From The Spire newsletter of Christ Church
Photos by Kenneth H. Richardson
Article by the Rev. Kate Malin

On Monday evening, February 23rd, the Vestry and Outreach committee welcomed the Rt. Rev. James Tengatenga, Bishop of the Diocese of Southern Malawi, to dinner at Christ Church. Bishop Tengatenga is an eloquent speaker and passionate advocate for his people. He is also a compelling leader in the Anglican Communion.

Also in attendance were the Rt. Rev. Catherine Roskam, Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of New York and her husband, and Irene Mhogolo, wife of the Bishop of the Diocese of Central Tanganykia in Tanzania, home of our partnership with Carpenter’s Kids.

Rounding out the guest list were David Kalal and Susan Cotter of St. Mark’s New Canaan, whose Outreach Commission hopes to support our efforts in Malawi; John Springer and Cindy Malin, who traveled with Mo. Malin to Malawi last summer; Canon Kris Lee who runs the website for the Southern Diocese of Malawi; and Sherrye Henry of Episcopal Relief and Development. ERD is supporting Christ Church Bronxville and Love’s Harvest work in Permaculture and Women’s Empowerment in Malawi.

The evening was both moving and fun. Kids from Young at Arts kicked off the dinner with song and dance to honor the bishops. We were able to share stories and share a meal before watching Mother Malin’s video of her trip last summer.

Afterwards, Bishop Tengatenga spoke at length about why he encourages partnerships like ours designed to support mothers and priests: those groups who feed and comfort, educate and inspire, galvanize groups and husband resources. Malawi is one of the more densely populated African nations with very little land, so our Permaculture efforts which maximize sustainable and wholesome food production is key to the future of all Malawi.