Reported by Brenard Mwanza
Holiness is not reserved for extraordinary deeds but is achieved through a life rooted in Christ, prayer and the Eucharist, Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe, Right Reverend Vincent Frederick Mwakhwawa, has told Catholics.
Speaking during the Solemnity of All Saints at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish in Likuni on Sunday, November 1, the Bishop said a close relationship with Christ enables Christians to remain faithful to their vocation and overcome life’s challenges and temptations.
“Holiness is simple because Christ is the one who works and helps us to live a good life,” he said.
Bishop Mwakhwawa explained that holiness does not necessarily require extraordinary deeds but can be expressed through ordinary responsibilities performed with love and commitment.
Drawing on the example of St. Teresa of Calcutta, who encouraged people to carry out even the smallest tasks with love, the Bishop also referred to Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Gaudete et Exsultate, which reflects on the universal call to holiness in everyday life.
He said parents caring for their children and people fulfilling their responsibilities at home, school and work can live out their Christian vocation through these ordinary acts of love and service.
The Bishop further reminded the faithful that the call to holiness extends to every baptised Christian, urging them to aspire to sainthood.
“Those who follow Christ have to lead a holy life and indeed should aspire to become saints. There is no compromise about that because that is our vocation,” he said.
The celebration also coincided with the inaugural Likuni Deanery Day, which brought together Catholics from three parishes: Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Likuni, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus in Mlale, and Saints Peter and Paul in Nathenje.
Rev. Fr. Cornelius Kanyambo, Dean of Likuni Deanery, said the gathering provided an opportunity for Catholics from the three parishes to pray together, interact and share experiences and challenges from their respective communities.
Meanwhile, Likuni Deanery Laity Council Chairperson Patrick Liphava said the initiative would strengthen unity and cooperation among the parishes while providing an opportunity for lay leaders to learn from one another.
He also highlighted the contribution of lay movements, including the Catholic Women’s Association, Catholic Men’s Association and church choirs, to the spiritual life and growth of parish communities.
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