religion 18 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Catholic Church Adapts Martyrs Day Celebrations Amid Ebola Concerns
The Uganda Episcopal Conference has issued guidance to Catholic faithful following the postponement of the national Martyrs Day celebrations due to the Ebola outbreak, encouraging local observances and adherence to health guidelines. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/catholic-church-issues-guidance-following-postponement-of-martyrs-day-over-ebola-concerns-5464220
The Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC) has provided pastoral guidance to Catholics across Uganda following the government’s decision to postpone the annual Martyrs Day celebrations, originally slated for June 3rd at Namugongo.
The postponement is a preventative measure against the spread of the Ebola virus, given the massive crowds typically drawn to the event.
Bishop Joseph Antony Zziwa, Chairman of the UEC, confirmed that while the large-scale gathering is deferred, the spiritual importance of Martyrs Day endures. He encouraged dioceses and parishes to hold localized celebrations, emphasizing strict adherence to health directives from local authorities.
The UEC emphasized four key directives: praying for the nation, healthcare workers, and those affected by Ebola; following all Ministry of Health safety guidelines; and cooperating with media for accurate information dissemination.
The Church urged the faithful to remain calm, prayerful, united, and hopeful, reminding them that faith is exemplified through sacrifice and truth, even as they support the nation’s efforts to manage the health crisis.