The Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese, Paul Ssemogerere, has urged young people to remain steadfast in their faith, describing their active participation in the Church as a source of hope for the future.
Speaking during celebrations marking 85 years of St. Augustine Chapel at Makerere University, the Archbishop said he was encouraged by the growing number of youth choosing faith over negative influences.
“My heart is full of joy when I see many young people participating in Church activities instead of falling into practices that contradict the teachings of the Church,” he said.
He revealed that during a recent visit to Rome, bishops met Pope Francis, who acknowledged Uganda’s strong faith and the role of young people in sustaining the Church.
Drawing inspiration from the Uganda Martyrs, the Archbishop challenged believers to remain committed despite challenges, noting that every generation faces its own trials.
Meanwhile, Vice President Jessica Alupo, who was the chief guest, described St. Augustine Chapel as more than a place of worship, calling it a spiritual home that has shaped generations of students and staff.
“Since its founding, the chapel has been a place where intellect meets faith and where the pursuit of knowledge is guided by the Gospel,” she said.
Alupo also commended religious leaders for promoting peace, especially during the election period, and urged them to continue praying for leaders to serve citizens diligently.
Barnabas Nawangwe, the Makerere University Vice Chancellor, hailed the St. Augustine community for its role in shaping students spiritually.
She led the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the St. Augustine Students Centre, a Shs2 billion project.
Addressing the faithful, the current chaplain, Fr. Josephat Ddungu, welcomed guests and highlighted the chapel’s humble beginnings, noting that early believers prayed in lecture rooms before the church was built.
He urged the faithful to support the ongoing fundraising drive for the student centre expansion project.
During the fundraising session, Vice President Alupo delivered a Shs30 million contribution from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, drawing excitement and applause from the congregation.
Other dignitaries also made pledges in support of the project.
The celebrations ran under the theme: “Our hearts are restless until they rest in you, O Lord.”
St. Augustine Chapel, which traces its origins back to 1929, was constructed by the White Fathers and has since served thousands of Catholic faithful at Makerere University, both students and non-students.
Over the years, the chaplaincy has been guided by notable leaders, including Emmanuel Wamala, the first native chaplain, Monsignor Lawrence Kanyike, and the current chaplain, Father Josephat Ddungu.
