St Martin de Porres, a new parish of the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu at Chizani in Mzimba district has been launched.
The historical event was led by His Lordship, Bishop of the Diocese, Right Reverend Yohane Suzgo Nyirenda on Saturday 30 August 2025.
Speaking during the launching Mass, Bishop Nyirenda said the new parish signifies the growth of the diocese and it creates an easy access to the word of God and sacraments for the Christians during their spiritual journey.
Bishop Nyirenda further advised the Christians of the new parish to effectively use it, by frequently worshiping, praying and receiving sacraments, which are also the requirements for the pilgrims of hope.
The bishop also asked Christians of St Martin de Porres to live their life in line with the gifts holy spirit which are love, forgiveness, happiness, kindness and peace. They should avoid fights for the parish to develop.
Lastly the bishop assured that the diocese has plans to establish more new parishes so that other catholic that still walk long distances to access the parish should be considered with a nearby parish too.
Father Petros Mwale expressed gratitude for the opportunity given to lead the foundation of the pris and asked well wishes to continue supporting the development of the parish.
The Chief of the area Inkosi Khosolo expressed deep appreciation for the establishment of the new parish in his area. Inkosi further expressed that other infrastructure developments like schools, hospitals and good roads will follow the parish, hence developing the area.
Before the Eucharist celebration, the bishop blessed the Father’s House for the parish and then laid the foundation stone of the Parish church.
St Martin De Porres Pro parish was established on 1 August 2023 by Bishop Emeritus of Mzuzu Diocese Right Reverend John Ryan.
Currently the parish has 2 Priests,2 Brothers,5, Catechists,6 Zones,27 Substations, 50 out churches and over 14,000 Christians This brings a total number of parishes in Mzuzu Diocese to 22 including 2 Pro- Parishes.
The construction projects for the new parish are supported by the local and well-wishers.