On Sunday, 29th September 2024, Holy Cross Parish Bugembe, located in Jinja, Uganda, marked its 33rd anniversary with the theme,
“Faith with Actions Leads us to Salvation,” inspired by James 2:14.
The day was a vibrant and spiritually uplifting celebration, drawing over a thousand Christians, both young and old, from the surrounding community. Among the key activities were the Sacrament of Confirmation, the renewal of marriage vows, and the blessing of new statues.
The event was presided over by Rev. Fr. John Baptist Mukwaya, who represented Bishop Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, Bishop of Jinja Diocese. Rev. Fr. Dennis Lule, C.S.C., the current Parish Priest, joined in leading the congregation in the Eucharistic celebration. Religious sisters, priests from various congregations, and lay faithful also gathered in unity to commemorate the parish’s rich history of faith and service.
Rev. Fr. John Baptist Mukwaya, who represented Bishop Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, Bishop of Jinja Diocese, and Rev. Fr. Mao Moshi Erasto, C.S.C.
A Journey Rooted in Faith and Dedication
Holy Cross Parish Bugembe was officially opened in 1991, with Fr. Robert “Bob” Hesse, C.S.C., serving as the first parish priest. The parish was established following a request by Bishop Joseph Willigers of Jinja Diocese then to the Congregation of Holy Cross to take responsibility for a parish in Jinja Diocese.
Holy Cross Parish Bugembe stands on a foundation built by the pioneer Christians whose zeal and faith led to the establishment of the parish. One of the most notable figures was Nantenza Elizabeth, a devout Christian whose dedication to the faith paved the way for the formation of the parish. Before the parish was formally established, she generously offered her home as a gathering place where fellow Christians could worship together. Nantenza Elizabeth has since been called to eternity and was laid to rest in Parish cemetery, where she is remembered for her extraordinary faith and commitment to the church.
The Original Temporal Church building started by Nanteza
A Dynamic and Engaged Parish Community
Over the past 33 years, Bugembe Holy Cross Parish has become a beacon of spiritual growth and renewal in the region. The pastoral team has continuously placed great emphasis on the spiritual well-being of its members. Regular parish renewal conferences and retreats provide opportunities for personal reflection and communal spiritual renewal. Days of recollection are held for each parish group, promoting deeper engagement in faith. Perpetual Eucharistic adoration and Victory Cross prayers are integral to the parish’s spiritual life, nurturing a vibrant prayer community.
The parish is also deeply committed to the Small Christian Communities (SCCs), ensuring that Masses and memorial services are held in homes and parish centers. Lay Apostolic Movements further engage parishioners in both prayer and service, fostering a spirit of faith in action throughout the parish.
Fr. John Baptist Mukwaya, confirming young, devoted Christians into catholic faith during the event.
A Parish Enriched by Religious Collaboration
Bugembe Holy Cross Parish has the distinct blessing of collaborating with five congregations of Religious Sisters: the Dimesse Sisters, the Apostolic Carmel Sisters, the Benedictine Sisters, the Sisters of the Holy Cross, and the Sisters of Mary. These religious women provide vital support to the parish’s pastoral and social ministries. Three of the four primary schools within the parish are under the care of the religious sisters, as is the parish health center, which serves the medical needs of the community.
In addition to education and healthcare, the parish addresses the emotional and physical needs of its parishioners. A cooperative savings group (SACCO) encourages parishioners to save and invest in their futures, while the “I Thirst” program focuses on providing support to the most vulnerable. The BUCHAM initiative offers essential care to those living with HIV/AIDS, highlighting the parish’s commitment to compassion and care for all.
Married Couples renewing their vows during the event and dedicating their marriage to God
A Celebration of Faith in Action
The 33rd anniversary celebration was not only a time to reflect on the rich history of Holy Cross Parish Bugembe but also a call to live out the parish’s chosen theme: “Faith with Actions Leads us to Salvation.” During the day’s events, a sense of unity and renewed commitment to living the Gospel was evident in the participation of Christians in various sacraments and ceremonies. The Confirmation of young Christians served as a powerful reminder of the Holy Spirit’s presence in the life of the parish, while the renewal of marriage vows celebrated the sanctity of family life.
The blessing of new statues further enriched the spiritual ambiance of the celebration, symbolizing the parish’s continued dedication to reverence and devotion in worship.
The presence of religious sisters, priests, and lay faithful from neighboring communities underscored the importance of collaboration and mutual support in advancing the mission of the church.
As Holy Cross Parish Bugembe enters its 34th year, the parish community remains deeply rooted in its mission of faith, service, and spiritual growth. The parish’s rich history, coupled with its commitment to addressing the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of its members, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of faith in action. This celebration is a reminder that the journey of salvation is a collective effort, fueled by faith that is lived out through meaningful and compassionate service to others.
