Zambia: Catechists in Mpika Diocese receive bicycles for their ministry.

Charles Kasanda - Mpika, Zambia.

The 114 bicycles add to the motorcycles purchased at the end of 2021 with support from the organisation, Aid to the Church In Need.

And at the presentation ceremony, this week, Bishop Edwin Mulandu acknowledged the role of Catechists and assured them of his constant prayers and support in their work saying their fruits may not always be immediately visible but manifest in due course.

The mission of Catechists

Meanwhile Mpika Diocese Vicar General, Fr. Vito Milandile, at the same occasion thanked Aid to the Church In Need for the support. Fr Milandile also praised the Diocesan Bishop for his role is supporting Catechists in the diocese.

“Catechists play a significant role in the mission of evangelization in the Church, especially in Africa, where its history would be incomplete without making mention of catechetical involvement,” he said.

He continued, “Over the years Catechists have done a commendable job in communicating Christ, in implanting the faith and in bringing about the transforming and regenerative power of the Gospel in the lives of the people of God,” he added.

Fr Milandile further urged the Catechists to safeguard the bicycles and motorbikes jealously.

A challenging geographical terrain

Meanwhile in a vote of thanks, Catechist Association Representative Stephen Chipasha thanked the Local ordinary for being a good shepherd and implored him to continue helping and empowering Catechists in their journey.

“Catechists are very instrumental in the diocese’s pastoral ministry. They help to prepare the people of God via Catechesis before the celebration of the Sacraments.” Catechists, he also said, “take care of the sub parishes, and conduct prayer services, among many other pastoral duties,” Mr. Chipasha said.

With a shortfall of priests to cover all the diocese’s parishes and outstations, coupled with a challenging geographical terrain, Catechists’ play a pivotal role in evangelization.