17/05/2026
A SHEPHERD SHAPED BY SERVICE: THE JOURNEY OF FR. KELVIN CHANDA BWALYA
In the quiet rhythm of priesthood, where service often speaks louder than recognition, Fr. Kelvin Chanda Bwalya has continued to leave footprints of faith across the Copperbelt and beyond. From the classrooms of Chililabombwe to the pulpits of Ndola, his story is one woven with humility, dedication, and an unwavering devotion to God’s people.
Born in Chililabombwe, Fr. Kelvin recalls that “Chanda” is his middle name, while “Bwalya” remains the family surname he proudly carries. His educational journey began at Lubuto Primary School between 1981 and 1987 before proceeding to Lubuto Secondary School and later Kansenshi Secondary School, where his early years quietly prepared him for a much greater calling.
That calling became clearer in 1993 when he entered seminary formation at Emmaus Spirituality Centre in Lusaka. From there, he proceeded to Mpima Major Seminary, where he pursued Philosophy and Religious Studies, earning a Diploma that would become the foundation of his spiritual mission. Later, at St. Dominic’s in Lusaka, he undertook theological studies accompanied by pastoral formation — a journey that shaped both his intellect and pastoral heart.
His pastoral year in 1998 at St. Anthony Mission in Mpongwe offered him firsthand experience in serving communities. After completing seminary studies in 2001, he briefly served at St. Peter and Paul Parish in Chingola while preparing for further studies. At a time when seminarians were encouraged to pursue circular studies, Fr. Kelvin enrolled at TVTC in Luanshya in 2002, studying Commercial Studies as a Secondary School teacher, a course he completed in 2003.
That same year marked another milestone when he was ordained Deacon. Although his priestly ordination was initially scheduled for 2004, it was deferred to 2005. On 13th August 2005, beneath the open skies of the Dominican Convent Grounds, Fr. Kelvin was finally ordained priest alongside Fr. Cornelius Bwalya, Fr. George Kaoma, Fr. Bernard Kapembwa, SMA Priest Fr. Moses Chileshe, and Fr. Chembo — a moment that remains deeply etched in the memory of many Catholics on the Copperbelt.
His first assignment took him to Uganda Martyrs Parish in Luanshya as Assistant Priest under Fr. Francis Katayi. Two years later, he was transferred to St. Patrick’s Parish in Mufulira, where he served under Fr. Chota while simultaneously teaching at Butondo Secondary School from 2007 to 2010.
Over the years, Fr. Kelvin’s priestly ministry has carried him through several parishes and communities. He later became Parish Priest at Kapisha Parish in Chingola before briefly serving in Ndeke and later Twapia in Ndola. His pastoral leadership also extended to St. Charles Parish in Mpatamatu, Luanshya, and Holy Cross Parish in Kabushi before his current appointment at St. Nicholas Parish in Ndeke, Ndola.
Beyond parish ministry, Fr. Kelvin continues to serve the Archdiocese in important capacities. He is currently the Defender of the Bond in the Archdiocesan Tribunal and also serves as PMS Director, roles that demand both spiritual wisdom and administrative diligence.
Yet beyond titles and assignments lies a deeply personal spiritual encounter that strengthened his journey. While serving at St. Patrick’s Parish in Mufulira, Fr. Kelvin became involved with the Worldwide Marriage Encounter Movement after being inspired by the late Chongo family. Attending the Encounter Weekend became a turning point in his life.
“It helped me discover myself more deeply and strengthened my relationship with God,” he shared.
The experience would later lead him to a Deeper Weekend, where he received mentorship from Fr. Simon K***a, particularly in preparing and presenting weekend talks for the movement.
Today, Fr. Kelvin describes priesthood as “a rich calling” deserving honour and reverence. He encourages fellow priests never to lose sight of their sacred responsibility as servants of God and His people.
As he continues his ministry at St. Nicholas Parish and within the Worldwide Marriage Encounter family, many describe him as a priest whose life reflects quiet strength, pastoral compassion, and faithful commitment.
And for the countless lives he has touched through preaching, teaching, mentorship, and service, one message echoes loudly from the faithful:
“We love you, Father.”
