Bringing the Synodal Message to Zambia: A Reflection by Fr Cletus Mwiila
Since returning from a “Parish Priests for the Synod” meeting in Rome this year, Fr Cletus Mwiila, parish priest of St Mary’s Choma Parish in Zambia’s Monze Diocese, has been on a mission to spread the synodal message to Zambia’s parish priests, seminarians, women religious, and local communities.
Fr Paul Samasumo — Vatican. City.
The international parish priests meeting held on the outskirts of Rome from 29 April to 2 May 2024, brought together about 200 parish priests from around the world, who also had the privilege of meeting Pope Francis in a private audience. In a letter on 2 May to the Parish Priests who attended the gathering, Pope Francis expressed his deep gratitude, acknowledging their dedication and pastoral service as essential for the Church’s forward movement. He emphasized the importance of their voices in shaping the path of synodality and appointed them as Missionaries of Synodality.
Representing the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops at the Synod of Parish Priests in Rome, Father Mwiila has been actively sharing the synodal message in Zambia since his return. Vatican News recently caught up with Fr Mwiila to discuss his experiences and mission in Zambia.
Fr Mwiila’s Impactful Work in Zambia
Fr Mwiila shared how the Parish Priests for the Synod meeting in Rome had a profound impact on his priestly life, illuminating his missionary calling as a Parish Priest. The synodal discussions rekindled his faith and revealed a God of endless possibilities. He recognized the importance of Parish Priests in shaping the Church’s narrative and acknowledged their integral role in fostering a synodal Church.
Since returning to Zambia, Fr Mwiila has conducted numerous synodal sessions and formation engagements, reaching out to priests, parish communities, lay groups, seminarians, and religious men and women. Through radio interviews, TV discussions, and local gatherings, he has been actively promoting the message of Synodality within the local Church.
Embracing Synodality in Zambia
Fr Mwiila’s message to the people of Zambia focuses on building a synodal Church rooted in communal ties and active participation. He emphasizes the role of Small Christian Communities (SCCs) in fostering a sense of community and inclusivity. By engaging with various groups, Fr Mwiila encourages a participatory Church model where everyone is valued and welcomed.
One of his notable initiatives includes establishing SCCs for children in the Diocese of Monze, aiming to bridge generational gaps and cultivate a sense of belonging among young parishioners. Through these tailored community groups, children actively participate in charitable activities and communal engagement, embodying the spirit of synodality.
The Future of Priestly Formation in Zambia
Addressing the formation of future priests, Fr Mwiila stresses the importance of aligning seminary education with the principles of synodality. He advocates for a holistic approach to priestly training that prepares clergy to navigate the evolving landscape of the Church. Embracing digital tools and emphasizing service-oriented leadership are essential components of shaping priests for a synodal future.
Fr Mwiila’s work with seminarians underscores the necessity of instilling a spirit of collaboration and mission in the clergy of tomorrow. By adapting priestly formation to reflect Pope Francis’ vision of a synodal Church, Zambia can nurture a generation of priests committed to service and community engagement.
Fr Cletus Mwiila’s tireless efforts to promote synodality in Zambia serve as a testament to the transformative power of communal dialogue and active engagement within the Church. Through his initiatives and teachings, the synodal message continues to resonate with parishioners, seminarians, and communities across Zambia, paving the way for a more inclusive and participatory Church.
