Mangochi, Malawi — The Catholic Bishops of Malawi, under the Malawi Council of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), have commenced a five-day spiritual retreat at Pamasau Cottage along the lakeshore district of Mangochi. The retreat, which began on 8th December, will conclude on Friday, 12th December 2025.
The retreat opened with the celebration of Holy Mass, presided over by His Lordship Bishop Martin Mtumbuka, President of the MCCB. This year’s retreat preacher is Archbishop George Tambala of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, who is guiding the bishops through days of prayer, meditation, and deep spiritual reflection.
As they gather to renew their inner life, the bishops echo the wisdom of ancient philosopher Socrates, who famously remarked, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” The Church Fathers, including St. Augustine of Hippo, also championed the importance of self-knowledge and interior examination as essential pathways to encountering God.
This sacred moment of reflection comes at a meaningful time, near the close of the year, and as the Universal Church prepares to celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord.
Bringing together nine bishops from Malawi’s eight dioceses, the retreat provides a dedicated space for spiritual renewal, discernment, and the strengthening of their pastoral commitment. May these days of contemplation and prayer bear abundant fruit in the life of the Church in Malawi and inspire the faithful toward deeper conversion and fidelity to the Gospel.
Report by Fr. Francis Kachere
For MCCB Social Communication and Research Office