Over 17,500 Christians Participate In Way Of The Cross In Bunyangabu District

By Jamillah Kemigisa

More than 17,500 Christians from various denominations took part in this year’s Way of the Cross processions on Good Friday across Bunyangabu District. The annual commemoration, held in remembrance of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ, served as a powerful spiritual pilgrimage marked by scripture readings, hymns, prayer, and calls for moral and national renewal.

In Kibiito Sub-county, over 2,500 worshippers from 11 Church of Uganda parishes participated in a 4.3-kilometer procession, walking from Kanyalango to St. Peter’s Church, Kibiito. Meanwhile, the Catholic faithful turned out in even greater numbers, with more than 15,000 pilgrims from Yerya Parish marching 4 kilometers from Busita Playground to St. Kizito Yerya Parish.

At each station along the journey, participants paused for reflection on biblical teachings. Upon reaching their final destinations, religious leaders delivered impassioned messages addressing not only spiritual growth but also the country’s prevailing moral and political challenges.

Rev. Emmanuel Insingoma, Lay Leader at St. Peter’s Church, emphasized both the spiritual and social dimensions of the event.
“This walk is not just a tradition,” he stated. “It is a demonstration of the power of salvation and the unity of faith. As we approach the political season, we call upon all citizens to avoid inflammatory rhetoric. Politics should unite us, not divide us — we serve one God.”

Rev. Insingoma also decried the growing commercialization of politics, urging aspiring leaders to evaluate their intentions.
“Those seeking leadership for selfish reasons should not succeed,” he said pointedly. “Take the bribes if you must, but vote for credible leaders.”

At Yerya Parish, Rev. Bishop Francis Bamanyisa cautioned against behaviors that often escalate during festive periods.
“We cannot celebrate the resurrection only to lose lives through reckless driving,” he said. “People are sleeping on roads in the name of jubilation — this is not faith.” He also warned the youth against irresponsible sexual behavior, stressing that “HIV is still very much alive.”

The event resonated deeply with many attendees. Among them was Musinguzi Peter, NRM Chairperson for Bunyangabu District, who praised the unity demonstrated throughout the Lenten season and urged for its continuity beyond Easter.
“Let us seek divine guidance in selecting our leaders,” he said. “Uganda needs servant leaders, not opportunists. Let every aspirant be weighed on a moral scale.”

Kyomuhendo Henry, a resident of Kanyalango A in Kibiito Sub-county, reflected on the symbolic nature of the event.
“To me, Jesus is both a Savior and a human rights advocate,” he said. “But our political environment is filled with Judases. We need change.”

As Uganda continues to face political polarization, social vices, and economic hardship, this year’s Way of the Cross in Bunyangabu District transcended its traditional spiritual meaning. It emerged as a collective call for transformation — a mirror reflecting the nation’s yearning for moral revival, unity, and godly leadership.