St. Joseph’s Hill Senior Secondary School in Kyembogo, Kyenjojo District, was filled with joy, faith, and a strong sense of community as it hosted the Feast of St. Joseph celebration on March 22nd, 2026, under its inspirational academic theme of the year, “Awakening the Sleeping Giants Among Us.”
The celebration brought together students, staff, parents, clergy, and guests from across the Holy Cross community for a meaningful moment of spiritual renewal. Highlighted by reverence and enthusiastic participation, the day showcased a shared dedication to embodying St. Joseph’s virtues—humility, faith, and selfless service.
The Holy Mass was led by Rev. Fr. Peter Caxton Mayanja, C.S.C., Provincial Superior of the Congregation of Holy Cross in East Africa, who served as the main celebrant, with Rev. Fr. James Burasa as Co-Celebrant. In his homily, he challenged everyone present, especially the young people, to “awaken the sleeping giants within,” encouraging them to recognize their God-given potential and pursue lives of purpose, courage, and faith.
He was joined by a distinguished Holy Cross priest and brothers, including Rev. Fr. Richard Pothast, C.S.C, Rev. Fr. Peter Qorro, C.S.C. (Vocations Director), Rev. Fr. Leonard Olobo, C.S.C., Rev. Fr. Douglas Alinaitwe, C.S.C. (School Chaplain at Holy Cross Lake View), Rev. Fr. Vincent Balikudembe, and Rev. Fr. Joseph Isingoma, C.S.C. (School Chaplain at St. Joseph’s Hill S.S.S). Also, present were Br. Joseph Kaganda, C.S.C., Headteacher of the school; Br. Cleophas Kyomuhemdo, C.S.C., Assistant Provincial Superior; Br. Jim Nichols, C.S.C.; Rev. Fr. Tom Smith, C.S.C.; and Br. John Flood, C.S.C., along with novices from Saaka Novitiate and the Sisters of the Holy Cross from the region.
A solemn procession and uplifting hymns from the school choir enriched the liturgical celebration.
A particularly inspiring moment of the day was recognizing excellence within the school community. In his capacity as both Provincial Superior and Chairman of the Board of Governors, Rev. Fr. Peter Caxton Mayanja, C.S.C., honored Mr. Friday Francis, a former student and now a member of staff, who recently graduated with a First Class Degree in Education from Mountains of the Moon University. Now teaching Physics and Mathematics at St. Joseph’s Hill S.S.S., his achievement serves as a strong testament to perseverance, discipline, and the very spirit of “awakening the sleeping giant” within.
Other students were also recognized for their outstanding performance in the catechism contest. The School Choir was applauded for its dedication to enriching liturgical celebrations. The head of the Debating Club (Mr. Safari Thomas, assisted by Ms. Kiconco Susan) received special mention for leading the school Debating team to UNSA National competitions and for their commitment to student well-being. These recognitions highlighted the diverse talents and shared excellence within the school community.
The celebration was further enhanced by the lively participation of learners from a sister institution. Students and staff from Holy Cross Lake View Secondary School took part in the celebration. At the same time, pupils from Moreau Nursery and Primary School brought color and excitement through their marching band. Collaborative activities, including joint choir performances, Debate Competitions held the day before, and friendly sports like volleyball and netball, strengthened bonds within the Holy Cross family and showcased the unity of its mission.
Reflections from community members captured the spirit of the day. Mr. Kamara Keneth, a history teacher, praised the unity among students and teachers, while a parent, Mr. Muramira Godfrey, expressed pride in his daughter’s active participation. Katikara Carolyn, a Senior Four student, shared that the celebration inspired her “to try harder not only in my studies but also in serving others.” Mr. Sunday Adrea, a member of the school support staff, noted that the event made him feel “truly part of this big family.” These voices echoed the joy, inclusiveness, and meaningful impact of the celebration.
Beyond the day’s events, the school reaffirmed its dedication to ongoing development through planned initiatives such as community outreach, environmental activities, and peer mentorship programs. These efforts aim to ensure that the celebration’s message continues to influence the lives of students and the wider community.
The celebration served as a strong testament to the unity and vitality of the Holy Cross family in East Africa. In keeping with Holy Cross’s global mission to educate both the mind and the heart and to serve others with compassion, the event motivated everyone present to live lives of faith, leadership, and service.
As the community moves forward, the example of St. Joseph remains a guiding light, calling each person to live with humility, courage, and unwavering trust in God and, above all, to awaken the greatness within.
