Story by Aggrey Twesigye
Christians in the Catholic Diocese of Mbarara have expressed overwhelming joy and spiritual renewal following the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
The newly elected pontiff has taken the papal name Pope Leo XIV.
The announcement of Pope Leo XIV’s election came in the wake of the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a cerebral stroke.
His death marked the end of a deeply influential papacy, prompting mourning and reflection among Catholics worldwide.
In Mbarara, hundreds of faithful gathered at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral in Nyamitanga on Friday afternoon for a special thanksgiving mass in honor of the new pope.
The service was led by Rev. Fr. Richard Bainomugisha.
During his homily, Fr. Bainomugisha urged the congregation to offer prayers for Pope Leo XIV, asking God to bless the new pontiff with wisdom, strength, and guidance as he begins his leadership of the global Catholic Church.
Several Christians who spoke to our reporter shared their heartfelt excitement, describing the election of Pope Leo XIV as a moment of continuity and spiritual rejuvenation for the Church.
The Diocese of Mbarara joins millions around the world in welcoming the new pope and offering prayers for a fruitful and peaceful papacy.
