Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lusaka (Agenzia Fides) - The second wave of the Coronavorus pandemic continues to hit Zambia hard and the concern of the local church is growing. "In the fight against Covid-19, we call on all Zambians, regardless of their social, cultural, religious and political affiliation, to put aside their differences and unite for a common goal", said the Bishops of the Bishops' Conference of the country (ZCCB) in a joint declaration of January 28. In doing so, they also address the clergy and all religious who ask them to exercise their pastoral commitment, their spiritual assistance, the work of caring for the sick and their support for the needy with maximum caution.
"We have to act responsibly at all times, everywhere, take care of each other and conduct regular tests. In addition, lay faithful must protect their priests and all pastoral workers by strictly adhering to the preventive measures, which unfortunately are sometimes violated", the bishops said in their message.
"There is no reason to relax just because you wear masks and observe distance rules", reads the note sent to Agenzia Fides. "We urge our people to avoid celebrating funerals without following public health regulations, which also include reducing attendance. We sincerely appeal to our politicians to be aware of the risks associated with political events. This battle can only be won if everyone works together", said the bishops, who urge everyone to "preach a message of hope".
Addressing the diocese of Monze, which recently, among many other victims, also lost their bishop, Msgr. Moses Hamungole (see Agenzia Fides, 27/1/2021), the bishops of Zambia expressed their most sincere condolences to the families, religious congregations and clergy who have lost their loved ones due to the pandemic. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 9/2/2021)
