Christians are encouraged to emulate the Uganda Martyrs’ dedication to hard work alongside their faith duties. The message was delivered over the weekend, May 26, by Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki of the Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, while addressing thousands of pilgrims at Kooki Haibaale in the Hoima Diocese to commemorate St.Adrea Kawha, a Ugandan Martyr born of Kooki in Hoima Diocese.
The Mass, was led by Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha of Mbarara Archdiocese, alongside Bishop Vincent Kirabo of Hoima the host and Bishop Muhiirwa.
The Fort Portal Local Ordinary Muhiirwa, highlighted St. Andrea Kahwa’s example, noting how he collaborated with his wife on income-generating activities at household level, urged Christians to establish their own sources of income while fulfilling their church responsibilities.
Holy Trinity Sunday
His homily, further reflected on Holy Trinity Sunday, thus encouraging believers to reflect on their faith in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
“The Holy Spirit comes to guide us and strength our relationship with God” Remarked Muhiirwa
2025 Year of Jubilee
According to Muhiirwa, Pope Francis designated his year as a year of Hope in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee year, when Christ physically left the world.
He called on Christians to pray for those facing hopeless situations, including the sick, victims of insecurity, pandemics, and wars.
Overwhelming Pilgrims 2024
Rev. Fr. Patrick Museveni, Director of the Social Communications Commission in Hoima Catholic Diocese, reported that this year’s pilgrimage attendance exceeded expectations, initially prepared for 8,000 people to over 20,000.
He also explained that following the Ecclesiastical Province meeting last year, the Bishops decided to come along with their congregations, significantly increasing the number of pilgrims.
Museveni to Grace Kooki Haibaale pilgrimage 2025
As the chief guest, the Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robina Nabbanja, expressed her admiration for the turnout and pledged to bring the President to next year’s pilgrimage. She also contributed 15 million shillings towards the construction of the pilgrimage site.
