UCU Assembles 30-Member Choir for Martyrs' Day Service Amid Ebola Concerns

Uganda Christian University (UCU) is set to animate the Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebration at Namugongo’s Anglican Site on June 3rd with a specially assembled choir.

Initially planned with 250 members, the choir has been scaled down to 30 individuals as a result of the Ebola outbreak in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. This decision reflects the ongoing concerns surrounding the disease, which had previously caused a halt to the annual celebrations.

According to choir master Rev. Can. Paul Waswa, the 30-member group is a blend of UCU students, staff, and members from the wider church community. The choir represents a fusion of four distinct musical groups: the UCU community choir, a joint hymnal choir, the Kisaasi choir, and a church choir from St. Paul Katuso, Buziga. This collaboration aims to achieve musical excellence for the significant occasion.

Rehearsals are conducted three times a week in the evenings to accommodate academic schedules, with participants viewing singing as a method of relaxation. The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Christ our peace: Breaking walls, healing the nations,’ drawn from Ephesians 2:14, and intended to address contemporary societal issues.

Trainers have worked to merge diverse musical backgrounds, from traditional Anglican hymns to contemporary worship styles, to create a unique soundscape for the service. Digital tools, including a WhatsApp group, have been instrumental in recruitment and communication.

Younger members, like 10-year-old Tracy Asimira, have been encouraged to participate, gaining confidence and a platform to share their faith. Ms. Anne Amutos Sekajja noted that preparations have been underway for nearly a year through prayer and consistent practice.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ucu-assembles-30-member-choir-for-martyrs-day-service-5482128