John A Ryan

Catholic Priest
and
Professor of Mathematics.

I am an Irish Catholic priest working in
the Diocese of Mzuzu since 1978.

Mzuzu Diocese comprises the Northern
Region and part of the Central Region of
Malawi. The diocese covers a vast area
through 15 parishes (Malawi has only
three regions, Northern, Central and
Southern Regions). The Bishop of
Mzuzu Diocese is the Rt. Rev. Joseph
Mukasa Zuza.

I belong to the Missionary Society of St
Patrick's Fathers, also known as Kiltegan
Fathers.

Presently I am working as
1) A Professor in the Department of
Mathematics of Mzuzu University
2) Chaplain to the Catholic Community
of Mzuzu University
3) A co-helper in St Augustine's Parish,
Luwinga, Mzuzu 2.

I have two main areas of interest. The
first is to promote a 'SENSE OF THE
SPIRITUAL' in a world which is
becoming more and more secular. The
second is the study of Coding Theory
and research in the specific area of
Goppa codes.

My first area of interest is somewhat
satisfied in my work as a priest in Mzuzu
University and in St Augustine's Parish
and in the larger context of Mzuzu
Diocese. My second area is satisfied by
presenting papers at international
conferences in Coding Theory, by
publishing in some reputable journals and
by introducing a two year postgraduate
program in Coding Theory at Mzuzu
University.

On Sundays I am privilidged to go out into very rural areas
and celebrate Mass with christians in isolated places. I
never tire of these Masses as there is so much energy and
enthusiasm put into them. The choirs are loud and lively.
The dancing is colourful and beautiful. The readings are
done professionally. One can never fail to be uplifted
spiritually in these lively liturgies. They are truely
community celebrations.