04/07/2026
ARCHBISHOP CHAMA URGES PRIESTS TO CHAMPION PEACE AS ZAMBIA HEADS TOWARDS GENERAL ELECTIONS
Kasama | Saturday, 4th July, 2026
Archbishop of Kasama, Most Rev. Ignatius Chama, has appealed to Catholic priests serving in the Archdiocese to take a leading role in fostering peace, unity and responsible civic engagement as Zambia prepares for the 13th August General Elections.
Addressing members of the Kasama Archdiocesan Presbyteral Council during the official opening of their meeting at Moto Moto Pastoral Centre on Thursday, the Archbishop emphasized that priests have a vital pastoral responsibility to help maintain harmony in communities throughout the election period.
He acknowledged that election campaigns often bring political tensions and divisions, but stressed that the Church must remain a source of reconciliation and hope.
Archbishop Chama reminded the clergy that Zambians will soon elect the Republican President, Members of Parliament, Mayors, Council Chairpersons and Councillors. He encouraged priests to continue guiding the faithful to participate in the electoral process peacefully, responsibly and in accordance with Christian values.
He further challenged the priests to reflect on whether they are fully living up to their pastoral mission during this important national period, urging them to strengthen efforts that promote peace, justice and moral responsibility.
The Archbishop also called on priests to help Catholics make informed decisions guided by conscience while exercising their democratic rights with wisdom, freedom and integrity.
As President of the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), Archbishop Chama encouraged members of the Presbyteral Council to seek God's guidance throughout their deliberations so that the resolutions reached would contribute to the growth of the Church and the well-being of the Archdiocese of Kasama.
Speaking on the purpose of the meeting, he explained that the Presbyteral Council exists not only to fulfil its statutory role but also to advise the Local Ordinary on matters affecting the pastoral life and mission of the Archdiocese. He urged members to deliberate honestly and wholeheartedly on the key issues before them and remain committed to implementing agreed resolutions.
Archbishop Chama also highlighted several upcoming events within the Archdiocese, including the Silver Jubilee celebration of Fr. Patrick Kateule's priestly ordination in Mbala. He described the occasion as a celebration of the shared priesthood of all the clergy serving in the Archdiocese.
He further announced that the Archdiocese will celebrate the ordination of new deacons in August, followed by priestly ordinations in September, noting that these celebrations will renew the Church's commitment to nurturing vocations and serving the People of God.
The Archbishop concluded by describing the Presbyteral Council as an important consultative body through which priests collaborate with the Archbishop in the governance and pastoral care of the Archdiocese, providing an opportunity to address challenges and strengthen the Church's mission.
A Presbyteral Council is an advisory body made up of priests who assist the Local Ordinary in matters concerning the governance and pastoral life of a Catholic Archdiocese or Diocese.
📸 Photo: Lutanda Radio