Only 14 days remain until the grand celebration marking 125 years of Narozari Parish — one of the oldest parishes in Masaka Diocese.
Founded on April 9, 1900, by Père Baurucel and Père Gracy, Narozari Parish holds the historic position of being the fifth oldest parish in the diocese. The journey of evangelization in the region began with Bumangi Parish in 1889, followed by Villa Maria on May 15, 1892, Biikira Parish on November 11, 1892, Kasozi Parish in 1894, and then Narozari in 1900.
Today, the parish boasts 18 sub-parishes and has given birth to several others, including Buyaga, Kindu, Kabuwoko, Bisanje, Lwaggulwe, Luvule, and Matale. The celebration is scheduled for October 25, 2025, and is expected to attract more than 10,000 Christians and well-wishers.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Vicar General of Masaka Diocese, Msgr. Dr. Dominic Ssengooba, urged the organizing committee to prepare a ceremony worthy of the milestone. He emphasized the importance of meticulous planning, particularly around guest seating arrangements, parking, security, and ensuring a calm and prayerful atmosphere during Mass.
“This is a celebration of great faith and legacy. Let us make sure the function is well-coordinated and does not take too long,” he advised.
The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Johnmary Vinniany Tamale, assured Msgr. Ssengooba that the preparations are well on track. He confirmed that major renovations of the church have been completed and that the final phase includes erecting a grand cross in honor of the parish founders.
Fr. Tamale also highlighted the development projects undertaken since 2021 in preparation for the jubilee. “We have accomplished several initiatives, including establishing a SACCO with 300 members, distributing 25 coffee seedlings to each of the 18 sub-parishes and 10 homes, and planting 20 acres of coffee, of which 7 acres have already been completed,” he said with joy.
Pater Ssenkungu, Chairman of the organizing committee, announced that the final planning session was held today to iron out every necessary detail. Sub-committees have been assigned clear responsibilities for the remaining days. He revealed that about 10,000 people are expected to attend the celebration, including 500 specially invited guests and bishops from Archdiocese of Kampala.
“This is not just a celebration for Narozari, but a moment of joy and thanksgiving for the entire Masaka Diocese,” he noted, calling on everyone to join in commemorating the great work the Lord has done over the past 125 years.
The upcoming jubilee stands as a testament to Narozari Parish’s enduring legacy of faith, community, and development.
