KOCHE — The Rt. Rev. Montfort Stima, Bishop of the Diocese of Mangochi, on Sunday, 13 September 2026, presided over Holy Mass at St. Magdalene of Canossa–Koche Parish, during which 74 candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation.
In his homily, Bishop Stima called on the Christian faithful to deepen their love for one another and to embrace the Christian virtues of reconciliation, apology, and forgiveness whenever offenses occur. He encouraged the parish community to reflect more deeply on its sacramental life, particularly during the Jubilee Year as the Catholic Church in Malawi commemorates 125 years of evangelization.
The Bishop further urged the faithful to remove obstacles that prevent them from fully participating in the sacramental life of the Church. He particularly highlighted the importance of regularizing irregular marital situations so that the faithful can participate fully in the life of the Church.
Referring to Lumen Gentium 11 and Canon 867 §1 of the Code of Canon Law, Bishop Stima also reminded parents of their responsibility to ensure that their children are brought to the font of Baptism in a timely manner, emphasizing Baptism as the first and foundational sacrament of Christian initiation.
Addressing the newly confirmed, the Parish Priest, Fr. Kizito Khauya, reminded them that receiving Confirmation should not be regarded as a “graduation” from Christian formation. Drawing on Lumen Gentium 11 and the Catechism of the Catholic Church (1303), he explained that Confirmation perfects baptismal grace and strengthens Christians to become true witnesses of Christ.
Fr. Khauya encouraged the newly confirmed to continue growing in faith and holiness and to serve as ambassadors of Christ in their families, communities, and wider society, particularly as the local Church celebrates 125 years of Catholic evangelization in Malawi.
During the celebration, Fr. Khauya also formally introduced Fr. Phillip Maseya to the parish community as the newly appointed Parochial Vicar of Koche Parish. He expressed gratitude to Bishop Stima for the appointment, noting that Fr. Maseya would assist with the parish’s pastoral care after a period when Koche Parish had been served by a single priest.
Welcoming Fr. Maseya to the parish, Fr. Khauya encouraged the faithful to support him in his ministry and to work together with the priests for the continued growth of the parish community.
The Eucharistic celebration concluded with a renewed call for unity, fidelity to the sacraments, and active participation in the mission of the Church.
Communications Office
Diocese of Mangochi