KAMPALA, Uganda — The Church of Uganda joined global mourners in expressing condolences following the death of Pope Francis, remembering him as a spiritual leader whose dedication to youth, pro-life values, and advocacy for the poor left a lasting impact.
In a statement released Tuesday by the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, the Anglican Church conveyed its sympathy to Roman Catholics in Uganda and around the world.
“On behalf of the Church of Uganda,” Archbishop Kaziimba said, “I extend our condolences to all Ugandan Roman Catholics and believers all over the world who are grieving the death of Pope Francis.”
The Archbishop praised Pope Francis as a unifying figure whose humility, courage, and faith resonated with both Catholics and non-Catholics. He recalled the Pope’s 2015 visit to Uganda, particularly his visit to the Anglican Uganda Martyrs Museum in Namugongo.
“We especially remember the Pope’s visit to Uganda in 2015 and his appreciation for the Uganda Martyrs Museum at the Anglican site in Namugongo,” Archbishop Kaziimba noted.
He added that during his visit, Pope Francis unveiled a dedication stone and prayed for the Uganda Martyrs to continue inspiring youth to follow Christ.
Describing the late pontiff as a champion of dignity and human life, Kaziimba stated, “His dedication to the youth, his pro-life commitments, and his advocacy for the poor and oppressed will be sorely missed in a world that needs them.”
Archbishop Kaziimba concluded with a biblical reference, honoring the Pope’s spiritual life and enduring influence: “He fought the good fight; he finished the race; he kept the faith. Now he, who longed for our Lord’s appearing, receives the crown of righteousness.”
The Church of Uganda emphasized that Pope Francis’ visit and his respect for the Uganda Martyrs demonstrated the unity among believers despite different denominations.
As the global Christian community grieves, the Church of Uganda’s tribute highlights the deep respect Pope Francis earned beyond the Catholic Church as a leader who championed love, justice, and the Gospel message in action.