ZCCB Praises Religious for Their Service, Urges Them to Be Bearers of Hope
By Sr. Maria Kasongo (D.O.R), Lusaka CNCS Hub The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has commended the invaluable contribution of religious men and women across the country, describing them as a source of hope and strength for society. Speaking on behalf of the bishops during the Jubilee celebrations for the Consecrated, held under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope, walking in Peace.” at the Marian Shrine in Lusaka, Bishop George Lungu, Director for the Religious, hailed the commitment of the Religious Sisters, Brothers and Priests serving in various ministries. “Religious men and women do tremendous work all over the country,” Bishop Lungu said. “You are called to be hope for the hopeless, a voice for the voiceless and a source of strength for one another.” Drawing inspiration from Mary, the mother of Jesus, Bishop Lungu urged the consecrated to model their lives on her faithfulness. “Like Mary, may our lives be a constant ‘yes’ to God,” he said. The Bishop acknowledged the many challenges faced by religious communities in their diverse ministries but stressed that it is in such trials that resilience and strength are found. “We must not lose hope,” he reminded them. Bishop Lungu also encouraged the religious to be living witnesses of Christ’s love within their communities. “Let your actions be a testament to the love of Christ and let that love transform the world,” he said. Meanwhile, the Bishop expressed concern over growing despair among youth, which he said sometimes leads to tragic choices such as suicide. “The youth have a right to a bright future, yet many lose hope. We are called to encourage them and give them hope,” he added. The Jubilee celebrations brought together religious men and women from across Zambia to reflect on their vocation and renew their mission of service as pilgrims of hope committed to peace.
Hundreds of Consecrated Men and Women Celebrate National Pilgrimage in Lusaka
By Sr. Christabel Kazembe, (S.O.M), Lusaka CNCS Hub Hundreds of consecrated men and women from across Zambia gather for a national pilgrimage under the theme ‘’Pilgrims of Hope on the Way of Peace,’’ celebrating consecrated life with prayer, reflection and fellowship. The pilgrimage began at Chelstone Parish and concluded at the Marian Shrine in Lusaka, with participants praying, singing and reflecting together along the way. The event was led by Rt. Rev. Bishop George Lungu of Chipata Diocese, Director for Consecrated Life at the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), who accompanied the pilgrims throughout the journey. Bishop Lungu said his presence was a sign that Zambia’s bishops remain close to consecrated men and women in their mission. During his homily at the Marian Shrine, Bishop Lungu reflected on the life of Mary as a model of faith and perseverance and reminded participants that consecrated life, like Mary, carries Christ to the world. “Pilgrimage is not only a physical journey but also a spiritual reminder that our charisms are gifts of hope for the Church, particularly in the rural and remote parts of Zambia where God’s people most need encouragement,” he said. Meanwhile, Sr. Delphine Kalisha, Superior General of the Sisters of Mercy, described the Jubilee as a moment of reflection on how consecrated people are called to give hope in a world full of suffering and uncertainty. She noted that many families struggle without food and that political challenges and difficulties within the Church often make people feel there is no light at the end of the tunnel. “This has been a very good moment of reflection at a personal level, as well as for groups or congregations. Living in harmony and happiness can inspire hope in society,’’ Sr. Delphine said. She urged young religious to remain courageous and said the Church needed their presence to inspire future generations. “Without religious life in the Church there would be a very big gap,” Sr. Delphine said. “So have courage and have faith because hope goes with faith. Things may be difficult but there is that green light.”
BISHOP LUNGU CALLS ON RELIGIOUS SISTERS TO RENEW THEIR COMMITMENT TO THEIR VOCATION
By Sr. Getrude Zimba Catholic Diocese of Chipata Bishop George Lungu has called upon religious sisters to reaffirm their commitment to their sacred vocation. Bishop Lungu was speaking during the silver jubilee celebration of Sr. Kennera Ngosa, Sr. Janet Zimba, Sr. Veronica E. Nyoni, and Sr. Brenda Mwanza, as well as the final vows of Sr. Catherine Mbewe and Sr. Melinda Mangule, and the first profession of novices Martha Phiri and Demetria Nyendwa from the Theresian Sisters of the Child Jesus at Chassa Parish in Sinda district. He urged the newly professed Sisters and those making perpetual vows to remain vigilant in their spiritual journey, noting that religious life requires personal and communal prayer. ”Religious life is not easy and it solely depends on God, it requires personal and communal prayer,” he said. Bishop Lungu warned against complacency, reminding the sisters that the devil preys on the idle, and urged them to continue striving for spiritual growth and development. He also emphasized the importance of dialogue and communication within the congregation, advocating for open discussion between the professed Sisters and their Superiors to resolve disputes and foster a spirit of unity and cooperation. During the celebration, Bishop Lungu honored the Sisters who have served for 25 years, wishing them continued success and encouraging them to serve as exemplary role models for the newly professed. ”I hope you will continue to inspire others and you will eventually celebrate your golden jubilee in the years to come,” he stated. Bishop Lungu said religious life requires dedication and perseverance, and that the sisters’ decision to give up personal possessions reflects their commitment to their vocation. ”The sisters have shown great love and I am deeply grateful for their devotion. My desire is to see an increase in vocations within the Church, inspiring more young women to dedicate themselves to serving the Lord,” he said. The celebration was held under the theme “Celebrating God’s Fidelity and Love.” .