From Vaticannews · Vatican News · · 1m 10s
Malawi's Catholic Church marks 125 years
The Church celebrates a century of growth since missionaries first arrived in 1901.
In brief
The Church celebrates a century of growth since missionaries first arrived in 1901. Malawi's Catholic community has grown from a single missionary outpost into one of Africa's most vibrant Catholic populations over 125 years. Originally reported by Vaticannews.
Pope sends special delegate to Malawi
Pope Leo the Fourteenth appointed Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu as his Special Delegate to represent him at Malawi's 125th anniversary celebration of the Catholic Church.
Celebration set for September 19
The main Eucharistic celebration happens on September 19, 2026 at St. Mary's Dzama Parish in the Diocese of Dedza, with bishops, priests, religious communities and lay members gathering to mark the occasion.
Theme centers on mission and roots
The anniversary is commemorated under the theme 'Rooted in Christ, Sent for Mission: Celebrating 125 Years of Evangelisation in Malawi,' reflecting the Church's foundation and ongoing purpose.
“Rooted in Christ, Sent for Mission: Celebrating 125 Years of Evangelisation in Malawi.”
Missionaries arrived in 1901
The first Montfort Missionaries landed at Nzama in the Dedza Diocese in 1901, laying the foundation for what became one of Africa's most vibrant Catholic communities.
Church celebrates 125 years of growth
The jubilee marks the Church's expansion and continued witness across Malawi since those first missionaries established a permanent Catholic presence in the country.
The bottom line
Malawi's Catholic community has grown from a single missionary outpost into one of Africa's most vibrant Catholic populations over 125 years.
