Catechists Retreat in Manzini Diocese

The significance of catechists within the Church has recently been overlooked by some members of the Christian community. In reality, they serve as essential support to our priests, and their contributions should be honoured within the ministry of evangelisation. 

Pope Francis articulated the essence of catechists when he stated, “Who are catechists? They are the individuals who keep the memory of God alive; they nurture it within themselves and have the ability to rekindle it in others,” during the International Day for Catechists on September 29, 2013.

The Diocese of Manzini organised a retreat for diocesan catechists at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral on March 8, which was designed to commemorate the Jubilee year for catechists and marked the first event of its kind in this Jubilee year.

The programme featured various presentations, including topics on the spiritual life of a catechist, their role as instruments of hope, and the catechetical plan.

Bishop Jose Luis Ponce de Leon IMC led the retreat, symbolically opening the door of hope for the catechists, who entered carrying lit candles. During the Mass, they were also anointed with oil.

The day culminated in a Holy Mass presided over by Bishop Ponce de Leon, with Fr Khonzumenzi Dlamini serving as co-celebrant. On this occasion, all catechists in the diocese received a commission from the bishop.