Mulibwanji Community Hospital marked a significant benchmark on 4th November, commemorating Founder’s Day in honour of Fr. Lorenzo Pege. The celebration was preceded by an Eucharistic celebration, celebrated to pay tribute to the life and legacy of the hospital’s founder.
The Holy Mass, presided over by Hospital Chaplain Fr. Francis Kachere, was a fitting tribute to Fr. Pege’s selfless dedication to the people of Masuku and beyond. In his homily, Fr. Kachere lauded Fr. Pege as a “gentle giant,” who tirelessly worked for the welfare of the community. “Fr. Pege did not preach the Gospel in words only, but also in action,” Fr. Kachere observed, urging the faithful to emulate the spirit of their beloved founder, who embodied a profound love for the people of Masuku, despite being from a distant land.
Fr. Kachere further highlighted Fr. Pege’s humility and cultural sensitivity, noting that despite coming from an affluent family and country, he embraced Malawian culture with love and respect.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the faithful gathered at Fr. Lorenzo Pege’s memorial pillar for a dignified tribute to the hospital’s founder. In a solemn procession, the congregation paid their respects, offering special prayers led by representatives from various hospital departments.
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt gesture of remembrance, as wreaths were laid at the memorial pillar, symbolizing the solid legacy of Fr. Pege’s selfless service. This emotive tribute emphasised the profound impact of Fr. Pege’s life and ministry on the Mulibwanji Community Hospital family.
In her remarks, Hospital Administrator Sr. Josephine Busiku echoed Fr. Kachere’s sentiments, praising Fr. Pege’s remarkable legacy. “Fr. Pege created an opportunity for the sick to receive medical care and get healed,” she said. “The establishment of the hospital created employment opportunities for both the local community and beyond. It is therefore fitting that we take time to remember Fr. Lorenzo Pege.”
Mulibwanji Community Hospital has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a small dispensary in 2002. Under Fr. Pege’s visionary leadership, the hospital grew into a fully-fledged community hospital, which was officially inaugurated by Prof. Mphande, former Minister of Health, in 2009.
As a member of the Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) under the Diocese of Mangochi, Mulibwanji Community Hospital continues to serve the community with dedication and compassion. The hospital is currently managed by the Good Shepherd Sisters from Chipata, Zambia, who carry on Fr. Pege’s legacy of love and service.
Communications Office – Diocese of Mangochi