Archives September 2024

Vatican Hosts Comprehensive Formation Course for Auxiliary Bishop Yohane Nyirenda and Others.

Auxillary Bishop Yohane Nyirenda posing with other Bishop’s in Rome.

In a significant gathering of ecclesiastical leadership, the Vatican is currently hosting a comprehensive formation course for newly consecrated bishops from around the world. Among the participants is Bishop Yohane Suzgo Nyirenda, the auxiliary bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu, who was consecrated on 5th August, 2023 at the Mzuzu Stadium.

The event, organized by the Dicastery for Bishops, the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, and the Dicastery for Evangelization, aims to equip bishops with essential skills and knowledge to effectively lead their dioceses in a rapidly changing global landscape.

This initiative reflects the Vatican’s commitment to fostering strong leadership within the Church, particularly in regions facing unique challenges.

Bishop Nyirenda, along with fellow Malawian bishops—including Bishop Alfred Mateyu Chaima of the Catholic Diocese of Zomba and Auxiliary Bishop Vincent Mwakhwawa of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe—are participating in discussions that cover a wide range of topics.

These include pastoral care, interfaith dialogue, and the role of bishops in promoting social justice and community development.

The formation course also includes newly consecrated bishops from Eastern Churches, highlighting the Vatican’s inclusive approach to church leadership.

This diversity allows for a rich exchange of ideas and practices that can be adapted to various cultural contexts.

As the course progresses, participants will have opportunities to reflect on their own experiences and develop strategies that can be implemented in their respective dioceses.

The Vatican’s investment in the formation of its bishops underscores its recognition of the critical role they play in nurturing faith and guiding communities amidst contemporary challenges.

The comprehensive formation course is expected to conclude with a series of workshops and discussions aimed at reinforcing the bonds among bishops and enhancing their collaborative efforts in serving the Church and society at large.

Transform Program Revolutionize Farming in Rumphi

Under the vibrant sun of Rumphi, a group of farmers stood proudly at the first Agriculture Show they had ever attended, their produce gleaming like jewels against the backdrop of colorful tents and bustling crowds.

For the farmers of Mlangale Two Incubator, this event organised by Rumphi Agriculture office and its partners Thursday this week in the district was not just an exhibition; it was a celebration of hard work, resilience, and newfound hope.

The Agriculture Show that ended today Friday was a culmination of months of effort, driven by the Transform program which is being implemented by Cadecom, the developmental arm of the Mzuzu Diocese.

Funded by NCA/DCA, this initiative focuses on enhancing agricultural practices in the Mzimba North and South and Rumphi districts, with a particular emphasis on drip irrigation and crop diversification.

Cadecom Commissioner, Dan Zimba thinks with optimism as he spoke about the program’s impact.

“The response is good, and I think at the end of the day, we will all celebrate,” he said.

Zimba’s words echoed the sentiments of many farmers who had begun to see tangible results from their hard work.

Chairperson of Mlangale Two Incubator Moses Msiska, shared his excitement as he surveyed the fairgrounds filled with fellow farmers and potential buyers.

“We started this group with about 15 members, but it has now shrunk to 9 due to various challenges. Yet, we are so excited to be here today,” he said, gesturing toward their vibrant display of tomatoes, okra, and watermelons—crops that had matured within just four months thanks to the techniques they learned through the program.

Cadecom’s initiative is about more than just growing crops; it’s about transforming agriculture into a viable business.

Farmers are grouped into incubators and provided with essential farm inputs: 15 drip kits per group, sprayers, fertilizers, chemicals, and seeds.

The goal is to cultivate not only crops but also a mindset geared towards profitability and sustainability.

Despite facing challenges such as market access and crop diseases, the farmers were optimistic. They relied on extension workers who assured them of market opportunities.

“We want to sustain our project even after the Transform program ends,” Msiska stated, highlighting their commitment to their agricultural journey.

As they showcased their produce at the fair, the farmers engaged with other producers and potential buyers, eager to network and learn from one another.

The initiative has not only increased production but also reduced workloads through efficient farming techniques.

Farmers like Msiska have found renewed purpose in their work—transforming their fields into thriving businesses while nurturing community ties among fellow incubator members.

For these farmers, attending the Agriculture Show marked a pivotal moment in their agricultural journey—a chance to shine in the spotlight and share their stories of resilience and growth.

As they packed up their displays at the end of the day while cool breeze from the famous Chipoka Bawoli and Mayembe hills say bye also, they carried with them not just produce but also a renewed sense of purpose and community spirit.

With support from Cadecom and a commitment to reinvest in their futures, these farmers are not just cultivating crops; they are cultivating dreams—dreams that stretch far beyond the fields of Rumphi into a future filled with promise.

 

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Mzuzu Diocese Bids Farewell to Sister Margret Gong’ontha Nyirenda

The Mzuzu Diocese is in mourning following the passing of Sister Margret Gong’ontha Nyirenda, one of the longest-serving Catholic nuns, who was laid to rest at the Katoto cemetery on Tuesday, 3rd September 2024.

She died on 1st September 2024, at the age of 83, at St. John’s Hospital in Mzuzu after a life dedicated to faith and service.

Born in 1938, Sister Margret joined the sisterhood in 1960, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that spanned over six decades.

A native of Holy Cross Parish in Nkhamenya, Mzimba, she became a cherished figure within her community, known for her unwavering commitment to the Church and her compassionate spirit.

During a poignant Mass held for Sister Margret at St. Peter’s Cathedral Parish, Bishop John Ryan of the Diocese reflected on her life and legacy.

“Sister Margret lived her life well,” he said, urging the youth to draw inspiration from her exemplary dedication to service and faith. “Her actions were a testament to the values we should all aspire to uphold.”

As mourners gathered to pay their respects, the atmosphere was heavy with grief yet filled with gratitude for the impact Sister Margret had on so many lives.

Sister Agness Ng’ona, who spoke on behalf of all nuns and provided a biography of Sister Margret, said the community is heartbroken over the loss of Sister Margret, who helped many with spiritual guidance.

Sister Agnes added, “Our growth relies on the spirit of the Lord and also on the elderly, from whom we gain wisdom.”

The loss of Sister Margret is a huge blow to the sisters’ fraternity.”Her legacy of kindness and devotion will continue to resonate within the diocese and beyond, as explained by Raphael Nyirenda, a representative of Sister Margret’s family. While celebrating the life of their aunt, he expressed hope that her spirit of reaching out to the needy has helped many people in her home area.Nyirenda explained,

“Sister Margret was a mother to our community. She reached out to many people and helped them love and live by the word of God; her death will never be replaced.”

Sister Margret was a trained medical practitioner and also possessed vast knowledge on issues related to education.

Learn from Dr Saulos Chilima, Catholic Youths Told

Bishop John Ryan says that the memorial Mass services held to honor the life of former Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima have helped his family feel closer to his soul and the Church.

Speaking on Saturday at St. Peter’s Cathedral Parish in Mzuzu, where the Dioceses of Mzuzu and Karonga organized a memorial service for Dr. Chilima and others who died in a military plane crash, Bishop Ryan urged the people to continue praying for the departed souls.”

Dr. Saulos prepared himself for his death. Let’s emulate the spiritual gifts he demonstrated while in this world. It is therefore important to always pray for him and for others who died in that accident,” said Bishop Ryan.

The memorial service was attended by Dr. Chilima’s widow, Mary, several politicians, Catholics from the Mzuzu Diocese and Karonga, as well as non-Catholics.

Bishop Ryan advised Mary: “The soul of your late husband is in the safe hands of the Lord. June 10th is a long time ago. Stop crying and mourning; move forward with life. What you should do is continue praying.”

The organizers of the service, the Dioceses of Mzuzu and Karonga, held the ceremony at St. Peter’s Cathedral Parish in Mzuzu, where the late Dr. Chilima used to pray when he was in the northern region.

The scriptures read at the ceremony conveyed a message that resonated with nearly all sectors of people present at the Mass.

In his homily, Bishop Martin Mtumbuka of the Karonga Diocese summarized the Scriptures with one word that encapsulated the theme of the service: “Stay Awake.

“These words touched nearly every group of people who attended the Mass, including family members of the departed, politicians, and young people.

Bishop Mtumbuka urged young people, especially Catholic faithful, to stop complaining about what politicians are doing in the country and instead stand up and be counted to make a difference.”

Let me say this again: Catholic youth should join politics. You should be change-makers in this country,” said Bishop Mtumbuka.

At the end of the ceremony, it was announced that among other donations made by Dr Chilima before he died was a chalice to St. Peter’s Cathedral Parish.

Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others died in a military plane crash that occurred in Chikangawa plantations on June 10, 2024.

A preliminary report about the accident has just been released to the public.

Bishop Ryan franked by Bishop Mtumbuka greeting Dr Chilima’s window,Mary.