Introduction

The Franciscan Friars of Munyonyo are embarking on a new mission: the construction of St. Anthony of Padua Mission in Buwaya Sub-Parish. This project responds to the growing needs of the faithful in Buwaya and will create a spiritual and community centre dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua.

Why This Project?

The Catholic community in Buwaya has grown rapidly, yet the current church is too small to accommodate all parishioners. Many faithful attend Mass outside, exposed to rain and sunshine. In addition, the friars currently commute from Munyonyo, which makes sustained pastoral care difficult.

The new mission will:

• Provide a larger and dignified space for worship.

• Establish a permanent Franciscan presence in Buwaya.

• Serve as a centre for evangelization, catechesis, and community life.

What Will Be Built?

The project will be carried out in phases:

Phase I

• Parish Hall (300-seat capacity) – will serve as a temporary church.

• Buwaya Parish Friary

• Friary – residential quarters for the Franciscan Friars.

Phase II

• Main Church – Shrine of St. Anthony of Padua

  • Designed to seat 800 people.

  • Inspired by the shrine in Padua, Italy, where St. Anthony rests.

  • Features an underground grotto beneath the altar for prayer and veneration.

  • Will house the relics of St. Anthony of Padua, already received from Italy.

Future Developments

• Convent for Sisters

• Health Centre to serve both the faithful and the wider community.

About the Mission

• In September 2024, the mission was officially entrusted to the Franciscans by Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, after a handover from Buyege Parish.

• The land for the project (7 acres) was generously donated by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Yiga, parishioners of Munyonyo.

• Buwaya becomes the fifth Franciscan mission in Uganda, alongside Kakooge (Luwero), Matugga, Munyonyo (Kampala), and Gulu.

Designed with Care

The design of the project was developed by:

• Andrea (Italy)

• Moses Kaira

• Marvis, a parishioner of Munyonyo

Together, they created a vision that blends functionality, Franciscan simplicity, and spiritual inspiration, connecting Buwaya with the Franciscan devotion to St. Anthony.

How You Can Help

At present, the site has no fence, and initial funds are needed to begin construction of the friary and parish hall.

The Franciscan Friars appeal to:

• Parishioners of Munyonyo and Buwaya

• Well-wishers and people of goodwill

• Friends and benefactors worldwide

Your support—spiritual, financial, or material—will bring this mission to life.

Bank details for contributions are available below.

“May the Lord bless you abundantly for your generosity.”

Conclusion

The St. Anthony of Padua Mission in Buwaya is more than just a building project. It is a testimony of faith, a response to pastoral needs, and a gift to the future generations of believers. Together, let us build a home for Christ in Buwaya.