A sea of mourners filled Kisubi Seminary in Wakiso District on Monday as Uganda said goodbye to one of its most respected religious leaders. Msgr Expedito Magembe, who passed away on May 9 at Nsambya Hospital, was laid to rest in an emotional ceremony attended by thousands of Catholic faithful, government officials, and community members.

The somber yet celebratory requiem mass was led by Kampala Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, who reminded the gathering to give thanks for Msgr Magembe’s life of service. The Archbishop used the occasion to acknowledge President Museveni’s continued support for the Church while making a special appeal regarding the Bukalango Prayer Worship Centre.

“We are grateful for the President’s support to the Church and humbly request his commitment to completing the ongoing works at Bukalango,” Archbishop Ssemogerere said during his homily. The prayer center had become Msgr Magembe’s final posting and mission field before his passing.

Representing the government, Works and Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala delivered a moving tribute on behalf of President Museveni. The President’s message highlighted Msgr Magembe’s extraordinary contributions to both the Church and Ugandan society.

“Msgr Magembe built bridges between different faith communities while dedicating his life to serving the Catholic Church,” the President’s message read. “His work with youth, his compassion for the needy, and his ability to inspire love for God touched countless lives.”

Dr. Andrew Ssekitoleko from Nsambya Hospital shared details about the priest’s final months, revealing that Msgr Magembe had been fighting a serious illness since January. Despite extensive medical tests and care, doctors discovered the disease was too advanced to treat, leaving them to focus on managing his pain in his final days.

The burial service became a celebration of a life well-lived as family, friends and fellow clergy remembered Msgr Magembe’s many gifts. Those who knew him spoke of his musical talent, particularly his ability to compose moving religious hymns that enriched worship across Uganda.

“He wasn’t just a priest – he was an artist who used music to bring people closer to God,” shared one relative during the emotional tributes. Many recalled his special connection with young people, noting how he creatively engaged youth through faith formation programs and personal mentorship.

As director of Bukalango Prayer Worship Centre at the time of his death, Msgr Magembe had continued his lifelong mission of fostering spiritual growth and unity among believers. The Centre, located on the outskirts of Kampala, had become an important place of prayer and reflection under his leadership.

The ceremony concluded with Msgr Magembe’s burial at Kisubi Seminary, a fitting resting place for a man who dedicated his life to theological education and spiritual formation. As mourners filed past the grave, many paused to offer personal prayers, touching the casket in final farewell.

Archbishop Ssemogerere reminded those present that while they mourned their loss, they should also celebrate the enduring legacy Msgr Magembe left behind. “His life reminds us that true service leaves permanent marks on hearts and communities,” the Archbishop said.

The gathering included not just Catholic faithful but also interfaith leaders and government representatives, reflecting the broad impact Msgr Magembe had during his years of ministry. Many ordinary believers who attended shared stories of how the priest had touched their lives through his preaching, counseling, or simple acts of kindness.

As the sun set over Kisubi Seminary, the crowd slowly dispersed, carrying with them memories of a humble servant whose life embodied the Christian values of faith, hope and love. Msgr Magembe’s burial marked the end of an earthly journey but ensured his spiritual legacy would continue to inspire future generations of Ugandans.

The widespread outpouring of grief and respect demonstrated how one dedicated life can influence an entire nation. From composing hymns that enriched worship to guiding young people in their faith journey, Msgr Magembe’s multifaceted ministry left an indelible mark on Uganda’s religious landscape.

His final resting place at Kisubi Seminary, a center of Catholic formation, serves as a lasting symbol of his commitment to nurturing faith in others. As Uganda mourns, the Church gains another heavenly intercessor – a priest who until his last breath remained faithful to his calling of service to God and community.