Balaka was a hive of activity when over 1,500 children from across the Diocese of Mangochi gathered at St. Louis Montfort - Balaka Parish for the inaugural Diocesan Children's Congress, held from 21st to 23rd November, 2025. The event, under the theme "Children be One in Christ, United in Mission," aimed to promote the spiritual growth and development of the young faithful.
"Let the little children come to me," (Matthew 19:14) was the guiding scripture as Fr. Paul Rappozo, Diocesan PMS Director, and Fr. Samuel Salatiel, Parish Priest of Balaka, warmly welcomed the children to the congress. The three-day event was a hive of activity, with the children participating in prayer, reflection, and learning sessions.
The Congress commenced with the Holy Mass, presided over by the seasoned priest, Fr. Eugenio Cucci. In his homily, he emphasised the importance of the congress, saying, "The future of the Church is in your hands."
The day's activities included talks by various speakers. The first to set the tone was Fr. Davie Mambo, Vicar General of the diocese, who delivered a thought-provoking talk on Liturgy, centred on the Holy Mass. Taking his turn, Fr. Paul Rappozo shared insights on Church History. Sr. Mercy, a Canossian Sister, encouraged the children to consider vocations, saying, "You are the hope of the future." Inspiring career talks were presented by Madam Sera, a nurse from Balaka District Hospital, and Madam Jacqueline, a woman police officer from Balaka Police Station. Both women delivered their talks while wearing their respective professional uniforms, sparking interest and enthusiasm among the young audience to work hard in their studies.
The children also took part in various activities, including traditional dances, singing, and sporting events. A quiz competition tested their knowledge of scripture, with questions drawn from the Questions and Answers from the Bible book.
As it is said that all good things must come to an end, the Children’s Congress was closed on Sunday, 23rd November, on the Solemnity of Christ the King, with Holy Mass presided over by Rt. Rev. Montfort Stima, the prelate of the Diocese of Mangochi. In his homily, Bishop Stima reminded the children that by virtue of birth, they are automatically members of the Children's Apostolate, saying, "You are not just a group like a choir or any other group in the Church, you are the Church, and the future of our world." He emphasised the Kingship of Jesus, characterised by humility and love, urging the children to strive for a deeper understanding of their faith. On caring for the environment, the Bishop appealed to the young faithful to plant trees at their respective homes, especially during this rainy season. “Put a name on the trees you plant, and next year, a gift will be given to the individual whose trees will not dry out,” said Bishop Stima in his encouragement.
In his address, Rt. Rev. Montfort Stima emphasised the importance of the money tins, which contain collections from the children's apostolate in their respective parishes. The Bishop encouraged the children to think of their fellow children in need, saying, "You have a role to minister to one another." He urged them to safeguard the money by keeping the tins sealed and only opening them when presenting them to the Office of PMS, avoiding any misuse.
As the congress concluded, the children were reminded of their role in building the Kingdom of God. "Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6). The Diocese of Mangochi looks forward to hosting the National Children's Congress in 2027. Therefore, the Diocesan Children’s Congress acted as a rehearsal for the national event.
Communications Office
Diocese of Mangochi
