of Uganda, as a society, this land hosted explorers, colonialists, traders and missionaries from distant places. This opened up the culture and people to external influence over tim
e. Today, if we were to audit one single national occasion that has grown from strength to strength, the 3rd June National Pilgrimage to Namugongo in honor of the Uganda Martyrs stands out as the most single attended event in any given year in Uganda. Even though this faith event is splendidly celebrated, the reality of social evil and sin are always within range. Some have used it as a platform for business, selling merchandise, drinking, pick pocketing and mere social interaction. Focusing on the heroic story of the Martyrs of Uganda, “Noah’s Ark Tours” here provides us with the opportunity to visit the different martyrdom sites of our own ancestors in faith with minimum distractions and more ample time to pray. The pilgrimage starts from; Munyonyo, Kyamula, Jean Marie Mzee’s well, St. Gonzaga Gonza in Lubawo, Namugongo (Catholic side), Namugongo (Anglican side) Then conclude with Mass at St. Matia Mulumba in Old Kampala. Following in the footsteps of the Uganda Martyrs presents us with a unique experience to foster the good values embedded in such a faith; values that could recreate our children and parents as a God fearing nation redeemed from social evils such as corruption, child sacrifice, homosexuality drug, and substance abuse, general promiscuity and devil worshipping among others. The sacrifice made by the Uganda Martyrs is a pillar to many vocations in the health, religious Life, businesses and the education sector. The visible fruits of such a faith are profoundly seen in national projects such as the ‘Uganda Martyrs University’ and ‘Centenary Bank’ (Mapeera House). The impact this heroic sacrifice has had to contribute to the success of various individuals in the society in Uganda and Africa in general cannot be under played. Uganda has hosted the first Pope in Africa in 1969. In 1993, Uganda hosted Pope John Paul II who is now saint. Most recently, in 2015, Uganda hosted Pope Francis. This Papal visit made Uganda the first African country to host three different reigning Popes.
