KARONGA DIOCESE CURIA STAFF HOLD RETREAT IN NKHATA-BAY: A TIME FOR RENEWAL AND REFLECTION
By Chikumbutso Mwale
The Karonga Diocese curia staff convened for a spiritual retreat from December 15 to December 17, 2024, at St. Joseph Pastoral Center in Nkhata Bay. Guided by the theme “Closed for Renovation and Fumigation,” the retreat provided an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and reflection. The sessions were led by Fr. Edward Kamanga, who served as the host and retreat director.
The retreat opened with a session titled “Diseases of the Curia,” during which Fr. Kamanga delved into the challenges and pitfalls often encountered by individuals working in Church administration. Drawing from the 15 spiritual “diseases” of the curia by pope Francis, he emphasized the need for self-awareness and humility. Among the ailments highlighted were:
Gossiping, which undermines trust and unity.
Indifference, where members lose sight of their mission.
Wearing a “funeral face,” symbolizing negativity and a lack of joy.
Forming closed circles, which creates exclusion within the team.
Boasting and feeling untouchable, reflecting pride and arrogance.
Seeking worldly profit, a reminder to prioritize spiritual over material gains. These were among the few diseases of the Curia.
Later in the day, Fr. Kamanga presided over Holy Mass. His homily centered on the Final Judgment, drawing attention to the need for spiritual cleanliness. He reminded the congregation that God will ultimately separate the “clean” from the “dirty,” urging everyone to examine their actions and intentions.
The afternoon session, titled “Desire for Holiness,” was based on Matthew 5:48, where Jesus calls believers to “be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Fr. Kamanga shared practical insights on how to protect oneself from the devil through prayer, vigilance, and cultivating a deep desire for holiness.
The second day began with a session where Fr. Kamanga reflected on a selection of penitential psalms, including Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, and 142. These psalms, he explained, serve as a guide for genuine contrition and a preparation for the sacrament of confession.
To conclude this spiritual exercise, Fr. Kamanga together with Fr Kondowe administered the Sacrament of Confession to those ready to participate. Others symbolically wrote down their sins on pieces of paper and burned them, representing their desire to leave behind past transgressions and embrace a renewed commitment to their faith and duties.
During the closing Mass, Mr. Lino Nyirenda, speaking on behalf of the pastoral coordinator and curia staff, expressed gratitude to the bishop for organizing the retreat and Fr Kamanga for the insightful lessons shared. He commended the sessions, stating that the lessons were timely and impactful, and urged his colleagues to perform their duties with righteousness and integrity.
In his closing remarks, Fr. Kamanga emphasized the importance of regular retreats for personal and communal renewal. He encouraged the staff members to incorporate the lessons learned into their daily lives and to seek economic independence through income-generating activities.
The retreat at St. Joseph Pastoral Center was a transformative experience for the Karonga Diocese curia staff. Under the theme of renovation and spiritual fumigation, the event fostered a renewed sense of purpose, unity, and commitment to holiness among the participants. As they return to their duties, the lessons imparted will undoubtedly guide them in serving the Church and the faithful with greater devotion and integrity.
