Our parish community is celebrating a beautiful milestone in faith and service. On Wednesday, 11 February, three of our own—Mrs Sophie Asimenye Kalinde, Mrs Lilian Ghambi, and Mrs Bernadetta Kwacha Kulemeka—renewed their covenant to the mission of the Associate Medical Missionaries of Mary (AMMM).
Who are the AMMM?
The Associates are a dedicated group of women and men who, while maintaining their personal and financial autonomy, choose to formally align themselves with the spirituality and healing mission of the Medical Missionaries of Mary (MMM). Founded in 1937 by Mother Mary Martin, the MMM congregation is an international group of religious women dedicated to providing healthcare in underdeveloped regions.
Rooted in Benedictine Spirituality, the movement focuses on:
- Community Life: Growing together in faith and friendship.
- Hospitality: Welcoming others with an attitude of respect and adaptability.
- Healing: Spreading the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to those in need.
A Commitment to Serve
During Holy Mass, which was celebrated by Fr Augustine Ushie, MSP, the three renewed their covenant while holding lit candles. The covenants were accepted by all MMM sisters present. Mrs Kalinde, Mrs Ghambi, and Mrs Kulemeka—who first joined the movement in Lilongwe in May 2016—have pledged to live out the MMM charism in their daily lives. As Associates, they may be married or single, utilising their God-given professional gifts to act as “disciples of Jesus” in the world. They renew their covenants every three years.
Their commitment is beautifully captured by the MMM emblem: The Visitation. Just as Mary went in haste to visit her cousin Elizabeth, these women strive to bring hope and love to every person they encounter.
We invite the entire parish to support our new Associates as they embark on this journey of “conversion of life, stability, and obedience”.