Africa-Press – Eswatini. Over 100 of children from across the Diocese of Manzini gathered at Florence Mission on July 26, 2025 for the E. Mobeni Zonal Children’s Day, a vibrant and faith-filled event organized under the Pontifical Missionary Childhood (PMC) banner.
Parishes represented included St. Peregrine’s Catholic Parish in Bulandzeni, St. Constantine, and the host parish, Annunciation of the Lord at Florence Mission.
The celebration began with a Children’s Holy Mass concelebrated by Fr. Peterson Mwangi MIC and Fr. Anthony Muinde. In a stirring homily, Fr. Peterson encouraged the children to be young missionaries reminding them that prayer, good example, and kind actions are powerful ways to bring others to Christ. He emphasized that missionary work isn’t only for adults but is also a joyful and daily task for children.
After Mass, the children took part in “Discover PMC,” led by diocesan animator Bhekiwe, who tested their knowledge of the Pontifical Missionary Childhood. Their confident responses reflected a strong understanding of the movement.
As part of the session, Bhekiwe introduced and explained the 10 Golden Rules of PMC, which serve as guiding principles for all members:
.I shall pray every day for all the children of the world.
.I shall offer my personal sacrifices for the good of other children.
.I shall receive the sacraments regularly and with devotion.
.I shall strive to know and love Jesus more each day.
.I shall be kind and helpful to those around me.
.I shall be a good example in word and action.
.I shall share what I have with children in need.
.I shall respect my parents, teachers, and elders.
.I shall take part in the life and mission of the Church.
.I shall always try to be cheerful and hopeful.
The PMC Anthem Competition brought joy and energy, with each parish performing its version of the anthem before judges Babe Mazibuko and Babe Matsenjwa. These musical presentations, along with parish-led skits, songs, and dances, added colour and creativity to the day.
Games and physical challenges including a running race, spoon race, and the pick-up-an-item challenge sparked excitement and laughter, helping children build teamwork and new friendships across parishes. Organized by zone, the activities created a light-hearted and energetic atmosphere that balanced well with the spiritual depth of the day.
The event concluded with a shared meal and heartfelt closing remarks from organizers, who expressed gratitude to the children, parents, parish teams, and clergy for making the day a success. E. Mobeni Zonal Children’s Day was not just a gathering it was a living expression of the PMC spirit: children helping children, through faith, action, and love.
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