President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration has dispatched a delegation of ministers to engage in dialogue with the Catholic Church. Led by Honorable Felix Mutati, the delegation comprised Honorable Gary Nkombo, Honorable Doreen Mwamba, Special Assistant to the President Honorable Levy Ngoma, Honorable Sylvia Masebo, and Honorable Charles Milupi. The objective of this delegation was to foster a peaceful relationship between the government and the Catholic Church as a whole.
The delegation held fruitful discussions with Archbishop Ignatious Chama of the Kasama Diocese, resulting in an agreement that emphasized the vital role of dialogue between the church and the state. Both parties recognized the significance of maintaining an open channel of communication to ensure harmony and cooperation. A photograph captured the momentous occasion, showing Honorable Masebo, Honorable Nkombo, Archbishop Ignatius Chama, Honorable Mutati, Honorable Doreen Mwamba, Honorable Milupi, and Honorable Levy Ngoma.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Church, specifically the Monze Diocese, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to promoting reconciliation, love, unity, and peace throughout the country. During the dedication ceremony of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Monze, Right Reverend Bishop Raphael Mweempwa emphasized the importance of unity through reconciliation among Zambians and with God. He urged Christians to embody love, mutual understanding, and respect, viewing diversity as a source of enrichment rather than division among citizens.
Bishop Mweempwa urged believers to lead authentic Christian lives, emphasizing the need to align personal values with gospel principles and faith. The occasion saw the presence of Right Reverend Bishop Clement Mulenga of Kabwe Diocese, six traditional leaders, and senior government officials. Southern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Yolanta Malunga hailed the Holy Trinity Cathedral as a symbol of unity, transforming the face of both Monze District and Southern Province.
Ms. Malunga further expressed gratitude to the Catholic Church for their commitment to uplifting lives in Zambia. She acknowledged the alignment between the Church’s teachings of love, unity, justice, peace, and human development with the aspirations of the UPND government. Ms. Malunga praised the Catholic Church’s support in supplementing government efforts in various areas such as education, social programs, and infrastructure development, which aim to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals in society.
Chief Choongo of Monze District appealed to the government, the Church, and traditional leaders to collaborate in promoting unity and peace across the country. Recognizing the pivotal role of traditional leaders and the Church as custodians of the people, Chief Choongo urged them to complement government initiatives, particularly in the realm of development. Chief Choongo expressed gratitude for the Catholic Church’s notable contributions, especially in education and healthcare, and highlighted the Church’s role in shaping individuals to adhere to Christian values while traditional leaders preserve cultural norms.
Chief Choongo concluded by urging the government, the Church, and traditional leaders to unite their efforts, serving the Zambian people diligently and prudently. With both the government and the Catholic Church expressing their commitment to peace and unity, there is renewed hope for a harmonious future in Zambia.
Cosmetic. Why go to make peace with priests not in contention? What would be the challenge in talking to Salangate, Archbishop Banda, Fr Mwewa and that other priest?
And most importantly, why can’t the President himself sit down with the the Catholic church leaders? Lastly, why hasn’t Imenda offered a public apology?
Bishop Chama is president of the council of Catholic bishops which speaks on behalf of the Catholic church in Zambia. The clergy you’ve referred to represent themselves and therefore not worthy the high level visit.
Thanks for that piece of information. But I reiterate that the wrangles are with those priests, reconciliation ought to start there. You cannot go to make amends in corners.
Let me also add, have you seen the email concerning attacking and discrediting the prominent catholic leaders? It was shared on social media by Mmembe. Come back and debate me then.
Imenda should have bn in the group….How dare could he call our bishop Lucifer?
Archbishop Ignatious Chama was appointed on 12 Jan 2012 and has been around for over 10 years during the Sata and Lungu PF governments. Very wise and mature individual
When pertinent national issues need to be addressed, the bishops gather together and issue bishop or pastoral letter to the government of the day.
Sadly the recently appointed Archbishop of Lusaka is a pure PF cadre and has been making unilateral statements purportedly on behalf of the catholic church.
The Hyped Hypocrite just want the Priests to stop talking for the poor. He’s just a bully and dictator
Pressure,feeling the HOMILY heat
I Think that was a gud move from bishop/priest salangate of the catholic church every one got concerned now including top leader. sir
Mr Salangater spoke for us voiceless people who can’t speak on our on,when things there good or bad, he stand for the nation,church and the community where us we belong,so that we should enjoy the some privileges has everyone in the nation i thank you sir.
kkkkkk stop playing games,apologize publicly for calling the arch Bishop Lucifer period and stop bitting about the bush.