Be the Light of the World- Archbishop Ssemogerere encourages religious

Hundreds of religious members from Kampala Archdiocese gathered at Uganda Martyrs Shrine Munyonyo-Minor Basilica on Friday to commemorate the Day for the Consecrated Life, dedicated to their service in the Catholic faith.

His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, the Archbishop of Kampala, led Mass, urging the attendees to be the light of the world, particularly during these confusing times.

Members from various congregations, including priests, reverend sisters, and Christian brothers, were reminded to draw inspiration from the courage displayed by the Uganda Martyrs and missionaries in their service.

Archbishop Ssemogerere noted the contributions of early missionaries, Fr Simeon Lourdel Mapeera, and Brother Delmas Amans, who brought the light of Christ and inspired numerous converts to fearlessly witness the Gospel despite persecution and martyrdom.

“Dear brothers and sisters, as we celebrate the 60 years of the canonization of the Uganda Martyrs, let us draw inspiration from the remarkable legacy of the early missionaries, whose mission of evangelization bore fruit in the witness of the 22 Catholic Martyrs whose blood became the seed of faith in Uganda. Stand on the shoulders of these missionaries who demonstrated great courage and commitment in evangelizing the heart of Africa,” said the archbishop.

Referring to the presentation of the Lord, Archbishop Ssemogerere called on the religious to pray for the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need for patience in their lives. He prayed for divine guidance, urging them to avoid the temptations often presented by the spirit of this world.

“In the consecrated life, dear brothers and sisters, we respond to this call to imitate Christ by offering our lives in service. Becoming living witnesses of God’s love and compassion in this broken world. The candles we lit today symbolize Jesus as the light of the world bringing light and salvation to all peoples. Therefore, we as consecrated men and women are likewise sent out to witness to this light in the confused world we live in today, the world that is looking for light and guidance,” His Grace Ssemogerere added.

He further explained that, on their special day, the consecrated were presenting themselves to the Lord, much like Jesus was presented by Mother Mary and Joseph in the temple. “In your own simple way, God considers you as the future of the world and the church. So let your light shine upon others, that they may see our good deeds and glorify our heavenly father,” he emphasized.

Archbishop Ssemogerere commended the Franciscan Grey Friars for fulfilling the dream of the late Archbishop Cyprian Lwanga by developing and maintaining the beauty of the Shrine.

As part of the celebration, the archbishop blessed and dedicated the Mother Kevin Gardens and Lake at the Basilica. Fr Male Ulman, the Rector of Uganda Martyrs Shrine Munyonyo, painted Mother Kevin as the first female evangelist to arrive in Uganda. He urged the religious to pray for her beatification and elevation to the orders.

Fr Male also shared that the Franciscan Friars have established a hospital in Matugga, dedicated to Dr. Wanda Blenska and managed by The Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate.

Vicar of the religious in Kampala, Fr Richard Nyombi, commended Fr Male for hosting the event and announced that the official celebrations for the 60th anniversary of the canonization of the Uganda Martyrs would take place on 15th November 2024 at the Uganda Martyrs Shrine Munyonyo.

He revealed plans to have the relics of the Martyrs visit over 75 parishes in Kampala Archdiocese, where they will be venerated for three days in each parish. The journey commenced yesterday in Mitala Maria.

The day concluded with the religious enjoying a sumptuous meal in the Mother Kevin Gardens. This annual celebration takes place on 2nd February.