Deacon Mayega died of cancer, says Archbishop Lwanga

BURIAL

KAMPALA - The Metropolitan Archbishop of Kampala, Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga has ruled out foul play in the death of Deacon Andrew Brian Mayega, who died on Friday at the age of 29. 

Presiding over the funeral mass at Rubaga Cathedral on Monday (August 5), Lwanga said Mayega had died from a cancerous tumor, which had grown close to his lungs.

He appealed to people who were giving wrong information about the deceased's death to stop the speculations.

"When I realised that many people were keen to know the cause of his death, I requested the Doctors at Nsambya Hospital to do a post-mortem. In their two-page report, they confirmed he had died from a cancerous tumor that had grown near his lungs. The tumor burst and blocked the movement of oxygen in the body." Archbishop Lwanga revealed

In his later remarks, Lwanga spoke highly of Deacon Mayega, describing him as an admirable minister of Church, who performed his diaconal ministry with utmost faith and devotion.

Archbishop Cyprian Kizito Lwanga laying a wreath on the casket bearing the remains of Deacon Andrew Brian Mayega, during the funeral mass at Lubaga Cathedral. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)

"He has preached the gospel and administered sacraments with love and zeal. He loved people. His presence brought joy to everyone. He was so generous. He drew plans for so many people, free of charge. Instead of requesting for money, he would just smile at you." Lwanga said

Agnes Namayega Kitatta, a sister to the late Deacon Mayega, also confirmed her brother's big-heartedness.

"He was a contented man, who also never hankered for earthly things.  If he found you with more property than you need, he would put you to the task to donate some to the poor. Deacon Mayega loved his God and had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Padre Pio." She said

Deacon Mayega's friends laying a wreath on the casket bearing his remains. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)

Flavia Nakawooya Kambugu, the mother, described his son as a humble and peaceful young man, who also loved to reconcile people.

Alphonse Kambugu, the father, said he believed his son had lived a saintly lifestyle, which is why he believes he is in heaven.

Rev Msgr. Lawrence Ssemusu asked Christians to emulate Deacon Mayega's virtues of faith, hope, love, and solidarity.

The casket containing the remains of Deacon Andrew Brian Mayega being rolled to the burial place by the pallbearers. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)

Deacon Mayega, who had just completed his Theological Studies at St Mbaaga's Major Seminary, Ggaba, was one of the priestly candidates that Archbishop Cyprian Kizito Lwanga is going to ordain at Lubaga Cathedral on Saturday. 

His burial at Lubaga Cathedral (on Monday) was graced by thousands of Christians.