Atumiki Achifundo Officially Launched in Zomba Diocese

Atumiki Achifundo (Servants of Charity), a lay Catholic movement dedicated to promoting works of mercy and Christian charity, has been officially launched in the Catholic Diocese of Zomba during a ceremony presided over by Bishop Alfred Mateyu Chaima at Our Lady of Fatima (Pirimiti) Parish.

The launch began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which Bishop Chaima called on the faithful to embrace a life of love, compassion, and selfless service, reflecting God's charity in their daily lives.

Drawing from Sacred Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Bishop reminded the congregation that every baptized Christian is called to be an agent of charity, emphasizing that the mission of serving others is not reserved for priests and religious alone but belongs to all members of the Church.

He encouraged the faithful to support and join the Atumiki Achifundo movement while avoiding attitudes such as pride, jealousy, and selfishness, which weaken the spirit of Christian charity. The Bishop also presented the Blessed Virgin Mary as the perfect model of humble and selfless service.

Speaking on behalf of the Diocesan Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Innocent Chiwanda urged members to remain active, united, and committed to strengthening and expanding the movement throughout the Diocese.

In her remarks, the Diocesan Chairperson of Atumiki Achifundo, Gloria Mitengo Makalani, expressed gratitude to Bishop Chaima for officially recognizing the group. She also appealed for continued support from priests, religious, and the lay faithful as the movement continues to grow.

Founded in 2006 at St. Charles Lwanga Parish with only six members, Atumiki Achifundo has grown to more than 700 members and is now established in all the deaneries of the Catholic Diocese of Zomba.

The launch was attended by a large congregation of faithful, including members from the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, who have accompanied and supported the growth of the movement since 2023.