Author: Doris

FIRST AND FINAL PROFESSION

By Sr. Abigail Mwaka The Handmaids of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Archdiocese of Lusaka recently celebrated a significant event. Two devoted Religious women, Novice Mutambwa Adorable Senti and Sr. Agness Bwalya Zulu, expressed their lifelong commitment to the service of humanity, particularly women and children, by making their first and perpetual vows respectively. The ceremony was held at Mary Immaculate parish in Lusaka and mass was presided over by the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Lusaka Fr. Andrew Simpasa SJ. The inspiring homily was delivered by Fr. Gilbert Banda SJ who used the occasion to remind the congregants about the importance of listening and reasoning before reacting to any situation. Fr. Banda drew lessons from the life of Peter, a disciple of Jesus Christ, who was known for his impulsive responses to his master Jesus. He further encouraged the congregants to channel any destructive energy into love, following in the footsteps of St. Paul who is known for his persecution of God’s people and his initial rejection of God and later transformed that same energy into spreading the word of God and showing love to His people. Meanwhile, in the same week leading up to the profession day, the Congregation of the Handmaids of the Blessed Virgin Mary received 5 Novices and 10 Postulants on 27th July 2024. Behold the Handmaid of the Lord Luke1:26-38.

The Inspiring Story of Ethane Musonda at Dagama Special School

By Sr. Aretha Ngoma External forces may hinder us, but staying focused on our dreams is key. Dagama Special School transforms dreams of physically challenged pupils into a reality. This is a story of an 8 year old boy Ethane Musonda from Kawama compound in Kitwe who was born with a condition called Arthrogryposis which entails congenital deformity and less development to some limbs. In his case the arms were not developed. Ethane’s mother, Ethel Musonda, had lost hope of her child ever going to school because of his condition. I thought my child would never go to school because I thought no school would accept him because of his undeveloped arms. Ethel. But her hope was renewed when one of the sympathizers advised her to take Ethane to Dagama special school in Luanshya. After one of the sympathizers told me about the school, I visited the school and enquired if my child could be enrolled. They said yes and that’s how my child started school at Dagama. Ethel Meanwhile, Ethane says with him being at Dagama special school, he can now achieve his dreams. Despite his limitations with his hands, Ethane is now able to write and play like any other child. Indeed, disability is not inability.

MALAIKA: HOPE FOR A SICKLE CELL CHILD

Marriage, a sacred union instituted by God for procreation, often brings the joy of parenthood. Yet, families in Malaika Village and beyond, face the harsh reality when their newborns are diagnosed with severe health conditions like sickle cell anemia. Sadly, many are unaware of their child’s condition until medical aid is sought. Follow the heartwarming journey of hope for children with sickle cell anemia in Malaika Village.

MEET THE DAUGHTERS OF THE REDEEMER

Get to know the Daughters of the Redeemer and what makes them unique as a religious order. Learn about their principles, charism, and the qualifications needed to join this incredible congregation.