By Jamila Kemigisa
Thousands of believers, political leaders, and religious figures gathered in Fort Portal to witness the grand re-dedication of Our Lady of Snow Virika Cathedral following its extensive renovation. The event was a momentous occasion, bringing together dignitaries, clergy, and members of the Catholic community in a celebration of faith and unity.
Among the notable attendees were Members of Parliament Hon. Alex Ruhunda, Hon. Tom Butiime, Minister Margaret Muhanga, and Hon. Victoria Rusoke. Religious leaders, including Right Reverend Bishop Robert Muhirwa of Fort Portal Diocese and Right Reverend Bishop Joseph Sabiti Mugenyi, Bishop Emeritus of Fort Portal Diocese, also graced the occasion.
Themed “The Joy of Going to the House of God,” the ceremony was presided over by the Papal Nuncio to Uganda, Archbishop Luigi Bianco, who served as the main celebrant. He commended the Catholic community for their unwavering dedication to the renovation project, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to the Church.
“A church without people becomes a museum,” he cautioned, encouraging Catholics to remain steadfast in their faith. He also called upon believers to pray for Pope Francis, seeking divine intervention for his health so that he may continue leading the Catholic Church worldwide.
A Spiritual and Community Renewal
Monsignor Isaaya Mayondo, Vicar General of the Diocese and Chairperson of the Renovation Committee, described the event as a moment of spiritual renewal for the Catholic faithful who had been displaced during the renovation period.
During the ceremony, Right Reverend Bishop Robert Muhirwa took the opportunity to remind Vice President Jessica Alupo of a pledge made by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in 2021 to construct a library for Uganda Martyrs University, Fort Portal Campus. He urged her to follow up on the commitment with the Ministry of Finance, as no progress had been made since the pledge was announced.
Government Recognition and the Church’s Role in Society
President Museveni, the guest of honor, was represented by Vice President Alupo, who conveyed his appreciation to the Catholic Church for its commitment to faith, education, and development. She specifically praised the efforts of Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha and Bishop Muhirwa in ensuring the successful completion of the renovation.
“Renovations like these are a physical manifestation of gratitude to God for His blessings upon His people,” she noted.
Representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, Alupo acknowledged the Church’s pivotal role in shaping responsible citizens and complementing government efforts in sectors such as education and healthcare. She also called upon Ugandans to embrace hard work as a means of eradicating poverty, emphasizing the importance of self-sustainability and wealth creation initiatives.
Addressing the youth, she urged them to focus on long-term economic growth rather than seeking quick riches, quoting Hosea 4:6:
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
She encouraged all Ugandans to apply knowledge and actively participate in poverty eradication programs.
A Cathedral Restored to Its Glory
Our Lady of Snow Virika Cathedral, the spiritual heart of the Catholic faith in Fort Portal Diocese, has undergone a comprehensive renovation to restore its grandeur and accommodate the growing congregation. Spearheaded by Bishop Robert Muhirwa, with immense support from the Catholic faithful, the project aimed to enhance the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the cathedral while preserving its historical significance.
The renovation, which cost UGX 3.6 billion, included:
- Extensive refurbishment of the roof
- Installation of modern sound and lighting systems
- Repainting of the interior and exterior
- Upgraded seating arrangements for increased comfort
- Restoration of sacred artifacts and stained-glass windows
A Testament to Unity and Dedication
Virika Cathedral has long been a symbol of faith in Western Uganda, serving as a spiritual hub for generations. The successful completion of its renovation stands as a testament to the unity and dedication of the Catholic community in Fort Portal and beyond.
The re-dedication ceremony marked a new chapter in the cathedral’s history, reaffirming its role as a place of worship, reflection, and community gathering. It was a powerful reminder of the Church’s enduring role in guiding believers, fostering unity, and contributing to national development.
With renewed beauty and strengthened foundations, Our Lady of Snow Virika Cathedral will continue to stand as a beacon of faith for generations to come.
