Balaka, February 27, 2023 – The Bishop of the Diocese of Mangochi, Rt. Rev. Montfort Sitima, made a pastoral visit to St. John’s Pastoral Centre at Mpulula, in Balaka District. Accompanied by the Diocesan Pastoral Secretary, Fr. Medrick Mlava, the Bishop’s visit aimed to appreciate the progress of a two-year catechetical training program for diocesan catechists.
Upon arrival, the Bishop was warmly received by Fr. Steven Kamanga, the Diocesan Director of Catechists and program director. Fr. Kamanga briefed the Bishop on the program’s progress, highlighting the various modules covered in the first term of the second year. These included Christian Spirituality, Pneumatology, Liturgy (Sacrosanctum Concillium), Canon Law, and Church History.
Fr. Kamanga also informed the Bishop that the trainee catechists had been introduced to the Pastoral Directory, as guided by the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB). Furthermore, the program had incorporated the Jubilee 2025 theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” in line with the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year celebrations.
Following the briefing, Bishop Sitima engaged with the nineteen trainee catechists, drawn from various parishes within the diocese. He challenged them to reflect on the impact of their training on their lives as catechists. The trainees testified that the program had been an “eye-opener” on various aspects of their ministry. They expressed gratitude for the deepened understanding of Church doctrines, which had empowered them to defend the teachings of the Church confidently.
The trainees also shared that the program had enhanced their prayer life, fostered a sense of community, and improved their teaching methodologies. Moreover, they reported that the training had helped them build stronger relationships with the faithful they serve.
In his response, Bishop Sitima encouraged the trainee catechists to integrate the theoretical aspects of their training with practical life experiences. He emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between priests and Christians, urging them to lead by example in their daily lives. The Bishop reminded them that, as catechists, they play a vital role in animating Small Christian Communities, Lay movements, Youth ministry, pastoral care for the sick and elderly, and family care.
The Diocese of Mangochi organized the training program, which is currently in its second year. The Bishop’s visit to St. John’s Pastoral Centre underscored the diocese’s commitment to empowering catechists for effective evangelization and pastoral care.
Report by Fr Francis Kachere – Communication Secretary – Diocese of Mangochi