The Catholic Men's Organisation (CMO) of the Archdiocese of Lusaka has contributed K5 million, equivalent to US$246,862.20, to the 2026 Pastoral Fund, according to AMECEA. The funds were presented during a Mass at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus, where Archbishop Banda acknowledged the men's generosity and sacrifice in raising the money.
Why it matters
The contribution represents a substantial financial commitment to the pastoral mission of the Archdiocese, whose stated theme is "To Renew All Things in Christ." But according to AMECEA, the Archbishop used the occasion to argue that financial support alone is not enough. He stressed that the Church also needs men who live out Christian values in practical ways, framing the fundraising effort as one part of a broader call to service.
Giving as an expression of commitment
In his homily, Archbishop Banda described each contribution as a sign of the men's commitment to Jesus Christ and the Church. He said the sacrifices made from their earnings, and the time spent raising the funds, reflected their generosity.
He drew on the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus teaches about humility, to remind the congregation that true dignity comes not from positions, titles, or material wealth but from living as children of God. The Archbishop also cited King David's words in 1 Chronicles 29:14 to make the point that everything people possess is received from God. The Pastoral Fund, he said, gave the faithful an opportunity to give back from the blessings and opportunities entrusted to them.
Service that begins at home
The Archbishop set out a vision of Christian service that starts in the family, through love, protection, guidance, and listening. From there, he said, it extends to the Church through cooperation with priests and fellow parishioners, and finds expression in society through reliability, love, and truth.
He urged men to see leadership as an opportunity to serve rather than a route to recognition or prominence. AMECEA reports that he described the Church as needing, more than ever, men who are prayerful, genuine, faithful, and committed to truth — men ready to serve even when no one is watching.
Archbishop Banda thanked the Catholic men for their generosity and commitment, and acknowledged priests in various parishes for backing the fundraising initiative. He expressed hope that the money raised would help advance the pastoral objectives of the Archdiocese and strengthen unity among Catholic men across the region.
Watch for how the Archdiocese allocates the 2026 Pastoral Fund and whether the CMO's contribution sets a benchmark for similar drives in other parishes.
