Diocese of Chikwawa

Bishop Peter Martin Musikuwa of the Diocese of Chikwawa has called upon all children to embrace their mission in the Church by emulating the example of Christ our Lord. The call was made this morning during the Eucharistic celebration marking the official opening of this year’s Diocesan Children Congress, at Our Lady of Fatima parish. During his sermon, the Bishop called upon all children to be conscious of their call to serve God, who has time and again demonstrated to the human race that He loves all people. Quoting the days liturgy of the word, the bishop said, just as the Lord tells us that the greatest of all is commandments if love, children are to love one another. “The mission to which we are called to participate, will only be possible if we get rooted in Christ through love. We called to love one another so as to work together towards the mission of Christ” said Musikuwa. The three-day congress, which began on 27 August 2026 and will conclude on 29 August, is being organized by the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) as part of the implementation of resolutions from the 2025 National Children’s Congress. It seeks to strengthen missionary formation among children and encourage them to take an active role in the life and mission of the Church. The young participants have come together for a programme centered on faith, prayer, formation, missionary activity, friendship and recreation. The congress is also providing an opportunity for children from different parishes to meet, interact and share their experiences as young members of the Catholic Church.   The congress is being held under the theme “Children, Be One with Christ, United in Mission,” emphasizing the call for children to remain united with Christ and actively participate in the mission of the Church.   The congress will conclude on Saturday, 29th August, 2026.    

More than 400 children from across the Catholic Diocese of Chikwawa are set to attend the Diocesan Children’s Congress at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Nsanje District. The children eagerly anticipate the congress, which will be their maiden Diocesan Children’s Congress. Fr John Lockie, Diocesan Social Research and Communications Coordinator, told Zodiak Online today that the stage is set for the event. Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) Director, Fr. Bernard Limani, describes, “this as not just a meeting or a trip to some place for a vacation, it is rather an opportunity to deepen their faith.” Among the topics to be shared with the children are; on sacraments, liturgy, and child protection. To run for the next two days, children will be taught on their role in the liturgy, meaning they are no longer spectators, but active members in the Church. They will be drilled on the origins, meaning and significance of the seven sacraments of the Church. As the Church continues to implement Pope Francis’ Laudato Si, these children will have time to realize the role they can play to preserve our environment in their small ways like practicing proper waste disposal. We pray for the success of the congress.

The air is thick with anticipation and joy as final preparations fall into place for the upcoming Diocesan Children’s Congress. Set to run from August 27 to 29, the mega event will bring together 400 children from 14 parishes across the diocese. Host venue Our Lady of Fatima Parish is buzzing with high-energy preparations to welcome the young delegates. Volunteers are busy transforming the parish grounds into a colorful hub of faith and fellowship. To be celebrated under the theme “Children, be one in Christ, united in mission,” organizers, youth animators, and parish families are working around the clock to ensure safe lodging, nutritious meals, and an unforgettable spiritual experience for every child. Fr Bernard Limani, who is the Diocesan Pontifical Mission Societies Director, expressed optimism that this first ever Children Congress will be a success. “We expect delegates from all the parishes. Of course we should have anticipated a large gathering, but being the first of its kind, 400 children will make a good beginning” Said Limani. The three-day congress features a packed itinerary designed to form well-rounded, socially conscious young Catholics. The core focus areas include: Sacraments and Liturgy: Deepening the children’s understanding of Catholic worship and sacred traditions. Care for the Environment: Interactive sessions teaching ecological responsibility and stewardship of creation. Child Protection: Empowering children with awareness regarding their safety, rights, and bodily autonomy. Charity Work: Practical missionary action through a special visit to the children’s ward at Trinity Hospital, where delegates will distribute gifts and comfort young patients. The spiritual highlight of the event takes place on Friday, August 28. His Lordship, Bishop Peter Musikuwa, will preside over the solemn Opening Mass. This celebration will officially gather the 400 children at the altar, igniting their missionary zeal and uniting them in their shared identity in Christ. As the countdown ticks down to August 27, the Diocese stands ready to witness a vibrant renewal of faith led by its youngest and most energetic members.