Saint Joseph Catholic Church

In 2024, Archbishop Mpundu incurred an automatic excommunication when he ordained a bishop without papal approval.

Archbishop Mpundu “was widely respected for his strong advocacy on governance, social justice, and national affairs, courageously speaking out on matters of truth and justice while shepherding the faithful with compassion and wisdom,” said Archbishop Alick Banda, his successor as archbishop of Lusaka.

The day’s theme was “Hope for Redemption of Groaning Creation Amidst Bondage to Decay,” a reference to Romans 8:22.

“As political and economic instability, ongoing conflicts and violence, militarization, environmental degradation, rising unemployment, cultural fragmentation, weak healthcare systems, and the widespread effects of rapid technological change continue to shape the realities of the region, CCA member churches are urged to reflect on the anguish and suffering caused by decay and bondage, while holding on to the hope of renewal and new life,” said Mathews George Chunakara, the body’s general secretary.

Intensifying a trend begun last year, a North Carolina bishop appointed parochial administrators rather than pastors to lead eight of his diocese’s parishes.