ZAMBIA: “Beware of Things that Make You Lose Focus,” Catholic Prelate to the Faithful
Kangwa Chileshe
The Catholic faithful of Zambia’s Ndola Diocese have been called upon to examine themselves on a daily basis and be more aware of the things that make baptized persons lose focus on their Christian calling.
In his 2022 Advent message, the Local ordinary of Ndola Diocese Bishop Benjamin Phiri said Christians should get used to listening to God’s Word daily so as to strengthen their Christian foundation and be strengthened to face the factors which may lure them into complacency and lose hope in God.
The Catholic Church is currently observing the Advent Season, which is a moment of preparation for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ but very much associated with the annual celebration of Christ’s birth, the Christmas festivities.
Ahead of Advent, Bishop Phiri who has been at the helm of the Diocese since 2020 highlighted that the season calls on Christians for self-examination and preparation to encounter the reality of the incarnation of Jesus at Christmas and in the ordinary moments of people’s lives and their Christian identity.
He noted that Christians may encounter discouragement and quick solutions to problems, complete healing, financial security and others challenges but should open their eyes of faith and see what sort of preparations they need to make during the Advent season.
Bishop Phiri has since stressed that Advent is calling upon people to throw off the Works of darkness, drunkenness, promiscuity, lust, rivalry, jealousy, backbiting and all other vices which have led them to be separated from fellow Christians and from the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
End
