Today, on 15th February 2024, we gathered to honour the memory of Paco on the 11th anniversary of his passing. Paco left behind a legacy of kindness, inspiration and service that continues to resonate deeply with the members, apprentices as well as friends and collaborators of the MCSPA.

The commemoration began with a moving Eucharistic cerebration, where we came together to reflect on paco’s life and the impact he had on the members of our community. As part of the ceremony, there was a special blessing of seedlings that symbolize growth, and the continued presence of paco among us. 

Following the mass, we gathered to revisit the original sources of paco’s inspiration. Those that had a physical contact with him in our case Fernando and Manolo, shared their experience. It was a time of reflection and gratitude for the blessings paco brought into the lives of many members of the MCSPA.

As the morning progressed, a group of enthusiastic men and women joined us to collect trees. Together, we participated in another ceremony for blessing of seedlings. Then, with hands united, we embarked on the noble task of planting fruit trees at the mission to symbolize abundance, nourishment and the growth of our collective efforts in honour of Paco.

In the evening, we shared a beautiful meal that was followed by a film in which various members of the MCSPA shared their experiences of our Founder.

By Stephano Sambiri Ziba

Apprentice of the MCSPA

On 12th February 2022, in Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi, was the official opening and blessing of MCSPA chapel and house. The ceremony was led by the newly installed Archbishop of Lilongwe George Desmond. The function was also attended by Fr. Martin of St. Patrick’s Missionary Society; the parish priest of St. Kizito, Chigoneka, in whose territory the MCSPA house is located, Fr. Hodges Mzunga who is the bishop’s secretary. The celebration was also attended by family and friends of the members and Apprentices of MCSPA in Malawi.

This was the second time the new Archbishop pays a visit to the MCSPA. The fist was few months back when he presided over a ceremony to commission 24 catechists were graduating from a three-years training course at Benga Parish.

In his homily at the blessing of the chapel and house in Lilongwe, Archbishop Tambala emphasized on transforming our houses into homes where the virtues of love and reconciliation prevail. Furthermore, he exhorted all to be ready and willing to go out of their comfort zones and be present to the needs of others.

Speaking during the celebration, Fr. Manuel Hernandez, MCSPA, said, “It is significant that we should always have a decent house for God in wherever we are, both for prayers and personal meditation”. In addition, Fr. Fernando Aguirre, the president of MCSPA, thanked family and friends of MCSPA in Malawi for the constant support rendered to the community since its arrival to the country. He said that there is a lot of hope for Malawi and that the future is bright.

In his speech, Archbishop Tambala said, “my relationship with MCSPA did not start yesterday; I knew them back in my Nairobi days when I was a student.” He recommended the works of MCSPA and wished them good luck in Lilongwe Archdiocese as they continue to spread the gospel through their various activities.

This year, MCSPA will be cloaking 10 years since its establishment in Malawi.

By Innocent Letasi Phiri, MCSPA apprentice.