By Sr. Mbaihamndene Valerie, Lilongwe community, Malawi
As a community in Malawi, we would like to share how we lived and celebrated a year with Cardinal Lavigerie, the founder of the Missionaries of Africa (M.Afr.) and the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa (MSOLA).
To begin with, we organized two radio programs and one television program. The main purpose of these programs was to raise awareness and help people learn more about Cardinal Lavigerie, his mission, and his lasting impact in Africa. These media platforms gave us a valuable opportunity to speak about Lavigerie commitment to anti-slavery, the fight against human trafficking, child labor, exploitation, and corruption.
We also highlighted what Lavigerie accomplished in Africa through his missionaries, especially here in Malawi.
Inspired by Cardinal Lavigerie deep love and passion for children, we celebrated his life together with the children at Tikondane. The day was lively and joyful, filled with sharing about Lavigerie life and mission, as well as a video prepared by Sister Marie Sakina featuring Chichewa songs. The Tikondane Center provided special meals for the children and staff members. Following the example of Lavigerie, who cared for orphans and victims of famine, each child received a gift of clothes and a pair of shoes.
The children were introduced to the history of Cardinal Lavigerie and creatively expressed what they learned through a drama. It was a truly joyful day, especially for the children, who were very happy with the food, the gifts, and our presence among them.
In preparation for the closing celebration, we held a meeting with our brothers, the Missionaries of Africa, to plan the closing Mass, which was scheduled for Saturday, 29th November. On that day, members of MSOLA, the M.Afr., the Lavigerie group, and local Christians gathered to thank God and celebrate the life of Cardinal Lavigerie.
The closing Mass took place at St. Andrew’s Parish, Mtande, in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe. This parish is a new mission of the Missionaries of Africa, officially opened on October 4th, 2025. The Mass was presided over by Father Marcelin, Sector Superior of the M.Afr. in Malawi, and the homily was given by Father Paweł Hulecki, General Assistant of the M.Afr. His reflection helped us appreciate more deeply the life of Cardinal Lavigerie and his contribution to Africa and Malawi through his missionaries.
After the Mass, everyone was invited to continue the celebration by sharing a meal together. The Christians of St. Andrew’s Parish surprised us with traditional Malawian dances, comedies, and songs.
It was a joyful and memorable day, and we continue to thank God for the life, mission, and legacy of our founder, Cardinal Lavigerie.
