CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE SSABAKRISTU/ HEAD OF THE LAITY NAGGULU PARISH

As we joyfully celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, I extend warm Christmas greetings to all parishioners and friends of Our Lady and St. Jude Parish, Naggulu. We thank God for His abundant graces throughout 2025.

I thank our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Bbuye Joseph Mary, for his Pastoral leadership and guiding us through the year in all the Parish Activities. I also thank the Assistants, Rev Fr. Stephen Syambi and Rev Fr. Raymond Balikudembe, for their support and for actively following up on all the liturgical and administrative duties which uphold the Parish.

I also thank the Sabakristus of the Small Christian Communities for mobilizing and supporting the Parishioners in their Communities to remain focused in their faith. The heads of Departments of the Parish Council are appreciated for responding to the continuous programs required of them, especially from the Archdiocese, and engaging the Parishioners to participate.

Special thanks go to the Building Committee, who have continued to follow up on the progress of the construction of the Church project, including the big challenge of mobilizing the requisite funds. We thank the fundraising drives like Kamu kamu. The progress is visible and we pray that this effort is blessed with more resources.

Also appreciated are the Catechists for the Catechetical support, especially to our children and the Married couples. The staff members of the Parish who continuously sustain the daily Parish activities are also acknowledged for their dedication. We continue to pray through our Patron Saints, Mother Mary and St. Jude, to continue interceding for us in our respective responsibilities.

I congratulate all those who were blessed during the period, those who have been wedded, and those who have been blessed in various ways. I also extend our prayers to the sick in our communities and condolences to those who have lost their dear ones, and pray to the Almighty God to grant them eternal rest.

SOME OF THE NOTABLE PASTORAL EVENTS / ACTIVITIES IN THE YEAR 2025

I wish to thank God that I was able to make the Holy Pilgrimage to Rome, from 21st to 30th November 2025. My self and Fr. Marvin represented our Parish in this important Act of faith in this Jubilee year of 2025. We received the Pope's blessing and were able to perform the pilgrimage, the act of passing through the holy doors.

1. The Parishioners of Our Lady and St Jude made the Holy Year pilgrimage to Munyonyo Minor Basilica in August 2025. They were led by Fr. Marvin Lukyamuzi. I wish to thank the members of the Liturgy department and the Sabakristus for the mobilization.

2. The Parish Priest and the Sabakristu attended the Lubaga Cathedral @100 years and Archdiocese celebration at Lubaga Cathedral. We were appreciated for the YOYOTA support.

3. The Deputy Sabakristu Mr. Sebalu Kyompitira attended the Naggulu Denary meeting which took place at Ntinda St Charles Lwanga.

4. The St. Jude Novena for July 2025 and for October 2025 were successfully organized as scheduled and were very well attended. Also, the St. Jude's Patron Saint day, was very well organized and attended, where we hosted HE President Museveni as the Chief Pilgrim and His Grace Rt. Rev Mark Kadima from Bungoma Diocese Kenya, along with many Pilgrims and Devotees. We thank the Central Organizing Committee (COC) supported by the Parish Priest and the Parish Council, for the good preparation. The COC sat in the Evaluation meeting and pointed out the successes and gaps and policy guidelines are being developed to guide us on how to prepare these celebrations and the financial guidelines.

5. The Parish Day celebrations of 71 years took place on 29th June with low key celebrations during our Sunday Masses but majorly looked at the achievements registered throughout the year. An account of the activities undertaken in the year was given in summary in the Sunday Parishioner of 29th June 2025. I thank the Sabakristus and the departments who spearheaded the activities.

6. The Process of Making the Strategic plan for our Parish is still ongoing, we have been consulted at all levels and we expect the plan to be completed before the beginning of the Lenten season 2026.

7. The Registration (Census) of our Parishioners is still open but the available data show that the Parish has a total of 1855. Parishioners including children. We wish to include the members of our daily masses who make an integral part of our Parish. We shall ensure that this is completed before the beginning of the Lenten season and later updated continuously.

8. The Parish Outreach programs have continued within schools, workplaces (Centenary bank, Auto Link) and St. Jude Nakawa Market, St Antony, St Ponsiano, and St Gonzaga). I wish to thank our Priests for this Pastoral work.

9. Departmental heads undertook several programs in their respective sectors. Liturgy, PMS, Catholic Women's guild, Men's Guild, Youth, Choir members, Children's Ministry, and Oratorio. I wish to acknowledge with thanks those performing departments and thank the Parish Priest for the support.

10. The Liturgy Department is appreciated for implementing the liturgical calendar activities, and also the launch of St. Jude Novena at the beginning of the Month and the re-launch of the prayer for the successful Completion of Our Lady and St. Jude Shrine. The choirs are appreciated for singing and encouraged to improve.

11. The Catechists Team is commended for its continued commitment to catechizing our children for all sacraments, including the Baptism, first Holy Communion, and high Communion, and they received these sacraments in October and November 2025.

We are in the process of compiling and completing our Annual Parish Report 2025, which will also be forwarded to the Archdiocese. I request all Sabakristus of Small Christian Communities and the departmental leaders to complete their reports and hand them in to the Parish Priest or Parish Secretary/ Administrator. 

DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:

The Development Committee is planning to enhance the Oratorio space and construct additional toilets, particularly to cater for large congregations during events such as the Novena. Parish projects, including St. Jude Primary School and St. Jude Nursery School, require significant improvements. In addition, the parish gardens and church premises need a second access point. There is also a need to plan for the construction of an improved Parish Presbytery that aligns with the high standards of the magnificent church structure currently being developed.

COMING YEAR 2026 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND PROGRAMS:

As we await the stated theme, goals, and objectives of our Parish from our Strategic plan, the main focus for the year 2026 will be to complete our Church, St Jude Shrine. We shall also strive to make the Parish an all-inclusive Parish where members can come for both spiritual and social solace can be got. Programs towards the achievement of this ideal will be supported in every category of Christian Youth, the Married Couples, the Aged, the Sick, and the children alike. We will strive to improve our financial and social well-being to make our Parish reclaim its posture in the Deanery. The Program for next year 2026, will be concluded by the Secretariat after the one from the Archdiocese has been received. With Mother Mary and St. Jude, we shall accomplish Our Lady and St. Jude Naggulu Shrine.

I wish to thank our Parish Priest for continuously holding together the Parish and being sensitive to the needs of the Parishioners. I also thank the Sabakristus and the members of the Executive supporting the Parish Programs. Our Curates are also appreciated for supporting the Parish Priest in delivering his pastoral mandate. The Parish Staff is equally thanked for their support throughout the year.

As we enter the New Year 2026 with hope, may the light of Christ renew our faith, unity, and commitment to completing Our Lady and St. Jude Shrine. Through the intercession of Mother Mary and St. Jude, may our Parish continue to grow spiritually and socially.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a blessed, fruitful New Year 2026.

Thu 25, Dec 2025 04:12 am

Welcoming Advent: A Season of Hopeful Waiting

As we begin the liturgical year on this First Sunday of Advent, November 30, 2025, the Church invites us to enter a sacred time of preparation. The word "Advent" derives from the Latin adventus, meaning "coming," "arrival," or "presence." In ancient Roman usage, it described the official visit of a king or emperor to a province, often marked by celebration and reverence. Early Christians adapted this term to signify Christ's threefold coming: His historical incarnation at Bethlehem, His ongoing spiritual presence in the Eucharist and grace, and His glorious return at the end of time, the Parousia. This etymology captures the season's essence: not mere anticipation, but an active encounter with the divine King who draws near.

Historically, Advent emerged in the Western Church by the fourth century as a period of preparation for Christmas, the feast of Christ's Nativity established around 336 AD. Initially, it may have been a longer fast resembling Lent, beginning as early as November 11 or even the autumn equinox, with synods like that of Mâcon in 581 prescribing Lenten-like observances on certain days. By the ninth century, it stabilized at four Sundays, starting the nearest to St. Andrew's feast on November 30, as formalized under Pope St. Gregory the Great (590-604). The Gelasian Sacramentary noted five Sundays initially, reduced to four by Pope St. Gregory VII (1073-85). Unlike the Greek Church, which observed it mainly as a fast from November 15 without a full liturgical cycle until later, the Roman tradition developed a rich liturgy of violet vestments, omitted Gloria, and readings from Isaiah foretelling the Messiah. Over time, it evolved from strict penitence to a "devout and expectant delight," balancing somber reflection with joyful hope, as affirmed in the 1969 Universal Norms on the Liturgical Year.

Pastoral significance lies in Advent's dual focus: commemorating Christ's humble first coming while orienting hearts to His triumphant second coming, the Parousia. As Pope Benedict XVI explained, Advent reminds us that Christ, the King who visited our "poor province" of earth, remains present in the sacraments and will return in glory to judge and renew creation. Drawing from Catholic doctrine on the Parousia—the Greek term for Christ's visible return, evoking a royal advent with judgment, resurrection, and cosmic renewal—this season urges vigilance amid daily life. Isaiah's prophecies of peace (Is 2:2-4; 11:1-10) and St. Paul's calls to alertness (1 Thess 4:16-17; 5:1-6) echo in the readings, fostering conversion and hope. Like the early Church Fathers, who saw the Parousia as imminent yet mercifully delayed for repentance, Advent trains us to recognize Christ's "intermediate" coming in our souls today, bridging history and eternity. It counters modern distractions, inviting us to see events as signs of God's love, preparing for the Kingdom where "new heavens and a new earth" dawn (Rev 21:1).

In this Advent, let us embrace the Maranatha prayer—"Come, Lord Jesus!"—through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. Confess sins, attend the Eucharist devoutly, and ponder the Parousia's promise of justice and peace. As seeds rest in winter soil awaiting spring, may our hearts germinate in faith, ready to welcome Christ anew. Vigilant and joyful, we hasten His Kingdom in our world.

Fr. Stephen Syambi
#Soldier of Christ

Tue 02, Dec 2025 08:12 am

ST . JUDE THADDEUS FEAST DAY 2025

On 28th October 2025, we celebrated the 71st St. Jude’s feast day in Uganda. The main celebrant was Bishop Mark Kadima Wamukoya of Bungoma Diocese, Kenya. Among the co-celebrants were the Vicar General of Kampala Archdiocese, Msgr. Vincent Rogers Mukasa Kabuye, Msgr. Charles Kasibante, the Director of Lay Apostolate Movements in Kampala Archdiocese, and our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye. The Chief Pilgrim was H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda. The choir from Bungoma Diocese animated mass.

Tue 11, Nov 2025 01:11 am

OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT OF ST. JUDE THADDEUS NOVENA AND FEAST DAY 2025

The National Director of St. Jude Thaddeus Devotion, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye, together with the organizing Committee of the annual feast day of St. Jude, joyfully invite all the faithful and people of God to the 71st anniversary of the St. Jude Devotion in Uganda, that will be held on Tuesday, 28th October 2025 at Our Lady and St. Jude Parish Naggulu, the National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus.

St. Jude Thaddeus' feast day will be the climax of the St. Jude novena prayers that will commence on 19th October up to 27th, culminating in the Solemn Feast Day Mass that will be animated by the Diocese of Bungoma, Western Kenya, under the leadership of Rt. Rev. Mark Kadima Wamukoya at 10:00 am

Join hundreds of local and international pilgrims and experience Renewal, Hope, and Healing during this year’s special celebrations, under the theme: Luke 1:37 “THERE IS NOTHING THAT GOD CANNOT DO”
 

OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT OF ST. JUDE THADDEUS NOVENA AND FEAST DAY 2025

Tue 21, Oct 2025 04:10 am

Third Annual Solemn Novena to St. Jude

Third Annual Solemn Novena to St. Jude

Thu 18, Sep 2025 02:09 am

BUILDING ON FAITH CAMPAIGN

Introduction

This is a unique fundraising initiative to support the construction of our new church. "Building on Faith" is a campaign that invites members of our community, friends, and Devotees to contribute towards this noble endeavour. Our goal is to raise funds through the symbolic, memorable Souvenirs of Faith, each representing a level of commitment to our shared vision.

How the idea was conceived:

This was based on the resilience of the faithful who kept on contributing to this cause years before the construction began. There were a lot of challenges that prevented the beginning of the construction, but the devotees contributed at every novena and the Parishioners every Sunday. This level of faith is very commendable and has to be recognised and appreciated.

The Souvenirs of Faith:

We have identified seven precious Souvenirs of Faith to be represented on plaques and Certificates, each with a specific value. These Souvenirs of Faith resonate, embody, and move around seven criteria as per the attached message of faith.

We are excited to launch a unique fundraising initiative to support the construction of our new church. "Building on Faith" is a campaign that invites well-wishers, community members, Friends, Devotees, and all people of God to support this noble endeavour. Our goal is to raise funds through the symbolic souvenirs, each representing a level of commitment to our shared vision.

How can we ensure everyone’s participation?

This initiative shall have Champions that will go out to individuals, associations and groups with a view to achieving participation through direct contact with individuals, social media and other communication channels.

Parishioners will be reached through their Small Christian Communities. Banners will be displayed at the Parish, and fliers given out as and when there is a gathering. All who may wish to participate will be given clear communication/and explanation on where the money can be paid.

1. Choose a souvenir that resonates with your commitment.

2. Make a donation corresponding to the value of your chosen souvenir.

3. Receive a souvenir of faith in appreciation and recognition for your contribution.

Goals and Objectives

Our target is to raise SHS 1.5 Billion to support the construction of our new church. Funds will be allocated towards:

1. Building the Bell tower and the Church front

2. Completion of the steel roof structure

3. Installation of the insulation materials and Decra tiles on the roof

Winning Clause

"Building on Faith" is more than just a fundraising campaign – it's an opportunity for us to come together as one to demonstrate our commitment to our shared values. We invite you to join us on this journey and contribute towards building a sacred space where we can worship, grow, and serve together.

Thank you for your support!

Mrs. Grace Kariisa

Chairperson Fundraising Committee

Thu 21, Aug 2025 03:08 am

LET US UNITE AND WALK AS ONE CHURCH

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we celebrate the joy of the Resurrection of our Lord, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your dedication and perseverance throughout the Lenten season.

From the beginning on Ash Wednesday, we have journeyed together in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These three pillars of Lent have not only helped us to grow closer to God, but they have also strengthened our Parish Community.

I encourage each one of us to remember that the practices we embraced during Lent should not end with the season. Instead, let them become a continued part of our daily lives. Let us remain prayerful, both as individuals and as a family of believers. Let us fast, not just during Lent, but with hearts that remain atonned to God’s will. And let us be charitable, especially towards the poor, marginalized and vulnerable members of our community, for they are the ones in greatest need of our love and support.

I also wish to remind you that the construction of our church is still underway, and more funds are required for its completion. I appeal to your generosity and self–sacrifice so that we can finish this project in the shortest time possible. It is our prayer that we may soon move from our current small temporary church to a large, more fitting place of worship (Shrine), one that will better accommodate the needs of our growing Parish.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the support and collaboration you have shown towards the Priests, the Parish Council, and all agents of evangelization of this Parish. Your commitment has enabled us to carry out our duties with diligence and love. May God continue to bless each of you for your contribution. I urge all of us to remain united as a one Parish right from our families and small Christian communities to the Parish level. We must avoid any forms of division based on political, language, or tribal differences. Such divisions, if left unchecked, can tear apart the fabric of our community. Unity is key to our success in the work of the Lord, and if we remain united, we will continue to grow and serve God’s will in peace.

As Christians, we are pilgrims on a journey of hope. Though we face trials and sufferings in this life, we are reminded that Jesus Himself endured suffering, died for our sins, and on the third day rose from the dead, triumphing over death. In his resurrection, we find the ultimate promise of victory and restoration. Let us hold fast to this hope, knowing that no matter the depth of our struggles, there is always a new life waiting for us in eternity. With Christ our suffering is never the end, but the beginning of a glorious new dawn.

As we celebrate this Easter season, I wish you a blessed, joyful, and peaceful celebration. May the joy of the resurrection fill your hearts, and may we continue to work together in faith and love.

Allelluia, Alleluia!

Tue 22, Apr 2025 10:04 am

The Easter Candle: A Light of Faith, and Hope

There is something profoundly moving about the glow of a single candle piercing the darkness. In the Christian tradition, no candle carries more weight, both literally and symbolically,  than the Easter Candle, or Paschal Candle. This towering pillar of wax is far more than a decorative element in the church; it is a silent preacher, a witness to resurrection, and a tangible connection to centuries of faith. Its history is ancient, its theology rich, and its markings laden with meaning.

A Light in the Darkness: The History of the Easter Candle

The origins of the Paschal Candle stretch back to the early Church, where light was a natural symbol for Christ, the "Light of the World" (John 8:12). By the 4th century, Christians were lighting lamps during the Easter Vigil to signify the triumph of Christ over death. Over time, this practice evolved into the blessing and lighting of a large candle, which became the focal point of the Easter liturgy.

In medieval times, the Easter Candle grew in size and significance. Monasteries would craft candles so massive that they had to be lifted by pulleys, symbolizing Christ’s ascension. The candle was not just a ritual object, it was a proclamation. In a world without electricity, the sudden blaze of the Paschal Candle in a pitch-black church was a visceral experience of the Resurrection breaking into human darkness.

The Sacred Material: Beeswax and Its Symbolism

The traditional Easter Candle is made from pure beeswax, a material long cherished for its purity and symbolic meaning. Unlike paraffin or synthetic waxes, beeswax is natural, fragrant, and burns cleanly—qualities that have made it the preferred choice for sacred candles since ancient times.

But why beeswax? The Church has seen deep theological significance in it:

• Purity: Beeswax is produced by worker bees in a laborious, almost miraculous process. Since bees were traditionally seen as virginal (a medieval belief, though not scientifically accurate), the wax symbolized the sinless nature of Christ, born of the Virgin Mary.
• Sacrifice: Just as bees give of themselves to create wax, Christ gave His life for humanity. The burning of the candle mirrors His self-offering.

Light Without Defilement: Beeswax burns brightly without smoke or residue, representing Christ’s perfect light, untainted by sin.

In some traditions, the wax was even required to come from the current year’s harvest, emphasizing newness and resurrection. The use of beeswax connects the candle not just to liturgy but to creation itself—a reminder that all of nature points to the divine.

Theology: Christ as Light and Sacrifice

The Easter Candle is more than wax and wick, it is a theological statement. It represents the Risen Christ, the Light that "shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). When the candle is lit during the Easter Vigil, the priest chants, "Lumen Christi" ("Light of Christ"), and the congregation responds, "Deo Gratias" ("Thanks be to God"). This moment encapsulates the heart of Christian faith: death is conquered, and life prevails.

But the candle also speaks of sacrifice. Just as the wax is consumed to give light, Christ offered Himself for the world. This dual symbolism—light and sacrifice—makes the Paschal Candle a powerful reminder that faith is not just about triumph but also about self-giving love.

The Markings: A Story Etched in Wax

If you look closely at an Easter Candle, you’ll find sacred engravings, each with deep meaning:

1. The Cross – The central symbol, representing Christ’s victory over death. It is often accompanied by the Greek letters Alpha (Α) and Omega (Ω), the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, signifying that Christ is the beginning and the end (Revelation 22:13).

2. The Year – The current year is inscribed to remind us that Christ’s resurrection is not just a past event but a present reality, renewing time itself.

3. Five Grains of Incense – Embedded in the cross (sometimes in wax nails), these represent the five wounds of Christ (hands, feet, and side). They are a tactile reminder that the Light of the World was pierced for love.

Other Symbols – Some candles feature additional imagery, such as a vine (John 15:5), a lamb (Revelation 5:12), or a phoenix (an ancient symbol of resurrection).

A Human Touch: Why the Easter Candle Matters Today

In an age of artificial light and fleeting digital screens, the Easter Candle stands as a countercultural sign. It does not glow on demand; it must be lit by hand, tended, and revered. Its light is fragile yet enduring—just like faith itself.

For many, the sight of the Paschal Candle evokes childhood memories: the scent of beeswax, the sound of the Exsultet (the ancient hymn sung at its lighting), the warmth of its flame in a cold, dark church. It is a sensory experience that bypasses intellectual arguments and touches the soul directly.

Ultimately, the Easter Candle is a story—one of darkness and light, death and life, despair and hope. It tells us that no night is endless, no tomb is final. And in a world that often feels shadowed, that is a truth worth carrying, year after year, in the flicker of a candle’s flame.

May the light of the risen Christ illumine your lives with blessings! Happy Easter!

Tue 22, Apr 2025 10:04 am

“He is Risen indeed, Alleluia!”

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Happy Easter!
Christ is Risen! Alleluia!

On this joyous occasion of Easter, as we celebrate the triumph of our Lord Jesus Christ over death, I bring you heartfelt greetings on behalf of Naggulu Parish laity leadership. This sacred season reminds us of the power of faith, hope, and renewal in our lives.

We greatly appreciate the unwavering devotion and spiritual guidance of our esteemed Priests, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye, the Parish Priest, and Rev. Fr. Marvin Lukyamuzi, the Assistant Parish Priest, who continue to inspire and nourish our souls. Fathers, during this Lenten season, we are grateful for your steadfast companionship and for guiding us with compassion and commitment into the celebration of Easter. I pray that the Risen Lord will shower you with bountiful blessings.

The Holy Father, Pope Francis, declared 2025 to be a Jubilee year with the theme, "Pilgrims of Hope." It serves as a reminder of our collective obligation to fortify and develop our Parish community. As a Parish, we are arranging to make a pilgrimage to Namugongo in August 2025. I wish to call upon you dear parishioners, to spare the set date and we perform this spiritual act of faith as a Parish.

Distinguished parishioners, your dedication and encouragement have enabled us to make significant progress in the construction of our Church project. We are grateful to God for your support.  As many of you are aware, we are currently in the final phases of completing the roofing of our new church building, a significant milestone in our journey of faith and development. I thank all of you as Basic Small Christian Communities and individuals who have continued to donate during this phase.

In order to complete this critical phase, we require additional financial assistance. In the spirit of Easter giving and renewal, we humbly implore each of you to make more generous contribution, regardless of the quantity, to assist us in realizing this objective. We can, collectively roof the church and elevate our spirits in gratitude. This is not merely a construction project; it is a sacred mission to construct a temple of God that is both fitting and appropriate for future generations. Together, let us strive to realize this vision through faith and generosity.

May the Peace and graces of the Risen Lord infuse your hearts and homes. God bless our Parish and may our combined endeavors bring honor to His name.

Wishing you a blessed Easter season.

Tue 22, Apr 2025 10:04 am

HOLY WEEK PROGRAM 2025

Fri 18, Apr 2025 01:04 am