Children Return Home Inspired to Care for Creation and Live Out the Gospel
Lilongwe, Malawi – The 2025 National Children’s Congress concluded today in Lilongwe, as hundreds of Catholic children from across Malawi returned home inspired, renewed in faith, and empowered to care for creation.
The Archdiocese of Lilongwe, in collaboration with the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS), hosted the four-day gathering, which brought together young faithful from all eight dioceses. The event nurtured prayer, learning, cultural celebration, and missionary spirit among Malawi’s youngest Catholics.
Children Deepen Faith and Embrace Care for Creation
From the start, the Congress invited children into a deeper relationship with God. They began the first day by receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation, where they renewed their hearts through confession and spiritual reflection.
Facilitators led sessions on “Care for Creation”, urging children to embrace Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’ to care for the earth and listen to the cries of the poor. Through interactive presentations and group discussions, the children explored how their daily choices affect the environment and the vulnerable.
On the second day, Rt. Rev. Alfred Mateyu Chaima, Bishop of the Diocese of Zomba, celebrated Holy Mass and challenged the children to live out their baptismal mission in everyday life.
“As children of God, we are called to be stewards of creation and to care for the most vulnerable among us,” Bishop Chaima told the children during his homily.
Later that day, each diocesan delegation took part in a tree-planting ceremony, where the children physically demonstrated their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Celebrating Culture, Sports, and Joy
The Congress also celebrated the rich diversity and talents of Malawi’s children. The afternoon sessions came alive with sports competitions, traditional dance performances, and vibrant cultural displays.
The Mangochi Diocese delegation stood out, winning multiple sporting events and dazzling participants with energetic traditional dances like Beni, Manganje, and Masewe. Their performances sparked joyful participation from Bishop Montfort Stima and Fr. Paul Rappozo, who danced alongside the children in a beautiful moment of communion and celebration.
Bishop Stima Presides over Closing Mass
On Sunday, Bishop Montfort Stima of Mangochi presided over the Solemn Closing Mass, where he commended the children for their full participation and enthusiasm throughout the Congress.
“This conference has been a powerful witness to the boundless potential of our children. May they continue to grow in faith, wisdom, and service to others,” Bishop Stima said in his homily.
Following the Mass, the organizers led the children on a guided tour of Lilongwe’s iconic sites, including the Malawi Parliament, Bingu International Conference Centre, and Bingu National Stadium. The tour aimed to connect faith with civic awareness and national identity.
Children Carry the Mission Forward
As the Congress came to an end, children from across Malawi left Lilongwe carrying memories, lessons, and a stronger sense of mission. They return to their dioceses as missionaries of hope, ready to apply what they learned—both spiritually and practically—in their families, schools, and communities.
The Diocese of Mangochi, together with the entire Church in Malawi, expresses gratitude for the safe and successful conclusion of the Congress. Church leaders continue to entrust the children to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, praying that they grow in holiness and become courageous witnesses to the Gospel.
Report by Fr Francis Kachere , Communications Secretary – Diocese of Mangochi