In his homily, Msgr. Kayondo spoke passionately about the significance of pilgrimage, describing it as “a journey of faith, to a place of faith, by a person of faith to strengthen faith.”
By Annet Nantale, Lugazi Diocese Communications Office
On Friday, 6th March 2026, Catholic-founded and Catholic-oriented primary schools from across the Lugazi Diocese made their annual pilgrimage to the Mary Queen of Peace Lugazi Cathedral, gathering under the theme, “Oh Lord, Let Me See Again; I, Your Pilgrim of Hope.” This event marked another step in a journey of faith, where students, teachers, and school administrators came together to renew their commitment to God and their shared mission of education.
The celebrations commenced with a Holy Mass led by the Vicar General of Lugazi Diocese, Msgr. Dr. Richard Kayondo, who stood in for Rt. Rev. Christopher Kakooza, the Ordinary of the Diocese. Msgr. Kayondo conveyed the bishop’s warm greetings, acknowledging the efforts of the headteachers, teachers, and pupils, and thanking them for their dedicated participation in last year’s pilgrimage to Namugongo.
In his homily, Msgr. Kayondo spoke passionately about the significance of pilgrimage, describing it as “a journey of faith, to a place of faith, by a person of faith to strengthen faith.” He also took the opportunity to reflect on the success of the Namugongo celebrations in 2025, attributing much of its success to the collaborative efforts of everyone involved. “When we work together and help each other, we achieve success,” he said, encouraging the participants to continue this spirit of unity in all their endeavors.
He particularly urged teachers and headteachers to continue nurturing the faith of the children, stressing the importance of encouraging them to pray and attend Sunday Mass. “Let them grow rich in heart and faith,” he said, reminding everyone of their role in shaping the spiritual lives of their students.
Msgr. Kayondo also challenged the headteachers to work tirelessly to develop their schools, ensuring they become institutions of excellence and strong faith.
The Diocesan Education Secretary, Rev. Fr. Gerald Bwenvu, also addressed the gathering, expressing his gratitude to the headteachers for organizing the pilgrimage. He highlighted the importance of such events in strengthening the faith of the school community and thanked everyone for their continued support of the “Empagi” initiative, which seeks to promote spiritual growth within the schools.
As the pilgrims journeyed back from the cathedral, their hearts were filled with renewed hope and faith, ready to continue their mission of learning, prayer, and community in the coming year.