Faith and Encounter – Zambia (FENZA)

The centre started operating in 2007. It is the brain-child of Fr. Hugo Hinfelaar M.Afr. His dream was that the Missionaries of Africa in Zambia, after more than one hundred years, should change their methods of evangelization and pastoral approach. He proposed a “paradigm shift” in evangelization: that as a people of faith we encounter each other, share our faith and together reflect and act on current issues affecting human lives, especially in Zambia. It is therefore, a reflection based on faith dealing with human life. He promoted therefore an incarnational theology.  

FENZA GLOBAL MISSION

We share our faith by encountering others: We go beyond the boundaries of our faith denominations. We empower Christians. We promote effective dialogue about faith, cultures and action regarding current issues affecting human welfare and entire creation. We respect traditions of other religions and churches. We affirm that spiritual values are shared by many believers and that humanity thrives on interaction.

Programmes/services 

  1. Two sessions of welcome to Zambia (February & August).
    • Topics: history of Zambia, social code of conduct (do’s and don’ts); political situation; witchcraft and satanism; illegal migration and human trafficking; environmental concerns; traditional medicine and healing; culture and women in Zambia; social and cultural ceremonies and other current social issues affecting Zambian society.
  2. Two Nyanja language courses (April and August).
  3. Workshops / conferences.
    • Environmental conservation and practical Laudato Si.
    • Witchcraft and satanism to novices, pastors, priests and laity (four workshops on the topic). 
    • Islamology and interreligious dialogue in institutions. 
    • Retreat animation to different religious congregations, dioceses. 
    • Teaching and formation programmes for religious communities.
    • Migration and human trafficking – mediation for detained immigrants. 
    • Several ecumenical conferences held at FENZA.
  4. It is a social arena for get-together and social events. 
  5. We run a library, archives and reading rooms for students.

By: Babaine Venerato, M.Afr.

Director.