THE BLOOD OF THE MARTYRS: THE SACRIFICE THAT SHAPED CHRISTIANITY IN UGANDA.
Archbishop Kaziimba reflects on the power of Christ’s blood, the legacy of Bishop James Hannington, and the enduring foundation of Christian faith in Uganda.
KYANDO, MAYUGE DISTRICT | 29 OCTOBER 2026
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has reflected on the sacrifice of Christian martyrs and the enduring power of the blood of Jesus Christ during the 2026 Bishop James Hannington Day commemoration at Kyando Hill in Mayuge District.
Preaching during the annual commemoration, Archbishop Kaziimba emphasised that the growth and history of Christianity in Uganda are deeply connected to the courage, faith and sacrifice of those who remained steadfast in their belief in Jesus Christ, even in the face of persecution and death.
The Archbishop drew attention to the significance of Bishop James Hannington, whose martyrdom on 29 October 1885 remains an important chapter in Uganda’s Christian history. Hannington, the first Anglican Bishop of Eastern Equatorial Africa, was killed alongside members of his travelling party while journeying towards Buganda to advance the Christian mission.
His death became part of the wider history of Christian witness in Uganda, preceding the persecution of other believers whose lives and sacrifices continue to be remembered by the Church.
The Blood of Jesus: The Everlasting Covenant
Reflecting on the meaning of the blood of the martyrs, Archbishop Kaziimba distinguished their sacrifice from the redemptive power of Jesus Christ.
He emphasised that while the blood of the martyrs reminds Christians of their shared history, faith and commitment to the Gospel, it is the blood of Jesus Christ that establishes the everlasting covenant between God and His people.
The message directed believers beyond the historical significance of martyrdom to the central foundation of Christianity: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Archbishop also highlighted the unifying significance of Bishop Hannington’s sacrifice, noting that his legacy continues to bring Christians together in remembrance of their spiritual heritage and shared faith.
The commemoration therefore serves not only as a remembrance of those who died for their faith but also as an opportunity for Christians to renew their commitment to the Gospel and reflect on the enduring significance of Christ’s sacrifice.
Victory Through the Blood of the Lamb
Drawing from Revelation 12:11, Archbishop Kaziimba emphasised that believers overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.
The message highlighted the spiritual significance of Christ’s sacrifice, through which Christians find forgiveness, victory over sin, spiritual freedom and confidence in God's promises.
He further underscored the importance of seeking God's protection through prayer, explaining that the Christian practice of asking to be covered by the blood of Jesus expresses faith in Christ’s saving power.
The Archbishop’s message called on Christians to recognise that their victory is rooted not in human strength but in the saving power of Jesus Christ.
Bishop James Hannington: A Legacy That Continues to Speak
BishopJames Hannington’s martyrdom at Kyando remains a significant part of Uganda’s Christian heritage. His life and death are remembered as a testimony to missionary commitment and the conviction that faith must remain steadfast even in difficult circumstances.
The annual commemoration provides an opportunity for Christians and the wider community to reflect on the history of the Gospel in Uganda and the sacrifices made by those who carried its message.
As believers gather at the historic site, the occasion challenges them to consider how the legacy of the martyrs should influence their faith, conduct and commitment to Christ.
Beyond the historical remembrance, Bishop Hannington Day also offers an opportunity to reflect on the values that strengthen communities and nations, including integrity, courage, peace, reconciliation and respect for one another.
The 2026 commemoration was held under the theme “Anchored in Christ for Unity, Peace and Stability,” drawn from Ephesians 2:12–14. The theme underscores the importance of remaining rooted in Christ while promoting reconciliation, unity and peaceful coexistence.
Special Appreciation to the Local and National Organising Committees
Special appreciation goes to the Local Organising Committee in Mayuge District and the National Organising Committee, headed by Permanent Secretary Dunstan Balaba of the Directorate for Ethics and Integrity, for their leadership, coordination and dedication towards organising the 2026 Bishop James Hannington Day commemoration at Kyando Hill.
Their efforts in bringing together the Church, government institutions, local leaders and the wider community demonstrate the importance of preserving Uganda’s historical and religious heritage while promoting ethical values, unity, peace and national cohesion.
The collaboration between the local and national organising committees reflects the importance of coordinated efforts in preserving significant historical occasions and ensuring that their lessons continue to reach present and future generations.
Particular gratitude is extended to His Excellency General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, for his support and recognition of Bishop James Hannington Day.
Such recognition provides an important opportunity to reflect on the historical significance of the martyrs and their enduring contribution to Uganda’s Christian heritage. It also highlights the value of preserving the nation's history and drawing lessons that can contribute to unity, ethical leadership, peace and social cohesion.
The commemoration serves as a reminder that preserving the memory of Bishop James Hannington is not merely about honouring the past. It is also about drawing lessons of faith, courage, integrity and reconciliation to guide the nation’s present and future.
The contributions of both organising committees, together with the support extended towards the commemoration, underscore the value of collaboration between the Church, government and communities in safeguarding Uganda’s heritage.
A Message for the Church and the Nation
The 2026 Bishop James Hannington Day commemoration brought together a powerful message of faith, remembrance and national reflection. Through the Archbishop’s preaching, Christians were reminded of the sacrifice of the martyrs, the enduring significance of Hannington’s legacy and, above all, the saving power of Jesus Christ.
The occasion also offered an opportunity to reflect on the responsibility of individuals and institutions to uphold the values that strengthen society, including integrity, reconciliation, peace and unity.
Ultimately, while the sacrifice of the martyrs remains an enduring part of Uganda’s Christian heritage, the foundation of Christian hope rests in Jesus Christ.
The blood of the martyrs tells the story of sacrifice; the blood of Jesus Christ proclaims the promise of redemption, reconciliation and everlasting life.