Holy Childhood Children in the Diocese of Dedza Celebrate the Memorial of St. Maria Goretti with Annual Masanje
Dedza Diocese, Malawi – 6 July 2026: Holy Childhood children across the Diocese of Dedza today joined the universal Church in commemorating the memorial of St. Maria Goretti through their annual Masanje, a celebration that brings together children from every parish in a spirit of faith, unity, and fraternity.
The celebrations began with the Holy Eucharist in the respective parishes. Immediately after Mass, the children gathered for the annual Masanje, an important event in the Holy Childhood calendar that encourages communion, sharing, and friendship among young missionaries.
Supported by their parish leadership, catechists, and parents, the children brought various food items to their parishes and worked together to prepare the meals. By 8:30 a.m., they were actively engaged in cooking and other preparations, demonstrating teamwork, responsibility, and the spirit of mutual service.
Sharing the meal together was the central moment of the celebration, symbolising the unity and communion that characterise the Holy Childhood Association. The annual Masanje also provides an opportunity for the children to reflect on the exemplary life of St. Maria Goretti, whose witness of purity, forgiveness, courage, and unwavering faith continues to inspire children to grow in holiness and missionary discipleship.
By midday, children in almost all the parishes were joyfully sharing the meals they had prepared. The celebrations concluded with traditional dances, games, and other recreational activities, fostering friendship and strengthening the bonds among the young members of the Holy Childhood Association.
The photographs below highlight some of the joyful moments from the celebrations held in various parishes across the Diocese of Dedza, reflecting the vibrant missionary spirit of the Church’s youngest evangelizers.