Communications

Archbishop Tambala Urges Consecrated Persons to Remain Hopeful and Faithful in Their Vocation

by Communications Lilongwe Archdiocese

The Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe today, 07 February 2026 has celebrated the Day for the Consecrated with a Eucharistic celebration led by Archbishop Most Reverend George Desmond Tambala, OCD, who encouraged priests, brothers, and sisters to persevere in their vocation even when faced with life’s challenges.

In his homily, Archbishop Tambala reflected on the Gospel of the Presentation of the Lord, highlighting Simeon and Anna as examples of patience, faith, and commitment. He reminded consecrated persons that their calling involves a lifelong journey of waiting and trust in God.

Archbishop Tambala sharing homily
Archbishop Tambala sharing homily

“We wait not for a specific thing, but for a person, for Christ,” he said, emphasizing that religious life is centered on faithful expectation rather than worldly success. Bishop Homily

The Archbishop acknowledged that such waiting is not always easy, noting that consecrated life is often tested by questions, struggles, and sacrifices. However, he urged religious men and women to remain hopeful and focused on their mission.

He cautioned against pursuing material gain or recognition, saying it is “very sad… waiting for power, waiting for money, waiting for pleasure,” instead of waiting faithfully for Christ. Bishop Homily

Archbishop Tambala further called on consecrated persons to become sources of wisdom within society, observing that today’s world is marked by “too much talk, too much noise and very little wisdom.” Bishop Homily He encouraged them to cultivate prayerful lives so that people seeking guidance can find spiritual direction through their witness.

Reflecting on Simeon’s prophetic message to Mary, the Archbishop stressed that authentic Christian discipleship includes embracing sacrifice and the Cross. “We do not preach a gospel of prosperity… We preach Christ crucified,” he said, urging consecrated persons to remain faithful even when their message is challenging.

He also reminded the congregation that each consecrated person is valuable in the mission of the Church, stating that the Archdiocese depends on their dedication and service.

Concluding his homily, Archbishop Tambala expressed gratitude for the commitment of religious men and women, encouraging them to continue living as prophetic witnesses whose lives inspire others to remain faithful to Christ.

Communications

Monsignor Thawale Calls for Unity, Love and Authentic Witness Among Consecrated Persons

by Communications Lilongwe Archdiocese

Monsignor Dr. Patrick Thawale has urged priests, brothers, and sisters serving in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe to deepen their unity by focusing on their shared identity in Christ despite differences in congregations and charisms.

Speaking during spiritual reflections marking the Day for the Consecrated, Monsignor Thawale reminded the gathered religious that unity is rooted in Christ and should be actively nurtured within community life.

He emphasized that diversity within religious communities should be seen as a strength rather than a division, saying, “We are one in Christ. And in our differences, there’s a lot of beauty.” Msgnr Thawale said.

Monsignor Dr. Patrick Thawale addresses priests, brothers, and sisters during the World Day for Consecrated Life gathering at St. Francis Parish (Kanengo)
Monsignor Dr. Patrick Thawale addresses priests, brothers, and sisters during the World Day for Consecrated Life gathering

Monsignor Thawale also clarified that unity does not necessarily mean uniformity, cautioning that people can share practices yet lack true communion. He stressed the importance of moving beyond differences and building relationships grounded in faith, prayer, and shared mission.

Reflecting on the vocation of consecrated life, he reminded participants that their primary identity comes from baptism, noting that their common purpose is strengthened through prayer, love, humility, and participation in the sacraments.

He further encouraged consecrated men and women to know their congregations and charisms well, stating, “Know your congregation… Know your charism before we speak about embracing each other in unity.” Msgnr Thawale said.

Consecrated men and women from different congregations participate in spiritual reflections during the Day for the Consecrated
Consecrated men and women from different congregations participate in spiritual reflections during the Day for the Consecrated

Addressing community life, Monsignor Thawale warned against behaviors that weaken unity, especially gossip and rumors, which he described as harmful to relationships and collaboration within religious communities.

He also urged members of religious life to support and pray for one another, recognizing that challenges are part of community living and can strengthen faith when handled with patience and mutual encouragement.

Highlighting love as the foundation of consecrated life, Monsignor Thawale said that love provides the direction and harmony needed for mission, explaining that without love, religious service loses its meaning and focus.

He encouraged consecrated persons to nurture their relationship with God through prayer, participation in the Eucharist, and personal reflection, while also valuing self-growth and ongoing formation through study and reading.

Monsignor Thawale concluded by reminding the gathered religious that their witness should inspire others, especially young people, by living joyfully and authentically. He urged them to make meaningful contributions within their communities, asking each to reflect on whether they are building up or weakening the life of the Church through their actions.

By Eric Norman Mkwaira

Communications

Maula Deanery CWA Plants 300 Trees at Nguluwe Primary, Championing Environmental Stewardship

by Communications Lilongwe Archdiocese

The Catholic Women Association (CWA) of Maula Deanery has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation by planting 300 trees at Nguluwe Primary School in Chinsapo. The initiative, which bridges the gap between spiritual duty and civic responsibility, highlights the women’s evolving role as both nurturers of families and custodians of the earth.

Joining the women in the exercise, Fr. John Kessie, Parish Priest of St. Denis, offered a profound theological reflection on the importance of the event. He noted that the initiative aligns with the biblical order of creation.

“Trees are life themselves,” Fr. Kessie remarked. “Before creating human beings, God created trees to bring us life, protection, medicine, and food. By planting these trees, these women are helping creation return to its beginning. They are doing the same work God did.”

He added that the initiative is a vital response to the widespread deforestation seen across Malawi and Africa, praising the CWA for their “very big work” in restoring the natural landscape.

Vice-Chairperson of the Maula Deanery CWA, Gloria Namondwe, explained that the decision to plant at schools is intentional. It fulfills a dual role: providing a living classroom for students and ensuring the trees’ survival.

“When we plant at a school, we are teaching pupils the importance of taking care of Mother Nature,” Namondwe said. “At the same time, the protection of these trees is guaranteed. We leave them in the hands of teachers and students who will care for them long after we return to our parishes.”

She further emphasized that this environmental drive is an extension of their identity as mothers. This aligns with the Archdiocese of Lilongwe’s current focus on “Nurturing Parenthood,” viewing the care of “Mother Earth” as a natural expansion of the care mothers provide at home.

The school’s leadership expressed deep gratitude for the donation. Headmistress Alice Rashid noted that the campus was previously lacking in greenery.

“Our campus does not have trees, and we promise to take good care of them,” Rashid said. “We will share this responsibility with the children and the surrounding community to ensure these trees reach maturity.”

This exercise is part of a consistent regional effort inspired by the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations (WUCWO). Supported by WUCWO board member Mrs. Jocelyn Vokhiwa, the Maula Deanery has established a strong track record:

  • 2024: 200 trees planted at a school in Kauma Township.
  • 2025: Planting at Mkwichi Primary School.
  • Ongoing: Development of the Kanyerere farm at the Archdiocese level.

As the women conclude their annual efforts, the message remains clear: caring for the environment is not just a policy, but a foundational act of faith and motherhood.