religion 2 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Martyrs Day: Church directs faithful to virtual and local prayers amid Ebola concerns
Uganda's Anglican and Catholic churches are guiding believers to observe Martyrs Day virtually and in local congregations due to the postponement of the national Namugongo pilgrimage because of the Ebola outbreak. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/church-guides-believers-on-virtual-martyrs-day-prayers-5482816
For the second consecutive year, large-scale physical gatherings for Uganda Martyrs Day have been canceled, this time due to concerns over the Ebola virus. Consequently, religious leaders are urging Christians to shift their commemoration to home-based prayers, family devotions, and virtual services.
President Museveni’s announcement on May 17, postponing the national celebrations, has led both the Catholic and Anglican churches to direct their followers to participate through broadcast media and online platforms. Rev. Fr. Vincent Lubega of Namugongo Catholic Parish encouraged those at home to tune into television and radio services, mentioning Radio Maria’s live broadcast of Mass.
“During the time of Covid-19, we used to follow virtual celebrations. You can switch on your television when Mass begins and follow the ceremony wherever you are,” Fr. Lubega stated. He also reminded Catholics of special prayers and litanies dedicated to the Uganda Martyrs, which can be recited from prayer booklets.
The Anglican Church mirrors this guidance, inviting believers to engage virtually. Rev. Canon Henry Segawa, Namirembe Diocesan Secretary, announced that the service from the Namugongo Anglican Martyrs Site would be televised and streamed online from 9 am, led by Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.
“If you are celebrating at home, participate in the singing and dancing, celebrate with your family, listen to the Word of God and spend time in personal prayer,” Rev. John Kitayimbwa, chairperson of the organizing committee, advised. Religious leaders emphasized that while the physical pilgrimage is missed, the core meaning of Martyrs Day – faith, prayer, and remembrance of the martyrs’ sacrifice – remains central, regardless of the location of worship.
The Uganda Martyrs Day, observed annually on June 3, honors the 45 martyrs executed between 1885 and 1887 for their Christian faith. They were killed on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda after refusing to renounce their beliefs, becoming enduring symbols of faith and courage for Christians worldwide. The postponement marks a significant departure from the tradition that draws thousands of pilgrims annually from Uganda and abroad to the Namugongo shrines.