Charles Lwanga and twenty-one companions, martyred in Uganda in 1885–1887. Patrons of African youth.
Life
In the late nineteenth century, as Christianity reached the kingdom of Buganda in Uganda, many young people embraced the faith. King Mwanga II, however, saw Christianity as a threat, and when Christian pages at the royal court refused his unjust demands, he began a persecution.
Charles Lwanga, head of the royal pages, protected the young pages and taught them the faith. On June 3, 1886, at Namugongo, he and many companions were burned alive. The twenty-two Catholic martyrs who died between 1885 and 1887 were canonized by St. Paul VI in 1964. Anglican Christians also lost their lives in the same persecution.
Spirituality
The spirituality of Charles Lwanga and his companions is the purity of young faith and a love that protects one's brothers. Many had only recently been baptized, yet they treasured faithfulness to Christ above all, and they faced death together, encouraging one another.
Reflection
Charles Lwanga protected the young pages and lived his faith with them to the end. Am I helping the young people in my community feel safe and respected in the faith?