The Catholic Bishops of Uganda, through their umbrella body the Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC), are scheduled to travel to Rome on Sunday, 15 March, for the traditional ad limina apostolorum visit, a key moment in the life of the Catholic Church.
In an interview with Vatican News, Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok of Lira Diocese, who also serves as Vice Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, said he will join fellow bishops in representing the Catholic faithful of Uganda during the pilgrimage.
Addressing Christians in Lira Diocese, Bishop Wanok explained that the visit will give him the opportunity to present the concerns, challenges and hopes of the diocese to the Holy Father.
The pilgrimage, which will last just over a week, will involve meetings with several Dicasteries of the Holy See, the Vatican departments that assist the Pope in the administration of the global Church. The programme will conclude with an audience with Pope Leo XIV.
Meaning of the Ad Limina Visit
The ad limina apostolorum visit is a required pilgrimage undertaken by diocesan bishops, usually every five years, during which they meet the Pope and provide an update on the pastoral and administrative life of their dioceses.
For the Ugandan bishops, the visit will also mark their first meeting with Pope Leo XIV as a group since his election, strengthening their bond with the universal Church.
Prayer Central to the Pilgrimage
In a pastoral message to the faithful, Bishop Wanok said prayer will be central to the bishops’ journey to Rome. While there, they will celebrate Holy Mass at the tombs of the Apostles Peter and Paul, praying for the faithful entrusted to their pastoral care.
He assured Christians in Lira Diocese that they will remain in his prayers throughout the pilgrimage.
Bishop Wanok said he will carry with him the families of the diocese, presenting before God their hopes, struggles and the faith that continues to sustain the Church in the region.
Moment for Reflection and Renewal
The ad limina visit also offers bishops time to reflect on their ministry and renew their commitment to shepherding the people of God. The encounter with the Pope strengthens them in their mission as leaders of the Church in their respective dioceses.
Bishop Wanok has encouraged the faithful across Uganda to accompany the bishops in prayer during the pilgrimage.
He entrusted the journey to the intercession of Saint Peter, Saint Paul the Apostle and the Blessed Virgin Mary, praying that their guidance may strengthen the faith of families across the Lango Sub-region and the whole country.
