Welcome Welcome by the Chairman of Uganda Episcopal Conference -His Grace John Baptist Odama
The Uganda Episcopal Conference is the Assembly of the Catholic Hierarchy in Uganda, constituted with the approval of the Holy See, through which bishops express their collegial responsibility through collective action, to assure the On 11th June,2010, during their Annual Plenary, members of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, elected His Grace Rev. John Baptist Odama [above] and Rt. Rev. Joseph Antony Zziwa [below] as new Chairman and Vice Chairman respectively.
Monsignor John Wynand Katende, has cautioned Ugandans against degrading the environment, saying its relationship with human beings was......more here
On 29 December 2011, the Pope appointed one of our Ugandan communicators, Sr Dominic Dipio as a Consultant to the Pontifical Council for Social Communications. Sr Dominic is a lecturer at Makerere University, Uganda and a member of the UEC Social Communications Commission. Cardinal John Njue, Archbishop of Nairobi has also been appointed as a member to the Council. Fr. Augustine Savarimuthu who was one of th lecturers at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome has also been appointed as a Consultant. We congratulate them and wish them all the best. On the other hand, At the midday Angelus for the celebration of the Feast of the Epiphany, Pope Benedict XVI announced a consistory for February 18th 2012. The Cardinals to be created are:
The Holy Father has also decided to raise the dignity of Cardinal a revered prelate, who carry out his ministry as Pastor and Father of the Church, and three worthy clergymen, who are distinguished for their commitment to serving the Church.
LATEST COMMUNICATION FROM THE EPISCOPAL CONFERENCE
A Communique of the Catholic Bishops of Uganda on the current situation, November 2011.
We, the catholic Bishops from all the 19 dioceses in Uganda gathered here at St. Augustine Institute Nsambya, Kampala, during our second Annual plenary assembly on the 11th Day of November 2011 have spent time reflecting and interacting among ourselves on the present difficult situation our country is going through today. Read More...
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Welcome to the official website of the Catholic Church in Uganda. You will find on this website information about different dioceses in Uganda (parishes, religious communities, priests, institutions, etc.), the different commissions, institutions, and departments of the Catholic Secretariat, as well as important links to the Church universal and its organs. You can also read about the recent publications and press releases of the Uganda Episcopal Conference. 
progress of the Church and coordination of its social and pastoral ministry. It is headed by a Chairman elected every four years. He is assisted by an Executive Board, also chosen every four years, composed of six Chairmen of various Commissions.The Episcopal Conference of Uganda was founded in 1960.
In Benin Saturday, Pope Benedict XVI formally signed the Apostolic Exhortation for the 2009 Synod of Bishops for Africa. In his address to bishops, religious and lay faithful in the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in the seaside town of Ouidah, the Pope said the post-Synodal document presents "the bishops' reflections synthetically as part of a broad pastoral vision."
Below is the English translation of his discourse:
Your Eminences,
Dear Brother Bishops and Priests,Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Without Holiness, the Ministry is Merely a Social Function
VATICAN CITY, 19 NOV 2011 (VIS) - The Holy Father arrived at the Seminary of St. Gall in Ouidah where he visited the tombs of Cardinal Bernardin Gantin, the first African to head a dicastery of the Roman Curia, and of his mentor, Msgr. Louis Parisot S.M.A., the first archbishop of Cotonou and apostolic vicar of Dahomey and Ouidah.
The Pope addressed the hundreds of priests, religious, seminarians and lay people who were awaiting his arrival in the courtyard of the seminary building, expressing his joy at meeting them and his gratitude for the pastoral work they carry out, often in difficult circumstances.
He recalled how the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation "Africae munus" focuses on the themes of peace, justice and reconciliation. "These three values stand out as an evangelical ideal fundamental to baptismal life, and they demand sound acceptance of your identity as priests, as consecrated persons and as lay faithful", he said.Read More...
Key ideas and Principal Themes of 'Africae Munus'
VATICAN CITY, 19 NOV 2011 (VIS) - Given below is a summary, prepared by Archbishop Nicola Eterovic, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, of the main ideas contained in the post- synodal Apostolic Exhortation “Africae munus”.
The document has two parts. Part one (nos.14-96) discerns the fundamental structures of the ecclesial mission on the continent, a mission which aspires to reconciliation, justice and peace, and has its origin in the person of Jesus Christ. Listening to Him, Christian are invited to let themselves be reconciled with God, becoming just in order to build a just social order in keeping with the logic of the Beatitudes, and committing themselves to fraternal service for love of truth, whish is a source of peace.Read More...
The Departure
Over 158 Ugandans participated in the recently concluded 26th World Youth in Madrid Spain, representing the Uganda Episcopal Conference, Neo Catechumenal Way, Net Ministries –Masaka, and Opus Dei – Bugala Centre.
Led by the Chief Pilgrim and Chairman of the Lay Apostolate Commission, Archbishop Denis Kiwanuka, the pilgrims were flagged off in different groups at the Catholic Secretariat by the Secretary General of Uganda Episcopal Conference, Msgr. John.B.Kauta.
Group 8,with the Secretary General before setting off at UCS 1
Fr. Godfrey Etolu leads another group
Days in the Diocese
From 11th to 15th August, 2011 a total number of 24 groups from 14 countries (Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, South Korea, France, Honduras, Mexico, Poland, Samoa, and Uganda) with a total of 1816 pilgrims were hosted in various homes in the Diocese of Plasencia.
From 12th-14yh August, Friday, Parish, Family and Deanery Days. The pilgrims joined their parochial communities to celebrate those days through various activities and cultural visits. Evening intercultural exchange, Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Prayer-Eucharist, festival exchange, regional dances, sports, gastronomic acts, and urban gymkhana were held in the parishes and Deaneries.
Bishop of Buffalo New York listens to Fr. Mayega’s contribution during
Catechesis at El Salvador PArish in Leganes
Ugandans singing during Mass at El Salvador Parish in Leganes
On 15th August, Sunday.
In the morning all groups in the Diocese of Plasencia celebrated the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at assigned local Parishes. It was a touching moment as we moved around the village, and in the evening the set off to the multi-use pavilion at Navalmoral de la Mata where they all met. There was a farewell Mass presided over by Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, together with other Bishops including His Grace Most. Rev. Denis Kiwanuka Lote the Chief pilgrim of the Ugandan group.
After the Mass, the Archbishop wished all the Youth a safe journey to the different groups to Madrid.
Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, addressing the youth at Navalmoral de la Mata
Mr. Athony Tibaingana represented Uganda to give a testimony about
Days in the Diocese and family experiences
Opening of the World Youth Day
In the Archdiocese of Madrid which has a population of 4,086,700 of whom 88% are Catholics. The Archbishop of Madrid Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela who is also the President of Spanish Bishops’ Conference, while at Plaza de Cibeles said to more 500,000 young people who gathered on Tuesday 16th August, in the evening in Plaza de Cibeles at the Opening Mass of the 26th World Youth Day; “You young people whom we meet here and the many others who could not or did not want to take part in these days in Madrid, are the generation of Benedict XVI”.
While waiting for Mass to begin, the young people alternated moments of dance and songs inspired by the logo, theme and anthem of the WYD. The celebration of the Eucharist began with a long procession. Several Cardinals, 400 bishops and 2,500 priests from the five continents concelebrated.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid
In his Homily, Cardinal Antonio Maria Varela, said: “Young people today find themselves facing new problems and challenges from the globalization to the economic crisis, from new technologies to the revolution in communions”. “Unfortunately, he added, “their existential roots are weakened by a rampart spiritual and moral relativism”. “The have as great or a greater need to encounter the Lord than the previous generations, in the only way that has proven to be spiritually effective; as simple and humble pilgrims in search of his face”. He concluded: “the Pope, who loves you very much, wants you in these days to experience the Catholic communion of the Church, the truth and the urgent need to make your own the theme of the World Youth Day 2011: “Rooted and Built up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith”.
At the end of the Mass: Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, addressed the young people: “after a long process of preparation you are here in Madrid at last; a beautiful modern city that for the next few days will be the capital of catholic Youth”. “You have brought with you” to the meeting with Benedict XVI, he added, “your plans and your hopes, as well as your anxieties and apprehensions about the decisions that lie ahead”. The cardinal expressed the hope that they would never forget their days in Madrid “of important discoveries and decisions that will be decisive for your future”. “Faith will be the focus of our reflection’. “Faith is a crucial factor in every person’s life. Everything changes according to whether or not God exists. Faith is like a root that nourishes us with the lifeblood of the world of God and the sacraments. It is the foundation, the rock on which life is built, the trustworthy compass that guides our choices and gives our lives a decisive direction”.
Lastly, Cardinal Rylko mentioned Blessed John Paul II, saying: the “inventor’ of the WYD, was “present’ at the celebration in a reliquary containing a drop of his blood for the veneration of the participants, an everlasting testimony to the creator of the World Youth Days.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid in the scorching sun
Pope’s Arrival in Madrid
At noon on Thursday 18th August, 2011, in his 20th Apostolic Visit outside Italy, the Holy Father landed at Madrid-Barajas International Airport. He was greeted on board by Archbishop Renzo Fratini, Apostolic Nuncio in Spain, together with the Chief of Protocol. The Pope was then welcomed by Their majesties the King and Queen of Spain with Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, Archbishop of Madrid. Also present were political and civil authorities, the Spanish cardinals, bishops of the Permanent Committee of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, as well as the bishop sot the Ecclesiastical province and many faithful. Over 200 countries from every continent were represented in Madrid. The young people began welcoming the Pope on his journey from the airport to the city centre holding balloons, waving flags, and tossing clouds of multi-colored confetti up into the air. As the Holy Father arrived in Madrid, bells were ringing from all Churches. A simple and joyous prelude to the great celebration which was reaching its climax, but which had been planned well in advance and will continue to show its fruits for some time to come. The Pope said that it is the young people themselves who must explain why this colorful multitude went to Spain’s capital from all over the world. But he immediately added that it may be their desire to hear the Word of God. [Read More Pope’s WYD speech]
Young people started arriving at the aerodrome and take their places. Braving the scorching sun and the heat, an endless flow of pilgrims from different parts of the world, clapped, cheered and waved their different national flags through neighbourhoods till they reached the venue, an old airport, with an extension equivalent to 48 football fields. By evening, at least one and a half million youngsters had thronged the venue, ready to listen to the Pople’s message. Meanwhile, different activities were taking place on the stage (testimonies of young people, musical interpretations, prayers to the Virgin, etc.), to prepare for the Vigil. At the same time the Pope was visiting the “Fundación Instituto San José” A center for the sick run by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God. The Holy Father arrived at the Cuatro Vientos aerodrome at 8.30p.m and the Eucharistic adoration begin.
The heat was not the only ordeal the young pilgrims faced. The service of the Word of God started with the Pope listening to questions from five youth including a Kenyan Social Worker who lamented her search for meaning the midst of poverty and pain. The Pope did not read the answer he had prepared but exhorted them to “have no fear of the world or the future”.
Suddenly, a heavy downpour broke out, drenching all the pilgrims and forcing the organizers to interrupt the event. The Holy Father braved the strong winds until calm returned. He praised the youth “you have proved your faith is stronger than the rain”. As the youth chanted “Benedictus”. Then the wet and noisy encounter gave way to an impressing 10 minute silence of the millions gazing upon the Holy Sacrament, exposed with a beautiful artistic monstrance.
Cuatro Vientos an old airport became the world’s biggest temple! After imparting the blessing, the Holy Father wished the youth goodnight: “Thank you for the sacrifice you are doing. Have a good rest. See you tomorrow”.
During the closing Mass – [climax of the WYD] the Holy Father told the youth “The world needs the witness of your faith…. Do not be seduced by false promises of a lifestyle without God.”
An hour before the Pope left Spain, he met 12,000 of the WYD 2011 Volunteers and applauded them for “having given the event a face of kindness, sympathy and self-surrender”.
The Holy Father announced the next WYD will be held in Rioi de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013.
World Youth Day Photos
Uganda Martyrs’ Day Celebrations Videos
VATICAN CITY, 19 NOV 2011 (VIS) - The Holy Father arrived at the Seminary of St. Gall in Ouidah where he visited the tombs of Cardinal Bernardin Gantin, the first African to head a dicastery of the Roman Curia, and of his mentor, Msgr. Louis Parisot S.M.A., the first archbishop of Cotonou and apostolic vicar of Dahomey and Ouidah.
The Pope addressed the hundreds of priests, religious, seminarians and lay people who were awaiting his arrival in the courtyard of the seminary building, expressing his joy at meeting them and his gratitude for the pastoral work they carry out, often in difficult circumstances.
He recalled how the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation "Africae munus" focuses on the themes of peace, justice and reconciliation. "These three values stand out as an evangelical ideal fundamental to baptismal life, and they demand sound acceptance of your identity as priests, as consecrated persons and as lay faithful", he said.Read More...
VATICAN CITY, 19 NOV 2011 (VIS) - Given below is a summary, prepared by Archbishop Nicola Eterovic, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, of the main ideas contained in the post- synodal Apostolic Exhortation “Africae munus”.
The document has two parts. Part one (nos.14-96) discerns the fundamental structures of the ecclesial mission on the continent, a mission which aspires to reconciliation, justice and peace, and has its origin in the person of Jesus Christ. Listening to Him, Christian are invited to let themselves be reconciled with God, becoming just in order to build a just social order in keeping with the logic of the Beatitudes, and committing themselves to fraternal service for love of truth, whish is a source of peace.Read More...
The Departure
Over 158 Ugandans participated in the recently concluded 26th World Youth in Madrid Spain, representing the Uganda Episcopal Conference, Neo Catechumenal Way, Net Ministries –Masaka, and Opus Dei – Bugala Centre.
Led by the Chief Pilgrim and Chairman of the Lay Apostolate Commission, Archbishop Denis Kiwanuka, the pilgrims were flagged off in different groups at the Catholic Secretariat by the Secretary General of Uganda Episcopal Conference, Msgr. John.B.Kauta.
Group 8,with the Secretary General before setting off at UCS 1
Fr. Godfrey Etolu leads another group
Days in the Diocese
From 11th to 15th August, 2011 a total number of 24 groups from 14 countries (Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, South Korea, France, Honduras, Mexico, Poland, Samoa, and Uganda) with a total of 1816 pilgrims were hosted in various homes in the Diocese of Plasencia.
From 12th-14yh August, Friday, Parish, Family and Deanery Days. The pilgrims joined their parochial communities to celebrate those days through various activities and cultural visits. Evening intercultural exchange, Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Prayer-Eucharist, festival exchange, regional dances, sports, gastronomic acts, and urban gymkhana were held in the parishes and Deaneries.
Bishop of Buffalo New York listens to Fr. Mayega’s contribution during
Catechesis at El Salvador PArish in Leganes
Ugandans singing during Mass at El Salvador Parish in Leganes
On 15th August, Sunday.
In the morning all groups in the Diocese of Plasencia celebrated the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at assigned local Parishes. It was a touching moment as we moved around the village, and in the evening the set off to the multi-use pavilion at Navalmoral de la Mata where they all met. There was a farewell Mass presided over by Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, together with other Bishops including His Grace Most. Rev. Denis Kiwanuka Lote the Chief pilgrim of the Ugandan group.
After the Mass, the Archbishop wished all the Youth a safe journey to the different groups to Madrid.
Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, addressing the youth at Navalmoral de la Mata
Mr. Athony Tibaingana represented Uganda to give a testimony about
Days in the Diocese and family experiences
Opening of the World Youth Day
In the Archdiocese of Madrid which has a population of 4,086,700 of whom 88% are Catholics. The Archbishop of Madrid Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela who is also the President of Spanish Bishops’ Conference, while at Plaza de Cibeles said to more 500,000 young people who gathered on Tuesday 16th August, in the evening in Plaza de Cibeles at the Opening Mass of the 26th World Youth Day; “You young people whom we meet here and the many others who could not or did not want to take part in these days in Madrid, are the generation of Benedict XVI”.
While waiting for Mass to begin, the young people alternated moments of dance and songs inspired by the logo, theme and anthem of the WYD. The celebration of the Eucharist began with a long procession. Several Cardinals, 400 bishops and 2,500 priests from the five continents concelebrated.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid
In his Homily, Cardinal Antonio Maria Varela, said: “Young people today find themselves facing new problems and challenges from the globalization to the economic crisis, from new technologies to the revolution in communions”. “Unfortunately, he added, “their existential roots are weakened by a rampart spiritual and moral relativism”. “The have as great or a greater need to encounter the Lord than the previous generations, in the only way that has proven to be spiritually effective; as simple and humble pilgrims in search of his face”. He concluded: “the Pope, who loves you very much, wants you in these days to experience the Catholic communion of the Church, the truth and the urgent need to make your own the theme of the World Youth Day 2011: “Rooted and Built up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith”.
At the end of the Mass: Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, addressed the young people: “after a long process of preparation you are here in Madrid at last; a beautiful modern city that for the next few days will be the capital of catholic Youth”. “You have brought with you” to the meeting with Benedict XVI, he added, “your plans and your hopes, as well as your anxieties and apprehensions about the decisions that lie ahead”. The cardinal expressed the hope that they would never forget their days in Madrid “of important discoveries and decisions that will be decisive for your future”. “Faith will be the focus of our reflection’. “Faith is a crucial factor in every person’s life. Everything changes according to whether or not God exists. Faith is like a root that nourishes us with the lifeblood of the world of God and the sacraments. It is the foundation, the rock on which life is built, the trustworthy compass that guides our choices and gives our lives a decisive direction”.
Lastly, Cardinal Rylko mentioned Blessed John Paul II, saying: the “inventor’ of the WYD, was “present’ at the celebration in a reliquary containing a drop of his blood for the veneration of the participants, an everlasting testimony to the creator of the World Youth Days.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid in the scorching sun
Pope’s Arrival in Madrid
At noon on Thursday 18th August, 2011, in his 20th Apostolic Visit outside Italy, the Holy Father landed at Madrid-Barajas International Airport. He was greeted on board by Archbishop Renzo Fratini, Apostolic Nuncio in Spain, together with the Chief of Protocol. The Pope was then welcomed by Their majesties the King and Queen of Spain with Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, Archbishop of Madrid. Also present were political and civil authorities, the Spanish cardinals, bishops of the Permanent Committee of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, as well as the bishop sot the Ecclesiastical province and many faithful. Over 200 countries from every continent were represented in Madrid. The young people began welcoming the Pope on his journey from the airport to the city centre holding balloons, waving flags, and tossing clouds of multi-colored confetti up into the air. As the Holy Father arrived in Madrid, bells were ringing from all Churches. A simple and joyous prelude to the great celebration which was reaching its climax, but which had been planned well in advance and will continue to show its fruits for some time to come. The Pope said that it is the young people themselves who must explain why this colorful multitude went to Spain’s capital from all over the world. But he immediately added that it may be their desire to hear the Word of God. [Read More Pope’s WYD speech]
Young people started arriving at the aerodrome and take their places. Braving the scorching sun and the heat, an endless flow of pilgrims from different parts of the world, clapped, cheered and waved their different national flags through neighbourhoods till they reached the venue, an old airport, with an extension equivalent to 48 football fields. By evening, at least one and a half million youngsters had thronged the venue, ready to listen to the Pople’s message. Meanwhile, different activities were taking place on the stage (testimonies of young people, musical interpretations, prayers to the Virgin, etc.), to prepare for the Vigil. At the same time the Pope was visiting the “Fundación Instituto San José” A center for the sick run by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God. The Holy Father arrived at the Cuatro Vientos aerodrome at 8.30p.m and the Eucharistic adoration begin.
The heat was not the only ordeal the young pilgrims faced. The service of the Word of God started with the Pope listening to questions from five youth including a Kenyan Social Worker who lamented her search for meaning the midst of poverty and pain. The Pope did not read the answer he had prepared but exhorted them to “have no fear of the world or the future”.
Suddenly, a heavy downpour broke out, drenching all the pilgrims and forcing the organizers to interrupt the event. The Holy Father braved the strong winds until calm returned. He praised the youth “you have proved your faith is stronger than the rain”. As the youth chanted “Benedictus”. Then the wet and noisy encounter gave way to an impressing 10 minute silence of the millions gazing upon the Holy Sacrament, exposed with a beautiful artistic monstrance.
Cuatro Vientos an old airport became the world’s biggest temple! After imparting the blessing, the Holy Father wished the youth goodnight: “Thank you for the sacrifice you are doing. Have a good rest. See you tomorrow”.
During the closing Mass – [climax of the WYD] the Holy Father told the youth “The world needs the witness of your faith…. Do not be seduced by false promises of a lifestyle without God.”
An hour before the Pope left Spain, he met 12,000 of the WYD 2011 Volunteers and applauded them for “having given the event a face of kindness, sympathy and self-surrender”.
The Holy Father announced the next WYD will be held in Rioi de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013.
World Youth Day Photos
Uganda Martyrs’ Day Celebrations Videos
Over 158 Ugandans participated in the recently concluded 26th World Youth in Madrid Spain, representing the Uganda Episcopal Conference, Neo Catechumenal Way, Net Ministries –Masaka, and Opus Dei – Bugala Centre.
Led by the Chief Pilgrim and Chairman of the Lay Apostolate Commission, Archbishop Denis Kiwanuka, the pilgrims were flagged off in different groups at the Catholic Secretariat by the Secretary General of Uganda Episcopal Conference, Msgr. John.B.Kauta.
Group 8,with the Secretary General before setting off at UCS 1
Fr. Godfrey Etolu leads another group
From 11th to 15th August, 2011 a total number of 24 groups from 14 countries (Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, South Korea, France, Honduras, Mexico, Poland, Samoa, and Uganda) with a total of 1816 pilgrims were hosted in various homes in the Diocese of Plasencia.
From 12th-14yh August, Friday, Parish, Family and Deanery Days. The pilgrims joined their parochial communities to celebrate those days through various activities and cultural visits. Evening intercultural exchange, Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Prayer-Eucharist, festival exchange, regional dances, sports, gastronomic acts, and urban gymkhana were held in the parishes and Deaneries.
Bishop of Buffalo New York listens to Fr. Mayega’s contribution during
Catechesis at El Salvador PArish in Leganes
Ugandans singing during Mass at El Salvador Parish in Leganes
On 15th August, Sunday.
In the morning all groups in the Diocese of Plasencia celebrated the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at assigned local Parishes. It was a touching moment as we moved around the village, and in the evening the set off to the multi-use pavilion at Navalmoral de la Mata where they all met. There was a farewell Mass presided over by Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, together with other Bishops including His Grace Most. Rev. Denis Kiwanuka Lote the Chief pilgrim of the Ugandan group.
After the Mass, the Archbishop wished all the Youth a safe journey to the different groups to Madrid.
Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, addressing the youth at Navalmoral de la Mata
Mr. Athony Tibaingana represented Uganda to give a testimony about
Days in the Diocese and family experiences
Opening of the World Youth Day
In the Archdiocese of Madrid which has a population of 4,086,700 of whom 88% are Catholics. The Archbishop of Madrid Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela who is also the President of Spanish Bishops’ Conference, while at Plaza de Cibeles said to more 500,000 young people who gathered on Tuesday 16th August, in the evening in Plaza de Cibeles at the Opening Mass of the 26th World Youth Day; “You young people whom we meet here and the many others who could not or did not want to take part in these days in Madrid, are the generation of Benedict XVI”.
While waiting for Mass to begin, the young people alternated moments of dance and songs inspired by the logo, theme and anthem of the WYD. The celebration of the Eucharist began with a long procession. Several Cardinals, 400 bishops and 2,500 priests from the five continents concelebrated.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid
In his Homily, Cardinal Antonio Maria Varela, said: “Young people today find themselves facing new problems and challenges from the globalization to the economic crisis, from new technologies to the revolution in communions”. “Unfortunately, he added, “their existential roots are weakened by a rampart spiritual and moral relativism”. “The have as great or a greater need to encounter the Lord than the previous generations, in the only way that has proven to be spiritually effective; as simple and humble pilgrims in search of his face”. He concluded: “the Pope, who loves you very much, wants you in these days to experience the Catholic communion of the Church, the truth and the urgent need to make your own the theme of the World Youth Day 2011: “Rooted and Built up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith”.
At the end of the Mass: Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, addressed the young people: “after a long process of preparation you are here in Madrid at last; a beautiful modern city that for the next few days will be the capital of catholic Youth”. “You have brought with you” to the meeting with Benedict XVI, he added, “your plans and your hopes, as well as your anxieties and apprehensions about the decisions that lie ahead”. The cardinal expressed the hope that they would never forget their days in Madrid “of important discoveries and decisions that will be decisive for your future”. “Faith will be the focus of our reflection’. “Faith is a crucial factor in every person’s life. Everything changes according to whether or not God exists. Faith is like a root that nourishes us with the lifeblood of the world of God and the sacraments. It is the foundation, the rock on which life is built, the trustworthy compass that guides our choices and gives our lives a decisive direction”.
Lastly, Cardinal Rylko mentioned Blessed John Paul II, saying: the “inventor’ of the WYD, was “present’ at the celebration in a reliquary containing a drop of his blood for the veneration of the participants, an everlasting testimony to the creator of the World Youth Days.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid in the scorching sun
Pope’s Arrival in Madrid
At noon on Thursday 18th August, 2011, in his 20th Apostolic Visit outside Italy, the Holy Father landed at Madrid-Barajas International Airport. He was greeted on board by Archbishop Renzo Fratini, Apostolic Nuncio in Spain, together with the Chief of Protocol. The Pope was then welcomed by Their majesties the King and Queen of Spain with Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, Archbishop of Madrid. Also present were political and civil authorities, the Spanish cardinals, bishops of the Permanent Committee of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, as well as the bishop sot the Ecclesiastical province and many faithful. Over 200 countries from every continent were represented in Madrid. The young people began welcoming the Pope on his journey from the airport to the city centre holding balloons, waving flags, and tossing clouds of multi-colored confetti up into the air. As the Holy Father arrived in Madrid, bells were ringing from all Churches. A simple and joyous prelude to the great celebration which was reaching its climax, but which had been planned well in advance and will continue to show its fruits for some time to come. The Pope said that it is the young people themselves who must explain why this colorful multitude went to Spain’s capital from all over the world. But he immediately added that it may be their desire to hear the Word of God. [Read More Pope’s WYD speech]
Young people started arriving at the aerodrome and take their places. Braving the scorching sun and the heat, an endless flow of pilgrims from different parts of the world, clapped, cheered and waved their different national flags through neighbourhoods till they reached the venue, an old airport, with an extension equivalent to 48 football fields. By evening, at least one and a half million youngsters had thronged the venue, ready to listen to the Pople’s message. Meanwhile, different activities were taking place on the stage (testimonies of young people, musical interpretations, prayers to the Virgin, etc.), to prepare for the Vigil. At the same time the Pope was visiting the “Fundación Instituto San José” A center for the sick run by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God. The Holy Father arrived at the Cuatro Vientos aerodrome at 8.30p.m and the Eucharistic adoration begin.
The heat was not the only ordeal the young pilgrims faced. The service of the Word of God started with the Pope listening to questions from five youth including a Kenyan Social Worker who lamented her search for meaning the midst of poverty and pain. The Pope did not read the answer he had prepared but exhorted them to “have no fear of the world or the future”.
Suddenly, a heavy downpour broke out, drenching all the pilgrims and forcing the organizers to interrupt the event. The Holy Father braved the strong winds until calm returned. He praised the youth “you have proved your faith is stronger than the rain”. As the youth chanted “Benedictus”. Then the wet and noisy encounter gave way to an impressing 10 minute silence of the millions gazing upon the Holy Sacrament, exposed with a beautiful artistic monstrance.
Cuatro Vientos an old airport became the world’s biggest temple! After imparting the blessing, the Holy Father wished the youth goodnight: “Thank you for the sacrifice you are doing. Have a good rest. See you tomorrow”.
During the closing Mass – [climax of the WYD] the Holy Father told the youth “The world needs the witness of your faith…. Do not be seduced by false promises of a lifestyle without God.”
An hour before the Pope left Spain, he met 12,000 of the WYD 2011 Volunteers and applauded them for “having given the event a face of kindness, sympathy and self-surrender”.
The Holy Father announced the next WYD will be held in Rioi de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013.
World Youth Day Photos
Uganda Martyrs’ Day Celebrations Videos
In the morning all groups in the Diocese of Plasencia celebrated the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at assigned local Parishes. It was a touching moment as we moved around the village, and in the evening the set off to the multi-use pavilion at Navalmoral de la Mata where they all met. There was a farewell Mass presided over by Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, together with other Bishops including His Grace Most. Rev. Denis Kiwanuka Lote the Chief pilgrim of the Ugandan group.
After the Mass, the Archbishop wished all the Youth a safe journey to the different groups to Madrid.
Plasencia’s Bishop D. Amadeo Rodríguez Magro, addressing the youth at Navalmoral de la Mata
Mr. Athony Tibaingana represented Uganda to give a testimony about
Days in the Diocese and family experiences
In the Archdiocese of Madrid which has a population of 4,086,700 of whom 88% are Catholics. The Archbishop of Madrid Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela who is also the President of Spanish Bishops’ Conference, while at Plaza de Cibeles said to more 500,000 young people who gathered on Tuesday 16th August, in the evening in Plaza de Cibeles at the Opening Mass of the 26th World Youth Day; “You young people whom we meet here and the many others who could not or did not want to take part in these days in Madrid, are the generation of Benedict XVI”.
While waiting for Mass to begin, the young people alternated moments of dance and songs inspired by the logo, theme and anthem of the WYD. The celebration of the Eucharist began with a long procession. Several Cardinals, 400 bishops and 2,500 priests from the five continents concelebrated.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid
In his Homily, Cardinal Antonio Maria Varela, said: “Young people today find themselves facing new problems and challenges from the globalization to the economic crisis, from new technologies to the revolution in communions”. “Unfortunately, he added, “their existential roots are weakened by a rampart spiritual and moral relativism”. “The have as great or a greater need to encounter the Lord than the previous generations, in the only way that has proven to be spiritually effective; as simple and humble pilgrims in search of his face”. He concluded: “the Pope, who loves you very much, wants you in these days to experience the Catholic communion of the Church, the truth and the urgent need to make your own the theme of the World Youth Day 2011: “Rooted and Built up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith”.
At the end of the Mass: Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, addressed the young people: “after a long process of preparation you are here in Madrid at last; a beautiful modern city that for the next few days will be the capital of catholic Youth”. “You have brought with you” to the meeting with Benedict XVI, he added, “your plans and your hopes, as well as your anxieties and apprehensions about the decisions that lie ahead”. The cardinal expressed the hope that they would never forget their days in Madrid “of important discoveries and decisions that will be decisive for your future”. “Faith will be the focus of our reflection’. “Faith is a crucial factor in every person’s life. Everything changes according to whether or not God exists. Faith is like a root that nourishes us with the lifeblood of the world of God and the sacraments. It is the foundation, the rock on which life is built, the trustworthy compass that guides our choices and gives our lives a decisive direction”.
Lastly, Cardinal Rylko mentioned Blessed John Paul II, saying: the “inventor’ of the WYD, was “present’ at the celebration in a reliquary containing a drop of his blood for the veneration of the participants, an everlasting testimony to the creator of the World Youth Days.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid in the scorching sun
Pope’s Arrival in Madrid
At noon on Thursday 18th August, 2011, in his 20th Apostolic Visit outside Italy, the Holy Father landed at Madrid-Barajas International Airport. He was greeted on board by Archbishop Renzo Fratini, Apostolic Nuncio in Spain, together with the Chief of Protocol. The Pope was then welcomed by Their majesties the King and Queen of Spain with Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, Archbishop of Madrid. Also present were political and civil authorities, the Spanish cardinals, bishops of the Permanent Committee of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, as well as the bishop sot the Ecclesiastical province and many faithful. Over 200 countries from every continent were represented in Madrid. The young people began welcoming the Pope on his journey from the airport to the city centre holding balloons, waving flags, and tossing clouds of multi-colored confetti up into the air. As the Holy Father arrived in Madrid, bells were ringing from all Churches. A simple and joyous prelude to the great celebration which was reaching its climax, but which had been planned well in advance and will continue to show its fruits for some time to come. The Pope said that it is the young people themselves who must explain why this colorful multitude went to Spain’s capital from all over the world. But he immediately added that it may be their desire to hear the Word of God. [Read More Pope’s WYD speech]
Young people started arriving at the aerodrome and take their places. Braving the scorching sun and the heat, an endless flow of pilgrims from different parts of the world, clapped, cheered and waved their different national flags through neighbourhoods till they reached the venue, an old airport, with an extension equivalent to 48 football fields. By evening, at least one and a half million youngsters had thronged the venue, ready to listen to the Pople’s message. Meanwhile, different activities were taking place on the stage (testimonies of young people, musical interpretations, prayers to the Virgin, etc.), to prepare for the Vigil. At the same time the Pope was visiting the “Fundación Instituto San José” A center for the sick run by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God. The Holy Father arrived at the Cuatro Vientos aerodrome at 8.30p.m and the Eucharistic adoration begin.
The heat was not the only ordeal the young pilgrims faced. The service of the Word of God started with the Pope listening to questions from five youth including a Kenyan Social Worker who lamented her search for meaning the midst of poverty and pain. The Pope did not read the answer he had prepared but exhorted them to “have no fear of the world or the future”.
Suddenly, a heavy downpour broke out, drenching all the pilgrims and forcing the organizers to interrupt the event. The Holy Father braved the strong winds until calm returned. He praised the youth “you have proved your faith is stronger than the rain”. As the youth chanted “Benedictus”. Then the wet and noisy encounter gave way to an impressing 10 minute silence of the millions gazing upon the Holy Sacrament, exposed with a beautiful artistic monstrance.
Cuatro Vientos an old airport became the world’s biggest temple! After imparting the blessing, the Holy Father wished the youth goodnight: “Thank you for the sacrifice you are doing. Have a good rest. See you tomorrow”.
During the closing Mass – [climax of the WYD] the Holy Father told the youth “The world needs the witness of your faith…. Do not be seduced by false promises of a lifestyle without God.”
An hour before the Pope left Spain, he met 12,000 of the WYD 2011 Volunteers and applauded them for “having given the event a face of kindness, sympathy and self-surrender”.
The Holy Father announced the next WYD will be held in Rioi de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013.
World Youth Day Photos
Uganda Martyrs’ Day Celebrations Videos
In his Homily, Cardinal Antonio Maria Varela, said: “Young people today find themselves facing new problems and challenges from the globalization to the economic crisis, from new technologies to the revolution in communions”. “Unfortunately, he added, “their existential roots are weakened by a rampart spiritual and moral relativism”. “The have as great or a greater need to encounter the Lord than the previous generations, in the only way that has proven to be spiritually effective; as simple and humble pilgrims in search of his face”. He concluded: “the Pope, who loves you very much, wants you in these days to experience the Catholic communion of the Church, the truth and the urgent need to make your own the theme of the World Youth Day 2011: “Rooted and Built up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith”.
At the end of the Mass: Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, addressed the young people: “after a long process of preparation you are here in Madrid at last; a beautiful modern city that for the next few days will be the capital of catholic Youth”. “You have brought with you” to the meeting with Benedict XVI, he added, “your plans and your hopes, as well as your anxieties and apprehensions about the decisions that lie ahead”. The cardinal expressed the hope that they would never forget their days in Madrid “of important discoveries and decisions that will be decisive for your future”. “Faith will be the focus of our reflection’. “Faith is a crucial factor in every person’s life. Everything changes according to whether or not God exists. Faith is like a root that nourishes us with the lifeblood of the world of God and the sacraments. It is the foundation, the rock on which life is built, the trustworthy compass that guides our choices and gives our lives a decisive direction”.
Lastly, Cardinal Rylko mentioned Blessed John Paul II, saying: the “inventor’ of the WYD, was “present’ at the celebration in a reliquary containing a drop of his blood for the veneration of the participants, an everlasting testimony to the creator of the World Youth Days.
Welcoming the Holy Father in Madrid in the scorching sun
At noon on Thursday 18th August, 2011, in his 20th Apostolic Visit outside Italy, the Holy Father landed at Madrid-Barajas International Airport. He was greeted on board by Archbishop Renzo Fratini, Apostolic Nuncio in Spain, together with the Chief of Protocol. The Pope was then welcomed by Their majesties the King and Queen of Spain with Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, Archbishop of Madrid. Also present were political and civil authorities, the Spanish cardinals, bishops of the Permanent Committee of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, as well as the bishop sot the Ecclesiastical province and many faithful. Over 200 countries from every continent were represented in Madrid. The young people began welcoming the Pope on his journey from the airport to the city centre holding balloons, waving flags, and tossing clouds of multi-colored confetti up into the air. As the Holy Father arrived in Madrid, bells were ringing from all Churches. A simple and joyous prelude to the great celebration which was reaching its climax, but which had been planned well in advance and will continue to show its fruits for some time to come. The Pope said that it is the young people themselves who must explain why this colorful multitude went to Spain’s capital from all over the world. But he immediately added that it may be their desire to hear the Word of God. [Read More Pope’s WYD speech]
Young people started arriving at the aerodrome and take their places. Braving the scorching sun and the heat, an endless flow of pilgrims from different parts of the world, clapped, cheered and waved their different national flags through neighbourhoods till they reached the venue, an old airport, with an extension equivalent to 48 football fields. By evening, at least one and a half million youngsters had thronged the venue, ready to listen to the Pople’s message. Meanwhile, different activities were taking place on the stage (testimonies of young people, musical interpretations, prayers to the Virgin, etc.), to prepare for the Vigil. At the same time the Pope was visiting the “Fundación Instituto San José” A center for the sick run by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God. The Holy Father arrived at the Cuatro Vientos aerodrome at 8.30p.m and the Eucharistic adoration begin.
The heat was not the only ordeal the young pilgrims faced. The service of the Word of God started with the Pope listening to questions from five youth including a Kenyan Social Worker who lamented her search for meaning the midst of poverty and pain. The Pope did not read the answer he had prepared but exhorted them to “have no fear of the world or the future”.
Suddenly, a heavy downpour broke out, drenching all the pilgrims and forcing the organizers to interrupt the event. The Holy Father braved the strong winds until calm returned. He praised the youth “you have proved your faith is stronger than the rain”. As the youth chanted “Benedictus”. Then the wet and noisy encounter gave way to an impressing 10 minute silence of the millions gazing upon the Holy Sacrament, exposed with a beautiful artistic monstrance.
Cuatro Vientos an old airport became the world’s biggest temple! After imparting the blessing, the Holy Father wished the youth goodnight: “Thank you for the sacrifice you are doing. Have a good rest. See you tomorrow”.
During the closing Mass – [climax of the WYD] the Holy Father told the youth “The world needs the witness of your faith…. Do not be seduced by false promises of a lifestyle without God.”
An hour before the Pope left Spain, he met 12,000 of the WYD 2011 Volunteers and applauded them for “having given the event a face of kindness, sympathy and self-surrender”.
The Holy Father announced the next WYD will be held in Rioi de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013.
