ZAMBIA: Mansa Diocese Priests General Assembly: Embracing the Call as “Pilgrims of Hope”
Mansa priests during the General Assembly
Mansa Diocese Media
In a gathering imbued with spiritual renewal and forward-thinking vision, the local association of priests in the Mansa Diocese convened under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” drawing inspiration from John 14:1-4 – “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”
The assembly sought to remind both clergy and laity that even amid life’s challenges, hope endures as a guiding light.
Fr. Emmanuel Munkonge introduced the theme with a stirring reminder: Although hope does not mean the absence of problems, it endows believers with the strength to face adversity. He emphasized that, as modern-day pilgrims, the faithful must cling to hope even when confronted with economic hardships, social distrust, and the proliferation of unproven spiritual solutions promising quick miracles.
Fr. Daniel Lwanga, President of the local association of priests, warmly welcomed the assembly. In his remarks, he encouraged the priests to not only support one another but also to actively contribute to the welfare of the Diocese. He highlighted the collective responsibility to nurture hope among the people by being active agents in the community, much like the biblical call to “not let your hearts be troubled.”
Bishop Patrick Chisanga, OFM Conv. Addressed the gathering, calling on the priests to embody the role of a catalyst, a bearer who fans the dwindling flame of hope in a community beset by modern challenges such as high living costs and the lure of transient, self-serving spiritual gurus.
The Bishop drew parallels with Moses, urging the priests to empathetically listen to the laments of the people and present them with bold prayers before God. According to his vision, a priest must be intimately involved in the sufferings of the people, journeying alongside them and serving as a credible spokesperson in both spiritual and social realms.
The Bishop underscored that a priest must remain a beacon of genuine hope, adding that a priest who loses credibility through hopelessness risks not only his personal reputation but also the trust and comfort the people place in him.
As the clergy contemplated the current socio-economic difficulties and the spiritual disarray affecting many, they affirmed that maintaining a hopeful outlook is essential, even when miracles seem delayed or when promises of fast healing remain unfulfilled.
Recognizing the potentially divisive influence of politics, the Assembly reiterated the importance of keeping the pulpit free from political discourse.
The assembly concluded with a collective commitment to lighting the flame of hope within Presbyterians and the broader community.
The theme “Pilgrims of Hope” not only sets a spiritual tone but also challenges each priest to be proactive in a world filled with uncertainties.
