On Sunday, June 4^th, 2023 the Catholic Church celebrated the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. The importance of this Solemnity was well embraced in Benga parish where people from all walks of life gathered as we blessed the renovated Holy Trinity, Chikowa Church. The church which was officially established in the year 1965 is located in the hilly areas between Nkhotakota and Ntchisi districts and it is a center for about 13 outstations. The church building has been under renovation beginning in mid-2022.

The celebration was presided over by Father Steven Ochieng of the MissionaryCommunity of St. Paul the Apostle, the Parish Priest of Benga Parish. In his homily, Fr. Steven emphasized the love that the Triune God shows to us human beings. He encouraged the people of Chikowa to remain united as the Holy Trinity, though in 3 persons, remains one God. “As people who are guided by the Most Holy Trinity, we must always beunited asthe Holy Trinityis oneGod. When we are united we will be identified as true Christians. We cannot accuse one another of witchcraft if we are united. We earn favor in God’s sight if we live in harmony with one another”  said Fr. Steven.

Also in attendance were some notable figures of theNkhotakoka and Ntchisi districts. Chiefs, Traditional Authorities Mwansambo and Kasakula, and a representative for the member of parliament for Nkhotakota South constituency did not miss out on such a great event . In addressing the people gathered,  Traditional Authority Mwansambo acknowledged that the church and the local government work hand in hand in promoting development. He said that construction of churches and other religious institutions is one of the signs a society needs when it comes to development. “When the number of churches increase in an area it means that people are not only focused on the worldly things but also on their relationship with God. It also shows that morality will be promoted in the area as the church isalso the source of moral code.” He, therefore, urged the people of his area to act in a way the church teaches them. The T.A. said that generosity is one of the acts that we as Christians ought to portray at all times even to strangers for God loves every individual without looking at their status. He further said that a Christian should always follow the footsteps of Christ who was crucified for the sins of all.

Indeed, it was a beautiful occasionfor the people of Chikowa Centre. The celebration was rounded up with lunch for all the congregants.

Daniel Jepter, MCSPA Apprentice.