Trust in the Lord of Peace: Emmanuel Born for Us and With Us

As the Christmas octave unfolds, the Church invites us through the Office of Readings to contemplate the mystery of the Incarnation: Christ, our Emmanuel "God with us" born as the Prince of Peace.( CCC, 2305) From December 29 to January 5, these readings draw us into the Letter to the Colossians (Year I), revealing the Incarnation within salvation history, or the Song of Songs (Year II), prefiguring God's union with humanity in Christ's sacred humanity. (The General Instruction on the Liturgy of the Hours, 148.) Echoing ancient sermons, particularly St. Augustine's expositions, we hear the resounding call: "Trust in the Lord" (Ps 36:3), for in the newborn Savior, true peace is given—not as the world offers, fragile and fleeting, but as the fruit of divine love. (Expositions on the Psalms - Psalm 37, 1.4.)

St. Augustine urges: "Trust in the Lord... And do good, and dwell in the land. And you shall be fed in its riches" (Ps 36:3-4). The Church is that "land," watered by Christ, whose riches are God Himself. In a world of Babel-like towers built on human strength, the Christmas ladder of Jacob descends: God comes to us in Bethlehem, bridging heaven and earth. (Eucharistic celebration presided at by Pope Francis on the anniversary of his visit to Lampedusa - 8 July 2019) "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man" (Ps 118:8-9), Augustine insists, for even angels are princes under God alone.(Expositions on the Psalms - Psalm 118, 4) The just see this, fear rightly, and trust in the Lord, finding refuge amid trials.(Expositions on the Psalms - Psalm 40, 6.)

This trust blossoms in peace, for "He is our peace" (Eph 2:14). Christ, pierced on the Cross yet born in a manger, reconciles us to God and one another by His blood, abolishing enmity. Pope John Paul II proclaimed: "Jesus is peace, he is our reconciliation", a peace rooted in the Eucharist and Penance, surpassing worldly compromises. (7 June 1999: Apostolic Journey to Poland, Torun - Homily.) As the Octave culminates in Mary, Mother of God, we ponder her fiat—her trust enabling the Savior's birth, making her Mother of the Church who intercedes for our peace.

In 2026's uncertainties, let this octave renew our trust. Amid global strife, echo Jacob: "The Lord shall be my God" (Gen 28:21). (Pope Francis, Lampedusa - 8 July 2019) Dwell in Christ's peace: forgive as He forgives, build unity as He unites, hope as He saves. Emmanuel is with us—born for peace, abiding in the sacraments. "O my God, I trust in you" (Ps 91:2). May this New Year dawn in His reconciling light.

Sat 03, Jan 2026 03:01 am

NOVENA TO ST.JUDE FOR PEACEFUL ELECTIONS IN UGANDA

Wed 31, Dec 2025 04:12 am

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE PARISH PRIEST

Dear parishioners of Our Lady and St. Jude Parish Naggulu, friends of the Parish and Devotees of St. Jude, I warmly greet you all and extend my heartfelt Christmas wishes to each one of you. In a special way, I salute all our parishioners, our friends near and far and all the devoted sons and daughters of St. Jude who continue to support and pray with our Parish community.

I congratulate you upon reaching this great and joyful feast of the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the son of God made incarnate. This feast is not merely a remembrance of an event in the past, but a profound celebration of God’s love for humanity. In the birth of Jesus, God entered human history, took on our human nature, and thus began the work of our salvation in a visible and tangible way. Christmas reminds us that God is with us, walks with us and never abandon His people.

As we celebrate this Christmas season, we also do so at a significant moment for our nation. We are preparing for the General Elections scheduled for 15th January 2026. As Ugandans, and above all as Christians, we are reminded that we are one people despite our tribal, ethnic, cultural or political differences. The birth of Christ calls us to unity, peace and mutual respect and love for one another. Let us reject violence hatred and division, and instead promote dialogue, justice and peaceful coexistence.

May the Child Jesus, born in humility and peace, reign in our hearts, families, Parish and nation. May Our Lady and St. Jude continue to intercede for us, guiding us to remain faithful to God and committed to the common good.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with God’s blessings, peace and hope.

Thu 25, Dec 2025 05:12 am

Merry Christmas and A prosperous New Year

Dear Parishioners, I greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We thank the Lord for the gift of life accorded to us and the various blessings bestowed upon us.

For a period of four weeks, we have celebrated the Advent season where John the Baptist has called us emphatically, “to prepare the way of the Lord and make his paths straight (Mathew 3:3). A thing I know we have heeded through going for the Sacrament of reconciliation, receiving the Eucharist, amidst other ways.

To the children, Naggulu Parish cherishes you, for you are a precious gift to the church. May the joy of our baby Jesus born today fill your hearts with joy, happiness, kindness, and obedience so that you continue to shine in your family (ies) and that your smiles can bring sparks to all those who come next to you.

To the youth, you are the strength and hope of the church of tomorrow. You have dreams and ambitions, embrace them by making informed decisions and the right choices. May Christ born today strengthen your faith and inspire you to live a life of integrity, purpose, respect, and compassion. Remember, ‘you are dearly and deeply valued and loved by God and the entire community of Naggulu Parish.’

To the elderly, we thank the Lord for the gift of your valuable life. We thank you for always inspiring us, guiding us, praying for us, your stories inspire us, your presences gives us hope, blessings and comfort that things are quite possible. May this Christmas bring you joy and happiness, good health and comfort.

As a Parish, let us use this festive season to promote love, joy, happiness, and peace in our different families. For he brings peace, hope, and happiness. May the light of Christ born in Bethlehem shine in our homes and lives. Today and always.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Thu 25, Dec 2025 05:12 am

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