ZAMBIA: Cleric Reveals Synodality as a Path to Unity, Inclusion, and Mission

By Sandra Kunda

Fr. Cletus Mwiila, a Zambian Missionary of Synodality, has outlined a transformative vision for the Church, calling for a deeper embrace of synodality as a way of fostering unity, shared participation, and a renewed missionary spirit.

Speaking on the importance of journeying together in faith under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Fr. Mwiila emphasized the Church’s mission to be a community rooted in inclusion, dialogue, and service.

Fr. Mwiila described synodality as the essence of being Church, a collective journey characterized by listening, mutual respect, and discernment.

He emphasized the need for renewal in the Church’s relationships, processes, and structures.

“The Church must be a place where the voices of all men, women, youth, and marginalized groups are heard and valued. Families should serve as models of mutual respect, co-responsibility, and reconciliation,” he said.

He also called for reforms in councils and committees to ensure they reflect the collective voice of the Church and promote better relationships across cultural and social divides.

Fr. Mwiila encouraged the Church to strengthen its missionary efforts by equipping clergy, religious, and laypeople to spread the Gospel actively.

He stressed the importance of recognizing and expanding women’s roles in the Church, engaging youth and children in its mission, and valuing the contributions of people with disabilities.

Fr. Mwiila emphasized the Church’s responsibility to challenge individualism and societal divisions while promoting care for creation and integral ecology.

“Synodality is a call for the Church to model mutual care, justice, and solidarity in a divided world,” he concluded.

Fr. Cletus Mwiila’s message serves as a roadmap for the Church to live out its mission as a unified, inclusive, and missionary community, offering hope and transformation in a changing world.

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