By Communications Office
Bishop Montfort Stima urged all Christians to be co-operators of graces which they receive from God. He said this in his homily during a thanksgiving Mass which took place at his residence on 26th December, in anticipation for his birthday on 27th December. On the same day, the lay faithful of the diocese of Mangochi and other Archdioceses and dioceses and also people of good will were fund-raising for medical scheme for the clergy of the diocese of Mangochi.
Bishop Stima said the graces we receive from God help us to be courageous enough when responding to God’s call to witness Him wherever we may be found. He spoke this by connecting with the feast of St. Stephen, the first martyr of the Church since it was his feast day. He also reminded all the lay faithful about their responsibility to take care of the priests in their parishes. “Without a priest, there can never be Mass, but the priest celebrates Mass well when he is in good health,” said bishop Stima.
Speaking on behalf of all the lay faithful in the diocese of Mangochi, Mr. Bwanali congratulated bishop Stima on his anticipated birthday. He also agreed with the bishop on the point that it is the responsibility of the lay faithful to take care of priests in their parishes. He further asked the moderators in the parishes to bear in mind that the fund-raising activities of the diocese are done every year. Therefore, they are supposed to prepare well for them.
At this occasion, there were many people who came to take part in this fund-raising activity- both from within and outside the diocese of Mangochi. Among other activities which took place there, people were buying food and drinks and there were sales of some items. Before these activities started taking place, two people made an apprise. Firstly, there was Mr. Mbisa, a chairperson of fund-raising committee, who encouraged people on the need to take part in this activity. Secondly, there was Fr. Lambulira, who is the Director of Finance, Investments and Administration (DOFIA) who explained to people about the medical scheme, especially how it came into being and how helpful it is to the clergy of the diocese of Mangochi. The target is to get MK16 million for this purpose.