Pray for Malawi, leaders—ECM

The Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) has urged its faithful to pray for Malawi and its leaders during the Lent period which begins on Wednesday.

In his Lenten message, ECM chairperson Bishop Joseph Zuza said Malawi is going through difficult times.

Said Zuza: “Our leaders have the big responsibility of working for the good of each and everyone. As believers, we know God will not abandon us for He loves us so dearly.”

He said among the evils to be fought during Lent include corruption, nepotism, tribalism, pride, body desires, witchcraft, Satanism, child abuse and drunkenness.

Zuza appealed to Catholics to aim at higher standard of Christian living by renewing their witness and fidelity to the Lord.

In his lent message for 2012, Pope Benedict XVI has proposed an inspiration from Hebrews 10:24. He says: “Let us be concerned for each other, to stir a response in love and good works.”

The Catholic Church begins its conversion journey of 40 days with Ash Wednesday. It is traditionally marked by prayer, sharing, silence, fasting and works of charity towards Easter celebration in April.