Maula Cathedral Hosts Historic Launch of Radio Alinafe Silver Jubilee: A Call to "Invite Christ into Our Challenges"

The church benches of the Maula Cathedral were filled with a spirit of gratitude and anticipation on Sunday, 19th April 2026, as the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe officially launched the Silver Jubilee preparations of Radio Alinafe, marking the beginning of a year-long journey toward April 2027, celebrating the station’s legacy since its founding in 2002.

The event, which drew together Catholic journalists, Radio Alinafe volunteers, and hundreds of parishioners, was presided over by the Auxiliary Bishop of Lilongwe, His Lordship Vincent Mwakhwawa.

In the homily based on the Gospel of the Road to Emmaus, Bishop Mwakhwawa reminded the faithful that while the Risen Lord walks with us every day, our eyes are often blinded by the "enormous challenges" of modern life.

"Our belief and our understanding of the Risen Lord being among us is often obscured by daily challenges—illness, economic struggles, or misunderstandings in the family," the Bishop noted.

Bishop Mwakhwawa sharing homily

He challenged the congregation to move beyond a "bipolar faith" that only exists on Sundays. Instead, he urged parishioners to follow the example of the disciples by intentionally inviting Christ into their homes, offices, and businesses.

One of the most relatable moments of the homily came when the Bishop addressed how we handle stress. He cautioned against transferring personal frustrations to others, a message that resonated deeply with the local workforce and families.

"Sometimes when our life is affected, we are frustrated. We transfer these challenges to the workplace... making wrinkles on your face to people who are not concerned. In kindness, we also invite God. In kindness, we also get healed."

He further emphasized that "listening is a big medicine," calling on fathers in particular to dedicate more time to their children and families amidst the noise of the digital age.

Turning to the occasion of the Silver Jubilee, Bishop Mwakhwawa described Radio Alinafe as a vital instrument that "makes the Church go far."

He honored the memory of the founders, including the late Father Gabriel Jana, and called the current staff and volunteers to the front of the altar for a special blessing.

Meet the Faces behind the Voices

The Bishop announced a bold vision for the station's future, focusing on a "Digital Transformation." This includes expanding into video production, increasing English programming to be more inclusive, and improving social media engagement to reach the "international and continental communities."

Following the Mass, the celebration moved from the altar to the airwaves. The Bishop and parishioners visited the Radio Alinafe studios for a live demonstration of the station's modernizing technology.

Jubilee Chairman, Mr. Dodoli, outlined the six key activities planned for the upcoming year:

• Parish Visits & Awareness: Bringing the radio's mission to every corner of the Archdiocese.

• Choir Festivals: Celebrating through song and Jubilee-themed compositions.

• Friends of Radio Alinafe: Establishing support committees in all parishes to deepen the theme of "25 Years of Spiritual Journey with Radio Alinafe."

  
  

As the event concluded, Fr. Anselme, our Assistant parish priest and the Radio's Assistant Director, reminded everyone of the station's name: "Alinafe means Emmanuel, God with us. If Radio Alinafe is in your home, it is Jesus Himself."

Fr. Anselme making a speech

The Silver Jubilee launch has set a prayerful and ambitious tone for the Archdiocese. For the parishioners of Maula Cathedral, it was a day to remember that while the technology of the Church may change, the message of love and the presence of Christ remain constant.