# Malawi's Catholic Church marks 125 years

> The Church celebrates a century of growth from its first mission in 1901 to today's schools and hospitals.
- Title: Malawi's Catholic Church marks 125 years · Vaticannews
- Summary: The Church celebrates a century of growth from its first mission in 1901 to today's schools and hospitals. The Catholic Church in Malawi has grown from a…
- Keywords: catholic church, malawi, evangelization, montfort missionaries, diocese of dedza, 125 year anniversary, education, healthcare, social development, religion, world, Malawi's
- Source: Vaticannews — https://vaticannews.va/en/africa/news/2026-09/1901-2026-catholic-church-in-malawi-marks-125-years.html
- Author: Vatican News
- Published: 2026-09-20T10:44:23.315+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: catholic church, malawi, evangelization, montfort missionaries, diocese of dedza, 125 year anniversary, education, healthcare, social development, religion, world
## Malawi's Catholic roots run deep
The Montfort Missionaries established the first permanent Catholic mission in Malawi in 1901 at Nzama in Dedza. On September 19, 2026, the Church celebrated 125 years of evangelisation at that same historic site.
## A celebration rooted in faith
Bishops, priests, religious leaders, government officials and lay faithful gathered for a Eucharistic celebration under the theme 'Rooted in Christ, Sent for Mission.' Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, a special delegate of Pope Leo the Fourteenth, presided over the event.
## New priests ordained for service
Two deacons, Timothy Tendai Chimbiya and Peter Bengo, were ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Dedza during the celebration. Their ordination linked the Church's missionary past with its continuing mission in Malawi.
## Rise above division, serve with unity
Archbishop Nwachukwu urged the new priests to transcend political and tribal divisions and serve as instruments of unity. He reflected on the biblical figure of Melchizedek, associated with righteousness and peace, as a model for their ministry.
## Schools and hospitals transform lives
Over 125 years, the Church has built schools and health facilities that serve Malawi's spiritual and human needs. Catholic schools consistently rank among the top performers in national examinations, with many achieving high distinction rates.
## A century of gratitude and renewal
The jubilee gave the Church in Malawi a chance to thank generations of missionaries, catechists, and lay faithful who built the local Church. It also renewed the Church's commitment to proclaiming Christ and serving the people.
## Key takeaway

The Catholic Church in Malawi has grown from a single mission in 1901 into a major force for education, healthcare, and community development across the country.