Bishop Michael’s return visit to Zambia last week was an opportunity to talk about the future of the Zambia Bath and Wells link, which will celebrate its 50th year in 2028. Speaking about his trip Bishop Michael said, “It was great to be back in Zambia. I’d not expected to visit again this year, but I am so glad I had the opportunity to go."
His previous visit, at the end of last year concentrated on meeting congregations and spending time in the rural communities in Zambia. His latest trip was more practically focused, “This year’s visit was much more oriented about moving forward with aspects of our life together, and where we can support each other within the link.” This year we celebrate the link on 6 July, Zambia Bath and Wells Sunday.
During his time in Zambia Bishop Michael was able to spend time with the team at The Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka and on Sunday 4 May he preached at the Sunday morning service in the cathedral. You can view a recording of the service on the catheral's Facebook page. Together with Archbishop albert, Bishop Michael travelled to Shamutinta Village, South East of Lusaka where they met with Petra and James Blewett and visited the church they are building alongside their local community.
Bishop Michael also able to progress ideas about schools in Zambia and schools in Bath and Wells working together, to grow and plant trees. More information about this project will be available shortly. During his time in Zambia Bishop Michael helped bring together a meeting which explored how to develop external help to improve water and sanitation in healthcare facilities run by the Anglican Church in Zambia. The meeting was held in Livingstone, where received a wonderful welcome with songs from the choir of St Augustine's, in Livingstone which is linked with St Thomas' Church in Wells.
Bishop Michael was in Livingstone to attend an international meeting about churchs' involvement in malaria control. Drawing on his expertise in infectious diseases, Bishop Michael joined the regional cross boarder malaria initiative, a project brings together churches, health officials, teachers and community workers in Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique work together to control malaria. Malaria continues to be a significant challenge faced by all these countries. Bishop Michael said, “It was extraordinary to see the commitment of different people to to help reduce the disease. It was inspiring to see all the work that is taking place.”
Reflecting on his visit, Bishop Michael added, “It was lovely to once again to reunite with our Zambian colleagues and to share time with them.”