ZAMBIA: Bishop Chisanga Urges the Faithful to Embark on a Spiritual Pilgrimage Rooted in Hope
Bishop Patrick Chisanga, OFM Conv., of Mansa Diocese
By Fr. Arthur Ntembula
The bishop, in his Lenten message, has called on priests, Religious Sisters and Brothers, laity, and friends of the diocese to embrace a collective journey of conversion and renewal.
Drawing inspiration from Pope Francis’s Lenten message, “Let us journey together in Hope,” Bishop Chisanga emphasized the importance of a communal pilgrimage, reminiscent of the Israelites’ exodus from slavery.
He highlighted the contemporary relevance of this journey, noting the global migrations driven by hardship and violence, and urged introspection among Christians.
“This holy season of conversion is the appropriate time to migrate from the slavery of sin, especially those which have become so habitual that they constantly degrade our Christian dignity,” Bishop Chisanga stated.
Central to his message was the concept of synodality – walking together. He stressed that the Lenten journey is not a solitary endeavour but a collective one, where no one is left behind.
Quoting the Prophet Joel, he reiterated the universal call to fasting and penance, extending it to all members of the community, from elders to infants.
The bishop anchored his message on the theme of hope, a cornerstone of the Jubilee Year. He assured the faithful that despite the challenges, hope, as St. Paul affirms, “does not disappoint us because the love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.”
To facilitate a meaningful Lenten experience, Bishop Chisanga encouraged pilgrimages to the Cathedral and Lubwe Mission. He also called for the full utilization of spiritual resources, including well-prepared Sunday liturgies, intensified charitable outreach, personal prayer, fasting, and the Stations of the Cross.
He further emphasized the importance of the Sacrament of Confession, urging priests to be readily available.
The bishop concluded his message with a prayer for Pope Francis, invoking the maternal embrace of Mother Mary for his peace and healing.
