Franciscan Family in Uganda Grows as Three Friars Profess Solemn Vows in Munyonyo
On Friday, the Franciscan Grey Friars, OFM community at Uganda Martyrs Catholic Shrine, Munyonyo, celebrated a joyous occasion as three brothers—Friar Asiimwe Francis, Friar Mugalu Deus, and Friar Musaanya Francis—professed their solemn vows.
The 3 brothers—Friar Asiimwe Francis, Friar Mugalu Deus, and Friar Musaanya Francis—professed their solemn vows.
The vows were received before Minister General Fr. Carlos Alberto Trovarelli, Provincial General Fr. Mariusz Koziol, and Provincial Delegate and Shrine Rector Fr. Male , alongside many other Franciscan brothers.
In his homily, Fr. Koziol said the three brothers had vowed before God to live as friars and followers of Saint Francis of Assisi.
“Today they confirm that they will forever belong to a new family—the Franciscan family,” he said. “They promise to preserve the rule of this family, honouring and loving their families and tribes, yet choosing to follow Jesus Christ, poor and humble. They give up the thought of their own family, wife, and children to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to Jesus and the Gospel. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit, such a vocation.”
He explained that the brothers will live, pray, work, rest, and serve the Church together, fully consecrated to God.
Drawing from the day’s Gospel, he reminded the faithful of Jesus’ call: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me… whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” He urged the brothers to embrace courage and perseverance, noting, “The life you have chosen is only possible by grace. We carry a treasure in clay jars.”
In the solemn act of religious vows, he said that the brothers are consecrated to God. They belong to Him alone, because He has called them.
“These young men have been drawn by the beautiful example of Saint Francis of Assisi. He lived many years ago, but had such spiritual power that he was so fulfilled with God that, after eight centuries, he still influences people. There are still people who want to follow Saint Francis of Assisi, and Saint Francis wrote such words.”
Fr. Male welcomed the Minister General to Munyonyo, highlighting the growth of the Franciscan presence in Uganda over the past 25 years.
“When we first came, all the priests were Polish. Today, the number of indigenous priests has tripled. It is exciting to see more Ugandans joining the order,” he said. “With these three young men, we hope for more friars, more friaries, and abundant fruits of the Franciscan mission in Uganda.”
Fr. Mariusz thanked God for calling the brothers and applauded their decision. He also expressed gratitude to their parents for their support and blessing.
Meanwhile, the Minister General welcomed the brothers to the Franciscan family and thanked their parents, saying, “I am sure they learned generosity from you, in your homes.”
He praised the dedication of all friars in Uganda, noting, “The beauty of Munyonyo speaks of the love you have for this mission. Continue working with this love for this country and its people.”
The brothers, in turn, thanked God for choosing them to serve Him, and expressed appreciation to their parents, benefactors, formators, and the Franciscan community for their support.
They also thanked Fr. Mariusz for his memorable homily, saying, “We shall always carry your words in our hearts,” and acknowledged Fr. Kajubi for welcoming them to the order years ago.
Friars Asiimwe Francis and Musaanya Francis will continue their studies in Krakow, Poland, while Friar Mugalu Deus will study in Rome.