Uganda’s Catholic Faith celebrates 145 Years: Archbishop Ssemogerere calls for self-relience in evangilisation

In a moving reflection on the legacy of missionary work in Africa and Uganda in particular, Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere of Kampala commemorated the 145th anniversary of the Catholic Faith in Uganda with a pilgrimage to Kigungu. His Grace echoed the words of Pope John Paul VI, delivered during his historic visit to Uganda in 1969, stressing that Africans have become missionaries unto themselves. “By now, you Africans are missionaries to yourselves”

The pilgrimage, held on February 17, 2024, marked the arrival of Fr. Mapeera Lourdel and Brother Amans Antoine Delmas, who introduced Catholicism to Uganda in 1879. Archbishop Ssemogerere highlighted the significance of Pope John Paul VI’s message, showing how it serves as an encouragement for Ugandans and Africans to propagate the word of God independently, drawing from their deep understanding of the faith.

“We have surpassed the missionary activities of the past. African missionaries now venture beyond our borders, even to the lands where the faith originated. When we journey to places like France, we find a longing for missionaries, and it is we Africans who must remind them of God’s presence,” remarked Archbishop Ssemogerere. “The seeds of faith sown by our ancestors have flourished, and now, our own African priests, the ‘White Fathers’ who are not white in colour, lead us in this divine mission.”

The archbishop commended the multitude of priests and Christians across Africa, urging them to express gratitude to pioneers like Fr. Mapeera and Br. Amans for their steadfast commitment to strengthening the Catholic Faith in Uganda.

Reflecting on the hardships endured by the early missionaries, including encounters with wild animals, illnesses, and unfamiliar environments, Archbishop Ssemogerere noted their resilience and dedication to spreading the faith.

“We are called to be disciples of Christ, spreading the good news of His resurrection to all corners of the earth. Let us honour the legacy of Mapeera and Amans by using our faith to lead others back to the Lord,” urged the archbishop. “As we commemorate their sacrifices, let us not underestimate the power of prayer.”

Amidst the challenges of the modern world, archbishop Ssemogerere reassured the faithful of God’s responsiveness to their prayers and encouraged them to meditate on the teachings of the faith introduced by the pioneering missionaries.

During the Lenten season, the archbishop reminded Christians of their call to repentance and renewal, urging them to heed the Lord’s call for forgiveness and transformation.

“In this season of Lent, let us emulate Levi and respond to Christ’s invitation to redemption. Let us embrace forgiveness and strive to lead lives worthy of our calling,” said archbishop Ssemogerere.