ARCHDIOCESE OF LUSAKA CALLS FOR PRAYER AS ARCHBISHOP BANDA RESPONDS TO DEC SUMMONS LUSAKA, 25 September 2026 — The Archdiocese of Lusaka has called on Catholics to remain united in prayer and peaceful as Archbishop Alick Banda responds to renewed summons from the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC). In a statement issued on Friday, 25 September […]

ARCHDIOCESE OF LUSAKA CALLS FOR PRAYER AS ARCHBISHOP BANDA RESPONDS TO DEC SUMMONS

LUSAKA, 25 September 2026 — The Archdiocese of Lusaka has called on Catholics to remain united in prayer and peaceful as Archbishop Alick Banda responds to renewed summons from the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).

In a statement issued on Friday, 25 September 2026, the Archdiocese expressed its solidarity with its Local Shepherd, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Alick Banda, saying the Church is concerned about his safety and well-being during the ongoing process.

The Archdiocese urged clergy, religious and lay faithful to remain calm, united in prayer and steadfast in faith as the Archbishop responds to the summons in accordance with the law.

The statement further encouraged Catholics not to give in to fear, but to remain vigilant in prayer while upholding commitments to truth, justice and peace.

As a sign of solidarity, the Archdiocese announced that Holy Mass will be celebrated at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus on Monday, 28 September 2026, at 08:00 hours. Archbishop Banda is expected to proceed to the Drug Enforcement Commission at 10:00 hours.

The faithful who are able to attend have been encouraged to gather for the Mass and stand together in prayer as one Catholic family.

The Archdiocese has also called for prayers for Archbishop Banda’s safety, strength, wisdom and well-being, as well as for truth, justice and peace throughout the process.

The statement concluded by entrusting Archbishop Banda and the Archdiocese of Lusaka to God’s providence and to the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Lusaka, Mother of the Child Jesus.

“Let us be united in prayer, steadfast in faith, peaceful in spirit and unwavering in our pursuit of truth,” the Archdiocese said.

Source: Communications Office – Archdiocese of Lusaka (ADL), statement dated 25 September 2026.