Story by Mabvuto Kalawa, Correspondent, Malawi News Network – Nathenje
The Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, Rt. Rev. Vincent Mwakhwawa, has urged Christians at Nathenje Parish to send their children to school to ensure they are educated and able to contribute to the development of the Church and the nation.
Bishop Mwakhwawa made the remarks during adoration prayers held at Nathenje Catholic Parish. He expressed concern over the high rate of school dropouts, citing teenage pregnancies and early marriages as key drivers.Nathenje Residents Celebrate Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s Political Comeback
“We cannot develop as a nation if we are not investing in the education of our children,” he said.
In his homily, the Bishop also encouraged parishioners to work hard and strive for self-reliance rather than depending on others. He called on Catholics to strengthen their prayer life at home and to pray for those affected by war and hunger.
Speaking to this reporter, Bishop Mwakhwawa said the Archdiocese plans to open more secondary schools and universities in the future to support government efforts to reduce the high illiteracy rate in the area.NBM Boosts Maternal Health Care with K20 Million Medical Equipment Donation to Area 25 Health Centre
On introducing sign language in the Church, he said the Archdiocese intends to make parishes more inclusive for all Christians, including those with disabilities. However, he noted that training specialists in sign language remains a challenge due to financial constraints.
Parish Priest Fr. Thomas Kasiya thanked the Auxiliary Bishop for his visit, saying it served as encouragement for the faithful.
Speaking on behalf of the parishioners, Catechist Jonas Kachikho also expressed gratitude for the spiritual visit. He said Christians were happy to host the Bishop and pledged continued support for the parish priest through prayer and development initiatives.Nyamilandu Pledges Ambulance to Improve Emergency Health Care in Chididi
“As human beings, we need to grow both spiritually and physically,” Kachikho said.
Nathenje Parish was established in the late 1960s and falls under Likuni Deanery, which includes Mlaire, Likuni, and Nathenje. The parish has approximately 20,000 faithful, six centres, and six catechists. It is currently served by one priest following the death of Fr. Francis Damaseke in early April this year.
After Mass, the parish presented gifts to the Auxiliary Bishop on behalf of the Christian community.