Blantyre: The Catholic Church in Malawi is witnessing an encouraging rise in priestly and religious vocations, a development Archbishop Thomas Luke Msusa of Blantyre describes as both a “blessing” and a “heavy responsibility.”
Archbishop Msusa, who also serves as Chairman of the Seminary Commission of the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), said the surge in young men aspiring to join the priesthood reflects the strong faith and missionary zeal growing within Malawian communities. He explained that the Church is now challenged to ensure proper formation, guidance, and infrastructure to support the growing number of candidates.
“In recent years, we have seen an inspiring increase in young people responding to God’s call,” Archbishop Msusa shared. “This gives us great joy, but it also calls for careful planning. Formation must be thorough, and our facilities must be ready to accommodate everyone properly.”
To address these challenges, the MCCB has introduced a one-year waiting period for young men wishing to enter the major seminary after completing secondary school. This new phase of discernment is intended to help candidates deepen their spiritual reflection and confirm their commitment before beginning formal priestly training. It also allows families and parish communities to play a stronger role in the discernment process.
“This waiting period helps us ensure that those who enter seminary do so with maturity and clarity,” Archbishop Msusa said. “In the past, some joined immediately after school, but later changed direction once university opportunities opened. We want to avoid that by giving space for prayer and reflection.”
While acknowledging the blessings of increased vocations, the Archbishop pointed out the pressing need for more facilities and financial resources. The seminaries are experiencing strain due to limited space and formation staff. He expressed gratitude to organizations such as Aid to the Church in Need and local benefactors who continue to assist in meeting these growing demands.
Recent reports from the MCCB also indicate that young priests ordained in the past five years have been active in revitalizing parish life through technology and community outreach. The bishops see this new generation as vital to the Church’s mission in a changing world.
Across Africa, similar trends have been noted, with growing interest among youth in religious life and service to the Church. For Malawi, this wave of new vocations represents hope for the future one that will depend on how well the Church can sustain quality formation and pastoral support.
Archbishop Msusa concluded with a message of gratitude and encouragement: “We thank God for calling so many young people. It is our duty as shepherds to accompany them with care, to ensure they grow into priests and religious who truly serve God and His people.”