Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Ndola (Agenzia Fides) - "Catechesis is at the center of the life of the Church. As catechists, you are sent to give correct instructions to the people of God, in the light of the Gospel", said Mgr. Benjamin Phiri, Bishop of the diocese of Ndola, in Zambia.
The occasion was the Thanksgiving Mass in the Christ the King's Cathedral in Ndola for 63 new catechists who had previously completed intensive catechetical training at a catechetical institute recognized by the Vatican. Two of the 63 participants died after completing the course, but received honorary recognition. Bishop Phiri made it clear that "the believers should not be led astray". "The heart of faith in the Catholic Church lies in the teaching of the Church itself. You cannot create something new or start adding it on your own initiative. I cannot do it, nor can the Pope, the Prelate insisted -. Therefore, give correct instructions so that people can learn the truth about God, the Church and how to live the Christian life". "When I see certain behaviors in the social and political life of our baptized Christians, it worries me. Sometimes I see people who campaign for a position in the Christian Community or in the apostolic group and fight for a role, and I wonder if this person knows what they are asking for", reads the document sent to Fides.
On May 10, 2021 Pope Francis established the Ministry of Catechist with the Motu proprio Antiquum Ministerium (see Fides, 11/5/2021). (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 29/11/2021)
