Archbishop Banda calls Zambians to hope, patience, and the pursuit of Freedom
Archbishop Alick Banda, has urged Zambians not to lose hope amid the country's socio-economic and political challenges, saying true liberation is born out of faith in God, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Dr. Banda says the Church remains committed to accompanying the people of Zambia by proclaiming the Gospel, defending human dignity, and encouraging national unity founded on justice, truth, and respect for one another.
In his homily before the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) Plenary Assembly at the Catholic Secretariat Chapel today, Archbishop Banda anchored his reflection on the prophet Isaiah's longing for God's intervention, drawing parallels between the biblical experience and the realities confronting many Zambians today.
Focusing on the words of Isaiah, the Archbishop said the prophet witnessed a society where freedoms and liberties had steadily diminished, a situation that resonates with the experiences of many citizens in contemporary Zambia.
"As in our society in recent years, Isaiah has seen a great decline in the freedoms and liberties of the majority of Zambians. So, he prays and yearns for that day of liberation. He has learned a spirituality of waiting for God, trusting in Providence," he said.
The Archbishop observed that many Zambians continue to endure difficult circumstances marked by economic hardship, rising poverty, injustice, and growing uncertainty.
He said these realities have left many longing for a future where dignity, justice, and freedom prevail.
However, he cautioned against despair, explaining that Isaiah's response to suffering was neither resignation nor hopelessness, but steadfast trust in God's providence. He said the prophet teaches believers that even in moments when freedom appears distant, faith must remain firmly rooted in the certainty that God is at work.
Archbishop Banda said the spirituality of waiting is not passive acceptance of suffering but an active expression of confidence that God ultimately guides history towards justice and peace.
He said God's timing has always brought renewal, even after prolonged hardship, encouraging Christians to remain patient while continuing to uphold truth, justice, and the common good.
“In the midst of our socio-economic and political storms, let us seek refuge in Jesus, who walks with us in our trials, offering rest to our weary souls. Let us stand united in the pursuit of justice, advocating for the oppressed and marginalized, and working towards a society where the cry for liberation is heard. The promised land of rest and freedom becomes a reality for all,” he said.
Dr. Banda further called on believers to resist discouragement and instead become instruments of hope within their families, communities and the nation.
He noted that authentic Christian hope inspires people to work for justice, defend the dignity of every person, and stand in solidarity with those whose freedoms and rights have been curtailed.
“May we be vessels of hope and liberation, to bring light into the darkest corners of human experiences and lead others towards the ultimate promised land of God's eternal rest and freedom,” Dr. Banda said.
He urged the faithful to place their confidence in God, whose providence never abandons His people even in the darkest moments, expressing hope that the nation's longing for greater freedom, peace and justice will ultimately be fulfilled through faith, perseverance and collective responsibility.