Malawi is this week hosting the Sub- Region Bishops’ Conference which will see local Catholic bishops alongside their Zambian and Zimbabwean counterparts discussing common challenges affecting the sub-region and seeking possible solutions.
Speaking in Lilongwe yesterday during an opening Holy Mass for the conference to be held in Salima, Episcopal Conference of Malawi president Archbishop George Desmond Tambala said the meeting will tackle issues such as poverty, disintegration of traditional family of the faithful and peace-building in the region.
He likened the problems to wolves which stalk the believers until they prey on them, saying it is the duty of the church to “combat the wolves”.
Tambala, who is the head of the Lilongwe Catholic Archdiocese, said: “The church will combat these wolves among its laity. We shall come together to combat these wolves.
“Sometimes I wonder whether the next generation will ever grow in a home or if families will ever live long enough to celebrate at least 50 years anniversary.”
President Lazarus Chakwera, who attended the Holy Mass, thanked the bishops for the joint efforts to find solutions affecting the three countries.
He said it was encouraging to see that Malawi continues to enjoy solidarity from its neighbouring countries during its time of distress.
Said the President: “I express my sincere gratitude for the solidarity Malawi continues to enjoy from its neighbours. For example, during the times of Covid-19, Cyclone Ana, Cyclone Gombe and also in the wake of Cyclone Freddy and even during the tragic accident that claimed nine lives, including that of the country’s Vice- President, Saulos Chilima, the neighbours rendered support.”
Laity Council of Malawi chairperson Virginia Mahata said Catholics face common problems that cut across the sub-region and they expect the bishops to help by identifying answers. Being held under the theme ‘Enhancing pastoral unity and solidarity amidst shared challenges’.
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