Strengthening Vocational Ministry Through Hospitality in Malawi

Our Delegation joins the Province of Portugal in accompanying young people discerning their vocation

During the month of July, Sr Cecilia Eshum, Second Councillor of the English Delegation, travelled to Malawi alongside Sr Martiene Ngo Mahend, from the Province of Portugal, as part of our shared commitment to Hospitaller Youth and Vocational Ministry. Together, they visited young women and their families who are interested in learning more about the Congregation and the Hospitaller way of life.

For us, youth and vocational ministry is a mission shared by the whole Congregation. It calls us to accompany young people with openness, listening and hospitality, creating opportunities for them to discover the beauty of a life dedicated to God and to the service of others.

Sr Cecilia and Sr Martiene arrived in Malawi on 21 July, where they were warmly welcomed by the Brothers of St John of God. The following day, they celebrated the Eucharist together, commemorating St Benito Menni, Founder of the Congregation and Restorer of the Hospitaller Order. It was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on his legacy and on his desire to help young people encounter Jesus, the Good Samaritan, and respond generously to God’s call.

On 24 July, they continued their journey to Mzuzu, the third largest city in Malawi, where they met the local Bishop and spent time with several young women who are discerning their vocation. They also had the opportunity to meet their families, sharing the mission and values of Sisters Hospitallers while listening to their hopes, questions and aspirations.

This visit reflects our commitment to walking alongside young people wherever they are, building bridges between our different Provinces and Delegations, and strengthening collaboration across the Congregation. Through these encounters, we continue to nurture new vocations and share the spirit of hospitality that has inspired our mission for generations.

We are grateful to Sr Cecilia for representing our English Delegation in this important initiative and for her dedication to accompanying young people on their vocational journey. May we continue to keep alive the flame of hospitality, encouraging those who feel called to dedicate their lives to serving others.