Ninety-three Christians from Masaka Diocese have been officially commissioned to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage to Rome, Italy, as part of the Jubilee Year 2025 celebrations.
The pilgrims were sent off during a special Holy Mass at Our Lady of Sorrows Kitovu Cathedral, led by Serverus Jjumba, the Bishop of Masaka, who will also lead the group throughout the pilgrimage.
In his homily, Bishop Jjumba urged the faithful to travel not as mere tourists but as “Pilgrims of Hope,” rooted deeply in faith and guided by the Holy Year’s theme.
“We are not just making a physical journey. We are not tourists but pilgrims, seeking to be more united to the crucified Lord — for ourselves, our community, and the entire Christian family,” he said.
He emphasized that their mission is centered on prayer, drawing strength from the Risen Christ who sustains believers through the hardships of life and points them toward the hope of eternal life.
The group is scheduled to depart from Entebbe International Airport at 7:00 AM on October 13, 2025.
Their journey will take them to several holy sites in Italy, including the shrines of Padre Pio, Francis of Assisi, and Rita of Cascia, as well as the Tomb of Saint Peter at the Vatican City.
A highlight of the pilgrimage will be an audience with Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday.
Among the pilgrims are 14 priests — including Fr. Mukalazi Georgewilliam, Fr. Kalyesubira, Fr. Martin Ssemanda, Fr. Martin Ssewanyana, and Fr. Joseph Sserunjogi — alongside 7 nuns and lay Christians.
They carry specific prayer intentions, including peace in families, unity within the Church, protection from global diseases and epidemics, and academic success for students sitting exams in 2025.
Bishop Jjumba called upon Christians at home to spiritually accompany the pilgrims through prayer, noting that their mission represents the entire faith community of Masaka Diocese.
