A Visit to Uganda Martyrs Shrine
Uganda Martyrs Shrine is a sacred place that commemorates the 22 Catholic martyrs who were killed by the king of Buganda, Kabaka Mwanga II, between 1885 and 1887 for refusing to renounce their faith. The shrine is located in Namugongo, about 15 kilometers northeast of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Every year, on June 3, millions of pilgrims from all over the world flock to this shrine to celebrate the feast of the Uganda Martyrs and to honor their courage and devotion. I had the privilege of visiting this shrine during my trip to Uganda and I was deeply moved by the experience. Here are some of the highlights of our visit:
The Basilica
The most striking feature of the shrine is the basilica, which was built in 1968 and consecrated by Pope Paul VI in 1969. The basilica has a unique architecture that resembles a traditional African hut, with a circular shape and a conical roof. The roof is made of iron sheets that are painted red to symbolize the blood of the martyrs. The interior of the basilica is spacious and bright, with stained glass windows that depict the scenes of the martyrdom. The altar is located at the center of the basilica, where a large wooden cross stands. Underneath the cross, there is a circular pit that marks the exact spot where St. Charles Lwanga, the leader of the martyrs, was burnt alive. Around the pit, there are 22 copper pillars that represent the 22 martyrs, each with a portrait and a name. The basilica can accommodate up to 1,000 people and hosts daily masses and other liturgical services.
The Museum
Next to the basilica, there is a museum that showcases the history and the legacy of the Uganda Martyrs. The museum has various exhibits that display the artifacts, photos, documents, and testimonies related to the martyrs and their times. Some of the items that caught my attention were the chains, spears, and knives that were used to torture and kill the martyrs, the personal belongings of the martyrs, such as their rosaries, medals, and clothes, and the letters and reports of the missionaries who witnessed the martyrdom. The museum also has a section that features the other Christian martyrs who were killed by the same king, such as the Anglicans and the Orthodox, as well as the Muslim martyrs who were killed by the previous king, Kabaka Mutesa I. The museum is a rich source of information and inspiration for anyone who wants to learn more about the Uganda Martyrs and their impact on the Church and the society.
The Gardens
The shrine is surrounded by beautiful gardens that offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The gardens have various statues, monuments, and fountains that honor the martyrs and their faith. One of the most impressive statues is the one of St. Charles Lwanga, who is depicted holding a burning stick in his hand, symbolizing his readiness to die for Christ. Another notable monument is the one of St. Kizito, the youngest martyr, who is shown holding a palm branch, a sign of victory. The gardens also have a pond that represents the lake where some of the martyrs were drowned, and a pavilion that hosts the relics of the martyrs, such as their bones and ashes. The gardens are a perfect place to meditate on the lives and the teachings of the martyrs and to ask for their intercession.
In a Nutshell;
Uganda Martyrs Shrine is more than just a place of worship, it is a place of witness and wonder. It is a place where one can encounter the martyrs who gave their lives for Christ and the Church, and who are now glorified in heaven. It is a place where one can experience the power and the beauty of the faith that transcends all trials and tribulations. It is a place that you should not miss when you visit Uganda.
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