Martyrs Day: Entebbe pilgrims trek through the night to Namugongo

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At about 9:00 pm on Saturday, Entebbe Catholic pilgrims started their pilgrimage to Namugongo Catholic Martyrs Shrine in Wakiso district ahead of the Uganda Martyrs Day.

Catholics from different sub-parishes within Bugonga Catholic Parish, Entebbe, started converging at St Anthony Church by 7:00 pm. Before setting off from St Anthony Sub-Parish, they were first led in a mass by Rev Father Ivan Kassaga.

During the mass, it was clear that this was a special occasion. Some of the faithful were wearing trainers, while others were wearing crocs. Most of the faithful were wearing green reflectors inscribed with the words "Entebbe Pilgrims," accompanied by a picture of the Basilica of the Uganda Martyrs and the theme of this year’s celebrations: “But as for me and my household, we shall serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

After mass, they were asked to register, and the final number was recorded. Unlike last year when they trekked about 140 to Namugongo, this time they were about 160 pilgrims. Most of them were youthful.

Entebbe Catholic pilgrims trekking to Namugongo ahead of the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. (Photo by Hannington Mutabazi) 3

They were flagged off by Entebbe Municipality Mayor Fabrice Rulinda, who wished them a safe and peaceful trip.

He said as the theme of the Kampala Archdiocese, “We the baptised should move together in communion and unity”, he prays that this may be not just an act of walking but one that “reminds us to sacrifice for our faith and find time to talk to our God”.

Trek to Namugongo

When the pilgrims started the journey, you would notice the vigour, excitement, and speed at which they were walking. The hugely anticipated journey had come, and the pilgrims couldn’t wait to reach the spiritual sight.

Since they were trekking at night, they were not scared of the scorching hit; the weather was favourable – it was neither cold nor hot. Being nighttime, the insecurity problem was sorted by the presence of the Police who accompanied them.

According to one of their leaders, Steven Mukalasi, they will also have an ambulance moving with them to help those who will have become weary and in need of assistance.

He said they expected to reach Namugongo at about 4:00 pm on Sunday in time for the Martyrs Day celebrations on Monday, June 3, 2024.