The Apostolic Nuncio to Malawi and Zambia, Monsignor Gianluca Perici, has concluded his pastoral visit to the Diocese of Mangochi with a stirring call for Christians to remain rooted in love, fidelity, and service to the Church.
On the second and final day of the visit, the Nuncio presided over a vibrant Eucharistic celebration at St. Augustine Cathedral, drawing a large congregation of clergy, religious, seminarians, and lay faithful.
In his homily, Monsignor Perici reflected on Christ’s commandment to “love one another,” describing love as the enduring legacy of every true Christian life. He urged the faithful to become instruments of service within their communities and challenged them to reflect on the legacy they wish to leave behind. Emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelization, he called on Catholics to remain courageous witnesses of faith in today’s world.
The Nuncio expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received from Bishop Montfort Stima, priests, religious men and women, seminarians, and the laity. He also appealed to the faithful to continue praying for seminarians preparing for the priesthood, describing vocations as vital to the future of the Church.
Speaking during the celebration, Bishop Stima described the visit as “historic and unforgettable,” noting that it had rekindled hope and inspiration among the faithful, especially young people discerning their vocation. He likened the experience to the joy felt by Malawians who encountered Pope John Paul II during his 1989 visit to Malawi.
The Bishop said the presence of the Holy Father’s representative had inspired many young people to embrace priestly, religious, and married vocations with renewed commitment. He encouraged parents to support their children in responding generously to God’s call and serving both the Church and society.
Highlighting the importance of stewardship and development, Bishop Stima referenced a school established in Balaka with support from Italian partners, describing it as a sign of responsible use of resources for the common good. Despite various challenges facing the Church, he affirmed that the Diocese of Mangochi remains vibrant and mission-oriented, calling on the faithful to persevere in prayer and evangelization.
Later, Monsignor Perici met seminarians at St. Paul the Apostle Minor Seminary, where he encouraged them to remain steadfast in their vocation and faithful to the Catholic faith.
“Without faith, you are nothing,” the Nuncio told the seminarians, reminding them that they are the future of both the Church and society. He encouraged them to cultivate a deep spiritual life through daily prayer, devotion to the Rosary, and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. He also assured them of his continued prayers and promised to visit them again in the future.
Communications Office
Diocese of Mangochi