Thousands of pilgrims have reportedly begun trekking from various parts of Uganda including from other East African countries ahead of the June 6 Uganda Matyrs celebrations.
Pilgrims are walking hundreds of kilometres carrying various items including rain coats, foods as they chant hymns and recite prayers en route to Namugongo for the Martyrs’ Day celebrations.
“Despite heavy rainfall this morning, the Nebbi Catholic Diocese pilgrims remain undeterred and have braved the trek the hilly terrain of Kakooge, in Nakasongola to continuing their journey towards Luweero,” a Ugandan Television reporter said on Friday.
This is an annual celebration held on 3rd June; the feast of the Uganda Martyrs as decreed by the act of canonization in 1964 by the Universal Catholic Church.
In Uganda. the government declared this day a national public holiday in commemoration of the first Christian Martyrs in the country.
The Uganda Martyrs Day attracts pilgrims from all corners of the world making it one of the biggest Christian events in the world.
This celebration has a series of events that start a month earlier; with most of the Christians footing to the Shrine as a pilgrimage and homage to the Catholic Martyrs and Saints.
Above: Pilgrims from Rwenyena Catholic Parish, Kabale district have reached Mbarara City in western Uganda.
History
Years after the death of Charles Lwanga, Mathias Mulumba and their companions, many people started seeking for their intercession; this was followed by individuals and small parties visiting their execution sites.
The Dutch priest, then based at Nsambya, walked with a group of Christians to Namugongo and celebrated Holy Mass at the spot where Charles Lwanga was martyred.
After Mass he erected a cross at the same spot and this marked the beginning of pilgrimages to Namugongo.
