Pagani retires as Bishop of Mangochi Diocese

Bishop Alessandro Pagani has retired as head of Mangochi Diocese after serving the institution for seven years.

Pagani, 77, was ordained 49 years ago and has served in Balaka, Mpiri and Nakhwali parishes and at several others in Zambia.

Pagani’s retirement paves way for Bishop Montfort Stima, former auxiliary for the Archdiocese of Blantyre.

In his farewell bid to the faithful, Pagani said he was retiring a proud person as he accomplished many things in the church such as improvement of education standards and instilling self sustenance among the laity.

“Not only have we built schools and encouraged parents to send their children to schools, we have also ensured the clergy go for further studies,” he said.

He advised the clergy to be transparent and accountable in the management of church resources to maintain trust and confidence from their flock.

“Just like we seek leaders who are transparent and accountable, priests in particular must strive to follow the same principle,” said Pagani.

Vicar General for Mangochi Diocese, Fr. Andrew Nkhata, said the diocese of Mangochi had all the reasons to thank God for the gift that is Pagani who had served the Lord relentlessly in Malawi and Zambia.