Malawi Parish Fosters Self-Reliance Through Parishioner-Led Initiatives
This initiative reflects a growing trend of self-help and community involvement in the parish, contributing to its development and operational independence.
LILONGWE, Malawi— St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Area 25 is making strides toward self-sufficiency, two years after its inauguration as the 45th parish in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, writes Jonathan Mzumazi.
On Sunday, July 28, 2024, members of the Catholic Men Association (CMA) from two small Church communities (SCCs) — St. Steven and Holy Family — donated two cooling fans to the parish, demonstrating the growing spirit of self-reliance among parishioners.
Brian Leonard Banda, speaking on behalf of the SCCs, said, "The gift is a fruit from a meeting we had as CMA between Holy Family and St. Steven SCCs where among others we agreed to buy these fans for our Parish considering the challenges faced during hot weather condition."
Banda encouraged other church groups and individual parishioners to follow their example, ensuring the parish becomes fully independent in terms of operational costs.
He also suggested that CMA leadership collaborate with the Development committee to identify urgent needs at the main church.
"Men have the potential and capacity of doing more towards the upgrading of the newly established Parish in addition to what we are always asked to support as Catholics," Banda added.
Parish Vice Chair Damazio Chasowa welcomed the donation, noting its timeliness as the country approaches the summer season.
St. Anthony of Padua Parish, opened on September 17, 2022, began with approximately 3,000 Christians and 200 catechumens. Fr. Regis Kamela serves as the first parish priest, assisted by Rev. Fr. Thomas Kasiya.
The parish comprises five outstations: St. Anthony, St. Mother Theresa, St. Max. Kolbe, St. John Bosco, and St. Monica.
This initiative reflects a growing trend of self-help and community involvement in the parish, contributing to its development and operational independence.