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Likuni Parish Urged to Lead by Example in Development and Faith

Christians at Likuni Parish in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe have been encouraged to formulate new development plans and implement initiatives that can serve as models for newly established parishes.

This guidance was delivered on Sunday by His Lordship Vincent Mwakhwawa, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese, during the celebration of the parish’s matronal feast—the Holy Rosary.

Bishop Mwakhwawa emphasized that Likuni Parish, being one of the oldest in the archdiocese, should continue to exemplify unity in both Christian faith and development efforts.

Bishop Mwakhwawa administering the Sacrament of Confirmation to the Young ones.
Bishop Mwakhwawa administering the Sacrament of Confirmation to the young ones

“I have encouraged them to have a vision for the future, especially as we prepare for the 125-year Jubilee celebration of this parish. They need to look ahead, as the parish must continue to grow,” he said.

His Lordship also stressed the importance of safeguarding parish land and assets, noting that Likuni Parish holds a significant portion of the archdiocese’s resources.

Meanwhile, Parish Priest Father Damiano Chitha expressed gratitude to parishioners for their unity and dedication, which were evident through the active participation of various groups.

Father Damiano Chitha, Parish Priest for Likuni Parish
Father Chitha, Parish Priest for Likuni Parish

“I am very happy with the parishioners for what has happened during this feast. It shows unity and togetherness as we prayed and shared stories as Parishioners of Likuni Parish,” he said.

Parish Council Chairperson Patrick Liphava affirmed that the parish has a clear vision and has already outlined several development projects to be implemented in the coming years.

Patrick Liphamva Likuni Parish Council Chairperson
Patrick Liphava, Likuni Parish Council Chairperson

During the celebration, friends of Likuni Parish donated tiles to support ongoing church development activities.

The event also marked the parish’s 122nd anniversary since its establishment. A total of 231 children received the Sacrament of Confirmation, underscoring the continued growth of the Catholic community.

Friends of Likuni Parish presenting tiles to the Auxiliary Bishop
Children who received the Sacrament of Confirmation

 

By Titus Jata Phiri

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50th Parish Opens at Mtande in the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” These words echoed with joy and reverence on Saturday, 4th October 2025, as the Archdiocese of Lilongwe celebrated the official opening of St Andrew Mtande Catholic Parish, marking a significant milestone in the Church’s mission of faith and service.

The Solemn Eucharistic Mass, held at the newly established parish, was presided over by His Lordship Bishop Vincent Fredrick Mwakhwawa, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe.

The event drew clergy, religious, and lay faithful from across the region, all gathered to witness the birth of a new spiritual home.

FR-Christian-handing-over-chrstians-register-book-for-the-new-parish-to-the-auxiliary Bishop
Fr. Christian handing over chrstians register book for the new parish to the auxiliary Bishop

Previously under St Francis Parish in Kanengo, St Andrews Mtande now begins its journey as an independent parish. Bishop Mwakhwawa described the inauguration as a testament to the growth of the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese, and a call to leadership to respond to the evolving needs of the faithful.

“This is a great achievement,” His Lordship said, “but it opens our eyes and ears to listen to the needs of the people in order to provide good service.”

In his homily, Bishop Mwakhwawa urged the faithful of St Andrew Mtande to embrace the Catholic spirit of unity and live out their charism as a community. He emphasized that for a parish to thrive, its members must be committed to the mission of evangelization and mutual support.

He also challenged the parish leadership priests and religious sisters to be attentive to their congregation, reminding them that service is the foundation of unity.

Bishop-Mwakhwawa-handing-over-tabanacal-keys-to-the-parish-priest-Fr-Philp
Bishop Mwakhwawa handing over tabernacle keys to the parish priest, Fr. Philip

“The obligation at the parish is to serve, and service brings unity.” said Bishop Mwakhwawa.

Speaking on behalf of the laity, Mr. Patrick Liphava, Chairperson of the Laity Council in the Archdiocese, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the smooth transition and establishment of the new parish. He pledged unwavering support from the laity to ensure the parish fulfills its mission.

“As Laity Council in the Archdiocese, we are ready to provide support to the new parish in order for it to achieve its mission,” Liphava affirmed.

The opening of St Andrew Mtande Catholic Parish is more than a ceremonial event, it is a spiritual milestone, a symbol of growth, and a renewed commitment to faith, unity, and service in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe.

Bishop-Mwakhwawa-installing-Fr-philp-as-a-new-Parish-Priest
Bishop Mwakhwawa installing Fr Philip as a new Parish Priest

Mtande Church was founded in 1970 by Mr. and Mrs. Bikoloni, Mrs. Magalena Nkhalamba, Mr. Kanzikiti, and Mrs. Mtande Chiofu. At that time, they worshipped at Chikunga Village in Kanengo under Likuni Parish. Due to development in Kanengo, they relocated to Mtande Village in 1972.

Of the founding members, only Mrs. Bikoloni is still alive, and she was present to witness the official opening of St Andrew the Apostle Mtande Parish last Saturday.

Mrs-Bikoloni-in-the-middle-one-of-the-fisrt-christian-who-started-mtande-church-in-1970-today-St-Andrews-the-Apostle-Mtande-Parish
Mrs. Bikoloni in the middle, witnessing the opening of St. Andrews Mtande Parish

The new parish comprises two outstations: St Andrew, which includes 11 Small Christian Communities with a total of 3,481 Christians, and St Catherine of Siena, which consists of 7 Small Christian Communities with 1,806 Christians.

Fr Philp shows the register book to the lay faithful
Bishop Mwakhwawa handing over christians register book to the Parish priest for the new parish Fr Philp
Bishop Mwakhwawa blessing priest’s house

By Peter Dumayo

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Catholic Church Lays Foundation Stone for New Apostolic Nunciature in Lilongwe

The Apostolic Nuncio with Malawi bishops and other dignitaries, celebrating a key milestone
The Apostolic Nuncio with Malawi bishops and other dignitaries, celebrating a key milestone

The Catholic Church in Malawi has on 22 September 2025, marked a significant milestone with the laying of the foundation stone for a new Apostolic Nunciature in Lilongwe.

The historic ceremony was presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio to Malawi and Zambia, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, and attended by a host of dignitaries.

Archbishop Gian Luca Perici unveils the commemorative pillar
Archbishop Gian Luca Perici unveils the commemorative pillar

The President of the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), Right Reverend Martin Mtumbuka, described the event as a key step in establishing a permanent base for the Holy See’s diplomatic mission in the country.

The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, with Bishop Martin Anwell Mtumbuka (President of MCCB) at the ceremony
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, with Bishop Martin Anwell Mtumbuka (President of MCCB) at the ceremony

In his remarks, his Lordship revealed that the project had been delayed for years due to financial issues and uncertainty from the Holy See regarding the need for a dedicated representative in Malawi.

Bishop Mtumbuka speaks on the significance of the new Nunciature as a new chapter for the Catholic faithful in the country
Bishop Mtumbuka speaks on the significance of the new Nunciature as a new chapter for the Catholic faithful in the country

Bishop Mtumbuka expressed profound gratitude to Pope Francis for authorizing and approving the project. He also thanked previous apostolic nuncios, the Government of Malawi for donating the plot of land decades ago, and all the parishioners and faithful who were present.

“May God bless this project; may God bless the Catholic Church in Malawi and God bless our country,” he prayed.

Adding a government perspective, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mwayiwawo Polepole, stated his excitement, emphasizing that the new Nunciature would “cement” diplomatic relations between Malawi and the Holy See.

Representing the government, Mwayiwawo Polepole of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaks on the strengthening diplomatic ties between Malawi and the Holy See
Representing the government, Mwayiwawo Polepole of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaks on the strengthening diplomatic ties between Malawi and the Holy See

He noted that having a resident representative would ensure Malawi “will always be in their mind.”

Polepole highlighted the significance of the event, given that the land was granted to the Holy See over 50 years ago, and expressed enthusiasm that Malawi would no longer be accredited from another country in the region.

Building a new chapter for the Church in Malawi. Archbishop Gian Luca Perici participates in the foundation stone-laying ceremony
Building a new chapter for the Church in Malawi. Archbishop Gian Luca Perici participates in the foundation stone-laying ceremony

Representing the construction team, Jose A. Da Costa, Managing Director of Terrastone Construction Limited, assured the public that the project would be completed in under two years.

Jose A. Da Costa, Managing Director of Terrastone Construction, shares details on the project's timeline and commitment to eco-friendly practices
Jose A. Da Costa, Managing Director of Terrastone Construction, shares details on the project’s timeline and commitment to eco-friendly practices

He also committed to an eco-friendly approach, stating that an environmental study had been conducted to ensure the preservation of indigenous trees on the site. According to Da Costa, the client’s instructions were to save all possible trees, and the materials used for construction will also be eco-friendly.

The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, lays a symbolic brick for the new Nunciature
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, lays a symbolic brick for the new Nunciature
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, with Archbishop George Desmond Tambala (Lilongwe) at the ceremony
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, with Bishop Martin Anwell Mtumbuka (President of MCCB) at the ceremony
CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF LILONGWE

 

By Eric Norman Mkwaira

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Bishop Mwakhwawa applauds daughters of Marie Theresa for their Service to the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe

The Auxiliary bishop of the catholic archdiocese of Lilongwe His Lordship Vincent Fredrick Mwakhwawa say the Golden jubilee and Final profession of daughters of Marie Theresa formally known as Teresian Sisters is a clear indication that God is using human beings to build his kingdom in the Society.

During the Eucharistic Celebration of the Golden Jubilee, Silver Jubilee, and Final Profession at Mlare Parish, Bishop Mwakhwawa emphasized the commitment of the sisters who have served for 50 and 25 years.

Bishop Mwakhwawa
Bishop Mwakhwawa

His lordship stressed the need for the clergy and religious to pray for the laity, saying, “The clergy and religious are called to leave everything to serve the Lord; therefore, it’s our obligation to pray for the laity.”

Laity Chairperson in the archdiocese of Lilongwe Patrick Liphava expressed gratitude, noting that the celebrations demonstrate the vibrancy of the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe.

He commended the sisters for their service in schools, hospitals, and other Catholic institutions, saying, “Let me commend these sisters for their overwhelming support to the church.”

Sister Theresa Mlenga, celebrating her Silver Jubilee, expressed joy at reaching 25 years of service and urged aspiring sisters to remain focused, saying, “To those aspiring to become sisters, let me urge them to stay focused, as the one we are serving is faithful.”

 

By Peter Dumayo.

 

 

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Bishop Mwakhwawa Praises Parishes for Commitment to Church Growth

The Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archidiocese of Lilongwe, his Lordship Vincent Fredrick Mwakhwawa, has commended various parish leaders for their dedication to the growth of the Church.

Bishop Mwakhwawa made the remarks on Saturday 23 August 2025 while presiding over the sacrament of confirmation mass at St. Patrick’s Parish in the Lilongwe Archdiocese.

bishop Mwakhwawa conferring the sacrament
bishop Mwakhwawa conferring the sacrament
Choir singing during the celebration
Choir singing during the celebration

He highlighted that the growing number of youths receiving the sacrament of confirmation across different parishes is a clear indication that priests, sisters, and catechists are doing an excellent job forming the youths in their spiritual lives.

The bishop is optimistic that the rising number of young people receiving the sacrament of confirmation in August offers hope for a stronger church in the future.

On the other hand, the bishop challenged parents to take a proactive role in ensuring their children are not addicted to technological gadgets like phones, which can hinder their spiritual and physical development.

“I call upon parents to ensure their children are not addicted to cell phones,” he added, “as they waste their time on TikTok instead of concentrating on their studies and spiritual lives.”

In his remarks, Blaise Saenda, the first vice chairperson for St. Patrick’s Parish stated that the parish will ensure the newly confirmed youths are cared for through their small Christian communities so they can continue to grow in the Catholic faith.

Regarding the Bishop’s call, the chairperson noted that it is a wake-up call for parents, reminding them to raise their children with moral values.

''the call from the bishop is genuine,'' Saenda.
”the call from the bishop is genuine,” Saenda.

“Yes, the call from the bishop is genuine, and we will ensure this is looked into through our church forums,” he said.

Felix Aposio Malire, one of the confirmed youths, expressed his joy at receiving the sacrament, stating that it will now assist him in serving in the vineyard wholeheartedly.

''we must love praying,'' Malire.
”we must love praying,” Malire.

He also called upon his fellow youths to love praying, as they are “pilgrims of hope.”

By Peter Dumayo

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Church News Radio Alinafe

Malawi’s Catholic Bishops Champion Environmental Education for Children

Rt. Rev. Alfred Chaima and a child from the Catholic Diocese of Zomba water a tree, embodying the spirit of stewardship for creation.
Rt. Rev. Alfred Chaima and a child from the Catholic Diocese of Zomba water a tree, embodying the spirit of stewardship for creation.

The President of the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), Bishop Martin Mtumbuka, has highlighted the importance of educating children on environmental conservation.

The call has been made earlier today, 02 August 2025, at the ongoing the National Children’s Congress at Don Bosco Parish in the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe, where environmental education was the day’s focus.

According to Bishop Mtumbuka, this initiative is part of the response to a letter written by the late Pope Francis entitled “Laudato Si,” which urges the Church to take an active role in environmental stewardship.

“The late Pope emphasized care for creation. By involving children in activities like tree planting, we want to instill in them the importance of protecting nature, as they are the future leaders who will be most affected by climate change,” said His Lordship Mtumbuka.

Bishop Martin Mtumbuka leads by example, planting a tree to teach children about environmental conservation
Bishop Mtumbuka leads by example, planting a tree to teach children about environmental conservation

On the matter of education, His Lordship expressed concern over the challenges children presented to them regarding accessing quality learning.

He stressed the need for government intervention and broader responsibility from all sectors to address this.

Bishop Mtumbuka affirmed the Catholic Church’s ongoing commitment to ensuring high-quality education for children nationwide.

In his remarks, Ruben Chifundo Nazombe, Acting Director of the Jesuit Center for Ecology and Development, commended MCCB through the organizing committee for also considering environmental education to children, during this Congress.

Nazombe emphasized that this is an ideal time to offer environmental education so that children grow up with a sense of responsibility for nature in their communities.

After completing their sessions, the children, guided by the bishops and leaders, planted trees as a practical application of what they had learned.

The congress continues at Don Bosco Parish, where children are being educated in both spiritual and social life.

Daria Braithwaite, Holy Childhood Coordinator from the Archdiocese of Boston, USA, plants and waters her tree, symbolizing global solidarity in environmental care at the National Children's Congress.
Daria Braithwaite, Holy Childhood Coordinator from the Archdiocese of Boston, USA, plants and waters her tree, symbolizing global solidarity in environmental care at the National Children’s Congress.

Written by Titus Jata Phiri
Photo Credit: Edwin Sitima