Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, the Papal Envoy to Malawi, today celebrated his final Mass at the Poor Clares Monastery at Maula Cathedral in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, bringing his visit to the country to an end.

Archbishop Nwachukwu arrived in Malawi on September 17, 2026, as the Catholic Church marks 125 years of its permanent establishment and presence in the country.

During his visit, the Archbishop engaged with Catholic bishops, clergy, religious men and women, the laity, and representatives of various Catholic associations, including the Catholic Men’s Association (CMA), Catholic Women’s Association (CWA) and Young Christian Workers (YCW).

At the Poor Clares Monastery, Archbishop Nwachukwu celebrated Mass and met with the religious sisters before departing for Rome.

In his concluding message, Archbishop Nwachukwu reminded the faithful of the importance of living out the Christian faith through love, charitable works and gratitude, encouraging them to “count their blessings one by one.”

Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), Bishop Martin Mtumbuka, expressed gratitude to Archbishop Nwachukwu for his visit and for joining the Church in Malawi during its 125th anniversary celebrations.

Bishop Mtumbuka also thanked those who contributed to the organisation of the Archbishop’s programme, including bishops, priests, religious sisters, the lay faithful and Catholic media houses.

His Lordship further paid tribute to the missionaries who laid the foundation of the Catholic faith in Malawi, acknowledging their contribution to the growth of the Church.

“Thanks are also given to God and to all his missionaries, by whom the foundation of our faith was laid. Most of them have been called back to their sender, namely God Himself, although some are still alive and are remembered with great appreciation,” Bishop Mtumbuka said.