THE PARISH PRIEST VISITS THE IGP

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On Thursday 13th  March 2025, our Parish Priest, Rev.Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye together with our Head of the Laity , Rt.Hon. Dr. Margaret Nantongo Zziwa Babu, and some members of our Parish Council , visited the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Abbas Byakagaba at the Police Headquarters Naggulu.

 

Fri 14, Mar 2025 16:03 pm

FIRST ANNUAL SOLEMN NOVENA TO ST JUDE THADDEUS 2025 ENDS

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The final Mass of the Novena to St. Jude Thaddeus last Sunday was led by Bishop Serverus Jjumba of Masaka Diocese.

 

Fri 14, Mar 2025 16:03 pm

Wishing you a prosperous, peaceful, and spiritually enriching New Year 2025!

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Dear Beloved Parishioners, of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour and St Jude Parish,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we end 2024 and step into the year 2025, we are filled with gratitude for the manifold blessings of God, who has carried us through another year. This is a time to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future with faith and hope.

Responding to the Challenges Around Us

This past year has been marked by significant challenges in our nation. Natural disasters like landslides (Buduuda), tragic road accidents, garbage site collapses (Kiteezi), and the impact of illnesses have claimed many lives. These events remind us of the fragility of life and the call to care for one another. Let us not only pray for the affected families but also actively support them through acts of charity, solidarity, and advocacy for safer communities. As disciples of Christ, we are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16), bringing hope and healing wherever there is despair.

A Call to Deepen Our Spiritual Journey

Amid life’s uncertainties, we are invited to draw closer to God, the source of our strength and peace. This year, I encourage each of you to prioritize your spiritual growth. Let us participate more actively in the Eucharist, the sacraments, and parish activities. Set aside time for personal and family prayer, and immerse yourselves in the Word of God. In the words of St. Augustine, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” May our spiritual lives be a fountain of grace that nourishes our relationships, work, and service to others.

Announcing the Jubilee Year: Pilgrims of Hope

As we embark on this New Year, we do so with great joy, as it is the jubilee Year, proclaimed with the theme, “Pilgrims of Hope.” His Grace Archbishop Ssemogerere has called on us to embrace this theme, reminding us of our collective journey of faith and hope in Christ. A Jubilee is a time of renewal, grace, and deeper communion with God and one another. As pilgrims of hope, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, who sustains us on this journey and calls us to be bearers of hope to a world in need.

Unity in Diversity: Strengthening Our Parish Family

Our Lady and St. Jude Parish is uniquely blessed with a rich tapestry of ethnicities, cultures, and traditions. This diversity is not a challenge but a gift, reflecting the universality of the Church. In the spirit of the Jubilee Year, I encourage all of us to foster unity in diversity. Let us celebrate our differences as expressions of God’s creativity while working together as one family in Christ. St. Paul’s words in Galatians 3:28 resonate deeply: “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” May our parish be a shining example of harmony and mutual respect.

Faith, Hope, and Courage: Pillars for 2025

As we embrace the opportunities and challenges of this New Year, let us be inspired by the faith of the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose solemnity we honor as Catholics. Her unwavering trust in God’s plan, even in the face of uncertainty, is a beacon of hope for us. May her example guide us to say “Yes” to God’s will in our own lives, trusting that He will provide the strength and wisdom we need.

Faith anchors us in God’s promises, hope propels us forward, and courage enables us to overcome obstacles. Whether in our personal goals, family responsibilities, or communal endeavors, let us persevere with these virtues, confident that “With God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).

Unity and Responsible Citizenship

As we prepare for the country’s general elections in 2026, we must cultivate unity and peace. Let us remember that our ultimate allegiance is to God and the common good. Political differences should not divide us; rather, they should inspire constructive dialogue rooted in mutual respect and understanding. When choosing leaders, let us consider candidates who embody integrity, vision, and a genuine commitment to the development of our nation. Guided by the Church’s social teachings, let us contribute to building a society that upholds justice, human dignity, and the sanctity of life.

Strengthening Our Parish Mission

Our parish is a living community of faith, hope, and love. This year, let us renew our commitment to the mission of the Church: to evangelize, serve the poor, and witness to the Gospel in all aspects of life. Whether through contributing to parish projects, volunteering in ministries, or extending a hand to those in need, each of us has a role to play. Together, we can make Our Lady and St. Jude Parish a beacon of God’s light in Naggulu and beyond.

A Heart Full of Gratitude

The progress made in our parish’s construction project is a tangible sign of God’s presence among us. Your unwavering generosity and commitment have brought us another step closer to our vision of a new church that will stand for generations to come. Each brick laid and each sacrifice made is a testament to the unity and resilience of our community. Though the journey is not yet complete, let us trust in God, and continue working together with steadfast dedication.   Psalm

127:1 reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders’ labor in vain.”

A Blessing for the New Year

Beloved brothers and sisters, as we embark on the journey of 2025, let us place our trust in God’s providence. I pray that the Lord will bless you abundantly, guide your steps, and fill your hearts with His peace. Let us approach this year with gratitude, determination, and an unwavering commitment to live as faithful Disciples of Christ.

As the Lord instructed Moses (Numbers 6:22-27), I offer you this blessing: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.” May this blessing accompany you throughout the year and inspire you to be a blessing to others.

Wishing you a prosperous, peaceful, and spiritually enriching New Year 2025!

In Christ’s Love,

Rev Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye

PARISH PRIEST

 

Tue 07, Jan 2025 02:01 am

HEAD OF THE LAITY OUR LADY & ST. JUDE NAGGULU NEW YEAR MESSAGE 2025

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"And to us, A Son is Given," Merry Christmas to you dear Parishioners of our Lady and St. Jude.

I extend warm Christmas greetings to you all, dear Parishioners, warm and fraternal greetings go to our Parish Priest Rev, Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye, and thank him for the great pastoral work amongst us and his flock. We feel proud that we have evidenced increased evangelization due to his energy and effort to reach out to all. Last year's number of Christmas baptisms numbered 163 Children, and this year the number registered is already over 80 children. On Holy Family Sunday, the parish Priest waived the Church fees for all the Naggulu Parishioners who will get married in the year 2025. This is a manifestation of the growing Church under his stewardship.

We also thank Our Curate Rev. Fr. Marvin Lukyamuzi "the smiling Priest", full of energy and Charisma, who has drawn both the youth and old; Local and International Christians back to Naggulu. We congratulate him on the successful hosting of Our Children on Holy Innocents Day which was held on Saturday 28^th December. We feel proud to have him and may God continue to strengthen him in the New Year and head forth.

My appreciations also go to the Parish Council members and the Sabakristus of our Small Christian Communities (SCC). Allow me to mention them: Mr. Amuko Sylvesto - St Anthony, Maama Florence Kyomugisha - St. Charles Lwanga, Ms. Nyangoma - St. Gonzaga; Mrs Betty - Atim- St Kizito; Maama Namugga - St Jude Nakawa Market; Mrs. Namatovu - St. Ponsiano, and St. Balikuddemb – Hon. Margaret Zziwa (caretaker). We thank you for the tireless efforts of mobilizing our fellow Catholics and people of goodwill to fulfill their obligations as Catholics and for the support towards the Construction of Our new Church. We underscore the commitment by the Parish Executive and the Building Committee who have gone to every length to ensure that the building of the Church moves on schedule with every detail of professional requirement ensured. Thank you Mr. Sebalu Kyompitira the Deputy Sabakristu and the Chair Building Committee along with the members of the Building Committee, for the dedication and commitment. They meet every Wednesday to assess the progress and undertake specific tasks. We have set targets, and funds allow, but we still live within our targets. We are on course to put the Roof on the Church Structure by the coming Easter 2025. With Mother Mary and St Jude, we shall achieve this target.

Allow me to recognize and appreciate all the Departments and Committees who stand out to the service of the Parish; from the Sacristans, and the Catechists, to the Liturgy Department including the Choirs and the Teaching Office. You have done great to support the parishioners to deepen our faith and to love our God.

The Governing office which takes the lead and puts together the plans and programs for the Parish equally doing an incredible job. The effectiveness, pride stature, and success of our programs greatly heavily depend on this department. Thank you Sabakristus and the Treasurers for all the activities that bring in finances to support the activities of the Parish, and cater for upkeep, utilities, and general maintenance. We acknowledge with appreciation The Tithe and the other resource mobilization activities during the Sundays and the St. Jude Novenas, the “Kamu – kamu” Drive, and the Special Envelopes have greatly boosted the financing of many key activities including the Church Construction. We thank the Parish Treasurer Mr. Lukyamuzi Musoke, the Parish Administrator Mr. Olupot, and the front-line staff of the Parish, for their precision in handling the church finances.

During the year, we have benefitted a lot from the category Ministries like Children’s' Ministries, the Xaverians the Altar servers, and the Youth, who continue to support the multi-layer activities in the Parish. The Xaverians made the Christians Menger and decorated the whole Church. They ushered the pilgrims during the Novenas and even for Namugongo. The Youth support the ushering and some are Choir members and have remained steadfast in their calling. The Children's Ministry has continued evangelizing with their Citation of the Rosary every first Saturday of the month. We thank Brother Kasimiro Olwenyo for his stewardship, suffice to say that even other teams like the Everyday Mass Parishioners (6.30 am, 7 am, and I pm} have been such a committed group of parishioners supporting the construction efforts of the Church. I applaud their dedication despite the -fact that many have their home Parishes, but they equally share in this responsibility and they all effectively contributed towards the Pillar each (27m), and now they have embarked on the square meter Challenge. We thank the Sabakristus who led in the mobilization, Eng. Tony Kavuma, Mr.Maurice Barigye, and Ms. Kirabo continue to pray that God blesses them.

As the New Year 2025 dawns on, we look at it with enthusiasm, thanking God for all the blessings in this previous year, knowing that our plans and aspirations are always validated by God.

Our biggest aspiration is to Roof and Complete our Church. This is said to be one of the best Churches in East and Central Africa. We shall continue to work on our statistics of the Parishioners, we call on you to register in the Parish office or with your Sabakristus in the SCC. We call upon each member of the Parish to continue committing money for the Roofing of the Church through the available Channels; One square meter Challenge Envelope, Kamu kamu drive, One Decra pledge card, and direct contributions. Call on friends and family to give us support. The information can be found on our Website or at the Parish Office. Every Coin matters. Make sure that your name appears in the St. Jude Record Book of Blessing at the foot of the Altar. 

The Parish is in the process of making the Parish Strategic Plan to enable us to identify the synergies that will be the engine for further growth and development of our Church. We call on you to give us more ideas on the important task of bolstering the finances for the Parish. Let us work harder in 2025 to heighten financial mobilization to achieve our goals.

 Our Priests will continue to come into our Communities to offer us sacraments and deepen our faith. We shall continue to facilitate them to minister to us at the community level to offer sacraments, like the anointing of the sick, the holy Eucharist, the Penance, and many others.

To those Challenged, the sick, and the vulnerable, the good Samaritan Ministry will continue to extend its charitable hand during this year so that we shall realize our dream

May the good Lord continue to guide us through this coming year. "We the Baptized, let us journey together in Union Participation and Mission.”

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025.

Margaret Nantongo Zziwa Babu (Rt. Hon Dr.)

Head of the Laity Our Lady & St. Jude Naggulu

Tue 07, Jan 2025 02:01 am

MERRY CHRISTMAS

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My dear Parishioners, brothers and sisters in Christ, Merry Christmas to you all!

As we celebrate this Christmas, my heart is full of Joy and gratitude to God who has enabled us to reach this great day of God’s love to mankind. I thank Him for His Divine guidance and protection throughout this year 2024; and we cannot take it for granted.

As we celebrate the birth of His beloved Son, God incarnate, we are cognizant of the fact that God loves us and His love transcends all cultural, economic and social boundaries. Therefore, as a family of Naggulu we should endeavor to remain united in Faith, Hope and Love, no matter where we come from whatever challenges we face.

Fellow parishioners, this Christmas is celebrated when we are at the peak of constructing our Parish Church, the National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus in Uganda, which will be our physical home of worship where we shall come together at one time as one body of Christ.

This journey is not easy, especially as we face financial hardships and obstacles that come with the effort to build the house of the Lord. However, your sacrifices are not unnoticed, and the offering of your time, voluntary services and money, no matter how small, is a beautiful reflection of your faith and love for your Parish; and above all your God.

The current situation, is challenging, because many of our people are experiencing financial hardships due to lack of employment and unstable businesses. I appeal to you not to lose hope, just as the Holy Family of Nazareth journeyed through difficulties, we too should be strengthened by the grace of God and support of each other.

May the peace and Joy of Christ’s birth, fill your hearts and homes. Together, with faith we will see our dreams fulfilled, and our church will stand as a testament to God’s love and to your resilience as a Parish family.

Wishing you all a blessed and Merry Christmas, filled with God’s Love, Peace, and abundant blessings.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye

Paris Priest

Wed 25, Dec 2024 11:12 am

The History of the Crib: Its Liturgical and Spiritual Significance in the Catholic Church

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Historical Origins of the Crib (Ekisibo)

The origins of the crib can be traced back to the Nativity scene created by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223. St. Francis sought to convey the simplicity and humility of Christ's birth, and he did so by recreating the scene in Greccio, Italy. This live nativity scene included figures representing Mary, Joseph, the infant Jesus, and various animals, all set in a cave-like structure reminiscent of the stable in Bethlehem. The event was marked by a deep sense of joy and reverence, as it allowed the faithful to contemplate the mystery of the Incarnation in a tangible way.

The crib's significance grew over the centuries, evolving from a live representation to more artistic and elaborate displays in churches and homes. The Gospels provide the foundational details of Jesus' birth, as noted in the accounts of Luke and Matthew, which describe Mary giving birth to her firstborn son and laying him in a manger due to the lack of space in the inn. This imagery of Jesus being laid in a manger, a place where animals feed, serves as a reminder of His humility and the divine love that entered the world in such a simple manner.

Liturgical Significance of the Crib

The crib plays a vital role in the liturgical calendar, particularly during the seasons of Advent and Christmas. It serves as a focal point for worship and reflection, inviting the faithful to engage with the mystery of the Incarnation. The preparation of the crib, often involving families and children, fosters a sense of community and connection to the Christmas narrative. It becomes an occasion for prayer and contemplation, allowing families to gather and reflect on the significance of Christ's birth.

The Church, throughout the liturgical year, unfolds the entire mystery of Christ, from His Incarnation to His Ascension. The crib encapsulates this mystery, reminding believers of the profound love of God manifested in the birth of Jesus. It serves as a visual representation of the Gospel message, inviting the faithful to meditate on the themes of hope, joy, and salvation that are central to the Christmas season.

Spiritual Significance of the Crib

The crib imparts essential spiritual lessons to Christians, emphasizing virtues of humility, simplicity, and the profound love of God. Jesus was born into a poor family and laid in a manger, illustrating that heaven's glory can be revealed in the humblest of circumstances. This poverty is not merely a backdrop but a central aspect of the Christmas narrative, demonstrating that God's love is accessible to all, regardless of social status or wealth.

Sacred images, such as the crib, are intended to awaken and nourish faith in the mystery of Christ. They serve as reminders of God's presence in the ordinary and the importance of faith in daily life. The crib invites believers to reflect on their own lives, encouraging them to embrace humility and recognize the divine in the mundane.

Lessons for Catholics Today

The relevance of the crib is profound, as it encourages Christians to embrace humility, compassion, and a deeper understanding of God's love. The absence of room in the inn serves as a metaphor for the challenges of making space for Christ in one's life. In a world often filled with distractions and material pursuits, the crib calls believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to create a welcoming space for Him in their hearts.

Moreover, the crib evokes various mysteries of Jesus' life, bringing them close to the daily experiences of believers. It serves as a reminder that God's love is present in every aspect of life, urging Christians to live out their faith through acts of kindness, compassion, and service to others.

Conclusion

The crib, with its rich historical origins, liturgical significance, and spiritual lessons, remains a powerful symbol of the Christian faith. It invites believers to reflect on the humility of Christ's birth, the love of God made manifest, and the importance of making space for Him in their lives. As Christians engage with the message of the crib, they are called to embody the virtues of humility and compassion, allowing the light of Christ to shine through them in a world that often seeks to overshadow it. In the spirit of this reflection, may believers turn to Our Lady, asking for her intercession as they strive to live out the lessons learned from the crib. Merry Christmas and choicest blessings!

Fr. Marvin Lukyamuzi

Wed 25, Dec 2024 11:12 am

ST. JUDE IS OUR BRIDGE TO THE LORD

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To the Universal Church, this day, the 28^th of October, is the Feast of two Saints: Simon and Jude Thaddeus. However, to some of us; our attention is particularly drawn to the Patron of difficult, desperate, and impossible cases – St. Jude Thaddeus.

May I therefore congratulate you all: Happy Feast Day!

In a very special way, I wish to thank His Grace Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere for accepting to be our Main Celebrant today. Thank you too, Your Grace, for your pastoral care to the Archdiocese of Kampala as our Shepherd.

For nine days, until yesterday the 27^th of October, we had been praying the novena of our beloved friend St. Jude Thaddeus. Our theme up to now has been: “Give thanks to the Lord because He is good; His love is eternal.” (2 Chronicles 20: 21-23). I can be certain that between the beginning of this year until now, some us have encountered challenges. However, we cannot say that God has forsaken altogether, no. There is always something to thank God for in spite of the dark paths that we might be going through. Let us not despair, St. Jude the Patron of difficult cases is always our bridge to the Lord who is our timeless consoler.

Dear St. Jude Thaddeus devotees, thank you for being steadfast in the Lord.  I am impressed by reports concerning those of you who consistently hold prayer meetings and also give testimony about favors that you have received from God through the intercession of this saint. This is very encouraging. It is my prayer that many more people turn to God, not only through this saint but through the various channels that Mother Church gives us, like the holy sacraments.

Besides promoting the devotion, many of you are supporting our project of building a new National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus here at Naggulu. I thank the leaders of the devotion from all dioceses in Uganda and Bungoma Diocese in Western Kenya, the Parish Council and parishioners of Naggulu, and the building committee members for steering this project on our behalf. Friends of Naggulu and all of you who come here for pilgrimage, thank you. At the moment, we are working on phases two and three of this church construction project, and we require shs 512,000,000 to get it done. We count on you dear friends to support us on this project. After this stage, we shall embark on phase four, which includes: external and internal finishes, plastering, then doors and windows.

May God bless you all. Happy Feast Day!

Tue 29, Oct 2024 02:10 am

UPDATE ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF JUDE: OCTOBER 2024

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Naggulu is home to the National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus, a sacred site that draws pilgrims from across Uganda and the African continent.

The new church will offer a more conducive environment for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. It seats 1,500 people and features modern finishes, enhancing the worship experience and allowing the faithful to renew their commitment to God. It will serve as a beacon of faith and inspiration for pilgrims, while strengthening the sense of community among worshippers.

The new church will have 3 main entrances and extended windows with stained glass, allowing natural light and ventilation. Interior features will include a hardwood ceiling, marble floors, and wide seating areas free of columns. There is an adoration chapel and private areas for quiet worship, with full accessibility for the elderly and disabled.

This project represents the first phase of a larger vision that encompasses future developments in hospitality, entertainment, education, and healthcare, all situated on the parish's 10-acre property and thoughtfully designed to promote spiritual growth and reflection.   The project is overseen by a building committee in collaboration with community leaders.

Technical Progress -The project consists of 4 phases: Phase 1: the foundation was completed in May 2023. Phase 2: the columns and roofing is 70% complete by David Engineering

Phase 3: the walls, Stairs & Gallery is 80% complete by Bijan Consult. Phase 2 & 3 should be completed by the end of December 2024. Phase 4: will be the Internal and external finishes including Plastering, façade, ceilings, floors, doors & windows

Financing: -The total estimated cost is 6.4 billion, of which the Parish has raised 2.79 billion through various fundraising initiatives.

Phase 1: Foundation -Sarjan construct ltd.	1.057 bn
Phase 2: Columns & Roof -David Engineering	1.41 bn
Phase 3: walls, Stairs & Gallery -Bijan Consult	994m
Total Commitments	3.46 bn
Less: Amount Paid	2.233 bn
Total Outstanding Amount	1.227 bn
Less: Amounts Held in Banks & Investments	556m
Amount Needed to Complete Phase 2 & 3	512m

Current needs:

Decra Roofing Tiles;                          321m,

Roof Drainage:                                  21m,

Columns encasement & Walling:       170m

ACCOUNT DETAILS:

Account No: 3100019400

Account Name: Our Lady& St. Jude City Naggulu

Bank: Centenary bank

Mobile money: 0777 576260 (in names of Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye)

Tue 29, Oct 2024 02:10 am

WELCOME TO NAGGULU THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF. JUDE THADDEUS

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I wish to welcome all people of God, pilgrims, devotees, and friends of St. Jude to this year's Annual Solemn Novena and the Feast of St. Jude Thaddeus Naggulu.

We especially welcome our Main Celebrant Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, who has honored us today by leading Holy Mass at this celebration of the Solemn Feast of St. Jude. We thank you Your Grace for the continued support and guidance now as we are constructing the new church-the National Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus

Today, we come to God our father with a broken heart and in thanks giving for the many favours he has bestowed upon us. We shall always give thanks to the Lord for he is good and his love is eternal. We join the Psalmist (Psalms 100, 105, 113), to praise and sing the glory of God.

We have come from far. Last year, we could only visibly show the foundation of the new church; but today, the physical frame of the Church is standing. We thank our Parish Priest and the Building Committee for continuously rallying the parishioners, the Basic Christian Communities and the various categories of the People of God, the Parliamentarians, the Business Community, the Professionals; Teachers, Doctors, Medical Practitioners, Lawyers, Accountants, and many others who tirelessly joined hands in raising the required funds. We also called on the Ecclesiastical Provinces, the Archdioceses of Kampala, Mbarara, Tororo and Gulu; and they all came in to support this cause. Indeed, we are grateful!

This church construction project is broken down into four phases. Phase one was the foundation which was completed. Phase two; the columns and roof is ongoing. Phase three; the walls, gallery and stairs is also currently underway. Finally, Phase Four will be, the internal and external finishes including; plastering, the façade, ceilings, floors, doors & windows.

Phases 2 and 3, that is; columns and roofing, then the walling, are being executed concurrently today; and we need 512, 000,000 (Five hundred and twelve million) shillings to get them through. With the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Jude, it is our prayer and hope that we shall get generous hands to help us through this current stage of the project.

We are equally grateful to God that we have continued with the pastoral activities of the Church through our apostolate in the various departments for example; the Good Samaritans, the Youth, the Women, the Association of Saints Joachim and Anna, and all other associations that are critical in deepening evangelization.

I wish to recognize the eight Small Christian Communities (S.C. Cs) that are pillars upon which this Parish is anchored. These are St. Anthony, St. Balikuddembe, St. Charles Lwanga, St. Gonzaga Gonza, St. Kizito, St. Jude Nakawa Market, St. Paul’s Mobile, and St. Ponsiano Ngondwe (the Police) community. In all these, we have a representation of the people of God from all four Ecclesiastical Provinces (or regions of Uganda). The leaders in these communities are doing well as diligent pastoral collaborators.

We continue to thank our Main Pilgrims who have come in over the past nine days (novena) of prayer through St. Jude, and the support they have given us. We are grateful to our forefathers and parishioners who were so committed to the construction of the church and the upgrading of the Parish as a whole (the Naggulu City project). We pray that God grants them eternal peace.

On behalf of the Parish Council, the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye, and our Curate Rev. Fr Marvin Lukyamuzi, I welcome you again, and May St. Jude continue to intercede for us in all our difficult and impossible cases as we continue to glorify God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

"Let us journey Together, in Communion, participation, and Mission.”

Tue 29, Oct 2024 02:10 am

NATIONAL SHRINE OF ST. JUDE THADDEUS DEVOTION OFFICE REPORT 2024

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“UNITED WITH MOTHER MARY AND ST. JUDE – WE REMAIN STRONG IN FAITH”

“NDI MUTUME MUWEEREZA – NTUMA”

“YUDA TADEO – ASHABIRA ABAMWESIGA”

“YUDA ALIYESAHAULIWA – HULETA MATUMAINI PALIPO KOSEKANA, NA KANISA JE? – LAMUHESHIMU KAMA MSAIDIZI KATIKA SHIDA ZIPITAZO NGUVU ZETU”

“YUDA TADEO OMUTUUKIRIVU – ATONGANIRA ABAMWESIGA”

As I write this report, I am so delighted and filled with joy as well as confidence that we are celebrating the feast of our beloved friend, St. Jude. It is now 31 years since the official inauguration of the devotion to St. Jude Thaddeus, which took place on 09^th July 1993.

Since then, we have been able to move freely within the entire Ugandan and Kenyan Catholic dioceses without discrimination. That is the reason for the numerous greetings at the beginning of this article.

The devotion has attracted many people both Catholic and non- Catholic. Many have received favors through his intercession and have given testimonies about this.

LEADERSHIP:

A. National Executive

The team has continued to work tirelessly executing their duties with deep love (devotion) and self-sacrifice towards the devotion’s progress. The team comprises of:   

NAME	POSITION	DIOCESE
Rev. Fr, Joseph Mary Bbuye Mr. Musoke Dominic Mr, Ssemwogerere John Baptist Ms Namatovu Winnie Mrs. Kasibante Teopista Mrs. Ntaki Victoria Ms. Namutebi Thereza Mr. Owor Alex Okoth Ssalongo Kalema Joachim Mr. Ruhweza John Maria	National Director   National Chairman   Vice National Chairman   National Secretary   Vice National Secretary   National Treasurer   Liturgy   Committee Member   Committee Member   Committee Member	Kampala        Jinja        Masaka        Kampala        Fort Portal       Jinja       Lugazi      Tororo      Kampala      Fort Portal

  ACHIEVEMENTS:

I. Novenas:

Solemn novenas are carried out both at the national level and in the branches.

Monthly novenas recited in small groups and also individually have kept members together at

the parish level.

II. Meetings:

Much as the attendance at the National level is low, it is through these meetings that we find ways to boost the devotion’s development, progress and unity.

III. Pastoral Visits:

We were able to join some branch meetings. We have been able to recruit new members in the following parishes and dioceses.

1. Nangina deanery in Bungoma diocese (Kenya).

From four (4) parishes to now (15) parishes. We managed to attend diocesan days.

b) Lugazi diocese

c) Kampala Archdiocese

d) Rwebisiriza and Ndibatta parishes (K.M.D)

e) Jinja diocese

f) Tororo Archdiocese

IV. Donations:

It was agreed that items donated during the different Novenas be distributed among the various dioceses. E.g.

During the March novena, items and cash collected for the needy (bakateyamba) were donated to Kasese diocese.

Tororo Archdiocese was the beneficiary during the July novena, and

Masaka diocese will receive the items of this October novena.

All the funds collected for Seminarians during the three novenas annual novenas are forwarded to the Archbishop’s office in Kampala to aid seminarians in need.

What do dioceses do?

I. All dioceses hold scheduled meetings at parish, vicariate and diocesan levels.

II. The following dioceses celebrated St. Jude’s feast at the diocesan level; Fort Portal, Masaka, Lugazi, Kampala, and Jinja. Nangina will celebrate it on 28^th October 2024.

III. They visit prisoners and donate items towards the prisoners’ daily needs.

IV. They try to fulfill their obligations concerning the contribution of funds towards the ongoing construction of the new St. Jude shrine and the national bag.

CHALLENGES

a) All levels experience a low turn-up of members during scheduled meetings.

b) It has been noted that there is a tendency of some members to plot against their leaders.  An act that is dampening morale and reducing the level of performance at all levels.

c) There is a need for pastoral visits, however, the availability of transport to various members is a challenge.

d) Some elected leaders do not carry out their duties.

e) Some leaders hold other positions of leadership in other devotions and this hinders their capacity to concentrate on spreading the St. Jude devotion.

f) Some elected members do not take their responsibilities seriously and this leads to:

    i) Not being able to faithfully serve the devotion.

   ii) Minimal contribution of funds towards the various activities of the devotion.

  iii) Lack of total commitment because of personal issues.

  v) Confusion due to there being many other devotions.

  vi) Lack of leaders in some branches because some elected members are not in a proper disposition for the Sacrament of Holy Communion, they fear attending the scheduled meetings.

OBITUARY:

The devotion has to date lost many of its staunch members in all dioceses.

Mr. Bukenya Matthew – Kampala Archdiocese

Dorine Auma Wafula – Port Victoria – Bungoma Diocese

Mathias Ondiro – Nangina – Bungoma Diocese

Sikolastika Oduor – Nangina – Bungoma Diocese

Ntonina Nansamba – Mubende – Kiyinda Mityana Diocese

Sylvia Kivumbi Nalwoga – Namasuba – Kampala Archdiocese

Stella Asiimwe – Kasese Diocese

Betty Kahuje – Kasese Diocese

Luka Bakulu – Kasese Diocese among others.

Eternal Rest Grant unto them O Lord and let Your perpetual light shine upon them,

May they rest in peace. Amen.

WAY FORWARD:

1. Continue with pastoral visits to branches at the grassroots for mobilization, sensitization, and training, encouraging and recruiting new members.

2. Encourage all devotees and friends of St. Jude to solicit funds towards the completion of the St. Jude Shrine.

APPRECIATION:

I would like to express my gratitude to the following persons for their continued support spiritually, financially, and physically towards the spread and sustainability of the devotion.       

i)  The national director Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Bbuye.

ii)  Rev. Fr. Viatory Muvunyi. We wish you the best in your new assignment.   

iii) All priests at all levels for your spiritual support and guidance and most especially the priests who have celebrated masses during this years’ Novenas.

v)  I thank Kabale and Lugazi dioceses for their timely contributions.

vi) Great appreciation to you Mr. Ssenkumbi Francis for your timely logistical support.

vii) I thank all choirs that have animated during novena and at the different functions of the devotion.

viii) To all our family members for their support and tolerance.

ix) All leaders at all levels for your mobilization as well as your efforts at sustaining members and the devotion from the grassroots.

 

ST. JUDE DEVOTION DIARY 2024 – 2025

November 2024 - 15th February 2025	Pastoral visits to branches i.e. dioceses and parishes
3rd  - 7th February 2025	Preparations for March novena.
21st - 22nd February 2025	First National Executive Meeting at Naggulu
1st – 9th  March 2025	First National Solemn Novena to St. Jude at Naggulu and parishes.
8th March 2025	Recollection at Naggulu
14th March – 8th June 2025	Pastoral visit to branches
27th June – 28th    June 2025	Second National Executive meeting at Naggulu
Saturday 5th – Sunday 13th July 2025	Second National Solemn novena to St. Jude at Naggulu and the diocesan level.
20th July – 6th October 2025	Pastoral visits to branches
1st – 10th September 2025	Preparations for October novena and St. Jude feast
Sunday 19th – Monday 27th October 2025	Third National Solemn Novena to St. Jude. All pilgrims at Naggulu.
Monday 27th October 2025	National Council Meeting at Naggulu
Tuesday 28th October 2025	Feast of Saints. Simon and Jude. Diocese to lead??

God bless you all.

ST. JUDE PATRON OF THE DESPERATE – INTERCEDE FOR US.

Namatovu Winnie

National Secretary

St. Jude devotion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tue 29, Oct 2024 01:10 am