By Sr. Beatrice Mwansa, D.O.R — Lusaka CNCS Hub

Archbishop of Lusaka, Dr. Alick Banda, has commended the Daughters of the Redeemer for their steadfast commitment to social justice and service to the poor.

Speaking during the Golden Jubilee celebration of Sr. Rosemary Nyondo and Sr. Catherine Kaimfa at Mount Zion, Archbishop Banda hailed the congregation for its pioneering spirit in various fields, including public policy, governance, education and communications.

“You carry the congregation’s institutional memory,” the Archbishop said, urging the sisters to ensure this legacy is passed on to younger members.

He further challenged the Sisters to be attentive to the signs of the times and to discern new areas where the Church is calling them to serve.

The archbishop prayed that the Holy Spirit may guide them in their mission and expressed gratitude for the congregation’s ongoing contribution to the evangelization work of the Archdiocese of Lusaka.

And in his homily, Very Reverend Fr. Andrew Simpasa, Vicar General of the Archdiocese, congratulated the jubilarians for reaching a remarkable milestone of 50 years in religious life.

“They have run this race for fifty years. It is not a small thing unless you experience God at a personal level. He is the Alpha and the Omega,” Fr. Simpasa said.

He reminded the faithful that every person is created for a purpose and called to fulfill God’s mission.

“If we live outside God’s purpose, we become restless,” he said.

“The poor in spirit know their lives depend on God.”

Turning to the two sisters, Fr. Simpasa added, “Sr. Catherine and Sr. Rosemary, as we celebrate your many years of service in the vineyard of God, you encourage all of us. Keep your eyes on Jesus.’’

Meanwhile, Superior General, Rev. Sr. Prisca Matenga, also paid tribute to the founding members, thanking them for their sacrifice, dedication and leadership.

“We stand on your shoulders,” she said.

“The congregation has grown in making the Redeemer known and loved in our schools, hospitals, parishes, formation houses and among the poor and vulnerable.”

The celebration drew members of the congregation, families, clergy and friends. The Divine Mercy Parish Choir animated the liturgy with uplifting hymns that added to the joyous atmosphere.

As the Daughters of the Redeemer marked five decades of faithful service, the event served as both a tribute to the pioneers and a call for renewal in the congregation’s mission of making Christ known and loved.