MALAWI: Bishop Mtumbuka Urges Faithful to Embrace Their Catholic Identity

NGULUDI, OCTOBER 2, 2018 (CISA) – Bishop Martin Mtumbuka, the Vice Chairman of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM), has encouraged Catholic faithful to be strong in faith and embrace their Catholic identity despite continuous political attacks directed at the Church.

Bishop Mtumbuka who doubles up as the Chairman of Catholic University Council in Malawi was speaking during a graduation ceremony of the 16th Congregation of the University which took place on September 26 at the university grounds at the Montfort Campus in Nguludi, reported AMECEA online news.

“We wish to condemn in strongest terms possible the recent uncalled for attacks on Catholic politicians and the Catholic Church in the country. When a particular district or area is hit or affected by natural disasters, we go as Catholics and assist as much as we can, anybody in need regardless of creed or ethnicity,” Bishop Mtumbuka said.

“Remember that enemies of your Church are enemies of your faith; enemies of your faith are enemies of your liberation; and enemies of your liberation are agents of the devil,” he added.

He further dismissed allegations that the Catholic Church may cause chaos in Malawi and explained that the conflict is because of one tribe trying to control national resources and power while treating others as doormats.

The bishop urged the institution through its management to help young men and women become pillars of hope for the Catholic Church and society through adherence to the Catholic Social Teaching.

“Education the University offers should not only be informative by merely communicating factual data, but rather it must be performative and creative so as to change the lives of both the staff and students,” said the bishop.

Other people who addressed the congregation include the Vice Chancellor of the university Rev Fr George Buleya, and the representative of the Catholic University Alumni Association Hellen Chabunya.

381 graduates were awarded diplomas and degrees in various faculties.