Resolute Lira pilgrims set foot in Matugga

By Ashraf Saif-llah Kasirye & Sarah Kisakye
@saif_kasirye  @Kisa_Sarah 


A group of 300 pilgrims trekking from Lira district in northern Uganda has reached Matugga town on a quest to reach the martyrs’ shrine at Namugongo.

The walkers are determined to reach their final destination ahead of the Martyrs’ Day celebrations due on June 3 (Wednesday next week). They are now rested at Matugga parish.

Earlier, they had camped at Our Lady Fatima Cathedral in Kasana, Luwero Thursday evening before eventually getting back on the road early Friday.

Meanwhile, as they set foot in Matugga, other groups from Hoima and Masindi are following their trail – about 20km behind.

The Lira team’s goal is to get to Namugongo by Monday next week.
 

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The pilgrims took a rest in Kasana, Luwero on Thursday evening. (Credit: Ashraf Saif-llah Kasirye)

After resting time was over, the determined Christian faithful got back onto their feet, ready to take on the road.  (Credit: Ashraf Saif-llah Kasirye)

Every year, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims converge at the martyrs’ shrine to honour the young Ugandans killed because of their allegiance to their Christian faith.

These martyrs were executed over a century ago on the orders of Kabaka (king) Mwanga.

The group trekked into the depth of the night singing hymns and soldiering on till dawn. Resolute, they walked on up to Matugga where they are resting until, again, setting off.

Many of the people have told New Vision of their own problems which they hope God will solve through the Uganda martyrs.

Father Ambrose Achil of Lira Diocese Parish of Tebong said that they want to prove their faith in the Uganda martyrs as well as pray for their families, themselves and the country at large.



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