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As millions of pilgrims gathered at the Ugandan shrine in Namugongo to honor the 45 Christian martyrs, authorities successfully thwarted a potential terror attack. The local secret service operation is credited with preventing what could have been a devastating event.
Authorities reported that suspected extremists armed with explosive vests were killed near the Munyonyo Basilica. This occurred as tens of thousands of East African pilgrims prayed at Uganda’s Catholic Martyrs Shrine, seeking intercession for various personal and communal challenges.
Mary Nasubu, a widow from northern Uganda’s Diocese of Lira, expressed her faith in the power of the sacred site. "I came to ask the martyrs to speak to God on behalf of my children," she told OSV News.
The annual Martyrs Day celebration honors those martyred between 1885 and 1887 under Kabaka Mwanga II's orders. The Namugongo shrine is particularly significant as it is where St. Charles Lwanga and his companions were executed on June 3, 1886.
Namugongo has become a spiritual hub for pilgrims from across Africa. The 2025 commemoration marked a return to pre-pandemic numbers, with worshippers arriving from countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, Congo, and Nigeria.
President Yoweri Museveni attended the ceremony and commented on the separation of religion and politics while praising the martyrs' resilience.
Just hours before Mass on June 3rd, security forces intercepted an attempted terror attack near Munyonyo Basilica. Col. Chris Magezi reported that army units eliminated two suspects planning a suicide bombing near the basilica packed with pilgrims. No civilians were harmed in this incident.
Authorities suspect links between the attackers and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), known for past extremist violence in collaboration with Islamic State affiliates.
Beyond religious devotion, many pilgrims voiced their frustrations over regional conflicts and economic hardships. Majok Aluel from South Sudan highlighted these issues: “This pilgrimage is both a cry for help and a sign that we’re still standing.”
Father Mugagga Martin Kuteesa Lubowa encouraged pilgrims to embody the courage of the martyrs in confronting societal evils upon returning home.
The Namugongo shrine holds deep cultural significance, featuring a basilica, museum, and natural spring believed to contain healing waters. Pilgrims collected water from this spring for blessings or healing purposes.
Michael Katito shared his hope: “I’m bringing this water to my wife who’s very ill... I believe this water carries God’s power.”
Despite challenges like heat and exhaustion, many pilgrims shared stories of answered prayers during their journey.
Emmy Bazubagira from Rwanda emphasized community strength: “There’s a sense of belonging here that we rarely feel back home.”
The pilgrimage also serves as an educational experience for young people facing modern-day challenges. Father Isaac Ojok noted its importance: “Bringing them here teaches them that real strength lies in faith.”
Sister Caroline Pifwa walked over 300 miles to mark her religious life anniversary while praying for Pope Leo XIV among other intentions.
As dusk fell on Namugongo's holy ground after days filled with prayerful reflection amid threats thwarted by vigilant authorities—pilgrims departed hopeful yet mindful—of what remains ahead but certain—their voices had reached heaven above; something would change eventually—for betterment beyond borders united through shared belief transcending all adversity faced along life’s arduous path towards brighter tomorrows awaiting just beyond horizon unseen yet ever-present within hearts steadfastly enduring together always unwaveringly faithful against despair prevailing triumphant ultimately forevermore onward unto eternity itself unyielding resolute boundless infinite timeless eternal truth everlasting hope divine grace mercy love peace joy light life everlasting...
Tonny Onyulo reports for OSV News from Namugongo Uganda
