Fr Francis Damaseke, Catholic Priest Who Inspired Many on Social Media, Dies

Immediate-past Director of the Social Communication and Research Commission for the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), Fr Francis Damaseke, has died.

Fr Damaseke, a diocesan priest of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, was until his death serving as a curate at Nathenje Catholic Parish.

He was widely known for using social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp to share teachings on social issues and faith-based reflections.

Through short messages, status updates, and online engagements, he built a strong following, with many describing his content as practical, relatable, and impactful in addressing everyday challenges from a Catholic perspective.

“He was a young man, and young in priesthood too. But his preaching and social media evangelisation had a lot of impact on all people, not just Catholics,” said Herbert Chokazinga, one of his ardent followers.

Fr Damaseke also played a key role in Catholic digital evangelisation during the COVID-19 pandemic through the Tiyankhuleni Ambuye initiative, working alongside other priests to continue reaching the faithful at a time when physical gatherings were restricted.

His work at MCCB further strengthened the Church’s communication and outreach efforts, particularly in adapting to digital platforms for evangelisation.

His death has been confirmed by Monsignor Patrick Thawale of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe and MCCB Secretary General, Very Reverend Fr Valeriano Mtseka.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the Archdiocese of Lilongwe.