By Catherine Meso
In unity, the clergy of Catholic and Anglican dressed in purple, the Catholic Women in purple as well, Anglican women in blue and white and other congregants of Lutheran and Anglican churches in their church regalia participated in the Way of Cross which took place on 29th March, 2024. It was a Good Friday whereby starting from St. Augustine’s Cathedral, all processed to Mpondasi Anglican church, from where the three churches split after completing the Way of Cross with laying their wreaths on where the Cross was fixed, each one to their respective churches. The Catholics went to do the rest of the prayers at Mpondasi Catholic church.
Remarking on the observance, bishop Montfort Stima of the diocese of Mangochi expressed his gratitude for the togetherness portrayed. He encouraged all congregants to continue helping each other when they go to their respective homes. He also urged these Christians to live in solidarity in moments of both joys and sorrows.
Referring to the Holy Trinity by emphasizing on the spirit of unity despite the differences in denominations, both Dean Mchakama from Anglican church and Pastor Peterson Bandecha from Evangelical Lutheran Church advised all members present to always repent after sinning.
Good Friday is a Christian Holy day on which they remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. Indeed, a Lamb without blemish has been sacrificed. The Victim who gives life has been sacrificed today. It is a bloody sacrifice shed after being mercilessly whipped by soldiers who made Him look weak and apparently helpless. The blood and water which came out after the side of the Master was pierced is meant to cleanse our sins. We repeat the words that Jesus said when He was dying, “It is finished!” However, from this physical evil, God will surely bring out good.
