St. Joseph Mkasa
First Catholic Martyr of Uganda, Steward of the King's Court
Life of St. Joseph Mkasa
St. Joseph Mkasa (also known as Mukasa) was the chief steward of King Mwanga's court and the leader of the small but growing Catholic community in Buganda. He was about twenty-five years old when he became the first Catholic martyr of Uganda on November 15, 1885.
When King Mwanga ordered the killing of Anglican missionary James Hannington and his companions, Joseph Mkasa confronted the king and condemned the murder. Mwanga had once favored Joseph, but the steward's moral courage cost him his life.
At his execution, Joseph told those who tried to bind his hands, "A Christian who gives his life for God is not afraid to die." He forgave Mwanga and prayed for the king's repentance before he was beheaded and burned.
Legacy of St. Joseph Mkasa
Joseph Mkasa's death opened the great persecution that culminated in the martyrdom of Charles Lwanga and twenty-one companions at Namugongo on June 3, 1886. His witness strengthened the resolve of the Christian community at court.
Catholics remember Joseph Mkasa as a model of integrity in public life: he used his position not for personal gain but to protect the innocent and defend the truth, even when it meant opposing the most powerful man in the kingdom.
Related Saints
Help keep Catholic resources free for everyone
Your support helps us maintain the Catholic Bible, prayers, novenas, and daily Scripture resources.
Every contribution helps with hosting, maintenance, and creating resources for Catholics around the world.
Give securely with Stripe or PayPal