ARCHBISHOP BANDA VISITS CHOLERA RAVAGED KANYAMA
…delivers the message of hope and unity amidst the cholera chaos that has left the community, the epicenter of the epidemic in sorrow
AMIDST the relentless grip of the Cholera epidemic and its ravaging effects, Archbishop of Lusaka Dr. Alick Banda yesterday took time to interact with parishioners of St. Joseph Kanyama Parish to give hope to the community that has been devastated by the epidemic in the last two months
His presence, a beacon of hope, sought to unite a community grappling with the harsh realities of cholera that has since claimed more than 446 lives since its outbreak in October last year.
Clad in his regal attire, the Archbishop of Lusaka moved through the parish, his compassionate gaze embracing the suffering that Cholera had woven into the lives of the people.
St. Joseph Kanyama Parish, once a vibrant hub, now echoed with the somber notes of resilience even in the face of cholera saw congregants beam with some smile and hope because of the Archbishop Dr Banda’s presence.
With humility, Dr. Banda met the afflicted, listening to tales of anguish and despair.
In his words, he wove a tapestry of solace, reminding the congregation of their collective strength and the power of faith during trying times.
According to a statement issued by the Archdiocese of Lusaka (ADL). Communications Office the Archbishop's prayers echoed through the walls of the St Joseph Kanyama Parish, a soothing balm for wounded and broken spirits.
In a poignant moment, Dr. Banda took to the streets, walking alongside those who faced the brunt of the epidemic in a more assuring stride that things would get better.
His presence invoked a sense of solidarity, transcending the confines of the church walls. Together, they confronted the adversity, a unified force against the invisible enemy.
As news of the Archbishop's visit reached the ears of the community, the parish stirred with renewed hope.
Volunteers rallied, and a spirit of communal resilience was ignited.
Dr. Banda's visit not only addressed the physical toll of cholera but sowed the seeds of a collective determination to overcome adversity, transforming St. Joseph Kanyama into a symbol of triumph against the darkest of challenges. In his homily, Dr Banda who preached from the gospel of Mark 1:16-20 encouraged the parishioners to emulate Simon Peter in walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.
“Jesus Christ is calling us to leave our old lives and everything that deters us from walking his footsteps,” Dr Banda said.