MALAWI: Prelate Challenges the Faithful to Pursue a Righteous Life
Caption - Bishop Vincent Mwakhwawa delivering a homily
Brenard Mwanza
Bishop Vincent Frederick Mwakhwawa of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe has encouraged the faithful to understand that God is always ready to forgive, regardless of severity of their sins.
The Auxiliary Bishop referenced the biblical story of Christ forgiving an adulterous woman (John 8:1-11) as a key example of divine forgiveness, encouraging the faithful to pursue a righteous life instead of succumbing to sin.
Delivering his homily on Sunday April 6, 2025, at St. Gabriel Outstation which is under Maria Mthandizi wa Akhristu (Our Lady Helper of Christians) Parish in Mtandire – Lilongwe, the Bishop Mwakhwawa further stressed that God’s forgiveness is not contingent on perfection but is available to all who seek it.
“Christ wants us to experience God’s forgiveness and mercy. Therefore, it is important for us believers to know that in whatever state we are, especially when in state of sin, we should know that God is ready to forgive us,” he stated.
Bishop Mwakhwawa further encouraged the faithful to pray for one another to collectively grow in strength against temptation and to support each other’s journey towards righteousness.
On human struggles, Bishop Mwakhwawa noted that many people harbour hatred and anger, which lead to violence and conflict, emphasizing the importance of addressing these feelings through Christ.
“There are wars in people’s hearts and they may commit murder, causing significant human harm. We need Christ to renew our lives and forgive our sins, but also help us gradually grow into a life of forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation,” he added.
He concluded by calling on the faithful to actively share the Gospel and Christ’s teachings with those who struggle with sin, promoting a united front against evil in the world.
