Catholic Women Urged to Journey Together in the Spirit of Synodality

Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Zomba, Rt. Rev. Alfred Mateyu Chaima, has urged Catholic women in the Diocese to continue journeying together in the spirit of synodality in order to achieve meaningful spiritual growth and self-reliance.

Bishop Chaima made the remarks during the official opening Mass of this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) for delegates of the Catholic Women Association (CWA) from parishes across the Diocese.

The Bishop encouraged women to be a source of encouragement and hope in their homes and urged them to ensure that their husbands are actively involved in the life of the Church, particularly by encouraging them to join the Catholic Men Association (CMA).

“When women stand with their husbands in times of difficulty, they do not only strengthen their families, they also become a source of hope and help build a stronger Church,” continued Bishop Chaima.

He further urged the women to embrace the spirit of synodality by walking together in communion, participation and mission, saying these values are essential for meaningful spiritual growth and the development of a self-reliant Church.

The Bishop also applauded Catholic women for their tireless contribution to the Church in various ways and encouraged them to continue supporting the Diocese and its pastoral activities.

On a lighter note, Bishop Chaima congratulated the Malawi Women’s National Football Team, the Scorchers, for qualifying for the historic final of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), describing their achievement as an inspiration to women and girls in the country.

Meanwhile, Chairlady of the Catholic Women Association in the Diocese of Zomba, Mrs. Christina Lakiyoni, thanked delegates from various parishes for attending the AGM in large numbers.

Lakiyoni also expressed appreciation to the Diocese for its continued support towards the activities of the CWA, particularly the presence of Bishop Chaima, who presided over the opening Mass.

Guest of Honour at the AGM, Mrs. Annie Likoya, encouraged the women to remain united and visionary in all their activities.

The AGM brings together Catholic women from across the Diocese to reflect on their mission, assess their activities and strengthen their contribution to the spiritual and pastoral life of the Church.

The theme for this year’s AGM is “A Catholic woman, a servant of hope in her family”.