Fr. John Baptist Matovu Ordained by Pope Leo in Rome Alongside 31 others

Rev. Fr. John Baptist Matovu Kirigwajjo, of Bethlehem Parish in the Masaka Diocese, Uganda, was one of 32 deacons joyfully ordained to the priesthood by His Holiness Pope Leo Xiv at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

This significant event took place on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, June 27, which also serves as the Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests. This year, the day was additionally observed as part of the Jubilee of Priests.

The newly ordained priests come from a diverse group representing more than 20 countries, including South Korea, Mexico, Nigeria, India, Vietnam, Ukraine, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Romania, with many hailing from regions beyond Western Europe.

The Holy Father invited the new priests to entrust themselves to the loving protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of priests and Mother of hope. “May she direct and sustain our steps, so that each day we may conform our hearts more closely to that of Christ, the supreme and eternal Shepherd.”

A former seminarian of St. Mbaaga’s National Major Seminary, Ggaba, Fr. Kirigwajjo’s ordination marks a moment of deep spiritual significance and pride for the Masaka Diocese and the entire Ugandan Catholic community. His journey to the altar, culminating at the heart of the universal Church, is a revelation to faith, dedication, and the global mission of the priesthood.

Fr Matovu being Ordained by Pope Leo Xiv

Congratulations to Rev. Fr. Kirigwajjo on this sacred milestone!