ZAMBIA: Zambia Archdiocese Launches Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi
By Archdiocese of Ndola Media
The Archbishop of Ndola, Benjamin Phiri, has officially launched the Jubilee Year of Francis of Assisi, describing the celebration as a significant spiritual moment for all Catholics in the Archdiocese.
The Jubilee was inaugurated on March 25, 2026, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, bringing together various Franciscan groups and members of the faithful in a celebration marked by unity and joy.
The initiative follows a declaration by Pope Leo, with Archbishop Phiri noting that the Archdiocesan Curia will collaborate closely with Franciscan communities throughout the year-long commemoration.
In his homily, Archbishop Phiri urged the faithful to emulate the example of the Virgin Mary, whose Feast of the Annunciation is observed on the same day. He highlighted her humility, obedience, and total surrender to God as a model of authentic Christian faith.
He further encouraged Christians to draw inspiration from St. Francis of Assisi by embracing simplicity, humility, and detachment from material possessions, while remaining fully committed to God’s will.
The launch ceremony included the unveiling of the official Jubilee banner, followed by remarks from Matthews Kasongo, Provincial Minister of the Order of Friars Minor (OFM) for Zambia and Malawi. He expressed gratitude for the initiative and called on the faithful to actively participate in the Jubilee activities.
The event concluded on a celebratory note, marking the beginning of what Church leaders described as a spiritually enriching year for Catholics in the region.
