Namwera, Mangochi – His Lordship, the Rt. Rev. Montfort Stima, Bishop of the Diocese of Mangochi, today, fulfilled his episcopal duty of pastoral solicitude by making a pastoral visitation to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Girls Secondary School, thereby exercising his paternal care and oversight as the spiritual father of the Diocese. The day kicked off with celebration of Holy Mass with the students, staff, and Sisters who run the institution.
In his thought-provoking homily, Bishop Stima reflected on the significance of the Lenten season, emphasizing that the external observance of Christian practices must be a genuine reflection of one’s daily life. He encouraged the students to embody the Christian moral values of prudence, justice, fortitude, temperance, faith, hope, and charity.
“The love of God and neighbor must be seen in your daily lives,” Bishop Stima said, as he challenged the students to live out their faith authentically.
Addressing the staff members, Bishop Stima stressed the importance of schools in providing integral and holistic development of the whole person. “The four years in secondary school are crucial for moral and academic values,” he noted. “Teachers have a vital role in instilling these values in their students and helping them resist temptations even after completing their education.” Bishop Stima also reminded the teachers of their responsibility to be morally upright and exemplary in their lives, as they are role models for their students.
Bishop Stima’s address to the students was a call to action, urging them to make the most of their four-year journey in secondary school. “These formative years are crucial in shaping your future,” he emphasized. “Learning to manage your life and time effectively is vital, as it will impact your success in all aspects of life.”
The Bishop also encouraged the students to be proud ambassadors of their Catholic faith, demonstrating their Catholic identity in every sphere of life. He reminded them that their school motto, “Dig, Drink, and Wash” – inspired by the words of Our Lady of Lourdes to Saint Bernadette – should be a guiding principle in their daily lives.
To achieve academic excellence, Bishop Stima stressed the importance of discipline, urging the students to embrace it as a tool for success. He also cautioned them against the dangers of peer pressure, encouraging them to stand firm in their values and principles.
By imparting these words of wisdom, Bishop Stima inspired the students to strive for excellence, both academically and spiritually, as they navigate their secondary school journey.
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Girls’ Secondary School, which is one of the private schools under the Diocese of Mangochi, is celebrating its Silver Jubilee this year, having opened its doors in 2000. The school’s milestone anniversary will be marked on May 10th, 2025.
During his visit, Bishop Stima’s presence was a proof of the Diocese’s commitment to supporting Catholic education and promoting the spiritual growth of young people.
Report by Fr. Francis Kachere – Communications Office, Diocese of Mangochi