The Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Dr. Paul Ssemogerere, has pledged to preserve and advance the legacy of the late Msgr. Expedito Magembe, the revered Catholic exorcist, preacher, and founder of Mt. Sion Bukalango Prayer Centre, who passed away on May 9, 2025, at the age of 88.
Speaking during a deeply moving funeral Mass held at Kisubi Seminary on Monday, Archbishop Ssemogerere paid tribute to Msgr. Magembe as “a steady man of God who lived his priesthood to the fullest.”
The Mass drew thousands of mourners, including all bishops of the Kampala Ecclesiastical Province, clergy, religious sisters, political leaders, and lay faithful from across the country.
“Bukalango Will Not Die with Magembe”
In a powerful homily, Archbishop Ssemogerere emphasized the importance of safeguarding Msgr. Magembe’s spiritual and pastoral work, particularly at Mount Sion Prayer Centre Bukalango, the charismatic Catholic hub founded by Magembe in 1993.
“Bukalango will not die with Magembe,” the Archbishop declared to resounding applause. “His work must continue. It is now our duty as the Church and the faithful to uphold what he began.”
Mount Sion Bukalango, located in Wakiso District, has become one of Uganda’s most significant pilgrimage sites, drawing thousands seeking healing, deliverance, and spiritual renewal.
Under Msgr. Magembe’s leadership, it grew from a humble retreat into a nationwide center of prayer and transformation.
The centre is currently undergoing major expansion, including the construction of a large church—a vision conceived by the late priest.
The project is being executed by the UPDF Engineering Brigade, a contribution pledged by President Yoweri Museveni, whom Archbishop Ssemogerere described as a “close personal friend” of Msgr. Magembe.
Support for the Brides of the Lamb
Archbishop Ssemogerere also addressed questions surrounding the future of the Brides of the Lamb, a congregation of religious sisters founded by Msgr. Magembe, who have long served at Bukalango.
While not officially listed among recognized congregations on the Kampala Archdiocesan website, their future has drawn concern.
“The Church in Kampala and worldwide will continue to walk with this congregation,” the Archbishop affirmed, signaling a move toward regularizing their status and ensuring the continuity of their ministry.
A Priest of Many Gifts
Msgr. Expedito Magembe was widely celebrated not only for his healing ministry and gift of spiritual discernment but also for his contributions to liturgical music.
His compositions, known for their depth and emotional resonance, were sung throughout the vigil and funeral Mass—offering comfort and reflection to the grieving faithful.
Many mourners gave testimonies of miraculous healings, personal deliverance, and renewed faith, attributing their experiences to Msgr. Magembe’s powerful ministry.
These personal accounts underscored the far-reaching impact of his spiritual leadership, which transcended diocesan boundaries and denominational lines.
His burial at Kisubi marked the end of an era, but as Archbishop Ssemogerere reminded the nation, it is not the end of his mission.
“His legacy lives on—in Bukalango, in the songs we sing, in the hearts he healed, and in the Church he served so faithfully,” he said.
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