The local clergy of the Diocese of Dedza commenced their 2026 Annual Retreat on 31st August 2026 with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at Chitsulo Conference Centre in the Diocese of Dedza.
In his homily during the opening Mass yesterday, Msgr. John Chithonje encouraged the priests to remain steadfast in proclaiming the truth, even when doing so brings challenges to their lives and ministry from the very communities they serve. Reflecting on the Gospel of the day, he noted that Jesus Himself faced opposition after proclaiming His mission in the synagogue. He reminded the priests that faithfully living and preaching the Gospel often comes with difficulties and rejection, but they should never be discouraged from standing firm in the truth.
The retreat, which began on 31st August 2026, will conclude on Friday, 4th September 2026. More than 30 diocesan priests are participating in this year’s annual spiritual retreat, setting aside time from their pastoral responsibilities for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
The retreat is being preached by Fr. Samson Kunkumbira, a priest of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, who is guiding the clergy through a series of spiritual conferences and meditations aimed at deepening their relationship with Christ and strengthening their commitment to their priestly vocation.
Let us continue to keep our priests in our prayers as they undertake this important spiritual exercise, asking the Lord to renew them in faith, strengthen them in hope, and fill them with the zeal to continue serving God’s people with love and fidelity.