By Catholics in Uganda joined the rest of the world in prayer and thanksgiving on Friday as Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere presided over a mass at Rubaga Cathedral to celebrate the rise of Pope Leo XIV to the papacy. The service was also a moment of reflection on the life and legacy of Pope Francis, who passed away last week.
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The archbishop used the occasion to appeal for national healing and global peace. “We cannot celebrate a new pope while turning a blind eye to the cries of war, injustice, and suffering,” he said. “This is a time to heal our hearts, our homes, and our country.”
In his message, Ssemogerere reminded the faithful that Pope Leo XIV’s leadership would not be confined to Church walls. “He leads not only the devout but also the doubting, the hurting, and those who feel lost. His mission extends beyond pews and altars,” the archbishop said.
Quoting the new pontiff’s first message from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Ssemogerere echoed Pope Leo’s inclusive tone: “No one is beyond grace. We walk forward together in faith, not fear.”
He also highlighted the symbolic importance of the new pope’s background. Pope Leo XIV, the first Augustinian and second American to lead the Church, steps into a role heavy with spiritual and moral responsibility at a time of deep division and skepticism in the world.
The cathedral, filled to capacity, stood in reverent silence during readings from the Book of Acts, with Acts 9:1–20 chosen for its theme of transformation and calling fitting for the beginning of a new papal era. Worshippers lit candles, sang hymns, and bowed in reflection throughout the service.
Archbishop Ssemogerere praised the Ugandan media for what he described as “balanced and responsible” reporting during the transition at the Vatican. “You have helped the public understand this moment without causing division or alarm,” he said.
Among those present at the cathedral were public figures including former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga and academic Professor Ssemakula Kiwanuka, who joined the congregation in welcoming the Church’s new leader.
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Reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis, Archbishop Ssemogerere called on Ugandans to embrace the spirit of service and compassion that characterized the late pontiff’s reign. “Our new pope does not wear a golden crown, but carries a servant’s heart,” he said. “Let us support him in prayer as he takes on this divine task.”
He urged young people in particular to find strength in their faith and to live out the teachings of the Church through action and compassion. “This is not just a celebration for Rome,” he said. “It is a call to each of us to live our faith boldly, to promote unity, and to become channels of peace.”
