Preparations Complete for 139th St. Gonzaga Gonza Day

Preparations for the national celebrations of St. Gonzaga Gonza Day are now complete, according to Rev. Fr. Gerald Mutto, Chancellor of Jinja Diocese and Secretary to the Bishop.

The annual event, which commemorates the life and martyrdom of St. Gonzaga Gonza, will take place on Saturday, 6th July 2025 at Bugonza Shrine in Kaliro District, his birthplace. This year’s celebration is being organised by Jinja Diocese.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to grace the occasion as Chief Pilgrim.

Addressing journalists at St. Joseph Cathedral, Rubaga Parish in Jinja, Fr. Mutto revealed that this year marks the 139th anniversary of St. Gonzaga Gonza’s martyrdom. The event coincides with the Jubilee Year of the Catholic Church, under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope”, as designated by Pope Francis.

“Those preparing to make the pilgrimage are encouraged to keep time. The Eucharistic celebration will begin early at 9:00 a.m. Let us prepare ourselves accordingly,” Fr. Mutto urged.

The Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Obbo, Archbishop of Tororo Archdiocese, will be the main celebrant at the Mass, having been invited by Rt. Rev. Charles Wamika, Bishop of Jinja Diocese.

“The mass is not only a pilgrimage celebration. We shall also pray for Pope Francis and entrust the mission of Pope Leo XIV to God’s guidance and mercy,” Fr. Mutto added.

He also encouraged pilgrims, especially those traveling long distances, to arrive early and consider spending the night in prayer at the shrine. “Security is tight, and we want all pilgrims to feel safe and spiritually prepared.”

Fr. Mutto emphasized that the celebration is open to the public, and COVID-19 testing will not be required for attendees.

Who Was St. Gonzaga Gonza?

St. Gonzaga Gonza was born around 1862 in Busoga, the son of Gonzabato. As a child, he was kidnapped and taken to Buganda, where he was raised in the household of Nkambo Buluusi, who treated him like his own son.

Known for his kindness, obedience, and strong work ethic, Gonzaga initially embraced Islam and Protestantism, before becoming a Catholic, baptized on 17th November 1885.

He showed exceptional courage and faith when he voluntarily went to prison on behalf of Namulabira, who had been falsely accused of befriending a princess. After being arrested at Munyonyo, he was chained and forced to march to Namugongo. Despite his injuries, he continued the journey until he collapsed and was speared to death by executioner Mukajanga on 27th May 1886, at the age of 24.

St. Gonzaga Gonza is venerated as the Patron Saint of prisoners, travellers, the ill-treated, and those in distress.