ARCHBISHOP ALICK BANDA CELEBRATES THE QUIET STRENGTH OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH

At a spirit-filled Thanksgiving and Honouring Mass for the Catholic Women’s Organisation (CWO) held at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus, Archbishop Alick Banda offered a heartfelt tribute to the steadfast service, faith, and resilience of women in the Church.

“My dear Mothers, my dear Sisters in Christ,” he began warmly, “we gather to offer gratitude to God for the gift of life, of faith, and of your tireless witness and service.”

Reflecting on the Passover story, he drew parallels between the faith of Israelite women and that of women today, saying, “Just as the women of Israel prepared that meal in faith and obedience, you too prepare places of peace and prayer within our Church and nation.”

He described the modern world as one that “rewards noise over substance,” yet Christ calls believers to a different path, one of humility, gentleness, and inner strength.

“A bruised reed He will not break,” the Archbishop quoted from Isaiah, urging women not to underestimate the strength of their quiet prayers, steady service and maternal insight.

He acknowledged the many burdens carried silently by women, burdens of grief, poverty, family struggles and celebrated their perseverance through adversity.

“You are catechists in your homes, defenders of the vulnerable, and intercessors in your parishes,” he affirmed.

As he closed, Archbishop Banda encouraged women to stay grounded in prayer, steadfast in charity, and strong in gentleness, reminding them that the world might not cheer their sacrifices, but heaven notices.

A Total of 24 women from all the 12 deanaries were awarded for their faithful service to the Church.