By John Kusolo
As Uganda mourns the passing of Fr. Damien Grimes, MHM, a Mill Hill Missionary whose life was devoted to faith, education, and the upliftment of the Ugandan community, the outpouring of tributes reflects the deep impact he made. Among the key contributors to ensuring a dignified farewell to this cherished spiritual leader are Patrick Bitature, Chairman of Simba Group of Companies, and Prof. Waswa Balunywa, former Principal of Makerere University Business School (MUBS), who are actively involved in commemorating Fr. Grimes’ legacy.
Fr. Damien Grimes, affectionately known as "Ogumpe" by many of his former students, particularly at Namasagali College, embodied humility, dedication, and unwavering service. His contributions to Uganda’s education system, missionary work, and cultural engagement have left an indelible mark on generations of Ugandans. As the Diocese of Jinja prepares for his final farewell, various initiatives have been undertaken to preserve and honor his memory, including contributions by notable figures such as Bitature and Balunywa.
*Patrick Bitature’s Generosity: A Dignified Farewell*
Patrick Bitature has been a pillar of support in organizing a befitting tribute to Fr. Grimes. Understanding the profound impact that Fr. Grimes had on Ugandan society, Bitature has offered the grounds of his Protea Hotel Gardens in Kololo, Kampala, for daily vigils. These high masses, held every evening at 6:30 PM starting from last Thursday, serve as a spiritual space for mourners to pay their respects and remember the life of service that Fr. Grimes led.
Bitature’s contribution goes beyond the vigil arrangements. In a show of further support, he has also opened a dedicated phone line (+256-772-120386) through which well-wishers and alumni can make donations towards completing a new Administration Block at Namasagali College in Fr. Grimes’ memory. This block, aptly named the Grimes Memorial Block, will serve as a lasting tribute to his dedication to education. A specific room within the building will be reserved to archive records related to the unique educational approach that Fr. Grimes pioneered at Namasagali, as well as memorabilia from his life and work. The project will preserve the intellectual property of the "Grimesian" educational philosophy, ensuring that his ideals continue to inspire future generations.
The cost of repatriating Fr. Grimes’ remains from the UK to Uganda and interring him at Namasagali is estimated at UGX 270 million (approximately USD 72,000). In recognition of his remarkable legacy, the Government of Uganda has donated UGX 100 million (USD 27,000) to facilitate these arrangements, while additional contributions are being sought to cover the full costs. Bitature’s efforts in coordinating these activities reflect his commitment to preserving the memory of a man who profoundly shaped Uganda’s educational landscape.
Prof. Waswa Balunywa’s Vision: A Lasting Memorial at Namasagali
In addition to Bitature’s generous contributions, Prof. Waswa Balunywa has put forward a visionary idea to ensure that Fr. Grimes’ legacy remains alive for future generations. Writing on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Balunywa proposed that Namasagali alumni and the wider community go beyond building a mausoleum by erecting a life-size statue of Fr. Grimes on the school grounds. His idea is to create an annual pilgrimage site at Namasagali, which many alumni affectionately refer to as ‘Sagali’ or ‘Sags.’
According to Balunywa, the statue would not only serve as a tribute to Fr. Grimes’ influence on education and culture in Uganda but would also attract visitors to the area, transforming Namasagali into a tourism destination. This initiative could help to boost the local economy while ensuring that future generations understand the significance of Fr. Grimes’ contributions.
Moreover, the statue would solidify Fr. Grimes’ place in Uganda’s historical and cultural narrative, making it a key feature of the country’s heritage. The idea of an annual pilgrimage aligns with the broader Catholic tradition of honoring saints and religious figures through communal remembrance and reflection. Balunywa’s proposal offers a long-term vision for keeping Fr. Grimes’ legacy alive while contributing to Namasagali’s cultural significance.
*A United Effort to Preserve a Legacy*
The combined efforts of Bitature and Balunywa reflect the deep respect and admiration that Ugandans have for Fr. Grimes. Their contributions — whether through facilitating the immediate needs of the funeral arrangements or planning for the long-term preservation of his memory — underscore the importance of his work in the country. Fr. Grimes was not only a missionary and educator but also a cultural icon whose approach to education and community development left a lasting impact.
As the Diocese of Jinja prepares for the final farewell of Fr. Damien Grimes, these initiatives highlight the unity of purpose among Uganda’s leadership, alumni, and Catholic community in ensuring that his contributions are remembered and celebrated for years to come.
The farewell events, scheduled for the end of September 2024, will bring together people from all walks of life to honor a man who truly embodied the spirit of service, faith, and education. His legacy will continue through the Grimes Memorial Block, the proposed mausoleum, and perhaps even a statue that will stand as a testament to his lifelong commitment to Uganda.
Fr. Damien Grimes' life of service has left a legacy that transcends his time in Uganda. With contributions from Patrick Bitature and visionary ideas from Prof. Waswa Balunywa, the efforts to memorialize Fr. Grimes will not only ensure a dignified farewell but also preserve his legacy for future generations. Whether through the completion of the Grimes Memorial Block, the erection of a statue, or the proposed annual pilgrimages, Uganda will continue to remember and celebrate the life of a man whose devotion and love for his community knew no bounds.
As mourners prepare for the final farewell, there is comfort in knowing that Fr. Grimes’ light will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those he touched, and his legacy will inspire future generations to walk in his footsteps.
Meanwhile, The Diocese of Jinja, Uganda, mourns the loss of Fr. Damien Grimes, MHM, a beloved Mill Hill Missionary who dedicated his life to the service of God and the Ugandan community. His passing has left a profound impact on the people he served so faithfully over the years. As the Diocese prepares for his final farewell, it is a time to reflect on his remarkable contributions and the legacy of compassion, faith, and commitment that he leaves behind.
Fr. Damien Grimes' Life and Ministry
Fr. Damien Grimes was not just a missionary; he was a pillar of the community in every sense. His work touched countless lives through his pastoral care, missionary endeavors, and engagement with various sectors of society, including education, arts, and culture. Known for his humility and service, Fr. Grimes helped spread the love of Christ while championing the growth and development of the Church in Uganda.
He was widely admired for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, regardless of their social standing or background. His dedication to the gospel and to the well-being of his flock earned him a place in the hearts of many Ugandans, especially in the Diocese of Jinja, where he spent much of his ministry.
*The Final Farewell Program*
Fr. Damien Grimes' funeral proceedings are set to be a deeply reverent and carefully planned event, reflecting his life of service. The proposed funeral program, organized by the Diocese of Jinja, is an extensive three-day schedule, allowing people from different areas to pay their respects to the late priest.
Thursday, 26th September 2024
06:00-10:00hrs: Arrival and reception of Fr. Damien Grimes' body at Entebbe International Airport. Fr. Victor Kaija, MHM, will lead the delegation. The body will be handed over to A-Plus Funeral Management for preparation.
11:00-13:30hrs: The body will be taken to the National Theatre in Kampala for a brief farewell ceremony by the Arts and Performing Industry.
14:00-17:00hrs: The body will be transferred to Protea Hotel in Kampala for the evening Requiem Holy Mass, presided over by Fr. Victor Kaija, MHM.
18:00hrs: The body will be taken to rest in A-Plus Chapel, Kampala.
Friday, 27th September 2024
09:00-09:45hrs: The body will be taken to Christ the King Church in Kampala for the Requiem Holy Mass.
10:00-11:30hrs: A Requiem Holy Mass will be held at Christ the King, Kampala, presided over by Fr. Andrew Mukulu, MHM.
12:00-14:00hrs: The body will be transported to Jinja, with a stop at Rubaga Cathedral for another Requiem Holy Mass, presided over by Fr. Philip Obaso, MHM.
16:00-18:00hrs: The body will arrive at Namasagali for three Vigil Holy Masses.
18:00-19:00hrs: First Requiem Vigil Mass, led by Fr. John Fisher Nihiiryo, the incumbent Chaplain.
21:00-10:00hrs: Second Requiem Vigil Mass, led by Fr. Raymond Mutyaba.
00:01-01:00hrs: Third Requiem Vigil Mass, led by Fr. Benedict Wakabi, the Parish Priest.
Saturday, 28th September 2024
09:00hrs: Speeches and protocols will start at the burial grounds in Namasagali.
11:00hrs: The Funeral Mass will commence, with all priests and mourners expected to wear purple chasubles in keeping with Catholic tradition. Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, the Bishop of Jinja, will preside over the Mass. The reading of the eulogy will follow immediately after.
14:00hrs: Final commendation and burial will take place, with Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika overseeing the proceedings.
The funeral activities will be complemented by a variety of choirs, including St. Agnes Initiatives Choir Iganga and the Balawoli Brass Band, who will animate the various Masses throughout the three days of farewell.
*Legacy and Impact*
Fr. Damien Grimes’ life was marked by his deep commitment to the people of Uganda and the Catholic faith. His work in the Diocese of Jinja and beyond was an example of selflessness, hard work, and spiritual leadership. His passing is a great loss to the Mill Hill Missionary Society and the Catholic community in Uganda, but his legacy will continue to inspire those he served.
In his ministry, Fr. Grimes was also an advocate for the arts and culture, as seen by the farewell tribute planned at the National Theatre by the Arts and Performing Industry. This reflects his belief that the arts could serve as a powerful tool in both spiritual and social development.
The Diocese of Jinja has urged all who knew Fr. Grimes to keep his memory alive by following the example he set through his life of faith and dedication to God’s work. All condolence fees are being directed to Fr. Charles Okata, MHM, who is receiving them on behalf of the Mill Hill Missionary Society.
Fr. Damien Grimes, MHM, may have left this world, but the light he brought into the lives of so many will never fade. As the Diocese of Jinja, along with friends and family, prepare to bid him farewell, they also celebrate a life lived in complete devotion to God and the people of Uganda. His work, love, and spirit will continue to influence future generations, both within the Church and in the wider community.
Rest in Eternal Peace, Fr. Damien Grimes.
Rest in Eternal Peace, Fr. Damien Grimes, MHM.
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