By Jones Gadama
Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Chimwemwe Chipungu, on Saturday joined hundreds of believers at Mbwatalika Mission in Lilongwe for the ceremonial laying of the foundation stone for a new Temple of Jehovah.
Speaking as Guest of Honour, Chipungu commended the congregation for their vision to build a place of worship that will serve large congregations.
He urged Christians to put aside differences and contribute what God has blessed them with so that the project is completed on time.
“Let us work together as one body. When we give our time, our resources, and our talents, God multiplies them. Teamwork is what will complete this house of the Lord,” Chipungu said.
“A temple is not just bricks and mortar. It is a refuge where souls are healed, families are strengthened, and communities are transformed. Government stands with you in faith and in development.”
The ceremony was marked with scripture readings that framed the project in faith.
Organizers quoted Psalm 24 verse 1: _“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.”_ They also referenced Psalm 127 verse 1: _“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain,”_ and Isaiah 8 verse 16 and Isaiah 10 verse 21, calling believers to remain rooted in God’s word.
Church elder Mr. Lazarus Banda expressed gratitude for the minister’s presence and support.
“We are deeply grateful to Hon. Chimwemwe Chipungu for honoring us today.
His coming shows that leaders care about the spiritual growth of our people. We pray that God blesses him and that this gesture inspires more people to support the work,” Banda said.
Community members described the planned temple as a central hub for worship, teaching, and fellowship in Lilongwe.
Church leaders said mobilization of resources and volunteers will begin immediately, with construction expected to proceed in phases.
The laying of the foundation stone at Mbwatalika Mission marks the beginning of what organizers hope will be a lasting place of worship built on unity, faith, and community support.
