📸The portrait of Pope Francis at Rubaga Cathedral
Christians, led by the Papal Ambassador to Uganda, The Most Rev. Archbishop Luigi Bianco, and other faithful, gathered at Lubaga Cathedral to celebrate a mass in memory of the Holy Father, Pope Francis.
Archbishop Bianco, who led the mass, praised God for the life of Pope Francis, acknowledging that it has brought much good to Christians and others of different faiths.
He urged the congregation to learn from the works of Pope Francis, particularly his teachings on love and unity. Bianco emphasized that Pope Francis will always be remembered for his leadership in the Church following his resignation.
The Kingdom of Buganda also expressed its deep appreciation for the service of Pope Francis. His Majesty the Kabaka, in his message to Christians, acknowledged Pope Francis' legacy of good morals, unity, and love for all people, expressing sorrow for the Church’s loss of such an influential figure.
On behalf of the Buganda Government, the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, delivered a message, read by the Speaker of the Buganda Parliament, Owek. Patrick Luwaga Mugumbule. He praised Pope Francis for the love he showed to all people without discrimination.
Mayiga spoke of how Pope Francis' teachings on unity had been put into practice, showing care for those in prisons, the poor, and people of all races, without showing any form of prejudice or superiority.
He also noted Pope Francis' commitment to humanity and his exemplary leadership, even while facing challenges.
📸Hon. Patrick Luwaga Mugumbule reading a message from the Kabaka's government
Bp. Anthony Zziwa, in a message on behalf of the Catholic Church of Uganda, expressed how the Church had felt empowered after the news of Pope Francis' passing. He highlighted Pope Francis' encouragement to leaders of the Church to show love to those they lead and to promote unity in God's family.
"Pope Francis impacted the world in unique ways, spreading the gospel of love, unity, and knowledge of God. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he continued to lead mass from his home, showing his commitment to strengthening the faith of God's people," Bp. Zziwa said. He called on everyone to continue promoting unity as a tribute to Pope Francis' legacy.
The Vice President of Uganda, Rtd. Maj. Gen. Jesca Alupo, delivered a message from President Museveni. In her speech, she expressed condolences to Christians in Uganda and beyond, acknowledging the role Pope Francis had played in promoting peace, unity, and reconciliation.
She urged everyone to take Pope Francis as an example.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, following Easter, at the age of 88. He had served as the head of the Catholic Church for 12 years.