The Bishop of Masaka Diocese, Serverus Jjumba, has called on Christians to renew their faith from within their homes and local communities, saying recurring challenges that have disrupted the Uganda Martyrs’ Day pilgrimage to Namugongo should be seen as a call for deeper spiritual reflection.
Speaking during Holy Mass at Kitovu Cathedral while commemorating the Uganda Martyrs, Bishop Jjumba said that disruptions experienced in recent years, including disease outbreaks such as COVID-19 and Ebola, which affected pilgrimages in 2020, 2021 and again in 2026, should prompt Christians to reconsider how they live and practice their faith.
He observed that such moments of crisis are not merely physical or health-related challenges but also spiritual reminders urging believers to strengthen their relationship with God and remain steadfast in faith despite adversity.
According to Serverus Jjumba, Christians should rebuild the foundations of the faith starting from the family level, progressing through Small Christian Communities, parishes, and dioceses. He emphasized that deep catechesis and consistent teaching of doctrine are essential to ensure that believers truly understand and live according to God’s will.
The Bishop further urged Christians to commit themselves to righteousness through strict adherence to the Ten Commandments, noting that he will continue to emphasize their teaching to help the faithful live more disciplined spiritual lives.
He also explained Catholic teachings on righteousness, outlining the journey of believers through the Church, including the pilgrim Church on earth, purification, and the communion of saints.
He encouraged Christians aspiring to live righteously to actively embrace the sacraments, maintain constant prayer, regularly study and reflect on the Word of God, and consistently participate in the Holy Mass, which he described as the most important form of worship in the Church.
Beyond spiritual matters, Bishop Jjumba urged Christians to embrace hard work and self-reliance as part of their faith, saying economic development is essential in overcoming poverty and dependency.
He noted that the Church should not be led by people who are unable to support themselves and contribute to its growth through tithes and offerings, stressing that believers should work diligently to improve their livelihoods, educate their children, and develop their communities.
He added that such effort would also strengthen the Church’s mission and enable it to move forward effectively.
During the Mass, the Bishop revealed that Masaka Diocese currently serves more than 1,077,000 Christians, supported by 337 priests and about 800 religious brothers and sisters.
He said this large population reflects the need for each Christian to embrace their individual vocation, whether in business, leadership, medicine, journalism, or religious life, and to serve faithfully in their respective fields.
He called for unity among Christians, saying it is essential for both spiritual growth and social transformation. Drawing inspiration from the Uganda Martyrs, he said their unity, courage, and steadfast faith should serve as a model for today’s believers as they navigate modern challenges.
Bishop Jjumba concluded by encouraging Christians to remain truthful and faithful in all their actions, saying that by emulating the Martyrs’ example, they can overcome challenges and achieve success both spiritually and socially as they honour their legacy.
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