New seating brings dignity, comfort to people in 3 churches.
NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (June 23, 2025) Salesian missionaries were able to add benches for three out-station churches that are part of the St. Mary’s Parish in Zambia, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. St. Mary’s Parish has out-stations that serve approximately 3,500 people. The churches did not have proper seating for the people. Donor funding provided for 50 benches in Nambe, Kamakuti and Kawama.
A Salesian noted, “It was a challenge for our congregants to concentrate and attend Mass and other meetings in the churches with dignity without good benches. Sometimes we use plastic chairs but most of them break because of the movements. This project has enabled us to provide the property seating to give people more dignity and comfort.”
One of those impacted by the donation is Paul Shakambwa, chair of the St. Jude out-station. He said, “The community here is mainly retired people from the mines who have now settled into the farming area. Before the benches it was difficult for the elderly to attend Mass and other community events. With these benches now we can seat people comfortably during prayers. It will make it possible for us to invite more people in and have a strong Catholic community.”
Salesians in Zambia provide a range of social development programs and education to aid youth who are poor and at risk so they can have a healthy productive life. Early education helps youth gain a foundation to allow them to later advance to skills training for employment. Basic needs are met along the way ensuring youth focus on their education.
Poverty is widespread in Zambia with 64% of the total population living below the poverty line. For those living in rural areas, the poverty rate rises to 80%, according to UNICEF. Over the past three decades, incomes in Zambia have fallen steadily, and people do not have enough money to meet basic needs such as shelter, nutritious food and medical care.
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About Salesian Missions USA
Salesian Missions is headquartered in New Rochelle, NY, and is part of the Don Bosco Network—a worldwide federation of Salesian NGOs. The mission of the U.S.-based nonprofit Catholic organization is to raise funds for international programs that serve youth and families in poor communities around the globe. The Salesian missionaries are made up of priests, brothers and sisters, as well as laypeople—all dedicated to caring for poor children throughout the world in more than 130 countries and helping young people become self-sufficient by learning a trade that will help them gain employment. To date, more than 3 million youth have received services funded by Salesian Missions. These services and programs are provided to children regardless of race or religion. For more information, go to SalesianMissions.org.