Encounter of a faithful God on Kasamba Mountain
By Sr. Nasilele Simushi, Dominican Sister, Ndola ZAS Branch On May 31, 2025, the feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, I embarked on a pilgrimage to Kasamba Mountain, a site attributed to Mother Mary’s apparitions in Masaiti District, Copperbelt Province, Zambia. My journey began with a personal desire for spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with God. A Call to Obedience As we prepared to ascend the mountain, our guide instructed us to remove our shoes and socks and walk barefoot. Despite my initial hesitation, I chose to obey, asking God for the courage and strength to persevere. This act of obedience marked the beginning of a transformative journey. Endurance and Perseverance The walk was challenging, with rough terrain and sharp stones testing my resolve. Yet, with each step, I felt a mix of pain and comfort, a reflection of the spiritual journey I am on. My fellow pilgrims offered encouragement and support, and I drew strength from their presence. Walking with Jesus & Mary through the Rosary As we recited the Holy Rosary, I prayed for my intentions, trusting in God’s plan for me. Mother Mary and Jesus taught me to embrace every experience, whether joyful or sorrowful, and to trust in God’s goodness. Carrying the Cross When it was my turn to carry the cross, I felt a sense of passion and purpose, like Simon of Cyrene. I took on the weight of the cross, offering my pains and struggles to God. Unnoticeable Souvenir from the Mountain After the pilgrimage, I discovered a small piece of grass lodged in my toe, a reminder of the unexpected burdens we carry. This experience taught me that God is always present, guiding us through life’s challenges and revealing hidden truths. This profound spiritual experience attuned me to God’s ways, deepening my trust in His purpose for my journey. As we embark on various spiritual paths, I pray that the Lord guides and protects us, enveloping us in His loving care. May this Jubilee year of Hope ignite within us a fervent longing for a brighter future, and may we walk in faith, trusting in His divine plan. AMEN
IBENGA GIRLS SECONDARY SCHOOL TOASTS DIAMOND JUBILEE
Right Reverand Benjamin Phiri, Catholic Bishop of Ndola Diocese has described Ibenga Girls Secondary School Diamond Jubilee celebration as victory of knowledge over ignorance as it has brought everyone closer to God. Speaking during his homily, Bishop Phiri reminded all to take the celebration as an appraisal of all their achievements. The diamond jubilee was celebrated under the theme “60 years of excellence in the light of Christ”. He noted that the establishment of the school by the Missionaries was meant to help them develop themselves in the process of knowing God so that they could pass on the knowledge for the salvation of souls. As we celebrate 60 years, we should evaluate ourselves if we have become better by relating well with others as God is in the neighbour. The children whom we train should be children pleasing to God. Someone may achieve academic education, become a great scientist talked about but if they do not know God, they are no better than the animal of the field. If we are able to relate better, then we are able to celebrate together. Bishop Benjamin And Bishop Phiri has encouraged the girls at Ibenga to remain focused on what made the school to be counted among the best schools in the country. Many girls come from afar to learn at Ibenga, as it is counted among the most prestigious and best schools in the country. Therefore, work hard if you want to pass. Bishop Benjamin Meanwhile, Bishop Phiri has advised the modern parents to impart good values and practices which will help the girls contribute positively to society. Nowadays, there are rights which children have which seem to obstruct any instruction of the child. Without any prejudice, God guides us and tells us what is right or wrong. True education is being able to know God. Christian education is paramount. Let us teach the children what God wants. Discipline, good behaviour by following what God wants will make the girls better citizens. Bishop Benjamin The celebration also acknowledged deserving people through the presentation of awards for distinguished service to the school during the period of its existence. Among those awarded were the late Bishop Francis Mazzierri posthumously the founder of the school and the first Head Mistress Sr. De Pace of the Dominican sisters and all past administrators. The representatives of the past managing agencies and heads in the three orders were acknowledged. Other notable awards went to the Alumni Chairperson Mrs. Joyce Chibuye for her unmatched commitment and one Ibenga girl who designed the diamond jubilee Chitenge. The school which is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Ndola was opened in 1963 by the Dominican sisters. The sisters worked until 1994 when they handed over the school to the Franciscan missionary sisters of Assisi. The sisters ran the school till 2020 when the Daughters of the Redeemer took over.