Monsignor Expedito Magembe remembered for faith, music, and spiritual leadership

11 May 2025, 11:22 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Following the death of Monsignor Expedito Magembe a few days ago, believers especially those of the Catholic faith from across the country gathered at Mt. Sion in Bukalango to thank God for giving them a true preacher of the word. Monsignor Magembe died at the age of 88 at Nsambya Hospital in Kampala.

During a requiem mass, believers were urged to pray for the soul of the late Monsignor and to continue walking righteously in the fear of God, as he had always emphasised. Today, prayers will continue, along with the public viewing of his body. Tomorrow, at 8:00 AM, the body will be transferred to Kisubi Seminary for a special requiem mass at 1:00 PM. At around 2:00 PM, Monsignor Expedito Magembe will be buried at the Kisubi Seminary priests’ cemetery. However, a significant number of believers in Bukalango had hoped that the Monsignor would be laid to rest there.

Since his passing, various individuals and organisations have sent condolence messages to the believers and the Catholic Church at large. The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Annet Among, said the Monsignor undoubtedly won many souls for Christ.

“I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to His Grace Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, the community of the Kampala Archdiocese, and to the family, friends, and parishioners of Msgr. Expedito Magembe, the founder and director of Mt. Zion Prayer Centre in Bukalango, upon his passing. Msgr. Magembe undoubtedly won many souls for Christ and created a welcoming space where countless individuals came to seek God, pray, and receive guidance. May his legacy, which spanned 50 years of priesthood, inspire many to be God-fearing and to show compassion and love for one another. May his soul rest in peace,” she said.

Similarly, Hon. Fausta Nalubega Bitaano the aspiring Member of Parliament for Mityana and currently serving as LC V Councillor for Makindye, joined the rest of the believers in appreciating the works of Monsignor Expedito Magembe.

“It is so sad that we have lost our grandfather. To me, he has been everything. Whatever I have, it’s been through prayers. Whenever I faced challenges, I would go to Bukalango and spend a week praying. Sometimes, I made appointments with the Monsignor. He would guide me, and even when he was not around, he still found ways to direct me. God had given him the grace because what he used to say often came to pass. To me, he was the righteousness of God in our generation. I pray that the Almighty God rests his soul in eternal peace,” she said.

Centenary Bank, through its communication department, also joined other companies and organisations in sending a condolence message to the believers.

“We join the Archdiocese of Kampala in mourning the passing of Monsignor of Mount Sion, Bukalango. May the Almighty God rest his soul in peace,” the statement read.

It should be remembered that in recognition of his exceptional contributions to sacred liturgy and Catholic music, Monsignor Magembe was awarded the prestigious Cherubim Musical Honour in February 2024. He is ranked among Uganda’s most celebrated liturgical musicians, alongside figures such as Fr. James Kabuye and Rev. Fr. Joseph Namukangula.

Through Mount Sion and his signature Sangaalo prayer sessions, Monsignor Expedito Magembe a man of deep prayer and unwavering spiritual vigour, often seen with his iconic crucifix and large rosary, dedicated his ministry to bringing Catholics back to the Church, especially those drawn away by Pentecostal movements. Many believe he fulfilled that mission with great success. His death leaves behind a legacy of faith, music, and healing that will be remembered for generations.