ZAMBIA Episcopal Conference (ZEC) president Bishop George Lungu has commended President Rupiah Banda for visiting him in Italy where he was hospitalised.

The prelate who is Chipata Catholic Diocese Bishop was hospitalised in June after suffering from prostate cancer.

Bishop Lungu was speaking in Chipata on Tuesday during the thanksgiving mass at St Annes Cathedral Parish that he was thankful to President Banda for finding time to visit him in the hospital where he was hospitalised.

Bishop Lungu said the visit by Mr Banda enhanced the cordial relationship between the Church and Government leaders.

He said the president found time in his busy schedule to visit him in the hospital before he went to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly summit.

"I am very thankful to our president for visiting me in Rome, Italy when I was hospitalised.The visit by the president brought joy and confidence in me," Bishop Lungu said.

And speaking during his homily, Bishop Lungu challenged Christians to be prepared for death at all times because it could strike at any time.

Eastern Province Permanent Secretary, Eularia Syamujaye assured the bishop that the Government shares the joy of his return because he had been away for too long.

She said the Government was deeply saddened by the bishop's illness.

Ms Syamujaye said the Government was concerned about Bishop Lungu's illness because he did not belong to Eastern Province alone because he was also ZEC president. .

Speaking earlier, Chipata Catholic vicar general, Gabriel Msipu commended all the people who offered prayers to the bishop for his quick recovery.

Among the prominent people who attended the thanksgiving mass were Eastern Province Anglican Diocese Bishop, William Muchombo.