A total of 182 youth received the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at St. Andrea Kaggwa Parish in the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe.

The Eucharistic Celebration was led by Monsignor Dr. Patrick Thawale, who also serves as the parish priest.

In his homily, Msgr. Thawale urged the newly confirmed to step up as strong, active leaders now that they have matured spiritually. He encouraged them to lead by example, particularly when gathered in groups, and to proclaim the Word of God with passion.

“You yourselves must be active and also be presentable,” Msgr. Thawale reminded the congregation.

Reflecting on the spiritual significance of the milestone, Msgr. Thawale emphasized that confirmation marks a transition into mature Christian responsibility.

“The actual message to all those who have been confirmed is that after confirmation, we believe that someone becomes mature, becomes an elder, and as an elder, this person becomes a leader,” Msgr. Thawale said. “And as a leader, they should take up leadership positions.”

During his address, he outlined various leadership approaches, placing special emphasis on democratic and accountable styles.

“I did mention 10 types of leadership styles, and I stressed only on a few: democratic leadership, whereby someone is in charge, but at the same time lets the others participate… He should be just like a driver to make sure that things are moving,” he explained.

“When things are not working, he should be able to come out clean and clear and say things should be done in A, B, C, D. If someone makes a mistake—those especially who are under him or under her—they should do their best to correct the situation, discipline them, and move forward. We want leaders who are result-oriented.”

The confirmands expressed gratitude to Msgr. Thawale for administering the sacrament and delivering an inspiring message.

Anthony Fabiano, from St. George Small Christian Community (SCC) at St. Mark Outstation, pledged to share the message with his peers and foster love and unity within their homes and church groups.

Lelia Kaluwa of St. John Paul II SCC shared that receiving the sacrament gave her renewed strength to spread the gospel.

“I feel strength to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit,” she said, noting that she plans to join church groups such as the choir or the St. Stephen community.

Similarly, Amaya Fiwa, also from St. John Paul II SCC, expressed her joy at receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit and her readiness to guide others.

“I can now be able to stand and teach what I learned from the beginning until reaching this far,” she said, encouraging fellow youth to embrace their faith journey.

Kaggwa Parish Joint Choir spiced up the event.

Following the liturgical celebration, parishioners gathered at the Wisdom Centre Hall to mark the growth of the church with a celebratory reception, attended by Msgr. Thawale, Assistant Priest Fr. Abraham Bisai, and members of the parish executive.

By Eric Norman Mkwaira