Archbishop Lucas in Uganda, part 1

Update from Archbishop Lucas – 7/17/17

While waiting for the rest of our group to arrive, I was able today (Monday) to visit the Shrine of the Ugandan Martyrs in Namugongo, near Kampala. Father Joseph Mukasa Muwonge, the promoter of devotion to the Ugandan martyrs in the Archdiocese of Kampala gave me a tour. I was accompanied by Eugene Quayson, CRS Head of Operations in Uganda.

On the grounds of the shrine is a basilica, holding nearly 1000, built in the style of traditional Ugandan structures, with a copper roof instead of thatch. At the center of the round structure is the altar, erected over the spot of the martyrdom of St. Charles Lwanga and housing a relic of him. Beautifully carved doors depict scenes of the martyrs. Outside the shrine, Father Joseph points out a sculpture depicting the death of Charles Lwanga. Behind the indoor basilica, a path leads to an outdoor amphitheater, where Mass is celebrated for thousands on the feast of the martyrs, June 3. Pope Francis celebrated Mass here in November 2015.