BUKALANGO, Uganda : Mt. Sion Prayer Centre in Bukalango, Kakiri Sub-county, Wakiso district, has today marked 25 years of spiritual ministry since its establishment by the late Msgr. Expedito Magembe.
The event attracted thousands of religious leaders and believers from across Uganda and beyond including; the Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja and Minister of State for Higher Education Dr. JC Muyingo.
The celebrations begun with holy Mass led by the Most Rev. Paul Ssemogerere, Archbishop of Kampala. In his homily, His Grace, extended warm greetings to the Priests, Sisters, and all the faithful gathered at Mt. Sion Prayer centre, Bukalango as they celebrated the Silver Jubilee of a place of prayer and spiritual renewal.
He said this occasion is a moment of thanksgiving to the Lord for the many graces He has poured out upon His people through this sacred shrine over the past twenty-five years.
The Archbishop paid tribute to the late Msqr. Experito Magembe, whose dedication and pastoral vision greatly contributed to the growth and spiritual vitality of this holy place.
He noted that Bugembe’s commitment to prayer and his love for the church continues to bear fruits in the many faithful who encounter the Lord at Bukalango.
His Lordship also expressed sincere appreciation to the Sisters and all those who have dedicated their lives to sustaining the prayer life and apostolate of this shrine.
“Your quiet but powerful witness of faith has made Mt. Sion a true sanctuary where many souls come to seek God, to find healing, and to renew their spiritual strength,” Ssemogerere said.
As they celebrate Mt. Sion’s 25 years of existence the Archbishop encouraged all Christians to remain steadfast in prayer and in their love for the Eucharistic Lord.
While delivering President Museveni’s message to the congregation, VP Alupo acknowledged the fact that what started as a humble prayer movement in Kiziba Parish in the early 1990s has, by the grace of God, grown into a powerful centre of worship, transformation, and testimony.
“We have heard of the early days—the silent prayers, the deep faith, and the first signs of God’s power manifested through healing and deliverance. These events were not merely moments in history; they laid the foundation for what we witness today; a vibrant spiritual home where countless lives have been changed,” Alupo said.
She noted that through perseverance, sacrifice, and unwavering faith, the Centre has grown into a sanctuary of hope for the sick, the broken-hearted, and all those seeking God’s intervention.
On behalf of the Government of Uganda, VP commended the leadership of the Catholic Church and the entire community of believers who have nurtured this Centre into what it is today.
She further recognized the invaluable contribution of His Excellency the President, who has consistently supported this noble cause.
The president’s commitment has been demonstrated through support towards the construction of the Church, the establishment of Bukalango Television, the building of the Sisters’ convent commissioned today, and other developments that have strengthened both the spiritual and social mission of this Centre.
These contributions reflect the Government’s recognition of the important role that faith-based institutions play in national development. “Spiritual growth goes hand in hand with moral formation, social cohesion, and community transformation,” Alupo said.
The VP also handed over the president’s contribution of Shs50m cash towards the construction of the Priest’s Residence Bukalango whose groundbreaking she spearheaded.
Alupo said as Government, they believe that places like Mt. Zion Prayer Centre are vital partners in promoting values of peace, discipline, integrity, and unity among our people.
She urged the Christians to reflect on the journey so far and to renew their commitment to the mission of this Centre. “Let this anniversary not only be a moment of celebration but also a moment of recommitment to prayer, to service, and to building a society grounded in faith and righteousness,” She said.
She lauded the clergy, religious, and lay faithful who serve here tirelessly for their dedication which continues to inspire many and contributes greatly to the moral fabric of our nation.
Premier Nabbanja congratulated the faithful upon the silver jubilee milestone, reaffirming that the NRM Government values a holistic ministry that addresses both the spiritual and material needs of the people.
She commended the Catholic Church for not only spreading the Gospel but also establishing schools, hospitals, and various income-generating projects. “These initiatives complement the Government’s programmes by increasing access to education and creating employment opportunities for Ugandans,” Nabbanja said.
The Prime Minister revealed that currently, 70% of households are participating in the money economy due to Government wealth-creation initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, the Youth Livelihood Programme, the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme, and the Presidential Skilling Hubs.
She highlighted that in the coming five years, the Government will increase investment in these flagship wealth-creation programmes, particularly the Parish Development Model, to support the remaining 30% of households in transitioning into the money economy. She encouraged the faithful to take full advantage of these programmes to build sustainable wealth and improve your livelihoods. She contributed 1000-bags of cement towards construction of the Priest’s Residence.
In conclusion, the Premier congratulated Mt. Sion Prayer Centre on its Silver Jubilee with hope that Mt. Sion Prayer Centre will continue to thrive and expand its impact and influence for many years to come.
Dr. JC Muyingo congratulated the Prayer Centre upon reaching this important milestone and assured them of continued support.
The current head of the centre, Rev Fr James Ssebayigga Buuzabalyawo, said the prayer centre has become a hub of continuous prayer and worship where many people have experienced spiritual transformation.
“We thank God for the great work He has done through this prayer centre. Many people from different walks of life, including ministers in government and visitors from outside the country, have come here and received blessings,” he said, paying tribute to the late founder for establishing a strong spiritual foundation.
“We are grateful to the late Msgr. Expedito Magembe for the vision he had. The work he started has helped many people regain hope and experience spiritual renewal,” Fr Ssebayigga added, noting that the centre has witnessed countless testimonies and spiritual healings over the years.
