In continuation of his pastoral visits, Rt. Rev. Montfort Stima, the Bishop of the Diocese of Mangochi, paid an important visit to St. Theresa (Utale 2) Parish on April 30, 2025. As the Shepherd and Pastor of the diocese, Bishop Stima’s visit aimed to nurture the spiritual lives of the faithful and provide guidance for the growth of the Church.
The day’s activities commenced with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which Bishop Stima delivered a powerful homily. He invited the Christians to become true witnesses of the Risen Christ, emphasizing the importance of being the light to the nation. “Cast away the darkness amidst you by walking with Jesus Christ the light,” he urged, encouraging the faithful to embrace the Beatitudes as a way of life.
In his encounter with the Church leaders, Bishop Stima centered his message on the need for a deepening of faith. He stressed that a profound faith in the sacraments, such as matrimony, is essential for overcoming contemporary challenges like divorce, polygamy, and religious syncretism. “It is only when a Christian develops deep faith in sacraments that he or she can overcome these challenges,” he emphasized.
The Bishop also expressed concern over the low participation of men, youth, and children in Small Christian Communities (SCCs). He highlighted the importance of these gatherings in the life of the Church, stressing that all Christians should be involved. “The youth are the heartbeat of the church,” he said, emphasizing the need for pastoral programs targeting this demographic.
Bishop Stima also touched on the subject so dear to his heart, the self-reliant Church, expressing sorrow at the slow pace of progress. He proposed several recommendations, including intensifying catechesis, developing programs to address the pastoral needs of families, and training knowledgeable leaders. “For things to work out, there is a need to have well-trained leaders,” he emphasized.
In conclusion, Bishop Stima reiterated the aim of his visit: the salvation of souls. “Time has come to build the Church in our hearts,” he said, calling the faithful to a deeper commitment to the Church and its teachings.
Report by Fr. Francis Kachere, Communications Secretary – Diocese of Mangochi