Catholic urged to emulate Pope’s way of living

Zambia Episcopal Conference President Archbishop Ignatius Chama has called on Catholics in Zambia to emulate Pope Francis by showing compassion top the poor in society.

Speaking during the thanks giving ceremony on the election of Pope Francis at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus in Lusaka today, Archbishop Chama urged Catholics to fight for the rights of the poor in society, and stand up for peace, truth, and justice.

He explained that the mass was held to introduce Pope Francis to the Zambian church as well as to pray to God to grant him strength in his journey as the leader of the Catholic church.

The Archbishop said the mass was also to appreciate Pope Benedict XVI for his service to the church during his reign as Pope.

Archbishop Chama said the church has the responsibility to spread God’s love and compassion as a way of evangelism.

He called on Catholics to also emulate Saint Francis of Assisi after whom the new Pope is named, whom he said sent out his disciples to evangelize with the instruction that they are only to use words when necessary.

The Archbishop said it is unfortunate that many Christians in Zambia only profess to be Christians when they do not show it by their lives.

He said Christians need to make their lives be a tool of evangelization by showing compassion and helping the needy.

And speaking at the same function, Zambia’s Apostolic Nuncio, Julio Murat commended Pope Benedict for his good leadership which he has displayed in the short time he has been in office.