Candlelight Mass Across Lusaka to Go Ahead Despite Political Concerns, Archdiocese Says
The Archdiocese of Lusaka has reaffirmed that the Candlelight Prayers for Peace scheduled for Wednesday, August 12, 2026, will proceed in all parishes across the Archdiocese despite concerns raised by the United Party for National Development (UPND).
In a statement issued by the Archdiocese of Lusaka Communications Office, the Church said the planned candlelight prayers are purely spiritual and are intended to pray for peace, unity and God’s protection throughout Zambia’s electoral process.
The Archdiocese said the prayers should not be interpreted as supporting or opposing any political party, candidate or interest group.
Candlelight prayers to proceed as planned
The Church said the position is consistent with an earlier communiqué issued by the Rector of the Marian Shrine, Fr. Felix Banda, on August 4, which explained the spiritual purpose of the planned prayers.
The candlelight prayers are also part of the ongoing Novena of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which began on August 6 and will conclude on August 14, ahead of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
According to the Archdiocese, the Novena is being observed in parishes throughout Lusaka and is also being broadcast daily by Radio Maria Zambia – Yatsani Voice.
The Church described the Novena as a longstanding Catholic devotional exercise centred on prayer, repentance, hope and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Church rejects political interpretation
The Archdiocese strongly rejected suggestions that the candlelight prayers carry a hidden political message.
“To attribute political motives to this sacred devotion is both unfortunate and a complete misunderstanding of its purpose.”
The Church said the August 12 prayers will take place in all parishes of the Archdiocese of Lusaka, with the faithful encouraged to participate prayerfully.
After the prayers, worshippers have also been encouraged to donate the candles used to their respective parishes so they can continue to be used in the liturgical life of the Church.
Why Catholics use candles
The Archdiocese explained that candles have been part of Catholic worship and devotional practice for centuries.
It said candles symbolise Christ as “the Light of the World”, drawing reference to John 8:12.
The Church also cited Matthew 5:14–16, where Christians are reminded that they are the light of the world and are called to let their light shine before others.
According to the Archdiocese, candles are routinely used during Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, baptisms, funerals, weddings, processions, Marian devotions and the Easter Vigil.
The Church therefore said there was nothing unusual or political about organising a candlelight prayer service for peace.
Church calls for peaceful elections
The Archdiocese further argued that prayer should not be politicised, saying every Zambian—regardless of political affiliation—needs peace, wisdom and protection.
It called on political stakeholders and members of the public to refrain from assigning partisan motives to genuine acts of Christian worship.
Instead, the Church encouraged all people of goodwill to pray for peaceful elections, mutual respect, national unity and lasting reconciliation.
The Archdiocese said it would remain committed to promoting peace, dialogue and national unity through prayer.
The statement concluded with the biblical message:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
