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Zambia's Bishop of Mongu Diocese, Evans Chinyemba OMI, during Palm Sunday 2024. Zambia's Bishop of Mongu Diocese, Evans Chinyemba OMI, during Palm Sunday 2024. 

Zambia: Ecumenical Palm Sunday procession unites Catholics and United Church of Zambia Communities.

In a heartwarming display of unity for a shared faith, the town of Mongu in Zambia’s Western Provice on Palm Sunday, witnessed a historic event as Protestant members of the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) and two Catholic parishes came together for an ecumenical Palm Sunday Procession.

Mubiana Mate – Mongu.

The procession, marking the beginning of Holy Week, saw congregants from Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, St Agatha Parish, and UCZ Mukoko Church join hands and hearts in a symbolic journey through the streets of Mongu town. Led by Mongu Diocese Catholic Bishop Evans Chinyama Chinyemba O.M.I, the procession commenced at the Blue Gums near the Domingo Complex and enveloped the town in a spirit of camaraderie and devotion.

A shared fellowship despite denominational differences

As the multitude moved through the city, Catholics bid farewell to worshippers of UCZ Mukoko Church at the traffic lights, symbolising a moment of shared fellowship despite denominational differences.

Continuing along Lewanika Road, the procession reached the former OK restaurant, where parishioners of St Agatha Parish branched off, while those from Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral continued onward, eventually converging at the Total Fuel Station on the Mongu-Lusaka road.

The culmination of the procession took place at the Cathedral Parish, where parishioners gathered for a solemn and uplifting Mass and the narration of Our Lord’s Passion.

Faith can transcend boundaries and unite hearts

This year’s Palm Sunday event, in Mongu,  not only celebrated the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem but also served as a poignant reminder of the power of unity and collaboration among diverse religious communities.

In a world fraught with division and discord, the ecumenical Palm Sunday Procession in Mongu stands as a shining example of how faith can transcend boundaries and unite hearts in a shared journey of worship and reverence.

Catholics and members of the United Church of Zambia  gathering together.
Catholics and members of the United Church of Zambia gathering together.

Many Christians who attended the ecumenical gathering spoke of their hope that  the spirit of unity and compassion witnessed would continue to inspire and uplift all who participated, serving as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and harmonious future.

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25 March 2024, 12:30