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Adeladius Makwega — Dodoma, Tanzania
It is the morning of October 10, 2026. Members of the Catholic Church are gathering at the home of the late Petronila Joachim Malambo, a parishioner of Chamwino Ikulu Parish, who passed away a few days earlier. They have come together to celebrate Holy Mass for the repose of her soul and to pray for her family during this time of grief.
The Mass is presided over by Father Mwaudama, who is also the Parish Priest of Chamwino Ikulu Parish, within the Catholic Archdiocese of Dodoma.
Although there is no choir present, the faithful join together in singing familiar liturgical hymns. Among these is a hymn asking the Blessed Virgin Mary to remember their departed loved ones, which begins with the words:
“O Mary, remember our departed loved ones…”
In human life, there are moments of joy as well as times of trials, sorrow, and grief. Nevertheless, Holy Mother Church reminds us of our duty to pray for the departed. Therefore, on this day, we have gathered to pray for the deceased person whose passing has brought us together, as well as for all our other departed loved ones.
These were among the introductory remarks made by Father Mwaudama before proceeding with the other parts of the Holy Mass.
After two Scripture readings had been proclaimed, accompanied by the responsorial psalm, Father Mwaudama read the Gospel and delivered a homily focusing on the meaning of baptism, its connection with the death and resurrection of Christ, and the importance of spiritual self-examination.
Baptism: Dying and Rising with Christ
In his homily, Father Mwaudama referred to the second reading, emphasizing that baptism is closely connected with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
He explained that, historically, baptism was associated with the use of abundant water, in which a person was immersed. However, different geographical circumstances led the apostles to find ways of continuing the ministry of baptism, even in areas where rivers, lakes, or seas were not readily accessible.
Elaborating on this point, Father Mwaudama said:
“In the beginning, baptism was performed in rivers, with people being immersed in a large amount of water. Later, however, the apostles encountered people in various places, including inland areas where there were no rivers, lakes, or seas nearby. In such circumstances, would they have stopped baptizing people?
The apostles continued baptizing people using water according to the circumstances in which they found themselves. One biblical account that may be considered in this context is the story of Cornelius in Chapter 10 of the Acts of the Apostles.”
He used this example to illustrate the importance of considering different circumstances in the administration of baptism, while emphasizing that baptism carries a meaning that extends beyond the physical act of immersion in water.
Immersion in Water and the Meaning of Resurrection
Continuing his homily, Father Mwaudama explained that immersion in water during baptism can symbolize dying with Christ, while being raised from the water can represent rising with Him.
Using illustrations and humor, he explained to the faithful that a person who is immersed in water must subsequently be brought out again. He used this image to emphasize the spiritual meaning of dying and rising with Christ.
He noted that the first reading reminds us that the souls of the righteous are in the hands of God and that death no longer has dominion over them.
At this point in his homily, he offered an illustration that made the congregation laugh, linking immersion in water and being raised from it to the question of righteousness before God.
In a humorous remark, he also used a popular expression among today's young people, “The game is over,” emphasizing that the spiritual life requires people to prepare themselves well and live righteously.
What Is the State of Our Relationship with God and Our Neighbors?
After explaining the meaning of baptism, Father Mwaudama invited the faithful to examine themselves and reflect deeply on the state of their relationships with God and with the people around them.
He said:
“My brothers and sisters, let each person examine themselves. What is the state of my relationship with God? Let everyone reflect: if I go down into the water, will I rise again, or will I remain there?”
He went on to explain that this examination should include a person's relationship with their neighbors, family members, husband or wife, and children.
He emphasized that everyone should ask themselves about the condition of their spiritual lives and whether they are prepared to stand firm in their faith when confronted with life's challenges.
Speaking about the responsibilities of Church leaders and the faithful in general, he encouraged everyone to examine themselves honestly and take steps to improve their spiritual lives whenever they recognize shortcomings.
His message was clear: everyone should examine themselves, correct their conduct, and strengthen their relationship with God and their neighbors rather than ignore their shortcomings.
The Holy Mass Comes to an End
The Holy Mass continued until its conclusion. After the service, community leaders and family members had an opportunity to address the congregation and thank Father Mwaudama for presiding over and celebrating the Mass.
The gathering also provided an opportunity for the faithful to come together in prayer, offer comfort, and demonstrate solidarity with the bereaved family.
For the family of Rosemary Malambo, who had lost her mother, the gathering was part of the grieving process and an opportunity to receive comfort from the Church and the community of believers.
Conclusion: Baptism Calls Us to a New Life
Dear reader, are you there?
Remember that this article is a summary of the Holy Mass celebrated at the home of Rosemary Malambo's family following the death of her mother, the late Petronila Joachim Malambo.
Father Mwaudama's homily has reminded us of the importance of baptism in the life of a Christian, as well as our responsibility to live righteously, examine ourselves spiritually, and maintain good relationships with God and our neighbors.
I wish you a blessed day, dear reader. Let us continue to learn, reflect, and strengthen our faith.
Email: makadeladius@gmail.com
Phone: 0717649257
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