Solwezi: The Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in the Catholic Diocese of Solwezi have launched the 2025 edition of “A Million Children Praying the Rosary for Peace and Unity in the World” a worldwide prayer initiative that seeks to inspire children to intercede for global peace through the power of the Rosary. The launch took place during a special Eucharistic celebration at St. Daniel Cathedral Parish in Solwezi, marking the Marian feast of Our Lady of the Rosary.
Presiding over the Mass, Fr. Wilbroad Musonda, Diocesan Director of PMS, urged the young faithful to recognize the profound strength of their prayers. “When children pray the Rosary with innocence and pure hearts, their prayers are readily received by God,” he said. Fr. Musonda reminded them that the simplicity and faith of children hold immense spiritual power, becoming a channel of hope and renewal for a troubled world.
He called upon the children to model their lives after the Blessed Virgin Mary, describing her as “our mother, whose life was marked by love, kindness, and compassion.” By following Mary’s example, Fr. Musonda said, the faithful can bring peace and unity into their homes, schools, and communities.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing four local schools Tarcisia Floriana (Tarflo) Convent School, St. Daniel Convent School, Bambino Convent School, and Leonard Cheshire Convent School. The children joined in praying the Rosary together, sang Marian hymns, and reflected on the mysteries of faith.
As part of the launch, rosaries were blessed and distributed to all attendees, symbolizing a shared commitment to prayer and peace. The joyful voices of the children echoed through the cathedral, creating an atmosphere of unity and devotion.
The campaign “A Million Children Praying the Rosary for Peace and Unity in the World” was initiated by the Pontifical Foundation Aid to the Church in Need (ACN). Its inspiration comes from the words of St. Padre Pio, who once declared, “When one million children pray the Rosary, the world will change.” Since its inception, the initiative has spread across continents, inviting schools, parishes, and families to unite in prayer for a world free from conflict and division.
October, traditionally dedicated to the Holy Rosary, holds special significance for Catholics. It is a period of reflection on the life of Christ through the eyes of Mary, fostering spiritual renewal and devotion.
Reinforcing the spirit of the campaign, Pope Leo XIV, during his Wednesday General Audience on September 24, 2025, encouraged Catholics worldwide to dedicate the month of October to praying the Rosary daily. “I invite everyone individually, as families, and in communities to pray the Rosary for peace,” the Holy Father urged.
The Pope’s message aligns closely with the vision of the PMS and the Diocese of Solwezi, echoing the universal belief that united prayer can transform hearts and heal nations.
The Solwezi Diocese’s participation adds Zambia’s voice to a global chorus of faith millions of children lifting their rosaries for peace and unity. As these young believers continue to emulate the love and humility of Mary, their collective prayer becomes not just a symbol of hope, but a testament to the enduring power of faith to bring light into the world’s darkest corners.