Religious Sisters of the Holy Spirit Celebrate the First Profession of Four Novices
By Sr. Violet Sinakaimbi, Monze Diocese The Congregation of the Religious Sisters of the Holy Spirit joyfully celebrated the first profession of four novices on December 7, 2024. The four newly professed sisters—Grace Phiri, Mary Moondwa, Mary Ngandu, and Constridah Kayuuna—took their vows in a beautiful Mass held at the Charles Lwanga College Chapel in Monze. The ceremony was presided over by Bishop Raphel Mweempwa of Monze Diocese and was attended by family members, friends, and fellow religious members, all of whom gathered to witness this significant occasion. In his homily, Fr. Gregory Mulobela, Rector of Chikuni Mission, expressed deep gratitude to the families of the new sisters for their unwavering support, enabling their daughters to answer the call to religious life. He encouraged the newly professed sisters to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ, urging them to cultivate a strong prayer life—both personal and communal—as the cornerstone of their spiritual journey. Fr. Mulobela also underscored the importance of community life, noting that it would serve as a vital source of support as the sisters continue in their vocation. He urged the new religious women to embrace the challenges they encountered during their formation, seeing these experiences as opportunities to build resilience and deepen their trust in God’s guidance. This joyful occasion marks a significant step in the lives of the four new Sisters, as they take on a deeper commitment to the religious life and to serving God and His people. Congratulations to the newly professed Sisters: Grace Phiri, Mary Moondwa, Mary Ngandu, and Constridah Kayuuna!
Embracing the Advent Season: A Time of Anticipation and Reflection
By Sr. Martha Chanda As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, a sacred time of anticipation begins for the Catholic Church and many Christians worldwide: The Advent season. This cherished period marks the commencement of a new liturgical year and the anticipation of the birth of Christ in Bethlehem becomes visibly intense. But what exactly is Advent? Why is it significant? How can Christians fully embrace this spiritual journey? What is Advent? The word “Advent” comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming.” It is a season steeped in tradition, rich meanings, and spiritual reflection. Spanning four Sundays leading up to Christmas, Advent invites Christians to prepare their hearts for Christ’s coming—not only celebrating His birth but also anticipating His return. Advent is not just a countdown to Christmas. It is a time to reflect on the humility of Jesus’ birth and to prepare for His ultimate return, when Heaven and Earth will be united. This sacred season calls believers to explore the mystery of God’s love—His gift of Himself to humanity—offering the opportunity to grow spiritually and share this gift with others. Advent Traditions and Practices Advent is a season of spiritual preparation marked by cherished customs and meaningful symbols. Among the most recognizable is the Advent wreath, which features four candles, each representing a core aspect of faith. Each week’s candle-lighting deepens reflection and connection to these virtues, fostering a sense of warmth, anticipation, and faith. Spiritual Significance Advent is a time to renew and strengthen spiritual lives. Many Christians observe the season through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. Priests wear purple vestments, symbolizing penance and preparation, as the faithful seek to align their hearts with the coming of Christ. Through traditions like lighting candles, sharing acts of kindness, or meditating on Scripture, believers focus on how they can embody and share the love of Christ in their daily lives. An Invitation to All Whether you’re a lifelong believer or simply curious about Christian traditions, Advent offers a unique opportunity to reflect, prepare, and grow spiritually. By opening your heart to the essence of Advent, you can find deeper meaning in this sacred season—a time not only to celebrate but also to transform. Let the light of Advent guide your journey to Christmas, illuminating hope, peace, joy, and love in your heart and the world around you.
Transforming Lives: Bauleni Special Needs Project Empowering Zambia’s Youths
Bauleni Special Needs Project is dedicated to providing quality education and life skills training to children with special needs in Lusaka and beyond. Founded by the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, the project emphasizes respect, compassion, and human dignity, inspired by the words of their founder. The project focuses on inclusive education for children with disabilities, offering tailored skills training in areas like agriculture, fashion design, and food production. With the support of various donors, the project has helped empower many youth, enabling them to live independently and pursue employment or small businesses. Watch the full story of how this initiative is transforming lives.
Following the Call: Sr. Juliana’s Story of Faith and Devotion
From a childhood surrounded by church bells and the influence of devout parents to a life dedicated to service with the Good Shepherd Sisters, Sr. Juliana’s journey is one of faith and purpose. Growing up in a Catholic mission, she admired the devotion of the sisters and found herself drawn to their life of prayer. Although she dreamed of other careers, her calling to sisterhood prevailed. Sr. Juliana shares the values and community principles—love, protection, and reconciliation—that guide her congregation and the role they play in shaping her life. This inspiring story is a testament to living out faith, family support, and dedication. Click the link below to watch Sr. Juliana’s full journey of faith and devotion.
A Reflection on All Souls’ Day
All Souls Day stirs a mix of emotions within us Catholics. It carries the energies of life and death, the past and the future, memories of love once shared, dreams and hopes once built, gratitude for time spent together, and the tender ache of plans once so carefully made for a future now changed. All these moments and emotions, woven together, create a bittersweet wholeness in our hearts and minds. In our sorrow, we find comfort knowing that only God will wipe away every tear and heal our pain. Our prayers and Mass offered for our loved ones bring the hope of their purification, helping them enter the fullness of God’s heavenly glory. This belief reassures us and gives purpose to our prayers for those who have gone before us. May we remember to light a candle today and pray for the continual repose of their souls. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.