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Raphael P’Mony Wokorach, the bishop of Nebbi and archbishop-elect of Gulu Ecclesiastical Province, has praised the pilgrims traveling to Namugongo for their dedication and progress. These pilgrims are on their way to the Namugongo Catholic Martyrs Shrine in Wakiso district to participate in the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations on June 3, 2024
The pilgrimage began on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. The group has journeyed from Nebbi to Kigumba in Kiryandongo district, covering approximately 110 kilometers on foot. Their journey started with a truck ride from Pakwach to Karuma before they continued on foot.
Every year on June 3, Uganda commemorates the Uganda Martyrs, a group of 23 Anglican and 22 Catholic converts who were killed in the 1880s for their faith on the orders of the then Buganda kingdom king.
The pilgrims took a break on Sunday, May 19, to observe Pentecost Sunday, allowing them to rest and recharge both spiritually and physically. They also used this time for personal hygiene. During this break, Bishop P’Mony Wokorach joined them and led a Mass, blessing the pilgrims and praising their commitment.
Bishop Wokorach stated that everything was progressing as planned and emphasized the main message given to the pilgrims: to see the Uganda Martyrs as their inspiration and to keep their faith strong throughout the journey. The theme for this year’s celebration, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord,” has become a guiding slogan for the pilgrims.
This year’s pilgrimage has a special focus on environmental sustainability, referred to as “a green walk.” The Nebbi Diocese has encouraged pilgrims to plant trees at every resting point, starting from Kigumba. This initiative aims to promote tree planting as a measure against climate change.
After a well-deserved rest, the pilgrims will resume their journey on Monday, May 20, 2024. They plan to travel from Kigumba to Kafu, which is about 21 kilometers away. The pilgrims remain energetic and eager to continue their journey to Namugongo.
Ankole Times