CWM

Churches of Christ in Malawi

Thursday, 19 July 2007 18:03

Main languages:

• Chichewa, Lomwe, Yao, Ngoni, English

Main religions:

• Christianity (80%), Islam (13%), other (3%), none (4%)

Government:

• In the historic free general elections of May 1994 the United Democratic Front (UDF) defeated other parties, and Dr Bingu wa Mutharika UDF was elected as president. However, due to disagreements with his predecessor, Dr Mutharika left and formed the Democratic Progressive Party.

National and community concerns:

• Malawi's economy is dependent upon agriculture, though it is vulnerable to drought.
• The country is poor, with an average income of US$156 per year.
• High international debt, a shortage of skilled personnel, and regional instability hinder economic growth.
• High inflation puts the poor to greater disadvantage.
• High unemployment.
• The HIV and AIDS crisis.

Church priorities and programmes:

• Review of the outdated constitution.
• Evangelism and outreach campaign.
• Drought relief programme, as Malawi has been hit by hunger.
• Self-reliance projects.
• Equipping local churches in mission.
• Training is a priority to meet a shortage of leaders and officers.
• CCM is looking to train at least three pastors each year for the next five years, and equip more laity, including young people and women.

Members/Congregations:

• 40,000/46

Women's representation in church:

• Women are represented in all church programmes and in decision-making bodies.
• No women are ordained.

Youth activities:

• The Youth Fellowship Churches of Christ in Malawi (YFCCM) addresses issues such as sexuality, unemployment, spiritual growth, other faiths, drug and alcohol abuse, and involves youth in bible study, evangelism and social action projects.
• The YFCCM meets monthly in congregations, quarterly at the district level and holds annual national youth conferences.
• Youth representatives are included in decision-making bodies.

Missionaries sent and received through CWM:

• None at present.

For more information:

• Rev Johnstone Ndogolo, General Secretary

Prayers:

Give thanks for:

• The Christian witness despite economic and social hardships.
• The newly elected church leadership.
• The interest young people are showing in the life and mission of the church.

Pray:

• For the constitution process aimed at good governance in CCM.
• For Malawi as it continues to face more food shortage due to poor rains.