Today, on the 30th of June 2024, a special Mass was held at St. Mary’s Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Mindolo, celebrating the blessing of a newly built grotto. This Mass also marked the parish’s 64th anniversary and honored its patron saint, Mary. The Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Ndola, Very Rev. Fr. Lewis Mutachila, celebrated the Mass, warmly welcomed by Parish Priest James Dokowe and the parish executive. During his homily, Fr. Mutachila emphasized the need to answer the call to holiness, highlighting God’s desire for a relationship with each of us. He preached that everyone is called to sainthood and spoke about the importance of repentance when we falter in our Christian walk. Fr. Mutachila urged the faithful not to allow the devil to condemn them to the point of disconnection from God due to sin, reminding them that while God hates sin, He loves the sinner. He emphasized that there is great rejoicing in heaven over one repentant sinner and that we should be like the “prodigal son” and always run to the Father when we sin. The Mass was also marked by the commissioning of nine communion helpers. The church was filled to capacity with parishioners, and the choir and ba buomba added to the celebratory atmosphere with their beautiful singing.

After Mass, the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Ndola, Very Rev. Fr. Lewis Mutachila, accompanied by Radio Icengelo CEO, Rev. Fr. Chalwe Chonde, Parish Priest Fr. James Dokowe, and Fr. Desire Mulenga made a procession in which the statue of Mother Mary was carried to the grotto site. The Vicar General blessed and officially opened the grotto, marking a momentous occasion for the parish. After the blessing, a luncheon was prepared, and the parish community enjoyed various activities and entertainments, including music, cultural dances, and other performances. Fr. Mutachila also took time to award certificates to various couples and Bible quiz winners, adding to the festive spirit. The parish was not only celebrating the blessing of the grotto but also commemorating its 64th anniversary and honoring their patron saint, Mary. The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as parishioners reflected on their rich history. This celebration was a testament to the enduring spirit of St. Mary’s Parish and its dedication to spiritual growth and unity.