AT least 300 pilgrims from Rwanda, yesterday, joined thousands of Christians from across the globe in commemorating Martyrs Day, in Namugongo, Uganda. Antoine Kambanda, the Bishop of Kibungo Catholic Diocese led the delegation of the pilgrims to Namugongo. Every June 3, Christians from around the world pay homage to 45 Martyrs, who were killed by Buganda King Mwanga II in 1886, for converting to Christianity. The majority of the pilgrims came from Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania and DR Congo, besides Uganda. The Bishop of Kotido Diocese, Giuseppe Filippi, who was the main celebrant preached against immoral behaviors like corruption and called on Christians to emulate the martyrs. “Leave your sins here and go back purified for you are in a holy place,” Filippi said, quoting from the Biblical story of Moses and the burning bush. Archbishop Cyprian Kizito Lwanga of Kampala Archdiocese, called for unity and prayed for the release of over 200 girls held by the Islamist group Boko Haram in Nigeria. “Contrary to what is said, religion doesn’t divide people but unites them,” he told tens of thousands of pilgrims. Security at both the Catholic and Anglican shrines was tightened to protect worshippers. Each pilgrim was subjected to a thorough check as they went through metal detectors stationed at different entrances. Addressing the congregation, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni rallied for African unity, saying it is the only way freedom in Africa will be guaranteed. He urged religious leaders to champion the fight against poverty. Pilgrims from Rwanda later visited Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Uganda Frank Mugambage, at his residence before heading back home.
