Believers have been urged to follow the example of the Uganda Martyrs by resisting corruption and other social ills during a Mass at the Namugongo Martyrs Basilica.
The call was made by Bishop Augustine Kasujja, the Papal Nuncio Emeritus, while presiding over the Mass.
“Let us emulate the Martyrs by resisting from temptations of corruption, resist from temptations of land-grabbing, temptations of unjust enrichment, family conflicts. Brethren, that is not impossible to resist if we create a new spirit of substantive prayer and total confidence in God,” he said.
He hailed the Martyrs for their braveness and faithfulness to God urging Ugandans in their capacities to be like the Martyrs as this will revive the image of Uganda hence creating a peaceful and just country.
“Nothing is impossible to God, and with the intercession of the Ugandan Martyrs, Uganda can recover its image of the power of Africa, where true justice, peace, mutual love, and trust reign,” Kasujja asded.
The appeal came as Uganda and the world commemorate Martyrs Day, celebrated every June 3rd, honoring the sacrifice of the 22 Catholi Martyrs who died for their faith between 1885 and 1887.
This year’s celebration was unlike previous years, as the government canceled the traditional gathering due to the Ebola outbreak.
The Episcopal Conference, guided by the Ministry of Health and following health SOPs, directed that each church observe the day locally rather than congregating at the shrine.
Normally, the day attracts hundreds of pilgrims from across the country and beyond.
During the Mass, the church announced that Kasese Diocese will serve as next year’s animators of Martyrs Day, making up for the scaled-back celebrations this year.
Despite the restrictions, Bishop Kasujja encouraged believers to draw inspiration from the Martyrs’ courage and faith, urging them to pursue integrity, justice, and unity in their communities.
