Kampala, Uganda.
The 45 Catechists from Ngetta Parish have extended their heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero for her unwavering generosity in sponsoring their recent pilgrimage to Kampala from December 9th to 13th, 2024. The five-day spiritual journey, filled with prayer, reflection, and exploration of Uganda’s significant religious and historical sites, was made possible through Dr. Aceng’s kind-hearted support. Speaking this afternoon with the Chief Editor (Ocen Alex) of Northern Dailys from Kampala, the Parish Priest of Ngetta Rev. Fr. Constant Opio said the Catechists of Ngetta usually have this pilgrimage and this year, they visited major historical sites.
Dr. Aceng generously catered for their transportation, feeding, and accommodation throughout the pilgrimage, enabling the Catechists to fully immerse themselves in the sacred experiences without any logistical concerns. The Catechists expressed profound gratitude to her for her kindness and prayed for her continued good health, long life, and fruitful service to the people she represents.
During the closing session of the pilgrimage, Dr. Aceng commended the Catechists for their steadfast faith and dedicated service to God and the Church. She acknowledged the numerous challenges they face in their ministry but encouraged them to remain strong and continue to serve diligently. As a token of her appreciation, she provided each Catechist with soap and sugar to take home, enabling them to celebrate the festive season joyfully with their families and congregations. Dr. Aceng said she accepted to shoulder all the costs for the pilgrimage and thanked Lira University for offering them transport.
The pilgrimage offered the Catechists an opportunity to visit various revered religious sites, enriching their faith and understanding of Uganda’s Catholic heritage. The key pilgrimage sites included:
- Our Lady of Africa, Mbuya Parish – A place of profound Marian devotion.
- Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine – Commemorating the heroic sacrifices of Uganda Martyrs.
- Namugongo Martyrs Shrine – The spiritual heart of Catholicism in Uganda.
- Kiwamirembe Marian Shrine – A serene hilltop shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
- Kigungu Landing Site – Where the first Catholic missionaries, Fr. Lourdel and Br. Amans, arrived in Uganda in 1879.
- Rubaga Cathedral – The seat of the Archbishop of Kampala and a cornerstone of Catholic history in Uganda.
Additionally, the Catechists explored notable landmarks, including the Munyonyo Convention Center, the Parliament of Uganda, and Entebbe International Airport, broadening their perspectives and appreciation of the country’s cultural and civic development.
The Catechists are on their way returning to Ngetta Parish spiritually enriched and inspired, ready to share their experiences and the blessings they received with their congregations. They continue to uphold Dr. Aceng in prayer, thanking God for her compassion and dedication to supporting their mission in the Church.
The pilgrimage was not only a journey of faith but also a true spirit to the transformative power of generosity and the strong bond between leadership and community.