Lubaga Cathedral @100: A Century of Faith, History, and Hope for Uganda
Kampala |Uganda
The golden bells of St Mary’s Cathedral Lubaga rang louder than ever this Sunday as thousands of faithful filled the historic hilltop site to celebrate 100 years since its consecration. The air was electric with songs of praise, drumming, and dancing — a living testament to how far Uganda’s Catholic community has come since 1925.
The celebration drew pilgrims from every corner of the country, led by the Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, and graced by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who attended as guest of honour.
A Living Monument
Perched majestically atop Lubaga Hill, the cathedral has watched Kampala grow and transform over a century. Constructed by early missionary pioneers and local craftsmen, Lubaga Cathedral became not just a sanctuary of worship, but also a cradle of education, moral guidance, and community upliftment.
“Lubaga is more than a building. It’s a heartbeat — the pulse of our faith and culture,” Archbishop Ssemogerere told the congregation.
He urged Ugandans to see the centenary as a renewal of faith and unity, not just a remembrance of the past.
Museveni Hails Church’s Contribution
In his remarks, President Museveni praised the Catholic Church’s role in education, healthcare, and nation-building, commending its consistency in shaping Uganda’s moral fibre.
He also lauded the church’s investment in youth empowerment and social development — values, he said, “that continue to strengthen our country’s foundation.”
The President’s presence at Lubaga Cathedral underscored the intersection of faith and national identity, as the cathedral has long been a gathering place for both spiritual and civic reflection.
Restoration and Revival
Leading up to the centenary, major renovation works were carried out — from repainting the façade and refurbishing pews to restoring stained-glass windows depicting Uganda’s first Catholic martyrs.
The refurbishment project, budgeted at UGX 2.4 billion, saw overwhelming community support, with contributions from parishioners, businesses, and diaspora faithful.
A new museum and heritage centre are also in the works, aimed at preserving artefacts, photographs, and records that trace the evolution of Catholicism in Uganda.
Moments of Joy and Reflection
The centenary Mass featured choirs from all Kampala deaneries, processions by Catholic youth groups, and a symbolic lighting of candles to honour the pioneers who built the church brick by brick.
For many attendees, it was deeply emotional — an opportunity to reconnect with ancestral faith and celebrate the unity it has fostered for generations.
Looking Ahead
As the celebrations drew to a close, the message was clear: Lubaga Cathedral’s story is far from over.
It now stands as a beacon for faith renewal, a call for moral leadership, and a reminder that Uganda’s history of resilience is rooted in spiritual conviction.
“We celebrate 100 years not to look back, but to move forward — together, stronger in faith,” Archbishop Ssemogerere affirmed.
