Archbishop Tambala and his auxiliary, Bishop Mwankhwawa, embarked on a profound journey to Mpiri Parish, a place of spiritual significance. This visit was a testament to their humble beginnings and a celebration of their call to serve. Traveling over 300 kilometers from Lilongwe, they joined the parishioners for a special Thanksgiving Mass, marking a pilgrimage of the heart. As young boys, they first encountered the essence of faith and felt the calling to priesthood in this very place.
The homily, delivered by Bishop Mwankhwawa, emphasized the Church's holiness and the presence of Christ through the Eucharist. He encouraged the faithful to visit Christ in the Church, fostering a deeper love and reverence for the House of God. Additionally, he urged the community to embrace the missionary spirit, spreading the Gospel with zeal, especially as Mpiri Parish prepares for its Centenary Jubilee. The Bishop also addressed the importance of education and faith in strengthening Christian families, highlighting the challenges of early marriage.
Archbishop Tambala's connection to Mpiri Parish is deeply personal. He traces his roots back to St. Montfort Mphakati, a part of the Mpiri Parish, while Bishop Mwankhwawa's origins lie in Ngokwe, another outstation of Mpiri. Founded in 1926 by the Montfort Missionaries, Mpiri Parish stands as one of the oldest in the Shire Vicariate, serving as a beacon of faith for generations. The celebration culminated in joyful songs and dances, expressing gratitude for the prelates' return and the enduring power of faith, reminding us that vocations may take us far, but faith always leads us back to our roots.
