ZAMBIA: Dedication of New Church and Altar in Mansa Diocese, Zambia
Bishop of Mansa Rt. Rev. Patrick chisanga
Mansa Diocese Media
On the solemn Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica of Rome, the Catholic community of Kapesha witnessed a historic moment as the Bishop of Mansa Diocese, Right Reverend Patrick Chilekwa Chisanga, OFM Conv., officially opened and dedicated their new church building and altar.
In his homily, Bishop Chisanga reflected on the arrival of the first missionaries in Lubwe 120 years ago and the subsequent spread of the Catholic faith throughout Luapula Province.
The Bishop highlighted the symbolism of the rites, where the water of blessing was first sprinkled on the people, the living stones of God’s Temple.
The altar and walls of the church were then anointed with the holy oil of Chrism and incensed, symbolizing the prayers of the faithful rising to God.
He said the structure had now been transformed into a permanent House of God, a designated place for the offering of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
The Bishop emphasized that the new church signifies that “Catholicism and the message of Christ have now taken root in Kapesha, and no wind, hunger, or disturbance will prevail against the Catholic Church in the community.
And addressing those scheduled for the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Bishop encouraged them to renew their baptismal commitments.
About 30 Christians were confirmed, and he concluded by imparting the Holy Spirit to all present, urging them to bear the fruits of the Spirit.
