Malawi Catholic youth told not to fear when choosing a vocation

May 07, 2015

KAPOLO, Malawi: Monsignor Dennis Chitete of Karonga Diocese has challenged Malawian youths to rely on a prayer whenever they are considering serving God, either through the priesthood, family life or being a religious brother or sister.

“A prayer is the only weapon for your achievement in realizing whatever dream you think of. This even applies to the vocation you want to follow, be it the priesthood, religious life or even, family life. By praying to God, you may be able to find a good partner in marriage life, for example,” said Monsignor Chitete during a national Mass celebration for Vocation Sunday at St Steven’s Kasantha Parish in Kapolo, Karonga diocese.

Chitete said it is high time for the youths in Malawi to consider joining different vocations, especially the priesthood and religious life which has few numbers. He said the Catholic Church has a fast growing congregation, but servants of God, like priests and nuns, are minimal. Parents and guardians should strive to encourage their children to join these vocations.

“I also urge you to pray for the existing priests, religious men and women so that they are fervent in their vocations. Mind you, without priests, for example, it means there are no sacraments as well,” he said.

For his part, national director for Pontifical Missionary Society (PMS), Fr Vincent Mwakhwawa said that Vocation Sunday is the World Day of Prayer for vocations, an important day in the Catholic Church the world over. It is the day when Pope Francis encouraged the youths to go into various vocations, he added.

He said the Pope is challenging youths in the Church not to be afraid when they have a calling from God, for He is there to protect them all.

“Pope Francis is always encouraging you to pray to know your vocations. Do not, therefore, fear, for He is there to guide and protect you. Strive to pray the rosary everyday and Mother Mary will help you in choosing a vocation of your choice,” said Fr Mwakhwawa.

In a message for the day, Bishop Chairman of Pastoral Commission and Pontifical Missionary Societies, His Lordship Bishop Peter Musikuwa of Chikwawa Diocese, said that the Pope, through the society of St Peter the Apostle, reminds all the Catholic faithful about their Christian responsibility in cooperating with Christ in missionary work. He said every Christian has a duty to cooperate with Jesus Christ by offering prayers which will help in the whole work of evangelization. He said every Christian must discern his vocation and offer his or her life for the mission. -- Nyasatimes