Security forces grace Uganda Martyrs novena prayers

UGANDA MARTYRS' DAY

KAMPALA - Senior member of the Catholic missionary society of White Fathers (also called Missionaries of Africa), the Very Rev Fr Richard Nnyombi has asked members of the security forces to be virtuous when performing their duties. He asked them to emulate the Uganda Martyrs, who he said exhibited amazing integrity and commitment to God.

"The Holy Martyrs of Uganda faced the challenge of conflicting loyalty. King Mwanga required them to succumb to his demands, which, unfortunately, were in conflict with the virtues of the Christian faith they had embraced.

 "Often times we find ourselves in challenging situations that require us to take the courageous option to obey God, even at the expense of our earthly comfort and favours. These days we see negative reports about some of our security organisations, especially in regard to corruption, harassment and torture of Ugandans. All of us should look at the Uganda Martyrs as our virtuous role models. We should also seek their intercession and guidance."

Security officers Phiona Kabaami, Milton Atiyo, Gen. Bakahamura and Afande Moses Kafeero during prayers at the grotto of St Gonzaga Gonza, St Bruno Sserunkuuma and St Ponsiano Ngondwe, at Namugongo Catholic Martyrs Shrine.

 
Fr Nnyombi was presiding over the pilgrimage mass for members of the security forces at Uganda Martyrs Catholic Shrine, Namugongo. The function was part of the novena, which precedes the grand celebration of Uganda Martyrs Day (June 3).

The function was graced by representatives of the various security forces. They included the Police Commander for Kampala Metropolitan, Afande Moses Kafeero, Gen Charles Bakahumura (of UPDF) and Afande Milton Atiyo, the Prisons in-charge of estates and engineering.

During the function, members of the security, together with other Christians, commemorated three martyrs: St Gonzaga Gonza, St Bruno Serunkuuma and St Ponsiano Ngondwe.

Mass was animated by members of the security forces. They took the readings, presented offertory and also led the singing.

Fr Nyombi asked the Christians to reflect deeply on the pilgrimage they make to Namugongo.

The Uganda Prisons brass-ensemble in action during mass in the Basilica

 
"Whenever we make a pilgrimage of faith, we are reminded about our heavenly pilgrimage; that we are not on this earth permanently. Therefore, we must harmonise our relationship with God and our brethren.

There is no justification for us to oppress, repress and exploit others and make them live like slaves in this beautiful country, which belongs to us all!"

Speaking on behalf of the security officers, Afande Milton Atiyo asked Christians to pray for members of the security forces, so that they become exemplary in their character and way of doing things.

"Brethren, we look good but we have many challenges. The corruption that is widely talked about is real, not only in the security circles but in Uganda as a country. Many of us are also in irregular marriages. So, pray for us to have our marriages sanctified in Church."