By Jubilee Radio Reporters
Thousands of Christian faithful on Good Friday participated in the annual ecumenical Way of the Cross in Fort Portal City, in a strong public display of unity, prayer, and reflection on the suffering of Jesus Christ.
Believers from different denominations, including Catholics, Anglicans, and the Orthodox Church, took part in the procession, which began at Bukwali Catholic Parish and concluded at Virika Cathedral. The turnout was notably higher than in previous years, according to observations at the event.
Several participants shared personal reasons for joining the walk. Kemigisa Lilian from Rwengoma Church of Uganda said she took part in prayer, seeking healing from hypertension, while Murungi Joseph from Bukwali described his participation as an expression of faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins.
The Way of the Cross, also known as the Stations of the Cross, is a Christian devotion that reflects on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to align their lives with His example through prayer, repentance, and acts of faith.
During the event, the Bishop of Rwenzori Diocese, Reuben Kisembo Amooti, cautioned Christians against selfishness and greed, urging them to embrace humility, honesty, and integrity.
He condemned corruption and called on leaders to serve selflessly, noting that unethical behavior continues to harm society. The bishop also raised concern about the growing neglect of elderly parents, urging children to take responsibility for caring for them, describing it as both a moral duty and a blessing.
Bishop Kisembo further appealed to the government, particularly the President, to consider pardoning political prisoners, especially those detained during the 2026 elections without trial, emphasizing the need for justice and compassion.
He encouraged Christians to use the Easter season as a time for forgiveness, reconciliation, and turning away from wrongdoing, stressing the importance of love and unity.
Fort Portal City Mayor, Willy Kintu Muhanga, also addressed the faithful, urging both political and religious leaders to prioritize pleasing God rather than seeking public approval. He warned that the desire for popularity can lead leaders away from truth and moral responsibility.
Rev. Muhanga further called on Christians to stand firmly against wrongdoing and to live according to divine principles. He also emphasized the importance of family values, encouraging men to listen to their wives and embrace wise counsel within their homes.
Meanwhile, Kenneth Tumuramye, a lay leader at Bukwali Church of Uganda, urged Christians to reflect on their actions, seek forgiveness, and return to God with sincere hearts.
In his concluding remarks, Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki commended the faithful for turning up in large numbers and for demonstrating unity across denominations. He encouraged them to continue embracing the ecumenical tradition as a sign of shared faith and commitment to Christ.
The Good Friday commemoration remains a significant moment in the Christian calendar, offering believers an opportunity to reflect on sacrifice, renew their faith, and strengthen bonds of unity within the Church