Between Altar and Ancestors: A Priest’s Memoir on Life, Faith and the Church

Reverend Father Daniel Mpata, born in 1942 in Usisya, Rumphi District, is a distinguished priest, theologian, traditional healer, and intellectual whose life embodies the harmonious convergence of African tradition and Christian faith. A Tumbuka raised in the Presbyterian tradition of Livingstonia Mission, Mpata’s spiritual journey led him to the Roman Catholic Church and eventually to ordination in the

Anglican Church, where he served with profound pastoral dedication at parishes across northern Malawi, including Rumphi, Nkhatabay and Likoma Island.

A man of deep learning, he studied agriculture in Tanzania before answering God’s call to the priesthood, training at Kasina, St. Kizito and Kachebere Seminaries, and Zomba Theological College. Mpata became a bridge between science and spirituality, co-founding the Chiyani Ethno Medical Association and advocating for an African theology grounded in indigenous wisdom. A prolific writer, composer of over forty hymns, and practicing ethno-biologist, he integrated herbal healing with prayer, believing creation itself to be a divine pharmacy. His life’s work - spanning theology, medicine, music, and social justice - reflects a man who walks between worlds, yet belongs entirely to God.

Mpata was married and has five children, four daughters and a son.