Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine, also known as Uganda Martyrs Basilica – Munyonyo, continues to be a sacred destination for couples seeking to celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. In order to preserve the dignity of the celebration and ensure smooth organization, the parish has outlined clear guidelines for registration, preparation, and ceremony arrangements.
Registration and Preparation
Wedding bookings are made directly with the Parish Priest every Tuesday during office hours or by appointment. Couples are encouraged to register at least three months in advance to allow adequate preparation.
For Ugandans residing abroad, a proxy representative must deliver documents and follow all required procedures, as online registration is not accepted.
Couples are also required to attend marriage instructions every Sunday from 2:00pm to 4:00pm for three months. If instructions are to be taken in another Catholic parish, special permission from the Parish Priest must be obtained.
Requirements for Formal Registration
To formalize registration, couples must provide the following:
Baptism Cards or a letter from the parish of baptism.
National ID (for Ugandans) or Passport (for foreigners).
Letter from the Parish Priest of residence (not required for residents of Munyonyo Parish).
Note: Letters from the parish “where you pray” are not accepted.
Letter of no objection from the bride’s father or a certificate of completed cultural celebration (Kwanjula).
Marriage banns (announcements) from the parish of baptism and residence, duly signed by the respective Parish Priests and returned to Munyonyo.
Guidelines for Couples and Organizing Committees
Choirs and Music
Couples are strongly encouraged to select one of the Munyonyo choirs, as they are familiar with the Basilica and its instruments. Choirs include:
Marian Choir (7:00am) – Gertrude: 0704 919828
San Damiano Worship Team (9:00am) – Viola: 0705 308233
St. Francis Choir (11:00am) – Mr. Kizito: 0773 322244
Our Lady Queen of Peace Choir (12:30pm) – Emma: 0783 077138
St. Andrew Charismatic Worship Team (6:00pm) – Resty: 0701 113051
Choirs charge no more than UGX 300,000, which includes piano accompaniment. Additional facilitation may apply for extra instruments such as saxophone, guitars, or drums. If a choir is invited from outside Munyonyo, they must coordinate with Mr. Emmanuel Oribariho (0783 077138 / 0705 716221), who manages the music system. External sound systems are not permitted.
Church Decorations
Flower and décor arrangements are the responsibility of the couple or their organizing committee. The Shrine recommends working with the Munyonyo Catechist Association, as decoration time is limited. External decorators must follow strict schedules, since multiple weddings may occur on the same day.
It is prohibited to use nails, glue, or tape that may damage church structures. Night decoration is not allowed.
Media Coverage
Photographers and videographers must use their own power supply, as the church operates on solar batteries. Couples are advised to hire media teams familiar with Catholic liturgy to avoid disruption.
Time Management
Punctuality is strictly observed. If a couple is delayed by more than 15 minutes, the wedding will proceed with the Sacrament only, without Mass. Each Mass is scheduled for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Official Naming
For invitations and booklets, the correct church names to use are:
“Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine”
or “Uganda Martyrs Basilica – Munyonyo”
Invited Clergy
Inviting a bishop from another diocese requires notifying the Parish Priest two months in advance for approval from the Archdiocese of Kampala.
Inviting a priest requires notice two weeks in advance.
Any change of presiding clergy must be communicated. Couples are expected to provide Mass intention and transport facilitation privately to invited clergy.
Offertory in Kind
Items offered must be clearly labeled for the Main Celebrant, assisting priests, or the parish. Unlabeled offertory will automatically be considered a donation to the Basilica.
Fees and Donations
The Sacrament of Marriage is given free of charge. No one is permitted to demand payment for its administration. However, couples are expected to make a free-will donation to support:
Church maintenance and cleaning
Utilities (water and power)
Toilet attendants and catechists
Administrative expenses
Civil marriage registration with URSB
Parish Office Hours
Parish Priest: Tuesdays (9:30am–1:00pm, 2:00pm–6:00pm) or by appointment.
Parish Office (other matters): Tuesday–Friday (9:00am–1:00pm, 2:00pm–5:00pm).
Contact: 039 3242225 | office@munyonyo-shrine.ug
At Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine, the Sacrament of Matrimony is treated with reverence and careful preparation. These guidelines are designed to help couples focus on the spiritual essence of their union while ensuring order, beauty, and solemnity on their special day.
- By
- Parish Office
Share this post
