By KT Reporter
As the clock struck midnight, thousands of believers across Kampala City and its metropolitan areas gathered in churches, open grounds and cultural venues to usher in 2026 through all-night crossover and Passover prayer vigils, transforming the capital into a vast landscape of worship, reflection and renewed hope.
The annual tradition, deeply rooted in Uganda’s evangelical and mainstream Christian culture, saw worshippers bid farewell to 2025 and embrace the new year through prayer, praise, fireworks and prophetic declarations. Biblical themes of transition, deliverance and divine renewal dominated sermons and worship sessions.
In a country where more than 80 per cent of the population identifies as Christian, crossover services have grown from modest prayer meetings into mass gatherings attracting tens of thousands. Faith leaders say the vigils offer spiritual anchorage amid economic uncertainty, social pressure and political tension, particularly as the country heads toward the January 15 general elections.
“The crossover night is not merely a celebration; it is a spiritual bridge,” said Dr Miriam Nakazibwe, a religious anthropologist at Makerere University. “These gatherings help people process anxiety, restore hope and find meaning through scripture, especially in times of national transition.”
At The Worship House in Nansana, Pastor Wilson Bugembe led one of the city’s largest crossover services, drawing thousands who filled the venue. To manage the crowds, Bugembe organised services at multiple locations, urging believers to anchor their hopes for 2026 in faith rather than material success.
Quoting Proverbs 23:17, he cautioned against envy and called for steadfast devotion. “In 2026, let your hope be anchored in the fear of the Lord, not in fleeting achievements,” he told the congregation.
At Old Kampala Grounds, Bishop David Kiganda preached from Judges 6:16, reminding worshippers of God’s assurance to Gideon. “As we cross into this new year, God is saying, ‘I am with you.’ Face your giants with faith,” he said, calling for unity and resilience as Uganda approaches a critical electoral period.
Meanwhile, Doxa Grounds hosted the 2025-2026 Passover Festival by Apostle Dr Joseph Sserwadda of Victory Christian Centre-Ndeeba. Drawing parallels with the biblical Passover in Exodus 12, Sserwadda framed the night as a moment of spiritual crossing and divine protection. “We declare that the small beginnings of faith in 2025 become strongholds of victory in 2026,” he said.
At Phaneroo Ministries International in Naguru, Apostle Grace Lubega led the ministry’s signature Night of Prayer, encouraging believers to enter the new year free of burdens and rooted in gratitude. Citing Psalm 65:11, he urged worshippers to trust in God’s provision. “Step into 2026, crowned with God’s goodness. Let prayer be your weapon,” he said.
Elsewhere, Pastor Aloysius Bugingo of Canaan Land’s House of Prayers International Ministries emphasised forgiveness and restoration, drawing from Luke 15, the parable of the prodigal son, as gospel artist Levixone led worship. In Kansanga, Pastor Isaac Kyobe Kiweweesi conducted an anointing service themed “Strengthen Yourself in the Lord,” referencing 1 Samuel 30:6. “Forgive, fortify and flourish, 2026 is your season of strength,” he declared.
All-night worship services were also held at Watoto Church’s All-Night Sing, the Cross Overnight at Makerere Full Gospel Church, and solemn liturgies at Lubaga Catholic Cathedral and All Saints Cathedral, Kampala. At All Saints Cathedral, worshippers reflected on Philippians 3:13, focusing on letting go of the past and pressing forward into the new year with purpose.
As fireworks illuminated Kampala’s skyline, the crossover vigils reflected more than celebration. They expressed a collective yearning for peace, stability and divine guidance in the year ahead. “This is how we enter the new year, strengthened in the Lord,” said Sarah Nabukeera, a worshipper at Makerere Full Gospel Church.
Beyond faith gatherings, celebrations also blended with culture and entertainment. At the Lubiri Grounds, revellers attended the Enkuka cultural festival, graced by Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, alongside performances by musicians and comedians. Elsewhere, high-energy concerts drew large crowds, including a show by Awilo Longomba at Lugogo Cricket Oval.
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