School of Faith Graduation and Pilgrimage.
The Cathedral of Christ the King in Ndola was the site of a joyful and spiritual celebration on Saturday, 17th May 2024, as it hosted the 4th Graduation Ceremony for the School of Faith. The day began with a pilgrimage procession from Green Village to the cathedral. This sacred walk was not limited to the graduating class, but included all catechists and catechizers from across the Archdiocese. Together, they journeyed as “pilgrims of hope,” reaffirming their shared mission in the Church’s evangelizing work. The ceremony officially opened with Holy Mass, celebrated by Pastoral Director Rev. Fr. Ephraim Mulenga, who stood in for Archbishop Dr. Benjamin Phiri, JCD, due to a prior commitment. He was joined at the altar by Rev. Fr. Thomas Chunika, Local Chapter President, School of Faith Lecturer- Rev. Fr. Christopher Chowa, and Rev. Fr. Mathews Musonda. In his homily, Fr. Mulenga spoke passionately about the indispensable role of catechists and catechizers in the life of the Church. He lamented the weakening of the family’s role as the traditional foundation for passing on the faith, due to modern technologies and changing values. He challenged the catechists to rise to the demands of this digital age, where children are constantly exposed to both good and harmful information. Fr. Mulenga urged the graduates to offer quality catechesis and warned against allowing poorly prepared candidates to receive sacraments, stressing that this could do more harm than good Following the Mass, 66 catechizers who had completed their training were awarded certificates in recognition of their dedication and hard work. The celebration marked a powerful moment of encouragement and recommitment to the mission of spreading the Gospel with clarity, love, and conviction.