Bishop Chaima elaborated on key principles of CST, including human dignity, the sanctity of life, the common good, subsidiarity, solidarity, and preferential options for the poor.
The Bishop who has been at the helm of the Malawian Diocese since his Episcopal Ordination in June 2023 stressed that the principles should influence decision-making, human conduct, and development planning.
“Human life is sacred, and no human has the power to terminate it at any stage. All work and services must serve the interests of all, and decisions must favor the poor,” he said.
Referring to the biblical story of Jesus feeding the multitude with five loaves and two fish, Bishop Chaima reminded the Catholic MPs that Malawi’s resources should be used for the benefit of all citizens, saying, “By doing so, you will be God’s stewards."
Speaking at the same meeting, Fr. Henry Chinkanda, the ECM Parliamentary Liaison Chaplain, highlighted the importance of Catholics engaging in politics.
“The MPs have accepted the Pope’s call that a good Catholic should meddle in politics and offer services to God’s people,” Fr. Chinkanda said, adding, “The Church appreciates their service and will always encourage and guide them.”
On his part, The Minister of Lands and Chairman of the Parliament Catholic Community, Deus Gumba, expressed gratitude to the Catholic Bishops in Malawi for their continued engagement with legislators.
He called for continued dialogue and guidance from the Church, emphasizing the shared goal of benefiting all Malawians.
The meeting, also attended by Auxiliary Bishop Vincent Mwakhwawa of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, aimed to strengthen the connection between the Church and Catholic legislators in their shared mission to serve the people of Malawi.
Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.
