Archbishop Tambala Calls for Child Protection at National Epiphany Jubilee

Updated on January 4, 2026
by Radio Alinafe

The Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe has issued a clarion call to all stakeholders to protect children from all forms of violence, describing them as the “hope of the future Church and the nation at large.”

His Grace George Desmond Tambala, Archbishop of Lilongwe, made the appeal today during the National Epiphany Sunday Eucharistic Celebration held at Likuni Parish. Addressing the congregation, the Archbishop highlighted the significance of Epiphany in the Catholic Church as a day dedicated to reflecting on the Church’s missionary work involving children.

His Grace George Desmond Tambala, Archbishop of Lilongwe, delivers a powerful homily at Likuni Parish, calling for the total protection of children from all forms of violence. — *Archbishop Tambala calls for the total protection of children from all forms of violence*

His Grace revealed that the Archdiocese has implemented concrete measures within parishes and schools to safeguard children from abuse. These actions align with the resolutions of last year’s National Children’s Congress, where children themselves sought better protection and greater participation in Church activities.

“Let me commit here that, as a Church, we will ensure children are protected through the measures we have put in place,” the Archbishop stated.

*Archbishop Tambala presides over the 75th National Epiphany Sunday at Likuni*

The National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS), Fr. Peter Madeya, expressed confidence in the future of the Church, citing the impressive way the children conducted the day’s liturgy.

*Fr. Madeya reflects the national significance of the event hosted at Likuni Parish*

“As a Church, we are eager to ensure that children are properly cared for to build a strong foundation,” Fr. Madeya said. “We will make sure that the children of today are indeed the Church of the future.”

Blandina Phiri, representing the children, echoed this sentiment, calling on parents, guardians, and the community to support them. She urged parents to allow children to visit other parishes to learn from their peers and to participate fully in Church life.

The Chairperson of the Lilongwe Archdiocesan Laity Council, Patrick Liphava, noted that the Archbishop’s call is timely. He revealed that the Archdiocese is currently drafting a work plan specifically focused on protecting children from abuse.

Patrick Liphava, Chairperson of the Laity, expresses his commitment to translating the Archbishop’s call into action through strategic parish planning — *Liphava expresses his commitment to translating the Archbishop’s call into action through strategic parish planning*

“I can confirm that we have a living Church, judging by how actively the children participated in the liturgy today,” Liphava remarked, expressing hope that the youth’s interest in serving the Church will continue to grow.