St. John the Baptist Msamba Catholic Parish
Values
We are guided by the Catholic social teachings, focusing on the following core values and beliefs:
Love: “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12). Love is the core value of the Christian life. As missionary disciples of Jesus Christ, all Catholic members of the Parish have been invited to live the love of God in the family, Church and society.
The Dignity of the Human Person and Sanctity of Life: The dignity of the human person is a fundamental value. This is based on the fact that the human being is God’s creation. “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Gen. 1:27). This dignity of every human being is what is at the foundation of human rights and corresponding responsibilities.
Common Good: The Common Good is understood as a value coming from all necessary conditions of social living – economic, political, material, religious, cultural - which enable men and women to more readily and more fully realize their human dignity and achieve their full human potential. The promotion of the common good should be the concern of all in the Parish.
Solidarity: The principle of solidarity comes from the very notion of society in its commitment to the common good. We belong to one human family and as such have mutual obligations to promote the development of all people in the Parish.
Principle of Subsidiarity: Social institutions must leave to the smaller groupings or individuals what they can do by their own power; on the other hand, they must assist the smaller groupings or individuals where they are unable to accomplish a necessary task. This means a higher level of the Parish structure should not perform any function or duty that can be handled more effectively at a lower level by people who are closer to the problem and have a better understanding of the issue.
Preferential Option for the Poor: A Preferential Option for the Poor is a commitment by Catholic members and the community at every level to engage actively in a struggle to overcome the social injustices which affect our world. "Poor" is understood to refer to the economically disadvantaged who, as a consequence of their status, suffer oppression and powerlessness. Such solidarity also means a commitment to working with structures, organizations and agencies that promote the interests of the less privileged in society i.e. the economically poor, the groups that are politically marginalized and people discriminated against. Therefore, in every economic, political and social decision, a weighted concern must be given to the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable.
Stewardship and integrity of creation: Our commitment to the common good requires responsible stewardship of the earth and its resources True stewardship calls us to examine how we use and share the goods of the earth, what we pass on to future generations, and how we leave in harmony with God’s creation. By our work we are co-creators in the continuing development of the earth. The core value will be guided by Papal documents on Care for Environment (Laudato Si).
Justice and Peace: Society ensures social justice by providing the conditions that allow associations and individuals to obtain their due. The equal dignity of human persons requires the effort to reduce excessive social and economic inequalities. To promote justice is to transform structures which block love. The concern for justice is not an option but a constitutive part of evangelization. Thus, action on behalf of Justice and participation in the transformation of the world fully appear to us as a constitutive dimension of the preaching of the Gospel. Peace is the fruit of justice and is dependent upon right order among human beings and among Christians and society members.
Moral integrity and accountability: This is a commitment to being transparent, accountable, honest, trustworthy and of moral integrity in all activities. This entails protecting the interests of our Parish and to maintaining its integrity in carrying out pastoral duties and programs. This may demand carrying out our duties in an efficient, effective and non-discriminatory manner.
St. John the Baptist Msamba Catholic Parish is a vibrant community committed to serving God and fostering spiritual growth among its members. With a rich tradition of faith and service, the parish offers a variety of programs and activities designed to engage parishioners of all ages. Through weekly Masses, religious education, and community outreach initiatives, the parish aims to instil the values of compassion, charity, and devotion in the hearts of its congregation. The dedicated clergy and active volunteers work tirelessly to create an inviting atmosphere where individuals can deepen their relationship with God and one another. St. John the Baptist Msamba Catholic Parish stands as a beacon of hope and faith, encouraging everyone to live out their beliefs in service to the community and the world at large.
Choir Performances
Experience uplifting choir performances that bring joy and inspiration to our community.
Music Workshops
Join our music workshops to enhance your skills and deepen your connection with God.
Community Events
Participate in community events that promote unity and spread the message of faith.