Sisters of Charity of Ottawa Celebrate 180 Years of Existence

The Congregation of the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe today celebrated 180 years of its existence worldwide, as well as 25 years of sisterhood for Sister Jenipher Machemba.

 

The celebration also included the first profession of vows for Sister Triza Kumbanda, Sister Rosaline Kanjeli, and Sister Prisca Letiyas at St. Joseph (Ludzi) Parish in Mchinji district.

 

The ceremony was led by the Auxiliary Bishop of Chipata Diocese of Zambia, Bishop Gabriel Msipu, who commended the sisters for their dedicated service in the Archdiocese.

Bishop Msipu emphasized the importance of recognizing the sisters’ contributions in various sectors of life, especially in Malawi, as the congregation marks 180 years of service.

 

“We should appreciate the sisters for their valuable work, such as in hospitals, schools, and other initiatives that greatly impact people’s lives,” he said.

 

His Lordship also encouraged the newly professed sisters to remain committed and contribute positively to the congregation’s mission.

In her remarks, Regional Animator of the congregation in Malawi, Sister Adelaida Jere, reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their work based on the congregation’s charism, which is Love and Compassion.

 

Sister Jere urged the sisters to stay dedicated to their chosen path in serving the Catholic Church.

 

“Let us remain focused on our mission and adhere to the congregation’s charism so we can serve the church effectively,” said Sister Jere.

During the ceremony, Sister Rosaline Kanjeli Wanga has been assigned to support development projects at St. Louis Convent, Sister Triza Kumbanda has been assigned to assist in hospital services at Holy Family Convent, while Sister Prisca Letiyas has been assigned to help with parish activities at Guilleme Parish.

 

The Congregation of Sisters of Charity of Ottawa was founded in 1845 and arrived in Malawi in 1946, establishing themselves in Guilleme Parish, Mchinji.

 

Currently, the congregation has 58 sisters serving in various parishes in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, particularly in the Mchinji deanery.

By Titus Jata Phiri