Dokolo, Uganda | As Christians across Uganda prepare to commemorate Martyrs’ Day tomorrow, religious leaders in Dokolo District have urged believers to balance their spiritual devotion with strict observance of health precautions aimed at preventing the spread of Ebola.
The appeal comes as churches finalize preparations for special prayers marking the annual celebration of the Uganda Martyrs, one of the country’s largest religious events.
Fr. Augustine Odongo, the Parish Priest of Dokolo Catholic Parish, said while Martyrs’ Day remains an important occasion for Christians to strengthen their faith, worshippers must not ignore government health guidelines.
He urged Christians to embrace preventive measures such as regular handwashing, sanitizing, and maintaining personal hygiene, noting that illness can disrupt families and hinder community development.
Odongo also called on believers to dedicate prayers for Uganda and the world during the celebrations, saying faith remains a source of hope during difficult moments.
At the Anglican Church, Venerable Rev. Capt. Julius Otuke, the Archdeacon of Dokolo Urban Archdeaconry, said churches have put in place safety measures to protect worshippers attending Martyrs’ Day services.
He revealed that handwashing facilities and sanitizers will be available at churches and urged Christians to cooperate with church leaders in observing all health directives.
Otuke also encouraged believers to remain steadfast in prayer, saying the church will continue organizing fellowships to seek God’s intervention for the country.
Both church leaders confirmed that Martyrs’ Day prayers will proceed as planned across churches in Dokolo District.
The annual commemoration honours 45 Christian converts — 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans — who were executed between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II for refusing to abandon their Christian faith.
Every year, millions of pilgrims from Uganda and neighbouring countries converge at Namugongo and other places of worship to remember the martyrs’ sacrifice and draw inspiration from their unwavering commitment to Christianity.