Archbishop Thomas Msusa of the Archdiocese of Blantyre has condemned acts of violence, the elderly, women and children are suffering which are now on the rise in the country.
He has asked Religious men and women in the Church to intervene through various ways to curb the evil acts.
He was speaking when he presided over first profession ceremony of four Sister of the Congregation of Divine Providence at Nantipwiri in Thyolo on Sunday, November 8, 2020.
Archbishop Msusa who is also president of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) asked Religious congregations to go to villages and preach the Good News of love and respect for life saying all these evil acts could be as a result of lack of knowledge of Word of God.
“Religious people including Sisters are called to serve especially those that are poor and vulnerable who are mostly in the villages. Instead of concentrating your apostolates in towns and cities, go to the periphery of the towns where the people are poor and need spiritual assistance and guidance,” he said.
“We have seen in our country that a certain sector of people is suffering: the elderly are being tortured and killed on witchcraft allegations; women and kids being raped! I invite all the Religious people – priests, nuns and brothers – to be close to such vulnerable and poor people to support and protect them,” continued Most Rev. Msusa.
This comes barely a few days after some organizations held demonstrations against the same, following reports of rape and criminal acts the on elderly and children.
When contacted to comment on the sentiments, Minister of Gender and Social Welfare Hon. Patricia Kaliati conquered with the Archbishop saying protection of people needs combined efforts.
“The government commends the Archbishop and Catholic Church for continuously preaching the word of love, peace and harmony. We commend the cordial relationship between the Church and government. As government, we’re optimistic that presence of the Religious people in village communities will surely help in reducing these evil acts,” she said adding, “Government through various Ministries will support the Church in all its programs so that we protect our people.”