Mangochi, Malawi – February 23, 2025
The Catholic faithful of Kausi Parish in the Diocese of Mangochi gathered in high spirits today to welcome their new parish priest, Father Ernest Mwinganyama, during a special ceremony coinciding with the Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time.
The celebration began with a solemn Mass where Father Mwinganyama delivered his inaugural homily, drawing profound insights from multiple scripture readings. Focusing on themes of mercy and love from the day’s readings, including Jesus’s challenging teaching to “love your enemies” from Luke’s Gospel, Father Mwinganyama connected the ancient wisdom of Samuel’s respect for King Saul with Christ’s radical call to forgiveness and compassion.
“Father Mwinganyama’s message resonated deeply with our community,” said one parishioner who attended the service. “His interpretation of Saint Paul’s words about bearing the image of the heavenly one from First Corinthians gave us much to reflect upon.”
The liturgical celebration was marked by vibrant singing from the parish choir and active participation from the congregation. Following the Mass, the parish community demonstrated traditional Malawian hospitality by sharing a communal meal, allowing parishioners to personally welcome their new spiritual leader.
The welcoming ceremony represents a significant moment for Kausi Parish, as Father Mwinganyama begins his pastoral leadership in this vital Catholic community within the Diocese of Mangochi. The shared meal after Mass provided an opportunity for informal interactions between the new parish priest and his congregation, helping to establish the foundations for what many hope will be a fruitful pastoral relationship.
The Diocese of Mangochi continues its mission of serving the faithful across its parishes, with Father Mwinganyama’s appointment reflecting the Church’s ongoing commitment to providing spiritual leadership to Catholic communities throughout the region.
Report by Fr. Richard Mbando for Communications Office