Zambian Priest Champions Church Synodality

Zambia, January 10, 2025: Fr. Cletus Mwiila, parish priest of St. Mary’s Choma Parish, Zambia, has embraced his role as a missionary of Synodality, promoting the Church’s inclusive vision throughout Zambia. His mission stems from a call made by Pope Francis during the 'Parish Priests for Synodality' meeting, held in Rome last May. During the meeting, the Holy Father had appealed to all the attendees to return home and champion Synodality within their communities.

Speaking to Vatican News, Fr. Mwiila expressed satisfaction with how the message of Synodality has been received in Zambia. “People are happy about being listened to and feel called to fully participate in the life of the Church,” he said. However, he warned against misinterpreting Synodality as a mere theological concept, emphasizing that its core is Christ and fostering inclusion of everyone in the functioning of the Catholic Church.

Fr. Mwiila has engaged various communities across Zambia with the message of the Synod on Synodality. He describes the Synod as a “new narrative” of being the Church that invites everyone to participate. He highlighted the importance of listening and fostering communion as part of Synodality. “We are a community in communion. Everyone should participate in the life of the Church as an important partner,” he said.

Fr. Mwiila went on to add that the Synod on Synodality is fundamentally about listening, journeying together, and encouraging everyone’s participation. He stressed that individuals should feel free to share their stories and be heard without fear of judgment, just as Jesus did. Fr. Mwiila also emphasized that the message of Synodality extends beyond Catholics, offering a liberating message for all people.

“This is why we have shared the message of Synodality through various media platforms, including the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation Television, as well as national, private, and community radio stations. On these platforms, even non-Catholics have expressed their appreciation for this message,” he said.

Recognizing areas of disunity within Zambian society, Fr. Mwiila urged Zambians not to let race, ethnicity, politics, or religion divide them. He called on everyone to embrace the spirit of being “each other’s keeper.” Emphasizing the inclusive nature of Christ, he noted that Jesus never discriminated against anyone.

“Jesus welcomed even sinners, washing their feet as a sign of humility, service, and an invitation for everyone to come to the table. Ultimately, we are all brothers and sisters,” Fr. Mwiila highlighted.

Courtesy: Vatican News