Be peace makers-bishop kalumba

 **Livingstone Bishop Calls for Peacemakers in Christmas Message**  

**Livingstone, Zambia** – Livingstone Bishop Valentine Kalumba has called on Christians to be peacemakers this Christmas, urging reconciliation and compassion as pathways to building stronger communities. Speaking during the Christmas Vigil Mass at St. Theresa’s Cathedral, Bishop Kalumba reminded the congregation of their role as agents of peace.  

"The message of Christmas encourages us to be peacemakers," the Bishop said. "We should make amends with those we have wronged and work toward creating a community based on love and understanding." He emphasized that true peace is more than the absence of conflict—it is a deep sense of well-being that comes from empathy, compassion, and Christ-like love.  

Bishop Kalumba highlighted the humble birth of Jesus as a profound lesson in humility and divine purpose. "When we think about the Nativity scene, we remember how simple and modest Jesus' birth was, yet it was announced by angels and marked by a guiding star," he said. "This contrast shows the mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming man to live among us."  

He urged the congregation to embody the spirit of Christmas through acts of kindness and generosity, particularly to those less fortunate. "Let us follow the example of the Magi who brought gifts to the Infant Jesus by sharing what we have with our brothers and sisters," he said.  

The Bishop also encouraged the faithful to embrace the joy and hope of the season, even amid life’s challenges. "Despite the difficulties we face, Christmas remains a time for hope and joy," he said. "The light of Christ shines in our darkest moments, reminding us that God is with us—Emmanuel."  

Reflecting on the year’s blessings, Bishop Kalumba called on worshippers to be thankful and to carry the Christmas spirit throughout the year. "This is a time of renewal, a time of hope, and a time to reconnect with our faith and each other," he said.  

In his closing remarks, Bishop Kalumba stressed that the true essence of Christmas lies in love and service. "It is not found in the gifts we give and receive, but in the love we share and the lives we touch," he said. "May the light of Christ, born in Bethlehem, shine brightly in our hearts and in our world, bringing peace and joy to all of us."  

The vigil, which drew hundreds of worshippers, concluded with hymns and prayers, leaving attendees inspired to spread the message of peace, hope, and love in their communities.