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Pilgrimage of Hope for Holy Childhood
SVD-SSD-UGANDA Communication Team
The children journeyed on foot from their respective chapels to the Basilica Church of Lodonga Parish, covering a total distance of 60 to 100 kilometers (round trip). Along the way, they prayed and sang, offering intentions for children around the world—especially for peace in South Sudan.
On May 22nd, the children gathered and stayed overnight at their chapels. During the evening, they took part in meetings and prayer sessions that prepared them spiritually and mentally for the pilgrimage ahead.
The pilgrimage began early on May 23rd, with children assembling at their chapels by 5:30 a.m. They were accompanied by SVD priests and SSPS sisters, who provided spiritual guidance and ensured access to clean drinking water.
The journey included scheduled rest and meal breaks at designated schools and churches. Despite the physical strain, the children walked with joyful hearts—singing, praying, laughing, and embracing the sacrifice with love and faith.
Upon arriving at Lodonga Basilica, the children rested before participating in the Holy Mass at 7:00 p.m. This was followed by a deeply moving candlelight procession with the statue of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. As they walked the surrounding roads, candles in hand, they prayed and sang with heartfelt devotion. The night concluded with the communal prayer of the Holy Rosary.
The next morning, after breakfast, the children once again gathered in the Basilica to pray and give thanks to God. We organized games and faith-based activities centered on the theme of the Pilgrimage of Hope in this Jubilee Year 2025. The children actively participated—answering questions confidently and joyfully, with some receiving small gifts for correct responses.
We concluded the pilgrimage with another Holy Mass, marked by vibrant singing, dancing, and prayer, despite visible signs of fatigue. After Mass, we took group photos, offered final blessings, and shared a meal together. Many children reflected on their experiences and expressed a strong desire to join future pilgrimages.
Because the distance was long, the children rested again in churches or schools during their return journey. On the morning of May 25th, some of us went to their locations to celebrate Sunday Mass and offer blessings before they returned to their homes.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the SVD priests, SSPS sisters, and all our generous benefactors who support and pray for our mission. Through this pilgrimage—especially during the walking, prayer, and candlelight procession—we truly believe that the Good News was proclaimed, and the love and mercy of God were made visible in this Jubilee Year 2025.
