Clare
The Archdiocese of Mbarara has come together to honor their beloved young priest, Rev. Fr. Wycliffe Byamugisha, who tragically lost his life in an accident on the Ibanda-Mbarara Highway. Fr Byamugisha was only 36 years old at the time of his passing, resulting from a head-on collision with a milk tanker on his return from celebrating Holy Mass on Mission Sunday yesterday.
What happens when a priest dies
During the memorial Mass held at Nyamitanga Cathedral today, Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Twesigyeomwe, Pastoral Coordinator of the Archdiocese, expressed gratitude to the congregation for standing with the clergy during this difficult time of farewell to their brother in Christ.
He explained that the death of a priest is a moment for the community to reflect on his contributions, both as a way to pray for his eternal peace and to recognize the work he accomplished on behalf of Christ during his life.
Loosing a Devoted priest
Fr. Twesigyeomwe, who shared a close relationship with Fr. Byamugisha, described him as a humble and dedicated priest who took his vocation to heart,and never missed any of his assignments. He noted that Fr. Byamugisha was loving, smart in nature, well-liked, and committed to development in his community.
According to Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Turyomumazima,the Chancellor Mbarara Archdiocese, Fr. Byamugisha was born on April 13, 1988, in Kibingo, Kashekuro parish, to Mr. and Mrs. Ben Byamugisha who are both alive. He was ordained a deacon on June 24, 2017, and became a priest on July 7 at Nyamitanga Cathedral. He served as a curate at Kenyena Parish from 2018 to 2020, then at Rubindi Parish, before moving to Nyabuhikye Center, where he had been ministering by the time of his death.
The Chancellor further noted that in the tragic accident, Fr. Byamugisha was the only fatality among those involved. He announced additional vigil Masses at the Diocesan Administration chapel, continuing until tomorrow midday, when the community will officially bid him farewell at Nyamitanga Cathedral.
May his Soul Rest in peace Amen.
