The Catholic Church in Uganda has launched a public condolence book at Rubaga Cathedral to honor the late Pope Francis. Through this book, Ugandans can express their sympathies and celebrate the Pope’s legacy of humility, service, and peace.
Rev Fr Pius Male Ssentumbwe, chancellor of the Kampala Archdiocese, officiated the launch of the condolence book. According to him, it serves as a spiritual bridge connecting people in shared mourning. “This is more than just signatures,” he explained. “It’s our united voice of grief and gratitude for a man who led with compassion.”
Importantly, the condolence book will remain open until the Pope’s burial on Saturday. Fr Ssentumbwe urged all Ugandans to take part—whether Catholic or not. After all, Pope Francis’s message of unity and love reached people across all faiths and backgrounds.
To further honor the Pope, the Archdiocese of Kampala and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference have organized a Requiem Mass. Scheduled for Friday at 12pm, it will take place at Rubaga Cathedral. His Excellency Archbishop Luis Bianco, the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, will lead the service. This Mass will be an opportunity for national reflection, prayer, and unity.
Already, many leaders have joined the Church in mourning. For instance, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki and Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago were among the first to sign the condolence book. Ms. Buzeki reflected on the Pope’s 2015 visit to Uganda, calling it a moment of divine grace. She emphasized his role in fostering social harmony and spiritual renewal.
Moreover, KCCA pledged its support during the upcoming Mass. Specifically, the authority will provide drinking water and ambulances to serve the faithful during the ceremony.
Meanwhile, Lord Mayor Lukwago highlighted the Pope’s moral authority. He described him as a guiding light in a world plagued by conflict and inequality. In addition, he praised the Pope’s stand on peace, justice, and his vocal support for refugees and the underprivileged. Lukwago noted that Pope Francis gave hope to displaced persons in places like South Sudan, the DRC, and Kampala’s urban slums.
The Uganda Episcopal Conference has confirmed its participation in the memorial arrangements. According to a statement from the Office of the Chancellor, the conference has been actively coordinating with Church leaders and the Papal Nuncio to ensure a dignified farewell.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis made history as the first Jesuit and first Latin American pontiff. He was elected on March 13, 2013, becoming the 266th pope of the Catholic Church. Throughout his papacy, he emphasized love, humility, and care for the marginalized.
Sadly, the Pope passed away on Monday at the age of 88. Over the past few years, his health had deteriorated due to chronic illness, including a recent stroke and cardiac arrest. His funeral will be held on Saturday in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
As the world prepares to bid him farewell, Ugandans continue to gather at Rubaga Cathedral. They leave messages of love and prayers, remembering a leader whose influence transcended religion, politics, and borders.
