The Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe on Sunday March 15, 2026, launched this year’s preparatory activities for the Vocations Sunday celebrations at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Salima.
Speaking during the launch, Archbishop George Desmond Tambala, OCD, emphasized that the Church depends on individuals willing to dedicate their lives to serving God and the community.
“We are encouraging young people to listen to God’s voice and not be afraid to respond if they feel called to serve the Church as priests or in religious life,” said Archbishop Tambala.
The Archdiocesan Vocations Director, Father John Kaliwamba, stated that the launch is designed to help young people understand the nature of vocations and the process of discernment.
“Vocations Sunday reminds us that the priesthood and religious life are vital ministries. We want young people to take time to pray and reflect on what God may be calling them to do,” Father Kaliwamba said.
The Parish Priest for Our Lady of Fatima, Father Peter Chatambalala, thanked Archbishop Tambala and the PMS office for choosing the Salima parish to host this year’s celebrations.
Fr. Chatambalala noted that this will provide an opportunity for the parish youth to learn more about a life of service.
Meanwhile, the Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in the Archdiocese, Father Godfrey Chikapa, disclosed that following the launch, the PMS team will begin animations in different zones of the parish aimed at promoting vocations.
“We will soon start animation exercises in different zones here at Salima Parish to encourage people to pray for their future,” Father Chikapa said.
Fr. Chikapa added that the PMS will work closely with the Vocations Director and the youth chaplain to ensure the message reaches as many young people as possible.
A youth representative from Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Magret Isaac, said the launch will help many of her peers think about their role within the Church.
“This event has encouraged us to reflect on our lives and consider how we can serve God in the future,” she said.
St. Mathias Lumbadzi Parish (Lumbadzi) hosted the activities last year; this year, the archdiocesan celebrations will be led by Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Salima.
By Monica Chinyama
