Amidst jubilation and spiritual fervor, the Catholic Church’s Diocese of Mangochi celebrated a significant milestone in its Jubilee Year. The Ulongwe Deanery, which includes the parishes of Ulongwe, Chidzanja, Kapire, and Kausi, gathered at Ulongwe Parish for a splendid Deanery Youth Rally. The day’s events began with the solemn celebration of Holy Mass, presided over by Bishop Montfort Stima, the esteemed Shepherd of the Diocese of Mangochi.
Christ Does Not Disappoint: A Message of Faith and Purpose
In his illuminating homily, Bishop Stima expounded on the rally’s theme, “Hope Does Not Disappoint,” emphasizing the solid relationship with Christ. “Christ does not disappoint,” the Bishop stressed, highlighting that God’s plan for the youth is filled with purpose and promise. He warned that “earthly plans disappoint,” and therefore, the youth should follow God’s plan, which includes being “morally upright, prayerful, serving people joyfully, doing the will of God, being instruments of peace, and performing charity works.”
The Bishop’s words resonated with the young congregation as he reminded them of their sacred calling to be “obedient, holy, hard workers, and to walk together with Christ, who gives hope that does not disappoint.” He urged the youth to learn to say “yes” to God’s plan, citing Jesus Christ as the perfect example of God’s plan.
Youth Leadership and Yearly Objectives
Fr. Goodson Kanyoza, the Dean of Ulongwe Deanery, reaffirmed his commitment to cultivating the youth in collaboration with Fr. Lucius Picardo, the Deanery Youth Chaplain, and Fr. Christopher Sichinga, the Diocesan Youth Chaplain. “Let us love the Church and keep our faith,” he urged the youth.
Fr. Sichinga, in his remarks, outlined the objectives for the year, focusing on catechesis, accompaniment, mental health, care for creation, and the development of youth skills. He emphasized the importance of a “youth-to-youth, fun and faith, and help for self-help” approach.
Called to Be a Light of Hope for Others
In his closing remarks, Bishop Stima implored the young people to “protect the elderly, love their Church, be prayerful, and love attending Holy Masses.” Mr. Andrew Kavala, in his speech, highlighted the importance of caring for the elderly, urging the youth to bring hope to this vulnerable group, often subjected to societal cruelty.
As the rally drew to a close, the youth departed with renewed hope and faith, inspired to fulfil God’s plan and live out their faith with purpose and conviction.
Report by Fr. Francis Kachere
Communications Secretary
Diocese of Mangochi