Phaneroo Draws Thousands To Overnight Prayer As Ministry Ushers In 2026

By Gad Masereka

As 2025 drew to a close, large crowds streamed into the Phaneroo Ministries International grounds in Kampala for an overnight prayer gathering that ushered in the new year with worship, prophetic reflection and an outward looking vision.

The annual event attracted participants from over 30 countries, combining a packed on site congregation with millions who joined remotely through the ministry’s online platforms.

During the overnight, prominent and leading Ugandan gospel artists opened the night with worship sets that gradually drew the crowd into deeper prayer, before Phaneroo choirs took over, ministering in several East African languages.

By the time Apostle Grace Lubega appeared shortly before midnight, the main grounds and two additional overflow sections were filled, with latecomers standing well beyond the designated areas.

Speaking just after midnight, Apostle Lubega framed the gathering as both a moment of thanksgiving and a spiritual crossing into a new season.

He told the congregation that the ministry was preparing for wider international reach in 2026, building on its network of more than 70 live streaming centres across Uganda.

He also announced plans for inter school conferences targeting pupils and students, describing young people as central to the ministry’s long term vision. “The Gospel must meet people early, clearly and powerfully,” he said.

The night also carried a strong national focus when Apostle Lubega announced a 40 day prayer and fasting period beginning on January 2, aimed at spiritual renewal and personal realignment after the past year.

He confirmed that the ministry’s first major service of 2026 would be held later in January to allow space for the election period, adding that Phaneroo would dedicate time to praying for peace, unity and stability in the country.

Without endorsing any political side, he urged believers to approach civic decisions with integrity and conscience rather than emotion or loyalty.

A significant portion of the service was devoted to testimonies and declarations for the year ahead. Citing Acts 9 verse 36, Apostle Lubega described 2026 as a year marked by salvation, healing and achievement.

Several testimonies were shared, including accounts of medical recoveries and personal breakthroughs that worshippers attributed to prayer earlier in the year. As the night progressed, spontaneous testimonies emerged from the congregation, further heightening the sense of expectation.

The closing hours were marked by high energy worship led by Nigerian gospel artist Ada Ehi, whose performance drew loud participation from the crowd.

Worship continued until dawn, with many attendees remaining on the grounds until the service concluded around 5am.

As people slowly dispersed, many spoke of the gathering as a defining moment, not just as a farewell to 2025 but as a spiritual launch into a new year shaped by faith, purpose and renewed resolve.