Blantyre Presbyterian Synod celebrates 150 years in Malawi
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on The Nation Malawi
Illustrative image · Edouard MIHIGO · Pexels · Licence PexelsThe Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian marked its 150th anniversary, highlighting the role of the Blantyre Mission in Malawi’s history. Founded in 1876 in the Shire Highlands, the mission notably saw the construction of St Michael and All Angels Cathedral begin in 1888, according to The Nation Malawi.
The Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian celebrated its 150th anniversary at a service held last month in Malawi. Established from the Blantyre Mission founded in 1876 by Scottish missionaries led by Henry Henderson, the synod contributed to the development of education, healthcare and trade in the region.
The mission trained Malawian religious leaders, including Harry Kambwiri Matecheta, who became Malawi’s first Presbyterian minister in 1911. It also helped create educational and health infrastructure and expand tea cultivation in the districts of Thyolo and Mulanje.
The celebrations were disrupted at the Henry Henderson Institute, according to The Nation Malawi. The newspaper reported in particular that opposition convoys were pelted with stones and people present were intimidated.
