Mangochi, Malawi – In accordance with sacred tradition, the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Mangochi today solemnly celebrated the Chrism Mass, a liturgical event of great import. The Eucharistic celebration, presided over by the Rt Rev. Montfort Stima, Bishop of Mangochi, was attended by the Bishop Emeritus, the Rt Rev. Alessandro Pagani.
In his homily, Bishop Stima emphasized the significance of the sacred oils, exhorting priests to instruct their faithful on their use, saying, “It is our sole duty and responsibility to show and teach our Christians in their respective parishes about the use of the Holy Oils.”
The prelate reminded priests that in renewing their vows, they reaffirm their commitment to their sacred mission, encompassing the tria munera: preaching the Word of God, sanctifying, and governing the Church. “Priests are renewing their vows in order to remind themselves of their mission,” he said.
Bishop Stima urged the laity to pray fervently for their priests and invited all to embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ, as reflected in the day’s readings. He encouraged priests to emulate the High Priest, Jesus Christ, by being proximate to the faithful, particularly the needy, sick, and elderly.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Mr. Alexander Billy, Diocesan Chair for the Laity, expressed gratitude to Bishop Stima and the priests for their dedication, assuring them of the laity’s unshakable support. “We thank you for your commitment towards the Church,” he said.
Representing the Religious and the Association of the Diocesan Clergy, Fr Simon Mundisiye thanked the Bishop for his love and care, and the laity for their support. “Let us live as a family,” he urged.
In his final remarks, Bishop Stima wished the priests well in their ministry, thanking the laity for their presence and steadfast commitment to the Church. He invited all to promote a communion, participative, and missionary Church, in keeping with the spirit of the Synod of Synodality. “Build communion, participate, and be missionary,” he said.
The celebration drew a diverse assembly from across the Diocese, emphasizing the significance of the Chrism Mass in the local Church.
Communications Office
Diocese of Mangochi