JB donates K1m to Catholic women
President Joyce Banda yesterday donated K1 million to the Catholic Women Organisation at St Louis Montfort Cathedral in Blantyre when she attended the official opening of the church and centenary celebrations.
The President hailed the relationship that exists between the church and government, singling out the St Louis Montfort Church for its support when she was vice-president.
“These women used to come to pray with me when I was staying at Mudi. Allow me to make a donation of K1 million towards the women’s group,” she said amid ululation from the gathering.
Banda paid tribute to missionaries who left their countries to establish churches in Malawi and other parts of the world.
“I am always amazed and marvel at these people [missionaries]. Like leaders, these people were chosen by God,” she said.
The President said while there are many people who have leadership potential, God only blesses one to lead.
Archbishop of Blantyre Tarsizio Ziyaye thanked the congregation for contributing towards the building of the church.
He also hailed the good relations that prevail between the church and the State.
The new church has a capacity of 2 500 people.
Former president Bakili Muluzi was among thousands of people who attended the ceremony.
