DAVID CHIPETA ORDAINED TO PRIESTHOOD
By Noel Chatepa
On 1st March 2025, the Diocese of Karonga celebrated the ordination of Deacon David Chipeta to priesthood at St. Joseph Cathedral. The Eucharistic celebration was graced by a large gathering, including priests, brothers, sisters, and faithful from the dioceses of Karonga, Mzuzu, and even Tanzania.
Bishop Martin Anwel Mtumbuka was the main celebrant of the ordination and took a moment to commend the new priest Fr. David Chipeta for his character and ability to connect with others, a sentiment which was confirmed by the impressive turnout of clergy and lay persons alike. During his homily, Bishop Mtumbuka underscored the nature of a priest’s calling saying, “To become a priest is a personal call, it is meant for one individual alone.” He highlighted that during the ordination rite, when Deacon Chipeta’s name was called out, it symbolized this unique vocation bestowed upon him alone and no one else.
The Bishop elaborated on the significance of various actions within the ordination ceremony, particularly stating that among other things the prostration of the candidate signifies letting go of worldly attachments. He encouraged Fr. Chipeta to embrace his vocation wholeheartedly and not shy away from serving even in remote areas of the diocese. “You should be disciplined, selfless and obedient,” he advised.
In addition, Bishop Mtumbuka addressed an important societal issue regarding parental support for their children’s religious vocations. He expressed concern over parents who discourage their children from pursuing paths as priests or religious brothers or sisters, emphasizing that such decisions can unfairly impact those who have answered their calling.
Fr. David Harvey Chipeta hails from Mweningolongo village in Traditional Authority Kyungu in Karonga, born to Michael Chipeta and Teleza Ng’ambi. His educational journey began at Ntchowo Primary School before advancing to St. Patrick’s Minor Seminary in Rumphi and furthering his studies at Peramiho Major Seminary in Tanzania and Bidasoa International Seminary in Spain.
The ordination of Father David Chipeta brings the number of priests in the Catholic Diocese of Karonga to 40.
