Fort portal catholic diocese has flagged off 2000 foot pilgrims from all districts making Fort portal and Kasese diocese.
The flagging off exercise started with a mass led by Fort portal catholic diocese Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki at the diocese home Virika cathedral.
At exactly 3pm the clergy dressed in red led by the bishop lined up to start the mass.
The church was filled by pilgrims to maximum which saw some praying from outside.
Songs of praise throughout the mass made the pilgrims start journey colorful.
In his sermon the bishop asked pilgrims to trek in the footsteps of Uganda martyrs through endurance to all temptations that come their way along the journey.
After the mass the bishop officially flagged the pilgrims to start a 7 days journey to Namugongo led by the UPDF band.
Pilgrims both young and old walked through fort portal city carrying jerry cans, polythene papers bags and umbrellas singing praise songs directed by traffic police.
Many say they are walking to pray for peace, safety on road free from accidents and their own personal needs.
Others are walking to thank God for life after the long struggle with COVID 19 pandemic.
According to Father Charles Oyo the diocesan martyrs chairperson organizing committee the first stop over will be in Kaihura at villa Maria parish in Kyenjojo district.
However the diocese is still challenged with funds due to in fulfilled pledges
Fort portal diocese will lead this year’s martyrs celebration at Namugongo on 3rd June under the theme baptized and sent to witness Christ with love and hope after 25years since they last Led.
