Health Workers Jubilee Year of Hope Pilgrimage
On April 5, 2025, the Archbishop of Ndola Archdiocese, Most Rev. Dr. Benjamin Phiri, JCD, celebrated a special Mass at the Cathedral of Christ the King for the Health Workers’ Jubilee Year of Hope Pilgrimage. The pilgrimage began with a procession from Ndola Teaching Hospital, and was flagged off by the Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Lewis Mutachila. The day’s program was coordinated by the Social Director, Rev. Fr. Bernard Kapembwa, under whose department health matters fall. In his homily, Archbishop Phiri emphasized the vital role that health workers play in society. He noted that from birth to death, health workers are present at the beginning and end of life. He described them as wounded healers, called to bring comfort and healing even when they themselves may be broken, tired, or in pain. He encouraged health professionals to nurture their own sense of hope, especially during this Jubilee Year of Hope, so they can in turn transmit that hope to their patients. He reminded them that they need to find strength and encouragement in their faith to carry out their duties with compassion and dedication. The celebration concluded in high spirits, with many participants uplifted by the message and the strong sense of unity among the health workers. It was a memorable and historic occasion, marking the Archbishop’s first time presiding over such a pilgrimage at the cathedral.