It was a beautiful Sunday morning on 21st April 2024 when a group of talented students from the Holy Cross Lake View Senior Secondary School choir embarked on a journey to Munyonyo Catholic Shrines in Kampala City to animate Mass. Munyonyo Catholic Shrines is a historic and revered site, known as a place of pilgrimage where young Catholic men were martyred by the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda for their unwavering Christian faith. Among these martyrs was Saint Andrew Kaggwa, a loyal servant who, despite being favored by the Kabaka, was killed for opposing the King’s orders.
Upon arrival, the group was greeted by the serene atmosphere of the shrine, where the rising sun cast a warm glow over the surroundings, creating a sense of tranquility and reverence. A nourishing breakfast was served to the students as they prepared for the first Mass, scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. The second Mass, animated by the school choir, commenced at 1 p.m., marking a special moment for the congregation and the choir members alike.
The students brought the Mass to life with their angelic voices, singing praise and worship hymns with indescribable enthusiasm. Their melodious harmonies filled the shrine, uplifting the spirits of the congregation and creating an atmosphere of profound worship. The beauty of their voices left an indelible impression, and the congregation expressed heartfelt gratitude to the choir for their exceptional role in animating the Mass. The pride and joy on the faces of the choir members reflected the significance of their contribution.
Following the Mass, the choir members had the privilege of touring the shrine, guided by a knowledgeable tour guide who recounted the inspiring stories of the martyrs. They paused to admire the sacred site where Saint Andrew Kaggwa was buried, reflecting on his bravery and faith. The group also visited the Grotto of Mother Mary, a cave-like structure surrounded by holy water believed to possess healing powers and marveled at its spiritual significance.
The tour extended to other notable landmarks, including the Kabakas’ Lake, the boat used by missionaries entering Buganda, and an ancient historic tree that stood witness to the martyrdom of the saints. They also explored the Divine Mercy Shrine and admired the statues of the martyrs, standing tall as symbols of unwavering faith and courage. The experience left the students with a renewed sense of gratitude and inspiration for having visited such a sacred place.
After the tour, a delightful lunch featuring an array of delicacies was served. The choir members reminisced about their favorite moments from both the performance and the tour, their hearts filled with joy and a sense of achievement. As the day concluded, the students journeyed back to school, carrying with them cherished memories of an extraordinary experience.
The choir’s trip to Munyonyo Catholic Shrines was not just a performance but a spiritual and educational journey. Their angelic voices brought joy and inspiration to the congregation, showcasing their talents and reaffirming their faith. Holy Cross Lake View SSS extends deep gratitude to the school administration for facilitating this opportunity, which allowed the students to shine both within and beyond the school community.