MALAWI: St Patrick’s Parishioners Set New Record On Church Projects

Pilirani Tambala

Parishioners of Saint Patrick’s Parish in the city of Lilongwe, in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, have set a record high in the construction of churches after completing theirs in just under two years and five months.

Parish Council Vice Chairperson Dr. Matthews Mtumbuka said after a Eucharistic Mass launching the new Parish church on Sunday, April 14 that it is commitment, determination, and unity of the parishioners that have contributed to the success of the project.

He said above all, it is the passion of the leaders and all concerned parties to use funds for the project prudently that must be commended.

“Many church projects stall or take years to complete because of corruption and abuse of funds by those entrusted with the management of funds,” said Dr. Mtumbuka.

Restructuring works for the church commenced in November 2021 at a budget of K694 million which was pushed to K925.5 million kwacha, which is approximately $515,000 United States Dollars, by the time of completion in January 2024 due to increased cost of construction materials following devaluation of Kwacha currency.

The church which was opened in 1986 now has the capacity of 1, 300 congregants up from 1, 000.

Poor ventilation, lighting, roof leakages and noise during rainfall in the church are among major factors that compelled parishioners to undertake the multi-million-kwacha renovation project.

Archbishop George Desmond Tambala commended the parishioners for being exemplary, mobilizing funds and constructing a magnificent church in a space of three years.

He nonetheless challenged them not to be complacent but aim high in putting up quality church structures for use in serving and glorifying God.

“I must commend you the parishioners for proving to others your understanding of living the self-reliant church,” he said adding that he will now have peace within himself knowing that there are Christians who are truly representing and helping the church with their talents and resources.

Parish Priest Fr Henry Sulu expressed optimism that the parishioners of Saint Patrick Parish will use the newly refurbished church as a special gift for sanctifying their souls through various sacraments and as a place for meeting God.

He said, “This is one measure you have used to prove the ability that the parish and the diocese have in the resources we have and how we can use them prudently.”

He commended former parish priests Fr Maxwell Kubalasa and Fr Francis Damaseke for setting the vision and encouraging the Christians to make it a reality

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