Pray to Distinguish Calling from “disturbing voices”: Catholic Leader to Youth in Malawi

In his message, Msgr. Chithonje also encouraged those in the marriage institution to emulate the Holy family, noting that “marriage is the foundation of all vocations.”

“I encourage all married people to realize that marriage is the foundation of all vocations. Therefore, marriages should follow the example of the Holy family of Joseph, Mary and Jesus and help their children grow into responsible Christians and citizens of the country,” the Diocesan Administrator said.

He noted that it is only through proper upbringing in families that many young people will avoid bad behaviors such as drug and substance abuse and early pregnancies.

Stressing Msgr. Chithonje’s message, the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in Malawi, Fr. Vincent Mwakhwawa, asked all Catholics in the Southeastern African country to pray for vocations in the Church.

“Vocations Sunday is crucial as it is a time the whole Church focuses on praying for young people to make good decisions about their future,” Fr. Mwakhwawa said.

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The Malawian Cleric added, “The Church also encourages all Catholic faithful to help youths make solid choices through prayer, teaching and monetary contributions, to address gaps that are in the Church and society.”

In her testimony at the event, Ruth Kundiwa, a youth from Our Lady of Peace Mtendere Parish of the Diocese of Dedza said that the Church, through prayer for vocations, will help her live a responsible life.

“This will help me to deepen my prayer life and I encourage youths to join various groups in the Church that provide guidance and help us make right decisions as future leaders,” Ruth is quoted as saying the Agenzia Fides March 23 report.

Agnes Aineah is a Kenyan journalist with a background in digital and newspaper reporting. She holds a Master of Arts in Digital Journalism from the Aga Khan University, Graduate School of Media and Communications and a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communications from Kenya's Moi University. Agnes currently serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.