9TH NOVEMBER 2025On Sunday, 9th November 2025, the faithful of Lugazi Catholic Diocese gathered at Bulimu Parish to commemorate the Annual Pilgrimage in honour of the Diocesan Patron Saints. The event was described as a moment of renewal, unity, and thanksgiving, bringing together Christians from across the diocese to celebrate the lives and intercession of …
9TH NOVEMBER 2025
On Sunday, 9th November 2025, the faithful of Lugazi Catholic Diocese gathered at Bulimu Parish to commemorate the Annual Pilgrimage in honour of the Diocesan Patron Saints. The event was described as a moment of renewal, unity, and thanksgiving, bringing together Christians from across the diocese to celebrate the lives and intercession of their patron saints.
The pilgrimage, which has become a cherished tradition in the spiritual calendar of Lugazi Diocese, was held under the theme “Called to Holiness and Service in the Spirit of Our Patron Saints.” Pilgrims were reported to have participated in a range of spiritual activities including the Holy Mass, confession, adoration, and guided reflections on the virtues of the saints who continue to inspire the Christian community.
His Lordship The Rt. Rev. Christopher Kakooza, Bishop of Lugazi, delegated Vicar General , Mgrs Richard Kayondo who presided over the Eucharistic celebration. In his homily, he was said to have encouraged the faithful to strengthen their faith, deepen their commitment to evangelization, and emulate the lives of the saints through acts of holiness and service. Mgrs Kayondo also reminded the congregation that the pilgrimage formed part of the diocesan spiritual journey af follow up the just completed pilgrim to 2025 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations, for which Lugazi Diocese was designated as the host.
Pilgrims noted that Bulimu Parish offered a peaceful and reflective environment for prayer and fellowship, and many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather as one family in Christ. The event was widely seen as a testimony of the diocese’s growing faith and unity.
As the faithful returned to their respective parishes, they were reminded that the Pilgrimage to Bulimu stood as a symbol of hope and a call to live in holiness and service — following the enduring example of the saints who devoted their lives to God.
The day was remembered as a true expression of faith, love, and unity within the Lugazi Catholic Diocese.
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OUR PATRON SAINT – BLESSED PONSIANO NDONGWE
The Diocese of Lugazi proudly honours Blessed Ponsiano Ngondwe as its Patron Saint — a courageous soldier of faith and one of the earliest martyrs of Uganda who laid down his life for Christ. His witness of loyalty, humility, and unwavering faith continues to inspire generations of Christians within the diocese and beyond.
Life and Martyrdom
Blessed Ponsiano Ngondwe was a soldier in the court of Kabaka Mwanga II and one of the first converts to Christianity in Buganda. His journey of faith began when he embraced the teachings of Christ through the catechists who evangelised at court. Despite the growing hostility towards the new religion, Ponsiano remained firm in his conviction and refused to renounce his faith.
In 1886, during the fierce persecution of Christians, Ponsiano Ngondwe was arrested and condemned to death for his allegiance to Jesus Christ. Tradition holds that he was martyred at Ttakajunge, near Munyonyo, becoming the first among the Uganda Martyrs to shed his blood for the faith. His sacrifice marked the beginning of a spiritual revolution in Uganda, one that gave birth to countless vocations, conversions, and missionary zeal.
Spiritual and Pastoral Significance
As the Patron Saint of Lugazi Diocese, Blessed Ponsiano Ngondwe symbolizes courage, obedience, and steadfast faith. His life calls all Christians to be strong witnesses of Christ in word and action, even when faith is tested. Within the diocese, his patronage inspires priests, religious, and lay faithful to live out the Gospel through service, humility, and love for one another.
Cultural and Devotional Life
Each year, the diocese celebrates the Patron Saints Day with pilgrimages to Bulimu and other sacred sites, prayer novenas, and Eucharistic celebrations in his honour. These events remind the faithful of the living legacy of Ponsiano Ngondwe — a man who turned his duty as a soldier into an act of faith, and his suffering into a testimony of divine love.
Blessed Ponsiano Ngondwe remains a spiritual pillar for Lugazi Diocese — a beacon of faith, courage, and sacrifice, guiding all believers to live in holiness and total devotion to God.
“Blessed Ponsiano Ngondwe — Pray for us.”
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