Mangochi, October 23, 2025 – The two-day ongoing formation for the clergy of the Diocese of Mangochi has concluded, marking the end of an enriching and insightful program designed to strengthen both the pastoral and administrative capacities of priests across the diocese.
The training brought together clergy from various parishes across the diocese for a period of reflection, learning, and renewal. It featured a series of interactive sessions led by experienced facilitators, focusing on key areas of church leadership, governance, and pastoral ministry.
Finance Management and Resource Mobilization
The day opened with a presentation by Fr. Samuel Salatiel, a Montfort Missionary, on Finance Management and Resource Mobilization. He emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and sustainability in parish financial management. Fr. Salatiel guided participants on effective budgeting, responsible stewardship, and strategies for mobilizing resources to support parish projects and community outreach.
Sacramental and Parish Records Management
This was followed by a session from Fr. Emmanuel Malipa, Vice Director of Radio Maria Malawi and Canonist, who spoke on Sacramental Records and Parish Records Management. He shared best practices for maintaining accurate and accessible registers for baptisms, confirmations, marriages, and burials. Fr. Malipa also emphasized the canonical and pastoral importance of proper documentation, introducing digital tools to enhance record-keeping and data protection.
Call to Pastoral Commitment
In his closing remarks, Fr. Mambo, the Vicar General of the Diocese, thanked the facilitators and participants for their active participation. He encouraged priests to apply what they learned, remain true to their vocation, and pursue ongoing formation. Fr. Mambo also announced that the Requiem Mass for the departed servants of the Lord will be held at St. Paul Parish on November 8, 2025, inviting all clergy to attend.
Eucharistic Celebration and Closing
The formation concluded with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Matthew Likambale, Parish Priest of St. Peter’s – Utale 1. In his homily, Fr. Likambale called on priests to live authentic and courageous lives of service:
“The servant who knows what his master is doing will be punished with more strokes,” he cautioned, urging priests to align their lives fully with God’s will.
He further challenged them to “smell like the sheep,” be fearless in confronting evil, and lead by example in their communities.
The event ended joyfully with a group photo, symbolizing unity, renewal, and a shared commitment to ongoing priestly growth and collaboration.
Report by: Fr. Emmanuel Malipa – Communications Office, Diocese of Mangochi