Over 200 pilgrims gather at Lira cathedral ahead of martyrs’ day trek

15 May 2025, 10:29 am

By Sarah Ejang

In a profound expression of faith and devotion, more than 200 foot pilgrims from various parishes across the Lira Diocese have converged at the Uganda Martyrs Cathedral ordination grounds in Lira City, as they prepare for this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations in Namugongo.

The annual pilgrimage, which honours the heroic sacrifice of the Uganda Martyrs — who were executed for their steadfast Christian faith — continues to inspire thousands of faithful from all corners of the country.

According to Mr Goddy Akio, spokesperson for the Lira Diocese foot pilgrims, a total of 885 individuals have so far registered for the pilgrimage to Namugongo. Among them are four children and committed believers from a wide range of parishes, including Anyeke, Otwal, Ngai, Teboke, Orum, Alanyi, Abongodyang, Ngetta, Aputi, Amolatar, Dokolo, and Bala.

Mr Akio noted that women constitute the majority of this year’s pilgrims, demonstrating their strong spiritual commitment and leadership within the Church.

Additional pilgrims are expected to arrive in the coming days, reflecting the deeply communal nature of this sacred journey.

Expressing gratitude for the safe arrival of the early pilgrims, Mr Akio confirmed that official reception of pilgrims at the cathedral is scheduled between 12th and 15th May. During this period, pilgrims will engage in prayer and preparation ahead of their departure for Namugongo on Friday, 16th May.

Preparations are currently underway at St Kizito Primary School, the designated pilgrims’ centre, where participants are being issued with identity tags and commemorative T-shirts to foster a sense of unity and spiritual identity.

On Wednesday, 14th May, pilgrims gathered for a spiritual retreat at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, aimed at deepening their faith and preparing their hearts for the demanding journey ahead.

Many of the faithful expressed joy and thanksgiving upon their safe arrival at the cathedral, sharing reflections on the spiritual purpose of their pilgrimage. As they prepare to retrace the footsteps of the Uganda Martyrs, numerous pilgrims offered prayers for peace, healing, and transformation in their homes and communities.

Original story by: Lira Diocese News Agency