Thanksgiving Mass for the new Archdiocese of Ndola.
Today, 18th June 2024, marks a historic moment for the Catholic community in Zambia as Ndola Diocese has been elevated to the Archdiocese of Ndola by Pope Francis. The joyous announcement was made by the Vicar General, Rev. Fr. Lewis Mutachila, at the beginning of the Thanksgiving Mass held at the Cathedral of Christ the King. The Mass was celebrated by His Excellency, Msgr. Benjamin Phiri, who has now been appointed as the Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Ndola. As the new Metropolitan Archbishop, His Grace, Msgr. Benjamin Phiri, carries a significant responsibility. A Metropolitan Archbishop is a senior bishop who oversees an ecclesiastical province, in this case, including the suffragan dioceses of Kabwe and Solwezi. His official title will now be “His Grace, the Most Reverend Dr. Benjamin Phiri JCD,” and he should be addressed as “Your Grace.” In his heartfelt homily, Archbishop Phiri expressed profound gratitude to Pope Francis, echoing the scripture in Luke12:48 “to whom much is given, much is required.” He emphasized that this elevation comes with greater responsibility, urging the clergy and faithful of the new archdiocese to strive for exemplary service and dedication, setting a standard for the suffragan dioceses. The elevation of Ndola Diocese is a cause for celebration, not only locally but globally, as congratulations pour in from around the world. This transformation signifies a new era of growth, responsibility, and spiritual leadership for the Archdiocese of Ndola, inspiring hope and renewed vigor among its faithful.