Clare
With only four days remaining to the re-dedication of the recently renovated 3.6 bn project of Our Lady of Snows Virika Cathedral, the Diocese of Fort Portal has unveiled its plans for the event, which promises a variety of activities.
At a press briefing held at Virika Hill in Fort Portal City yesterday evening, Msgr. Isaiah Mayombo Adyeri, the Chairperson of the organizing committee, shared that the entire diocese is expected to be well-represented at the ceremony. The event will be presided over by His Excellency Luigi Bianco, the Papal Nuncio to Uganda, accompanied by bishops from across the country.
Pilgrimages by Parishes
Msgr. Mayombo explained that while it would not be feasible to accommodate all diocesan members at the ceremony, each parish will send a select group of pilgrims, along with their parish priests, to represent their communities.
To ensure that all parishioners can be part of the occasion, accommodations will be provided for those traveling from distant parishes, while those from nearby areas will attend prayers at the cathedral on Saturday and return home for the Sunday celebrations.
“We deeply appreciate the contributions of all our parishes. However, given logistical constraints, we’ve decided on a representative approach to ensure everyone is included,” said Msgr. Mayombo.
He also confirmed that prominent leaders, including a representative from the Office of the President, the Katikiro of Buganda, the Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, and other religious leaders, will attend the event.
Msgr Mayombo addressing press ahead of the rededication of Virika Cathedral
Extensive Renovations
Msgr. Mayombo took the opportunity to outline the extensive renovations carried out on the Virika Cathedral in three phases: 1989, 2004, and most recently in 2023. These renovations were aimed at preserving the cathedral’s historical significance while ensuring its longevity.
Key improvements include new columns, a new roof (gauge 24), a ceiling board, updated doors, terrazzo flooring, new church pavements, walkways, and a veranda. The renovations have cost approximately 3.6 billion Ugandan shillings.
Expressing gratitude for the successful completion of the renovations, Msgr. Mayombo acknowledged the dedication of the faithful and well-wishers who made the project possible and emphasized the importance of their presence at the re-dedication ceremony.
H clarified on the sitting capacity of Virika Cathedral as 2500, and that much as the church has undergone renovations, it has not had any extensions.
A Spiritual Journey of Hope
As explained by Msgr. Mayombo, the eve of the re-dedication is expected to be a spiritually uplifting occasion, offering hope to the faithful. Pilgrims will visit the Cathedral after participating in the Sacrament of Penance, marking a profound moment of renewal and reflection.
“We view the re-dedication as a spiritual journey aimed at instilling hope among Christians who, in a sense, have felt displaced. Now, they are returning to their true home, the house of God,” said Msgr. Mayombo. “To prepare, we have organized special prayers, which will last for approximately two hours on Saturday at the cathedral, setting the tone for the main event the following day.”
Relatedly, Rev. Fr. Stash Birungi Atwoki yesterday encouraged the Christians of Fort Portal Diocese to make good use of the Sacrament of Penance as the Cathedral Rededication approaches on March 2 this year.
Speaking on Jubilee Radio’s _Ekiihuro Ky’omwoyo_ Show, Fr. Birungi emphasized the significance of spiritual cleanliness during this Jubilee year, urging believers to enter the holy house of God in a state of renewal and purity, prepared to worship with a clean heart before God.
