By Ndola CNCS Hub
Ndola Archbishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Benjamin Phiri, JCD, has urged consecrated men and women to remain faithful to their vows and continue being visible signs of hope in a world where human dignity is under threat.
Speaking during the Day of Consecration at St. Peter and Paul Parish, Archbishop Phiri said consecrated persons were called to stand firm in their religious identity and resist the temptation to abandon their vocation.
He said in a world where faith was tested and human dignity was often destroyed, consecrated persons were expected to be present in the midst of suffering as living signs of hope for God’s people.
“Our efforts to do good must be able to stand the test of time. As consecrated persons, we are called not only to be signs of hope, but to truly live as that hope,” said Archbishop Phiri.
“We should not be in a hurry to abandon our religious habits or identity, because the people we serve look up to us and feel inspired when we live holy lives and sincerely do God’s will.”
The Archbishop said Religious men and women should not be quick to migrate from one Congregation to another, noting that every institute had its own challenges requiring humility, patience and perseverance.
He added that consecrated persons were called to be slow to speak and ready to listen, with unity being vital for growth in Religious life.
“All members of institutes of consecrated life are encouraged to hold firmly to what binds them together. When separated, they wither, when united, they are stronger, each one playing a unique and important role in the Church,” he said.
Archbishop Phiri also encouraged young people in formation to make careful and prayerful decisions before joining Religious institutes and to avoid unnecessary changes that could hinder their growth and fulfillment.
Meanwhile, Sr. Rosemary Kazembe, chairperson of the Zambia Association of Sisterhoods (ZAS) in the Archdiocese of Ndola, said the Day of Consecration was a moment every Religious person must wholeheartedly embrace as a renewal of their ‘yes’ to God.
She said consecration began the day one responded to God’s call and should be reflected in service to the Church, especially to the marginalised and the communities they serve.
And Fr. Matthews Kasongo, Minister Provincial of the Franciscan Fathers in Zambia and Malawi OFM.Conv described Religious Life as a special gift from God to serve humanity and the Church.
“This is a special gift that God has given us to serve humanity, to serve the Church, for the salvation of all souls,” he said.
And Friar Nathan Kaunda said Religious Life was beautiful and required discernment and faithfulness despite challenges.
“We have to remain faithful despite the challenges that come, especially the external influences that society may bring to our life,” said Friar Kaunda.
“For us, our duty is to remain focused and remain faithful to our call as consecrated people.”
