Glory will fill Virika hill On March 2nd, 2025, as a large Congregation will unite for a significant event—the re-dedication of Our Lady of Snows Virika Cathedral in Fort Portal. Originally constructed in 1967 and dedicated on April 21, 1968, by His Eminence Laurian Cardinal Rugambwa, the then Archbishop of Bukoba, Tanzania, this cathedral stands as the heart of the Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, serving as the bishop’s seat. And now Archbishop Luigi Bianco the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda is expected to officiate the re- dedication.
The re-dedication is more than a simple ceremony; it represents a deep recognition of the community’s evolving faith, tireless dedication, and resilience. Msgr. Isaiah Mayombo, the Vicar General of the diocese, recently shared that this occasion offers the people of Tooro a chance to celebrate their unity, spiritual heritage, and the natural beauty of the region, which attracts both tourists and spiritual seekers alike. He emphasized that the re-dedication calls for a renewal and spiritual commitment.
Rev. Fr. Fred Jenga, C.S.C., the President of Holy Cross Family Ministries, who once served in the diocese working with families, along with the Holy Cross religious community in the Province of East Africa, highlighted the enduring legacy of Servants of God Bishop McCauley in the Diocese of Fort Portal. He extended an invitation to friends of Bishop McCauley to join in Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki’s initiative aimed at renovating the historic Cathedral, a project that McCauley himself passionately advocated for, rallying the support of his family, community, and friends alongside the people of Fort Portal Diocese to build.
Seated on top of Virika Hill along the Kasese Road, Our Lady of Snows Virika Cathedral is a stunning architectural masterpiece that embodies faith and strength, designed to withstand the seismic challenges of the area. As the diocese prepares to return to this beautifully renovated church, they reflect on the vision of Père Achte, who, upon arriving in Tooro and gazing upon the majestic snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, was inspired to name the mission “Our Lady of the Snows.” Following the destruction of the first church by an earthquake, Rt. Rev. Vincent Joseph McCauley, the then Bishop of Fort Portal, took it upon himself to build a new, more resilient cathedral, completed between 1967 and 1968. He envisioned a sanctuary that would rise from the ashes, serving as a refuge and symbol of hope for all.
Today, under the leadership of Rt. Rev. Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki, we witness the continuation of this legacy as he galvanized support to preserve and enhance this remarkable structure, a true icon of African ecclesiastical architecture. This re-dedication will see diverse faith leaders and communities come together as one, celebrating a shared commitment to faith and unity as desired by Bishop McCauley. When asked why in that shape and design while talking in an interview about Bishop McCauley he said,
Rt. Rev. Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki remarked in a recent interview that Bishop McCauley designed the Cathedral in a circular shape because he desired and promoted a church community where all gather and pray as family.
Bishop McCauley, now a servant of God, was a man of profound faith and vision. He understood the healing power of the Church, especially in times of despair following the earthquake that left many little hopes. He didn’t just construct a building; he planted seeds of faith and hope that has continued to flourish under the stewardship of his predecessors and the clergy of the diocese.
Our Lady of Snows Virika Cathedral now stands as a testament of the unwavering faith of the people of Toro, and the many who will attend this event will come to experience the fruits of divine love, the joy of the gospel, and strengthen their communal ties. Bishop McCauley’s compassionate outreach extended to the marginalized and suffering, as he worked tirelessly to uplift orphans, the education sector, give hope to refugees, the sick and the needy during turbulent times as some who truly understood the gospel question of “Who is my neighbor.
As we approach the re-dedication of this cherished cathedral, let us remember Bishop McCauley and all his predecessors who have contributed to the growth this diocese and its ministries.
When reached for a comment Fr. Caxton Peter Mayanja, CSC the Provincial of the Congregation of Holy Cross Province of East Africa said he will make a spiritual pilgrimage to the diocese joining his Holy Cross Community members who serve in the diocese in appreciation of the Bishop of fort portal and clergy for keeping the Holy Cross legacy but also celebrate the foundation laid by Bishop McCauley, which has touched countless lives through the spiritual programs of the diocese and the good collaboration with the congregation. The cathedral inspires us to continue this important work. He commented.
As we prepare for the re-dedication, we honor Bishop McCauley’s legacy and the countless individuals who have contributed to the cathedral’s mission. This event is an opportunity for us to reflect on our journey, to remember the trials we’ve faced, and to celebrate the triumph of faith over adversity.
Join us on March 2nd, 2025, as we come together to re-dedicate Our Lady of Snows Virika Cathedral. Let us honor our past, cherish the present, and look forward with hope to the future. Together, we will carry forward Bishop McCauley’s mission of love, under the Cross as our only hope, and continue to pray for his beautification.
As the Holy Cross team from Rome arrived at Our Lady of Sorrows, Bukwali Catholic Parish in the Fort Portal Diocese to document Bishop McCauley’s spiritual legacy, they were greeted by the uplifting melodies of a vibrant choir rehearsing for the upcoming rededication liturgy at the parish where Servant of God Bishop McCauley first served as pastor in the diocese. This choir also led the memorable Uganda Martyrs Day Mass in Namugongo in 2022, as noted by Fr. Joseph Musana, who was present at that occasion. This underscores the anticipation for the event and emphasizes the growing impact of Servant of God Bishop McCauley’s spiritual legacy. Rev. Fr. Moses Mutangirizi, the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Sorrows Bukwali Parish, mentioned that this parish is dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, the patroness of the Congregation of Holy Cross.
Immaculate Kisembo
Virika Cathedral Church, for the press.
