ST. PAUL’S CHURCH (SANGIRO) CONSECRATION: BISHOP MTUMBUKA URGES CHRISTIANS TO EMBRACE FAITHFULNESS AND OBEDIENCE
By Noel Chatepa
On 25th March 2025, a significant milestone was achieved for the Catholic Diocese of Karonga as Bishop Martin Anwel Mtumbuka presided over the Dedication, Consecration, and Blessing of the newly built St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sangilo. This event marked an important development not only for the parish but also for the entire Chilumba Deanery and the Diocese, as St. Paul’s serves as a substation of Hangalawe Outstation within St. Anne’s Parish.
The ceremony took place on the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, a day commemorating when the Holy Spirit announced to Mary that she would conceive by divine intervention. The occasion drew many faithful from across the parish who were eager to witness the Blessing of the new church.
In his Homily, Bishop Mtumbuka emphasized two key lessons from Mother Mary that are relevant to all believers today. He urged congregants to follow God’s will with unwavering faith, even in times of difficulty. “Not everyone will be happy as we follow the will of God and there will be difficulties,” he said, encouraging them to emulate Mother Mary’s endurance in faith.
Furthermore, Bishop Mtumbuka highlighted that while having a beautiful church structure is important, what truly matters is dedicating one’s heart and resources to God. “God wants to use you in the same way that he used Mother Mary,” he stated, expressing hope that this new church would inspire a prayerful life among the faithful at Sangilo.
Father Bulambo, Parish Priest for St. Anne’s Parish of which the new church is a sub-station expressed gratitude towards Bishop Mtumbuka for his efforts in securing funding from the Archdiocese of Cologne and for leading this significant consecration ceremony.
In closing remarks directed at the Archdiocese of Cologne, Bishop Mtumbuka conveyed heartfelt thanks on behalf of the Christians at Sangilo, “the Christians of Sangilo are very grateful for the support”, said Bishop Mtumbuka.
