Debate has ensued on the social media following a decision by one of the ten deacons of the Catholic Church to halt his ordination as priest in Lilongwe this coming Saturday.

The deacon has been identified as Regis Mwasiya.

Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, Fr. Vincent Mwakhwawa has confirmed of the development, saying Archbishop George Desmond Tambala has accepted the request.

“Deacon Regis Mwasiya has requested not to be ordained (tomorrow) on Saturday, 29th July, for he still wants to continue discerning his vocation to priesthood,” said Fr. Mwakhwawa.

The request was accepted by Archbishop Tambala in the presence of the parents of the Deacon, Vocation Director, and the Secretary of the Archbishop, among others.

The decision has attracted mixed reactions with many seeking clarification on the matter.

Jones Dominic Makanda Banda wrote: “May he be enlightenment by His glorious light so that he may discern with the light from the Holy Spirit.”

On his part Wonder Black wrote: “Reflecting on the calling is needed before taking the challenge. More have gone into the ministry without calling, the end result, opposition inside their heart. So this is a good move.”

While Innocent Scania Chimlambe wrote: “Deacon Regis Mwasiya has requested not to be ordained (tomorrow) on Saturday, 29th July, for he still wants to continue discerning his vocation to priesthood,” says Fr. Mwakhwawa.

“Tinvenso Mbali ya Deacon Regis Mwasiya chonde.”