319 Confirmed at Maria Mthandizi Parish’s First Confirmation

In a momentous celebration of spiritual growth and community development, the Maria Mthandizi wa Akhristu Parish in Mtandire held its first-ever Sacrament of Confirmation on 25 May 2025, during the Celebrations for the Feast of Mary, Help of Christians.

Monsignor Patrick Thawale presided over the sacrament and has expressed his joy and gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a significant occasion as it was not only historic but also profoundly uplifting.

In his homily, Monsignor Thawale has since urged the newly confirmed to remain active in their faith and to continue their spiritual journey with commitment and courage.

He has since Recognised the ever-changing nature of the world and encouraged the newly confirmed to adopt a broader perspective beyond their immediate environment.

“Our world has become one global village. They shouldn’t be interested only in their local situation,” he said. “I told them that they should think globally and act locally meaning they can learn from other people. Because the world, with the means of communication, has shrunk tremendously.”

Monsignor Thawale also stressed the importance of education and personal development and challenged the youth to be aggressive in their academic pursuits while also deepening their relationship with God.

“The bottom line is that they should be very interested in what is going on around them and prepare for the future accordingly,” he said.

Among those confirmed was Annabelle, a member of the Kasiyafumbi Outstation. Beaming with joy, she shared what the sacrament meant to her.

“I am glad because this means I am now moving from the class to join the youth association at the church, as I am now grown up—both spiritually and physically,” she said.

Annabelle pledged to remain on God’s path and encouraged her fellow confirmands to stay committed to their faith.

“This is just the beginning. I will continue to follow God’s path, and I ask my fellow confirmed individuals to do the same,” she said.

Established in November 2023, Maria Mthandizi Parish has shown remarkable progress in just a few months. The confirmation of over 300 young parishioners is a testament to the rapid growth and deepening faith of the community, as 319 young Christians received the sacrament in a vibrant and prayerful ceremony.

By Eric Mkwaira