His Lordship Rt. Rev. John Mwandi has officially opened and dedicated the new church of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish, Mathuki, during a Mass celebrated at the parish, calling on the faithful to make it a true house of prayer where they can deepen their faith and encounter God.
In his homily, Bishop Mwandi reminded the faithful that the church is a holy place where Christians gather to present their needs to God, seek forgiveness of sins, receive His blessings and strengthen their faith. He encouraged them to approach the church with love for God and strong faith, noting that God’s blessings would come to them through the church.
The Bishop urged the faithful to seek God’s forgiveness and, after receiving it, to avoid going back to sin. He also cautioned them against divisions, hatred and anything that could undermine unity within the Church. “Do not bring divisions and hatred into the Church of God because it is a holy place,” Bishop Mwandi said, emphasizing the responsibility of every Christian to preserve the holiness of the Church.
He further reminded the faithful that their hearts should be a dwelling place for Christ, saying, “My heart is the tabernacle of Christ; Christ, stay there.”
Bishop Mwandi also encouraged the faithful to carry the spirit of love beyond the church, urging them to serve God and others with love wherever they are.
The Parish Priest, Fr. Mutisya Boniface, appreciated the faithful, benefactors and all those who supported the construction of the new church and the growth of the parish’s pastoral activities. He thanked them for their contributions towards the development of the parish and encouraged them to continue supporting its mission.
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish, Mathuki, was opened on 31st March 2022 by Bishop Joseph Mwongela.
Following the Mass, a fundraising was held in support of the parish pastoral activities.