By Alice
Hundreds of pilgrims from across the globe gathered yesterday at Katoosa Shrine in Kyenjojo to commemorate Martyr’s Day. The occasion honors St. Adolf Tibeyalirwa, the sole martyr from the Tooro Region, and seeks his intercession.
This year’s celebration was animated by Bisozi Parish, with the theme “We are Pilgrims of Hope” as declared by the pope for the 2025 Jubilee Year.
His Grace Lambert Bainomugisha served as the principal celebrant for the holy Mass, supported by other bishops from the Mbarara Ecclesiastical Province.
In his homily to the thousands of pilgrims, Rt. Rev. Vincent Kirabo from Hoima Catholic Diocese urged them to always make wise choices by following the example of the Martyrs and walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ. He emphasized that pilgrims should trust in the Lord, fulfill His will, and strengthen their faith.
Rev. Fr. Aloysius Imaniragaba, the parish priest of Bisozi, thanked Rt. Rev. Dr. Robert Muhiirwa, Bishop of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, for allowing them the honor of animating this year’s celebration. He also shared that the parish would soon celebrate its Silver Jubilee. Fr. Imaniragaba extended gratitude to everyone who contributed financially to the successful organization of the event.
Faith Philo Kunihira, the Kyenjojo Woman Member of Parliament, urged pilgrims to always honor the blood of the saints.
In his closing remarks, Rt. Rev. Robert Muhiirwa, Bishop of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, announced that a total of 37,200 pilgrims had attended this year’s celebration from various parts of the world. He also revealed that Butunduzi Parish would animate next year’s celebrations.
Cue…Bishop Muhiirwa.
