St. Kizito
Youngest Martyr of Uganda, Witness of Faith at Age 13
Life of St. Kizito
St. Kizito was a page in the court of King Mwanga of Buganda and one of the youngest victims of the persecution that produced the Uganda Martyrs. He was about thirteen years old when he gave his life for the Catholic faith on June 3, 1886, at Namugongo.
Kizito had been drawn to the Christian community led by Charles Lwanga and the catechists at court. On the night before his execution, he asked to be baptized. Tradition remembers that he received the sacrament with joy, knowing that he would soon meet Christ face to face.
When the martyrs were marched to Namugongo, Kizito walked with courage alongside men much older than himself. His youth and innocence made his witness especially moving: even a child could see that fidelity to Christ was worth more than life itself.
Legacy of St. Kizito
St. Kizito is honored as a patron of youth and of those who choose baptism even when the cost is great. His story reminds the Church that holiness is not reserved for adults: children, too, can love God with their whole heart.
Pilgrims to Namugongo and Catholics throughout Africa invoke St. Kizito as a sign that the Gospel transforms every age and every station in life. His feast is celebrated with the Uganda Martyrs on June 3.
Prayer to St. Kizito
"St. Kizito, young witness to Christ, pray for us. Help us love God with the simplicity and courage of a child. May we never be ashamed of our faith, and may youth everywhere find in you a model of joyful holiness. Amen."
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