The Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi, Joseph Bvumbwe, has urged pastors to centre their preaching on messages of hope and renewal as many Malawians, especially the youth, grapple with various challenges in their lives.
Speaking in Madisi, Dowa, during the ordination of Evangelist Alinafe Kadzako Banda as a pastor and the installation of Reverend Thomas Chikako as Dean for the Madisi Deanery, Bishop Bvumbwe said the church must serve as a source of comfort and inspiration for those who feel abandoned or overwhelmed by life’s challenges.
He observed that increasing cases of suicide and depression among young people stem from a loss of hope and uncertainty about the future.
“We as a church are partners with God and even with the government in providing hope to the hopeless,” said Bishop Bvumbwe.
“Despite the suffering and homelessness many are facing, God will not let us down. He sent His only Son to die for us because He loves the world. There is hope, as long as God is in control,” added Bishop Bvumbwe.
The Bishop encouraged pastors to rebuild trust among congregants, noting that disillusionment with religious leaders has made it harder for people to find comfort in the church.
“Many people no longer see hope, even in pastors, because of disappointment. But God’s assurance remains. As written in Matthew 28:18–19, He says, ‘All power on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and preach the gospel, and I will be with you until the end of time,’” the bishop added.
He commended the ordination of Pastor Alinafe Kadzako Banda, aged 33, describing it as a positive step towards empowering the youth and recognising their role as change agents in society.
In his remarks, Pastor Kadzako Banda said he was ready to serve both God and the people, pledging to be a role model for young Christians.
“Serving the church is not a calling for older people only,” he said Pastor Kadzako Banda.
“The church has many young members, and I want to show them that they too can serve in higher capacities. Many young people are taking their own lives, so there is a real need to strengthen messages of hope,” said Pastor Kadzako Banda.
During the ceremony, Reverend Thomas Chikako was also installed as Dean for the Madisi Deanery, with Bishop Bvumbwe urging him to “do the best you can” in leading his office and inspiring the faithful.
The event showcased the church’s ongoing efforts to nurture spiritual leadership among young people and to restore optimism and faith in communities facing growing social and economic pressures.
#MBCDigital
#Manthu
