Catholic Church News More than the expression of ideas US$1

NHAU DZEKIRIKE INDABA ZEBANDLA ISSUE 116 JULY - SEPT 2019 Beitbridge Town Council to Catholic University SECAM GOLDEN JUBILEE name road in honour of Fr. Jules Opens Sixth Campus at Celebrated at Namugongo, P.2 P.4 Greber: As Church mourns two P.13 Bondolfi in Masvingo. Uganda, July 2019. great missionaries. 140 Years of Catholicism for Bulawayo

By Br. Alfonce Kugwa celebrations were a symbol of Empandeni in 1887. The Fr. Vusimuzi Golden Moyo. confirmed this reality saying h e A r c h d i o c e s e o f massive spiritual and celebrations, held at Our Lady The anniversary serves as a what the Archdiocese of Bulawayo on 29 June infrastructural development by of Fatima Parish, Pumula testimony of the deep Catholic Bulawayo is today was shaped 2019 celebrated 140 the Catholic Church in South were coupled with the faith that has taken root in by the sacrifice of the first yearsT of Christianity in Matebeleland from the time of priestly ordination of Fr. Prize Matebeleland and Zimbabwe missionaries who toiled to lay Matabeleland and 25 years as a the first missionaries in 1879 Kevin Madzivanyika CMM, as a whole. The Archbishop of the foundation. metropolitan see. The and their settlement at Fr. Brian Francis Kandlela and Bulawayo, Alex Thomas Continued on p2 Are you a young man aged The Official Launch of John Bradburne's Cause 18 years and above? Feeling called to religious is set for 5th September 2019 at Mutemwa in Zimbabwe. life? On 1st July 2019, the Congregation for the With 5 O' levels and A' level Causes of Saints in Rome including English? issued a formal nihil obstat Baptized and confirmed for the cause of beatification of Franciscan Catholic? missionary John Bradburne Why not join the Order of to proceed. Friars Minor and evangelize On 5th Sept 2019, the 40th following the footsteps of Anniversary of John's assassination, there will be a special ceremony St. Francis of Assis? at Mutemwa in Zimbabwe where the cause Contact the Vocations will be officially launched. Director: Two weeks later, on 21st Sept 2019, the Br. Mafa Br. Jean Claude OFM: celebrations will continue at Westminster Cathedral in London with a Mass, followed by +263 77 376 2557 an exhibition of John's life with John's relics being displayed for the first time. Page 2 Catholic Church News July- Sept 2019

Three Priests Ordained in Bulawayo as Archdiocese celebrates 140 years of Christianity. from p1

Br. Mafa

Archbishop Alex Thomas is seen here with Monsignor Gabriele, Bishop Serrano and the newly ordained priests.

Today we are standing on the faith and launching into space of the missionary rosary and foundations laid by our predecessors. We have honouring of catechists who devoted their life to “nothing to boast about. We are only carrying spreading the Gospel within the region. on what they begun. The faith that was planted like The history of Christianity in Matebeland dates back to a mustard seed at Empandeni Mission has grown the period of King Lobengula, who was only interested into a tree reaching out to all the corners of in the skills priests could teach his people but not their Zimbabwe. But we have a responsibility to keep it, religion, which he felt would undermine his influence. make it better and produce more fruits,” said According to records, the Church grew roots in Archbishop Alex. September, 1879 when Fr. Depelchin S.J, Fr. Augustus The Archbishop hinted on the need to cherish, Law, S.J and Brother De Sadeleer arrived in what was protect and advance the imprint left by the founding known as “Gubulawayo” and established the first missionaries whom he said left a legacy of hard mission “The Mission of the Sacred Heart” near King work, faith and commitment. Lobengula's royal residence. “It is very easy to receive something from others Bulawayo Diocese was raised to a metropolitan see by but to keep it and make it better requires extra effort, Saint Pope John Paul II on 10 June 1994 and the first care, commitment and love. It is our bounden duty Archbishop was Henry Karlen CMM followed by as believers to contribute towards the Archdiocese's Archbishop Pius Ncube and then Archbishop Alex future,” he said. Thomas. Archbishop Alex stressed that the Church can only were reminded that priesthood in the Catholic Church The Archdiocese of Bulawayo has 20 missions, 27 grow based on the strong faith of its members who is a sacrifice for the Kingdom of God and not a urban parishes, 9 Centres for Early Development, 14 do not compromise when it comes to faith matters. position, office, job or profession. It is only granted to primary schools, 13 secondary schools and three He challenged the priests and religious to improve the courageous and those committed in faith. vocational centres at Empandeni, St. Luke's and St. Pius the quality of their faith and their service to the “That is why candidates for priesthood are chosen, Bulawayo City, respectively. The Archdiocese of people as followers of Jesus Christ. He called them trained and selected. Nobody can become a priest Bulawayo has 101 priests, 131 sisters and 9 brothers. to emulate the attitude of martyrs whose blood is overnight like modern day prophets. Priesthood is not There are two mission hospitals which are St. Ann's the seed of faith. for the weak and feeble minded,” echoed the Brunapeg in Matebeleland South and St. Luke's in “We need that attitude of sacrifice for the Kingdom Archbishop. Lupane under Matebeleland North. of God. Sacrifice is demanded from us and not just The event was capped by launching of the book expected of us,” stressed Archbishop Alex. “Sowing the Word; From Zambezi Mission to the The newly ordained priests and the entire clergy Archdiocese of Bulawayo”, the blessing and SECAM GOLDEN JUBILEE Celebrated at Namugongo, Uganda, July 2019

By Fr. Fradereck Chiromba celebrations by five Bishops and the ZCBC Secretary Tiburtino was elected the new President of the General, namely, Archbishop Robert C. Ndlovu, Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa th Bishop Michael D. Bhasera, Bishop Paul Horan, Madagascar (SECAM). He succeeded the Archbishop and Madagascar (SECAM) established 29 July as a Bishop Rudolf Nyandoro, Bishop Raymond of Lubango, Angola, Most Rev. Gabriel MBILINGI, SECAM DAY. On this day, or the Sunday closest to th Mupandasekwa and Fr. Fradereck Chiromba. This was CSSp. the 29 of July, every diocese is encouraged to have a the maximum number of delegates permissible for A golden jubilee Mass, celebrated with thousands of the commemorative Mass to make SECAM better Zimbabwe, given that the country has only eight faithful, at Namugongo Shrine of the Uganda Martyrs, known. A special collection is made with the diocese Dioceses. concluded the jubilee celebrations. A Kampala retaining 25% and 75% sent to SECAM to support its The opening Mass on the morning of 21 July was document, resulting from the Theological reflection of operations. followed by the opening ceremony in the afternoon of the Bishops will be issued by the end of the year to This year the SECAM DAY coincided with the golden the plenary meeting and jubilee celebrations. The provide a vision for SECAM and the Catholic Church in jubilee of SECAM, which convened a Plenary meeting Bishops had an opportunity for Theological reflection Africa for the next 50 years. from 19 to 29 July 2019, concluding with the Jubilee from 22 to 24 July, followed by an Administrative celebrations at Namugongo, the shrine of the Uganda meeting from 25 to 27 July, concluding with elections A BRIEF HISTORY OF SECAM Martyrs. As the history below will show, Uganda was for a new Executive Committee for SECAM. His The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa chosen for the jubilee celebrations because this is Eminence Philippe Nakellentuba Cardinal Ouédraogo, and Madagascar (SECAM) was born out of the wish of where SECAM was born 50 years ago. Archbishop of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso and African Bishops attending the Second Vatican Council Zimbabwe was represented at the plenary meeting and Cardinal-Priest of Santa Maria Consolatrice al (1962-1965), to establish a forum in which they could cont on P9 July- Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 3 Gokwe Diocese; a Church on the Move in Transforming Communities with Pro-poor Projects. By Br. Alfonce Kugwa okwe Diocese is a Church on the move as Mr. Gwenya, the purpose of introducing motor Shingai Training Centre with the hope of building witnessed by numerous developmental projects mechanics at the school is to equip learners with skills relevant structures a few kilometres from Gokwe town lined up for the local church. The diocese has which are necessary in the motor industry. along Kwekwe road. By the same token, a second low G “This also helps to create self-employment for school cost boarding school has been opened at Amai come of age in self-supporting, self-propagating and self-ministering efforts. A visit to the diocese and a tour leavers who will work as mechanics making it possible Vetsitsi/Nemangwe High school to cater for learners of some projects revealed that the diocese has great for them to earn a living. The interesting aspect is that who live far from the school. The facility which is for potential to transform the lives of people in the both boys and girls are studying this important subject. both boys and girls is the second one after St. Francis surrounding communities. When Bishop Rudolf The first group had 29 learners with seven girls and the Xavier in Mateta 2. Nyandoro took over, Gokwe Diocese already showed second group had 37 with eight girls. This initiative by Bishop Nyandoro attested that: “The Low Cost positive signs of the Diocese is very important for the community,” said Boarding facility is meant to assist learners as schools in maturity from the Mr. Gwenya. Gokwe are far from each other. People would like their w e l l l a i d children to learn at Catholic schools and it is important foundation by his Catholic Bookshop: that we offer such facilities to the local community. Also two predecessors. Second among the diocesan projects is the booming students in Gokwe walk very long distances to access Today, the diocese bookshop located right in the middle of Gokwe town. education and as such Low Cost Boarding cushions continues to shape The bookshop provides stationary and literature to parents in terms of the security of their children while it up with faith in parishioners and schools in and around Gokwe. Available also cushions learners to study in a comfortable zone.” action. Self- in the bookshop are sacramentals, vestments, spiritual The advantage of LCB according to Bishop Nyandoro is reliance projects, books, text and exercise books and uniforms for school that it is affordable and improves the quality of schools and new children and guilds. The bookshop also houses the education for rural children. missions serve as Diocesan Social Communications Commission which The Headmaster of Nemangwe High School, Mr. evangelizing tools operates under the same roof. The diocese is in the Alfonce Mugabe confirmed that LCB is important for the diocese that process of establishing an e-library in the bookshop as a especially for students who walk long distances to places people at the way of benefiting university students who need to access education. He said the furthest students travel Bishop Rudolf Nyandoro centre. With the research on different disciplines as well as catechists and more than 16km to the school and this compromises Bishop of Gokwe country's failing those working with children. their education as they will be too tired to concentrate on e c o n o m y a n d their studies. Other advantages of a Low Cost Boarding people's loss of trust in the government, the only hope for according to Mr. Mugabe are that: the people of Gokwe lies in the diocese's initiatives that The facility has improved the pass rate especially of girls are pro-poor in nature. at the school. LCB offers opportunities for learners to study during the Projects: night and at weekends under the supervision of the The Diocese of Gokwe has lined up different self- superintendents. reliance projects which according to Bishop Nyandoro Has reduced the vulnerability of the girl child to abuse are meant to enable the sustenance of the local Church given that before the opening of the facility at the school, and to improve people's livelihoods. Typical among these learners used to stay at the shopping centre and few of projects is the Garage which is already functional, them completed their studies or passed as the rate of servicing the diocesan fleet and those from the Queen of Peace Bookshop abuse was high. neighbouring community. Bishop Nyandoro said they Education: were working flat out to put up a service station as a way Education is an important tool for enlightenment and of supporting the diocese. empowerment. It is the route to poverty eradication and The garage which is located within the premises of St. Paul Secondary School yard also benefits school children who study motor mechanics. A mechanics teacher at St. Paul's Secondary, Mr. Graciano Gwenya said motor

Low Cost Boarding blocks at Nemangwe Secondary School.

Raises the esteem of the learners which also influences good behaviour. Inside Queen of Peace Bookshop. Opens up opportunities for upgrading the school to The garage built by Gokwe Diocese to A'Level status. service the diocesan fleet. emancipation from ignorance. Education is important for Increases the number of catholic students at the school. mechanics was introduced at the school in 2014 at the development of character and formation of Cont on p6 National Foundation Certificate (NFC). According to conscience. For this, the Catholic University in Zimbabwe opened a campus in Gokwe Diocese at

HWANGE DIOCESE ORDAINS ONE DEACON FROM NEW PARISH

Over 300 people thronged the focused in prayer. Dongamuzi, Guga, Thokozani, recently established St He asked them to be messengers Bambanani, Mzola 3, Mzola 27, Augustine Mission in Mzola of hope and Christ's joy. Kana Block, Msewele, Sibombo, 55 in Lupane distinct, in the Deacon Simelinkosi who Sinqobile, Nono and Mzola 52. diocese of Hwange to witness comes just a stone's throw from St. Augustine Mission becomes the ordination of Simelinkosi the Centre is the first to be the 25th among Hwange diocese's as a deacon by the bishop of the ordained since the centre was Missions to be established after diocese of Hwange His established as a mission at Holy Cross Mission in Lusulu. Lordship, Albert Serrano another event which attracted The diaconate ordination hundreds of congregants, on the which took place on a chilly 9th of June 2019 Saturday morning of the 13th of St. Augustine Mission, Mzola Rev. Simelinkosi after his July 2019 also saw the 55 was started by Fr. Luis Ruiz elevation and conferring of and Fr. Marko Rumhuma in ordination as a deacon is ministries of Lector and 1984. Until recently the centre seen here flanked by two Acolyte to Asani Nyendwa of was under St. Martin de Pores Acolytes, Asani Nyendwa of Makwika village and Ian Mission, Jotsholo. Makwika Village and Ian Muenda of Holy Family parish Fr. Joseph Lazaro with the Muenda who were given both from Hwange district. assistance of Fr. Vincent ministries by Bishop Albert S p e a k i n g d u r i n g t h e Lumano, is the priest in charge Serrano. ordination, the bishop advised of St Augustine Mission with its the three aspirants to remain 13 outstations which include Page 4 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019 EDITORIAL Catholic University opens sixth campus in Masvingo Extra-ordinary Mission Month as Tatenda Mqetu medicine for missionary Church he Catholic University of reform Zimbabwe (CUZ) officially launched the Masvingo DioceseT campus on 19 July 2019 he EMM offers the Church the opportunity to rigorously continue with the missionary opening the first phase of the Bachelor of Education degree programs at Church reforms being spearheaded by Pope Bondolfi Teachers College starting Francis.T August 2019. In his conclave-changing address to the cardinals Bachelor of Education degree four days before his election, then-Cardinal Jorge programs in Primary Education and Mario Bergoglio identified what he believes is the Early Childhood Development are the Church's fundamental illness: ecclesiastical pioneer degrees to be offered at narcissism. Ecclesiastical narcissism refers to the Masvingo Campus with more degree tendency of the Church to be concerned with its programs to be established in the long Bishop Michael Bhasera in white Cassock flanked by Fr. Walter Nyatsanza, survival. This leads to concentrating on its internal run. Professor Ranga Zinyemba, National Education Secretary, Sr Theresa affairs, its administration, its defence against real CUZ has four faculties which are Nyadombo and others at the launch of the Catholic University Campus in Commerce, Humanities and Social Masvingo. and perceived enemies and its maintenance of Sciences, Theology and Education systems and traditions just for the sake of it. and other Short Courses studied on expanding the Harare Campus. According to Pope Francis, a Church that merely historic and he is optimistic that the Block Release, Parallel and institution and diocese will grow “We have a number of protects its small flock, that gives all or most of its Conventional. together spiritually, emotionally, infrastructural projects in attention to its faithful clientele, “is a Church that is The Catholic University's ten-year physically and intellectually. progress at our Harare campus sick… a Church that limits herself to administering plan (2013 – 2023) encompass “This is a historic event for us as including the Chapel, events parish work, which lives enclosed within a establishing of campuses in the eight Masvingo Diocese. We have been arena and we plan to build student community, experiences what someone in prison dioceses of the church in Zimbabwe, planning for the opening of the hostels in conjunction with the does: physical and mental atrophy.” introduction of new study programs Catholic University of Zimbabwe Infrastructure Development and diverse study modes. He says “When the Church does not come out of Masvingo Campus for the last five Bank,” said Vice Chancellor of Harare is the main campus whilst itself to evangelize, it becomes self-referential and years and we are indeed grateful that CUZ Professor Ranga Zinyemba. others are in Bulawayo, Mutare, The opening of campuses in then gets sick.” That inward-looking Church, which the Lord has brought us this far,” Chinhoyi, and Gokwe whilst Gweru different dioceses is in line with doesn't look sufficiently to Christ and doesn't reflect said Bishop Bhasera. and Hwange will be opened in the CUZ Vice Chancellor Professor the Catholic University's goal of him, his light and his love for those walking in coming years. Ranga Zinyemba also revealed the bringing education close to the darkness, quickly succumbs to what he called the The Bishop of Masvingo Diocese, strides being taken by the institution people and making it affordable to worst evil of all, a “spiritual worldliness … living in Michael Bhasera who was the guest of in developing it into a world class the poor most of whom could not itself, of itself, for itself.” honor at the launch of CUZ in organization as they are currently access higher education due to The EMM seeks to be part of the healing process. Masvingo noted that the event was distance, time and poverty. The healing process lies in going back to our roots and reminding ourselves of our very identity. The Church is missionary by nature and exists to Constitution dissemination a positive step in enlightening people about their rights. evangelize. We are all baptized and sent. We are By Clemantine Uwineza called to be missionary disciples. The mission of the he Constitution Dissemination, Awareness Church is to announce the Gospel and failing to do and Education outreach workshops which commenced on 10 June and ended on 16 so harms the Church. JulyT 2019 was the platform to equip people in The EMM offers us this opportunity to do an different communities with knowledge of the “examination of missionary consciousness”. As constitution and other human rights. Five dioceses and parishes are we a church of missionary workshops were conducted in the Archdiocese of disciples? Are we outward looking or are inward Bulawayo for IsiNdebele, Kalanga, SeTswana, Khoisan, SeSotho and IsiXhosa. The outreach looking? Pope Francis noted that “there are workshops were carried out in Bulawayo city, ecclesial structures which can hamper efforts at Plumtree, Regina Mundi in Tsholotsho, Gwanda evangelization”. Do our diocesan and parish and Mbembesi. structures serve the mission or do they hamper The Diocese of Masvingo conducted five People take notes aduring the constitution efforts of evangelization. Are there any which need workshops in Chikombedzi for Shangani, dissemination exercise in Nyanga. Beitbridge for Venda, Zaka, Gutu and Chivi for to be reformed? Are we self-preserving or Shona. Mutare Diocese had three workshops in were present in all workshops conducted in the dioceses. At a local missionary? As associations, movements and Chipinge for Ndau, Mutasa for Shona and Nyanga level, leadership structures such as Chiefs, Headmen, Village heads, guilds, are we concerned with evangelizing or with for ChiBarwe while Gokwe Diocese conducted School Children, Councillors, Teachers, the Police, Civil Society recruiting members for our associations. How is our three workshops at Nesigwe for Ndebele, Organisations (CSOs), religious leadership and Members of Chegama for Shona and Siakobvu for Tonga. Parliament (MP) also participated in the process. The Constitution catechesis? Is it a catechesis that forms missionary In Hwange CCJPZ and CPLO conducted six dissemination, awareness and education project intended to: disciples? workshops at Sacred Heart Mission for Nambya, î Promote knowledge and understanding of the Constitution in Holy Family Hwange for Shona, Nambya, Chewa, CORPUSofficially recognized CHRISTI; languages. î Disseminate and enhance awareness of the Constitution Catholic Church News SOURCEprovisions, AND informing SUMMIT citizens of their rights and legal www.catholicchurchnewszimbabwe.com steps to take in the event of violations and equip citizens with the roles of different duty bearers. Published by: OF CATHOLIC FAITH ZCBC Social Communications Commission Africa Synod House: 29 - 31 Selous Ave It was striking to note that many people lacked knowledge Cnr 4th Street, Harare, Zimbabwe about the constitution and responsible organizations should P.O Box Cy 2220 Causeway, Harare take it upon themselves to educate the citizens about the Tel: + 263 796298 M. + 263 772 971 426 constitution and issues that affect them. People indicated that Website; www.zcbc.co.zw provisions in the constitution were not being followed by EDITOR duty bearers who should be adhering to their constitutional Br. Alfonce Kugwa mandate. Such provisions as freedom of expression only [email protected] existed on paper as people live in fear and intimidation St Andrews Mariannhill benefitted from the constitution especially in rural areas where chiefs victimize the villagers CCN Reporter for speaking up their mind. Village heads said they were amendment program. ADVERTISING unknowingly being used by political parties for example in the Tel: 0242 796298 Dandanda and Fatima Mission for Ndebele, distribution of food and farming implements where they receive Kariangwe and Lusulu Mission for Ndebele and instructions to skip those supporting opposition parties. LAYOUT & DESIGN Tonga. The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops' Elena Josi Mupandawana Conference Catholic Commission for Justice and The constitution dissemination program was highly appreciated and DISTRIBUTION Peace together with the Catholic Parliamentary people called for more education and awareness on the issues to do ZCBC Social Communications Office and the Ministry of Justice, Legal and with the constitution and fundamental human rights which protect Parliamentary Affairs (MOJLPA) representatives them from abuse by those in power. July - Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 5 Reflection

In his encyclical, On Human Wo r k , P o p e J o h n P a u l I I observes: The Church is convinced that work is a fundamental dimension of man's existence on earth. “The Church finds in the very first pages of the Book of Genesis the source of her conviction that work is a fundamental dimension of human existence on earth…”2 Again, let us listen to the words of Pope John Paul II: “The Church considers it her duty to speak out on work from the viewpoint of its human value and of the moral order to which it belongs, and she sees this as one of her important tasks within the service that she renders to the evangelical message as a whole.”3 Vatican II also speaks to us about human labor: “It is ordinarily by his labor that a man supports himself and his family, is joined to his fellow men and serves them, and is enabled to exercise genuine charity and be a partner in the work of bringing God's creation to perfection. Indeed, we hold that by offering his labor to God a man becomes associated with the redemptive work itself of Jesus Christ, who conferred an eminent dignity on labor when at Nazareth The Church finds in the very first pages of the Book of Genesis the source of her conviction that work is a He worked with His own hands.”4 fundamental dimension of human existence on earth Fr. Edward Leen, C.S.Sp., speaks to us about Jesus and His work as a moving professional becomes so we must say that our work should His name is Jesus. others with whom God has willed carpenter at Nazareth: “Not even absorbed in his work, so taken first be done for the love of God. If Thomas Merton observes: “All us to live. We share with one after Joseph's death did the with the idea of promotion and we work from this proper motive, Christian life is meant to be at the another the creative work of living existence of Our Lord undergo salary increase, that he becomes we are acting for our own benefit same time profoundly in the world. And it is through our much change, unless it became extremely narrow-minded. also, for what is done for God and contemplative and rich in active struggle with material reality, with more laborious. For the support of Concern for God and others is others promotes our own good work. This might be mistaken for nature, that we help one another, the family and its care of the poor relegated to the far recesses of also. And work done for God must a kind of semipelagian create at the same time our own devolved, then, entirely on His consciousness where it has little be accomplished according to His productivism which is obsessed destiny and a new world for our shoulders. He had to work hard in effect upon the person's thoughts will. Much of our contemporary with visible results and descendants. This work of man, order to keep Himself and His and activities. society places great emphasis on enamoured of technological which is his peculiar and Mother and to have something to Even though we claim such an external success, the recognition prowess. It is true we are called to inescapable vocation, is a give to others less favoured than extreme situation does not of one's work, and the earning of create a better world. But we are prolongation of the creative work themselves. Unremitting toil describe our own we nevertheless more and more money – and all of first of all called to a more exalted of God Himself. Failure to became His lot, and the soft hands can fall prey to lesser faults. For this, in a very secularistic manner task: that of creating our own measure up to this challenge and of the boy became roughened and instance, we diminish the time we with little regard for God and lives. In doing this, we act as co- to meet this creative responsibility hardened with the constant should rightfully be spending with neighbour. In such an atmosphere, workers with God. We take our is to fail in that response to life pressure of the tools of His trade. family members and friends. it is not easy to maintain the place in the great work of which is required of us by the will Upon reflection, we can see the Perhaps we become so absorbed Christian perspective of work. In mankind, since in effect the of our Father the Creator.”6 consequences of this. When work, with our work that we claim we many ways we must go counter- creation of our own destiny, in for whatever reason, is interfering have little time for prayer. If we cultural. If we do so, we will be God, is impossible in pure with our relationship with God and find ourselves with this question, following One Who Himself was isolation. Each one of us works others, something is obviously “What is the God-given purpose not afraid to go against certain out his own destiny in wrong. For example, an upward- of work?” Surely, if we are honest, cultural aspects of His own times. inseparable union with all those A RETREAT TO REMEMBER FOR GOKWE CLERGY

Priests from Gokwe Diocese this year held their annual retreat in Masvingo at The trade mark of a priest is Gokomere for a change. The retreat that was facilitated by Fr. Kenneth prayer and faithfulness to Makamure started on 14 June and was also attended by Bishop Rudolf living the vows so said the Nyandoro, the Rector of Chishawasha Seminary, Fr Joseph Mugara and Fr. retreat master. Tadeus Mandava who also lectures at the “The integrity of a priest and same. his holiness is in the vow of The theme of the retreat resonated with the celibacy,” he said. Gospel passage of John 13:23, in which the Fr. Makamure stressed on the beloved disciple reclined at the bosom of need for community life as it Jesus. Fr. Makamure encouraged priests to safeguards the vocation of take a similar approach of being very close to priesthood and serves as the the heart of Jesus in their ministry. The soul of fraternal brotherhood retreat talks addressed issues to do with for the priests. priestly identity challenging all priests to After the retreat, the clergy had remain faithful to their calling. The retreat time to refresh themselves by master reminded priests from Gokwe about going for an excursion. They visited the Bishop's House for Masvingo Diocese, the Diocesan Spiritually whose emphasis Lake Kyle and had dinner at the hotel where they were joined by the Bishop of focuses on the essentials, mainly Masvingo Rt Rev M.D. Bhasera accompanied by his Vicar General Fr. Walter surrendering and conforming to Jesus Christ Nyatsanza and the Financial Administrator Fr. Jongwe. through prayer, obedience and celibacy. Fr. Makamure emphasised that the main task Fr. Kenneth Makamure of every priest is to celebrate the Eucharist. Page 6 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019

Gokwe Diocese; a Church on the Move in Transforming Communities with Pro-poor Projects. from p3

which opened this year and was created from Amai Vetsitsi Gwave, St. Fidelis Makore that came from St. Joseph Nembudziya and was opened in 2018, St Paul's Chevecheve which opened in 2018 is an offspring of St. Mary's Tongwe while St. Mary's Mother of Peace based at the Diocesan Shrine was weaned from Uganda Martyrs and partly Gwave Mission. Many people in areas of the new missions appreciate the initiative by the diocese which they These bicycles were donated by Caritas to students who live far from from Nemangwe High School. projects to support the new mission while at Huchu Masuka plans to build a New Schools: priest's house are underway. As communities in Gokwe realise the importance of T h e u p c o m i n g M a k o r e Catholic Education, calls are being made for the Diocese Mission runs Batsirai to acquire more schools formerly run by local councils. Secondary School while a Parents feel that there is value and qualityBatsirai education Secondary in school has three blocks and only two are fuctional priest' house is being built for Catholic schools, hence there are many requests from the resident priest. Currently communities and that will see more schools as the coming third one was condemned for security reasons. the priest resides at under the supervision of the Diocese. So far the diocese A church and hall at Huchu Masuka Mission N e m b u d z i y a M i s s i o n . has acquired Masawi, Gwave, and Chegama Primary recently opened in the Diocese of Gokwe. A c c o r d i n g t o B i s h o p Schools as well as Sawi Secondary School and the Nyandoro, the new missions response from the parents has been overwhelming h a v e e x t r a - o r d i n a r y say paves way for more development in Gokwe. They according to Bishop Nyandoro. enthusiasm for developing into vibrant centres of vowed to support the new structures being put up in the faith. At Chevecheve, the community is building a diocese. The opening of more missions has resulted in the church and they are on the way to giving Chevecheve Batsirai Secondary School. creation of the fifth deanery (Eastern Deanery) comprising Primary and Secondary schools currently owned by of St. Mary's Tongwe, St. Paul's Chevecheve and St. Clare the local council. The strides being made by the Diocese of Gokwe point in the right direction towards bringing the church to the people and building a church that embraces all by taking development to the remote areas. It is these people who need the church's best services such as health, education, spiritual advancement and improved livelihoods because it is in them that the church New Missions: finds its strength. In 2016 Gokwe Diocese had 17 mission stations and The priest's house at Huchu Bishop Nyandoro has raised the number to 22. As the Masuka Mission in Gokwe. diocese progresses in evangelization five more missions have been opened which are St. Mary's Nyika in Jiri area Gwanyika. which is an offshoot of Sengwa Mission, Huchu Masuka St. Mary's Nyika already run cattle, piggery and chicken CarmeliteCarmelite FriarsFriars ZimbabweZimbabwe

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[email protected] July - Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 7 Two Catechists honoured for growth of faith in Matebeleland Region By Br. Alfonce Kugwa Francis for her sterling contribution as a catechist in the Archdiocese of Bulawayo for 45 years and the late Mr. Alexander Regis Gwenelo. Mr. Gwenelo's role together with that of Mrs. Mugadza and many other catechists cannot be underestimated in the development of Christian faith in Matebeleland Province. Archbishop Alex Thomas of Bulawayo said the role of catechists such as the late Mr. Gwenelo and Mrs. Mugadza was very important in the growth of faith in Matebeleland and the whole of Zimbabwe as their contribution influenced many people who encountered their presence. “These people toiled on foot and sometimes on bicycles in a bid to spread the mission of Christ. Most of you remember the name “Mr. Gwenelo” who was very instrumental in shaping people's faith through catechism in the Archdiocese. He worked hard for the archdiocese to be what it is today. There are many catechists whose work we cherish for supporting the mission of the Church and for their zeal to educate Archbishop Alex blesses Mrs. Anna Mugadza people about the values of the Gospel,” Archbishop as he hands over the plaque of honour given to her by Pope Francis. Alex said. Because of his authentic work as a catechist and his unwavering support for the mission, the Archdiocese atechists in Matebeleland received a special honour during the Archdiocese of Bulawayo's of Bulawayo has awarded a special honour to the late commemoration of 140 years of Christianity held on 29 June 2019 at Our Lady of Fatima in Pumula Gwenelo by naming the new block at Emthonjeni CSouth. Of special mention was Mrs. Anna Mugadza who received a special recognition from Pope Pastoral Centre after him. Construction of Alexander Regis Gwenelo block started in 2008 and was completed this year. Archbishop Alex presented a plaque bearing the late catechist's name to Fr. Limukani Ndlovu, the priest in charge of the pastoral centre. Mrs. Mugadza who was accompanied by her children, nieces and nephews expressed joy and gratitude as she received the plaque of honour from Archbishop Alex. This public honour of catechists by Archbishop Alex was well received by many who applauded him for recognising local efforts in the establishment of the local Church and in the ministry of evangelization. Fr. Limukani Ndlovu confirmed that Mr. Gwenelo was a humble man dedicated to his work. “This man played a significant role in the Archdiocese as a lay person. He was involved in the formation of pastoral teams, Small Christian Communities, catechists, translations, church music and was also one of the trainers at the Pastoral Centre. He was dedicated to his work. He never demanded anything from the Church, he was a humble man who respected Church authorities,” stated Fr. Limukani. Fr. Limukani said catechists were treated with high esteem in parishes and missions in the Archdiocese of Bulawayo and the local church was promoting voluntary catechists as compared to full time paid Fr. Limukani Ndlovu waits to receive a tablet bearing the name of the late prominent catechist, Mr. ones. He noted that the involvement of catechists as Alexander Regis Gwenelo to be placed on the new block named after him. teachers of the faith was a sign of empowerment of lay people in the Church, hence it should be promoted. Fr. Limukani said Emthonjeni Pastoral Centre has annual programmes for catechists which help them to remain effective and focused in their ministry. He said: “Catechists’ programs include, among other things, ongoing formation which take place every August and catechists' annual retreats which take place in March or during Lent. This year in August they will have their Conference here. We are trying our best to affirm and support them with resources for their ministry.” Catechists play an important role as they are commissioned by the Church “to hand down” the faith. They are usually designated and trained people who introduce catechumens, candidates and young people to faith. In other words, catechists complement the work of the Church through carrying out pastoral duties in areas where priests and the religious are scarce.

Alexander Regis Gwenelo Block named in honour of the late catechist Mr. Alexander Gwenelo. Page 8 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019 Jostling for power and positions are wrong ambitions; Priests told during an ordination of five in Gweru By Br. Alfonce Kugwa ostling for power and positions are wrong ambitions in Catholic priesthood. This was said at Jan ordination of five priests at Mkoba Stadium in Gweru on 13 July 2019. The five were ordained by Bishop Michael Bhasera, the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Gweru. Among the five, Frs. Kudakwashe Chidhe, Aaron Mpofu, Stephen Mangoma and Augustine Manhovo are diocesan priests belonging to the Diocese of Gweru while Fr. Tembo Samuel Zhuva is of the Order of the Oblates of Mary Imaculate present in the Archdiocese of Bulawayo. Addressing the new priests, Fr. Fortunate Kwiri highlighted that ordination is a revelation of God's presence to his people and that a priest is a gift from God to humanity. Fr. Kwiri urged the gathering of Catholics from different backgrounds who had gathered to witness the ordination to respect their priests so as to cultivate a culture of mutual understanding and tolerance. “The way we treat priests reflects the way we relate to God. However, this does not mean that priests should take people for granted but should also respect their Bishop Michael Bhasera ordains new priests for Gweru Diocese.

flock,” said Fr. Kwiri. Fr. Kwiri challenged priests to bring peace and not division to the communities which they minister. He said priests should understand their ministry well for them to be effective in their work of evangelization. He castigated those who join priesthood for personal benefits saying they are in the wrong ministry. He, however, encouraged the spirit of service among those who answer to the call of pastoral ministry. “Jostling for power and positions are wrong ambitions in the Catholic priesthood. Priests are ordained to serve both rich and poor. Priesthood means embracing all situations and all people. If you expect too much than what you are asked to do you will be disappointed. You are not ordained for the rich but the poor also need your comfort and listening ear. We are at the disposal of all and we should remain the apex of unity, peace and harmony,” he said.

Bishop Bhasera welcomes the newly ordained priest into the clergy. Jubilee celebrations in Mutare enlivens the spirit of commitment and service to religious women. By Sr. Redemptor Samungure Kapita, Angelica Dzawanda and Teresita Katsogoro commemorated 25 years of service in the Carmelite order. On the other hand Srs. Imelda Manuhwa , Lucy Mugadzaweta and Ancilla Sedze bowed in humble adoration as they celebrated 50yrs of committed service in the Church. In his homily Fr. Simplisio Manyika reminded the sisters that it was a day to stand like and with Mary at the foot of the cross contemplating the mystery of the cross. He also reminded them that they are like special coffee mugs always ready and prepared to hold refreshments for the people of God. Mother Evelyn Kadzere also reminded the sisters to be Silver jubilarians renew their vows during jubilee the light of the world like Jesus Christ as she handed celebrations. the silver jubilarians candles to lighten their way. To the golden girls, she handed them little baskets as a The 16th of July is a solemnity of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, the reminder to continue to remain the other hand of Mary patroness, mother as well as sister to the Carmelites. It is also the feast cooperating in the evanglization ministry. Gracing the One of the sisters celebrating day of Mutare diocese. This year, the feast day was one of the occasion was Bishop Paul Horan, Bishop Emeritus her golden jubilee poses for a memorable celebrations for the church in Mutare as well as the Alexio Muchabaiwa and Fr. Conrad Mutizamhepo pitcture with Bishop Horan Carmelite family as 6 handmaids of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel came to O.Carm who is the Councillor General for Africa for and friends the altar of God in thanksgiving and celebration of their silver and the Carmelites, priests and religious from all corners of brothers. The postulants and the novices golden jubilees as consecrated women. It was all glitter and ululation at Mutare Diocese. The liturgy was well spiced with the enlivened the day with dancing. Mary Carmel Motherhouse in Aerodrome Mutare as Srs. Justine angelic voices of the sister's choir backed up with their July - Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 9

Five Zim Bishops attend SECAM Jubilee From P2 “through the Regional Conferences” (SECAM members include a Treasurer, appointed by the Standing Statutes, Art. 2), especially in the following domains: Committee, and eight members, nominated by, and Continuation of the essential apostolate of primary representing each Regional Conferences. Others maybe evangelization of those who have not yet received the co-opted, on an ex-officio basis, by the Standing message of Christ; Committee, e.g. the President of the Pan-African In-depth evangelization of the people of God in Africa Episcopal Committee for Social Communications in their cultures and in their socio-political life; (CEPACS) and the President of Caritas Africa. Biblical Apostolate; Promotion of faith, culture and development; REGIONAL CONFERENCES OF SECAM Promotion of integral human development; The eight Regions of SECAM are: Some Bishops at the SECAM Jubilee Celebrations in Uganda Harnessing of modern social communications Association of Episcopal Conferences of Central Africa initiatives and resources for effective pastoral (ACEAC), speak with one voice on matters pertaining to the Church engagement; Association of Episcopal Conferences of Central Africa in Africa. Ecumenism and inter-religious dialogue in Africa; Region (ACERAC), The African Bishops saw it as an opportune occasion to Promotion of institutes of research and of pastoral and Regional Episcopal Conference of West Africa launch the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of theological formation; (RECOWA/CERAO); Africa and Madagascar during the visit of Pope Paul VI to Regular consultations on major problems facing the Assembly of the Catholic Hierarchy of Egypt (AHCE); Kampala (Uganda) in 1969. Thereafter, it was agreed to Church in Africa and in the world; and Regional Episcopal Conference of North Africa establish the Headquarters / Secretariat of SECAM in Promoting organic pastoral solidarity in continental (CERNA); Accra, Ghana. There are three official languages of Africa and its nearby Islands (Ecclesia in Africa, No. 5) Association of Member Episcopal Conferences of SECAM, namely, English, French and Portuguese. Eastern Africa (AMECEA); The vision of the founding Fathers in establishing COMPOSITION OF SECAM Inter-Regional Meeting of the Bishops of Southern SECAM was to make the Church in Africa fully SECAM, as a Symposium, is an organ for liaison, study Africa (IMBISA) committed to its mission of evangelization and the and consultation aimed at a fruitful collaboration Episcopal Conferences of the Indian Ocean (CEDOI) emergence of a fully evangelized Family of God in Africa. among the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar through the regional Conferences. It is SECAM DAY The founding Fathers wanted to achieve this vision by th fostering communion, collaboration and joint action comprised of all juridically established Episcopal To commemorate its founding, SECAM established 29 Conferences of Africa and Madagascar, grouped under July as a SECAM DAY. On this day, or the Sunday among all the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and th Madagascar. Regional Conferences. closest to the 29 of July, every diocese is encouraged to SECAM operates through two major Commissions, the The highest body of SECAM is the Plenary Assembly have a commemorative Mass to make SECAM better “Commission for Evangelisation” and the “Justice, Peace which unites all members, through their elected known. A special collection is made with the diocese and Development Commission” (JPDC). On Pontifical representatives, once every three years. In between the retaining 25% and 75% sent to SECAM to support its recommendation, SECAM has also established a Pan- Plenary Assemblies, the SECAM Standing Committee operations. The special collection supplements the African Episcopal Committee for Social runs the affairs of SECAM through its bi-annual annual levy that each diocese pays to SECAM. Communications (CEPACS). meetings. It is composed of a President and two Vice SECAM works with the whole Church in Africa, Presidents, all elected by the Plenary Assembly. Other

MBy TatendaAS MqetuVINGO DIOCESE ORDAINS THREE PRIESTS

Newly ordained priests for Masving Diocese are seen flanking Bishop Michael Bhasera.

he Catholic Diocese of Masvingo on the 6th of Rev. Fr. Vitalis Gotami in his homily ordination of the trio. They had their first July 2019 witnessed the priestly ordination of highlighted that priesthood comes with masses celebrated on the 7th of July 2019 in their three new priests at St Joseph's Primary authority and responsibility to serve in respective parishes. SchoolT in Beitbridge. Rev Fr. Cuthbert Wasosa from imitation of Christ whilst their being is hinged Aspirants go through priestly formation which the Good Shepherd in Chiredzi, Rev Fr. Isaac upon dependence on God and prayers of the last seven to nine years depending on their Muzenda from Ss Peter and Paul Cathedral and Rev Christian community. background and the seminary they attend as Fr. Denis Kuzipa from St James Chivamba were “Priesthood comes with authority and there are three levels of seminary formation called forward and presented to the assembly before responsibility to serve in imitation of Christ, which they have to undergo. being probed by Sekuru Bhasera in their quest to be thus they assume that authority as they lead ordained to priesthood. the laity in their parishes and missions,” noted Sekuru Bhasera ordained the three clerics through Fr. Gotami. laying on of hands, the anointing with oil and handed Catholics from other Dioceses and Musina, them a chalice and paten as tools for their trade. South Africa were in attendance at the priestly Page 10 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019 July - Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 11

Pastoral Conference for Bulawayo Catechists

By Leonard Ncube will start on Monday 12 formation will be on show support to those who August. Tuesday and Wednesday,” work as catechists,' he bout 200 catechists The Archdiocese Pastoral said Fr. Limukani. added. Along the way, there from the Director Fr. Limukani He said participants will be will be some stop overs for AArchdiocese of Ndlovu said the procession drawn from catechists and some talks and prayers as Bulawayo are expected to will take place on 15 priests from the well as the way of the cross. march from Emthonjeni August followed by Holy Archdiocese. The first talk will be done at Pastoral Centre in Kumalo Mass to be led by “On 15 August we will the pastoral centre before suburb to St. Mary's Basilica Archbishop Alex Thomas at have a procession as a way departure at 7am. The third in the city centre as a way of the Basilica. of expressing our faith of stop will be at the Large City expressing the Catholic faith “This is a catechists being sent as missionaries Hall. Holy Mass is set for of being sent to evangelize. conference for 2019 in the of faith. We will be sent midday. Fr. Limukani said The procession which is to year of evangelization from pastoral centre while a limited number of be characterized by prayer through holiness which is through town to the catechists had confirmed sessions, rosary recitation, the pastoral theme for this Cathedral where there will attending the retreat, the music and planned talks, year. We will begin on be silent adoration and majority of them indicated will cap a four-day Monday 12 which is a day Holy Mass. We are all they will join on the day of catechists' conference which of arrival while ongoing catechists and we want to the procession. Page 12 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019

RedCom donate towards reconstruction of St. Charles Luwanga By CCN Reporter Donations towards Cyclone Idai victims continue to pour in with Redemptorist Communications (RedCom) donating RTGS 7 700.00 towards the reconstruction of St. Charles Luwanga Secondary School in Chimanimani that was severely affected by the disaster. The money was handed over to Fr. Talent Muhomba who represented the Bishop of Mutare, Rt. Rev. Paul Horan at a handover ceremony that took place at the Redemptorist bookshop in Harare on Monday, 17 June 2019. Receiving the donation, Fr. Muhomba thanked RedCom for the kind gesture that shows solidarity of the Church in taking care of those who need support. “As Mutare Diocese, we appreciate the gesture by RedCom of RTGS7 700.00 towards reconstruction of St. Charles Luwanga. The gesture is a sign of solidarity with the victims of Cyclone Idai especially St. Charles Luwanga school that was damaged Br. Kenneth Temba and Fr. Francis Kunaka hands over the cheque to Fr. Muhomba while Mr. Makura looks on. by the tropical cyclone. The diocese is in the process of rebuilding the disturbed due to the unfortunate incident that rocked the school.” school and the money will go a long According to RedCom Coordinator, Mrs. Dorothy Zakeyo, an additional RTGS 1 830.00 would be sent directly to Mutare way in supporting the project. We Diocese for the same project as soon as it was received from Ecocash. thank RedCom for coming up with Other donated goods include blankets, clothes, shoes and jerseys which will be distributed through Caritas Mutare to victims this donation and for remembering of the cyclone in Chimanimani and other areas. In April, RedCom delivered some roles of black plastic sheeting and some those students whose education was groceries to the Presbytarian Church for urgent distribution to the victims of the disaster.

Beyond imagination Gone in March Beyond imagination Beyond comprehension Gone in the dark night Gone with the “precious water Gone with their human nature! It is like a dream! You wake up and there is nobody Gone unknowingly In the dark night Was this of God? Can we call it his time? A whole community wiped away Gone in the dark night The March of evil Open rebellion to humanity Is this you God? Our souls tormented When I close my eyes I can see their smiles While they still belonged to this earth Sometimes in dreams they dialogue Oh God! Is this a natural wonder? If I say natural evil Will you forsake me almighty?

Mr. Rangarira Chikwara Headmaster of Charles Lwanga

If you have concerns that you want other people to know in the church send them to use for the publication in the Catholic Church News Call: 0772971426/o24796298 E-mail: [email protected] July - Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 13

Beitbridge Town Council to name road in honour of Fr. Jules Greber; As Church mourns two great missionaries By Br. Alfonce Kugwa Michael Treber who was the Moto Editor, was he Dioceses of Gweru and Masvingo were deported by the Smith regime on 9 March 1970 Together with one of h i s thrown into deep sorrow and mourning at for publishing a cartoon of a white hand crushing fellow missionaries h e the passing on of two heroes who laid the blacks with the caption; “Government will be published still the fascinat foundationT of faith in Gweru Diocese. Fr Jules retained in responsible hands. ing history of the G w e l o Greber SMB was among the many Bethlehem According to the SMB Immensee Bethlehem mission from 1946 u p t o Missionaries who worked tirelessly in the Mission Society website, Albert Plangger was 1977, the date when the development and growth of Christianity in the born on 9 June 1925 in the village of Oberuzwil first local Africa Midlands and Masvingo Provinces. In in Switzerland. He was the oldest son of Austrian n priest parents which meant that he was proud to Chirumanzu, Bikita, Zvishavane, Chivi and w a s become a citizen of Europe when Austria Beitbridge, Fr. Greber left a legacy for many to ordai cherish. He built many churches and schools and became a member of the European Union. On 23 September 1945 he became a member of the n e d initiated developmental projects that helped a s transform the lives of many people. Bethlehem Mission Society and did his In Beitbridge, where he served for more than 30 philosophical and theological training at its years, Fr. Greber built a state of the art St. Joseph's seminary. On 18 March 1951 he received his Primary School and St. Mary's Secondary School priestly ordination by Bishop Francis Demon of which have opened opportunities for many poor Aliwal South Africa and celebrated his first children to attain better education. He also paid Mass. In preparation for his missionary ministry school fees for many underprivileged and he was sent for further studies in New York and vulnerable children and many attained their Fribourg Switzerland and obtained his Master of dreams because of his unselfish love. Even in his Arts in Anthropology. old age, Fr. Greber continued to help many poor In November 1954 he arrived in Southern people including priests and religious who needed Rhodesia and began missionary work in the his help. Fr. Greber later on in his life served as the Diocese of Gwelo. After work at the mission Regional Superior for the Bethlehem Mission stations of Driefontein and Holy Cross, the Society in Zimbabwe before he went home to seek Bishop of the diocese appointed him as his medical treatment and later died on 8 July 2019. secretary and made him Diocesan Education A letter of condolence delivered to the Bethlehem Secretary. As resident of Mambo Press in Gwelo Mission Society headquarters in Switzerland by he became in 1972, Managing Director of its the priest in charge of Beitbridge parish, Fr. printing and publishing establishment. The Bis Samson Mutsvanga, revealed that the Beitbridge directors of Mambo Press had to submit to hop Town council recently indicated its desire to increasing censorship by the white Rhodesian o f honour Fr. Greber by naming one of its roads after government and feared legal persecution. Father Gwel him. Fr. Greber worked in Zvishavane from 1967 Plangger published a collection of the pastoral o . F r . letters of the Rhodesian Catholic Bishops under to 1973before he moved to Moyo Musande where Pla ngger the title 'Rhodesia – the Moral issue'. He also co- he stayed until 1975. From there, he moved to St. als o died Joseph's Hama in 1976 to 1987. From 1987 to authored the book Tsumo-Shumo with Mordikayi Hamutyinei while he had other o n 8 July, 1993 he was at Berejena Mission in Chivi before 2019 at moving to Beitbridge where he stayed between articles to his name which include Catholic reactions to the Liberation War in Zimbabwe and the a g e o f 1994 and 1996. He was then transferred to Silveira 94. Misssion where he served from 1997 to 1999 many more. During all his years at Mambo Press before he moved back to Beitbridge in 2000 until in Gwelo he served as a priest in the Catholic 2013. It was in 2013 that Fr. Greber moved to parish St. Mary's in the Senga township. Masvingo until 2017. Between 2017 and 2018, he In 1992 Father Albert moved to the capital, was at Driefontein Regional House. He then Harare to Mambo House where he kept himself departed Zimbabwe to Switzerland on 20 May busy as a freelance journalist and where he 2018 and died on 8 July 2019. served the local church and the community of the Fr. Planger is renowned for his immense Dominican Sisters. He also used to give contribution in the establishment of the local introductory courses to new missionary staff, Church's main torch bearer, Moto newspaper particularly to the medical staff of the Swiss which he helped shape up together with the Frs. organisation Solidarmed. In 2016 Fr. Plangger Michael Treber, Joseph Lenherr and others. Fr. returned to Switzerland for the rest of his life.

r e c o g n i s e d s o m e o f Father Albert Plannger – Priest, Publisher & Historian Zimbabwe's now celebrated : academics and highly talented Quite a big player in Zimbabwe media artists and writers. A celebration by Cris Chinaka Mambo Press helped launch or consolidate some of these For three decades, Father Alongside Father Michael Church institution as a Traber — a high profile fountain of knowledge talents onto the national and Albert Bruno Plangger worked global stage. quietly in his corner, helping to newspaper editor and priest — through the publication of Fr. Plangger, will be groundbreaking books and Poets. Novelists. Historians. build one of Zimbabwe's iconic Journalists. From in, and media and book publishing remembered for establishing research work on a wide range Mambo Press as a firm fair of subjects. outside the Catholic Church. houses – Mambo Press in Paul Chidyausiku. Musaemura Gweru. voice around social and P a s t o r a l . H i s t o r y . political issues during the Anthropology. Literature. Zimunya. Patrick Chakaipa. He died in Switzerland on July Mordecai Hamutyinei. 8 2019, aged 94. struggle for Zimbabwe's Medicine. Sociology. independence. Environment. Religion. Chenjerai Hove. Terrence Father Plangger, a member of Ranger. Ngwabi Bhebe. the Bethlehem Mission Society Groundbreaking works Gender. Education. Farming. Besides publishing MOTO Science. Politics. Canaan Banana. Justin Nyoka. (SMB) who was ordained a Simbi Mubako. Henry Pote. priest in 1951, relocated to newspaper and magazines Under Father Plangger's (Mambo and Kristo) that directorship (1972-1992), Leo Hatugari. Rose Mabuza. Switzerland for health reasons Anne Knuth. Mwanyanya in 2016 after 62 years of clearly supported the Mambo Press consolidated its pastoral and social service in nationalist struggle, the Swiss- position as a big publishing Zimbabwe. born priest set up this Catholic cathedral that sought out and Cont on P 16 Page 14 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019

The Coming of the Precious Blood Sisters Br. Fr. Rangarirai Mutanga O.carm The Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood` (CPS Sisters) have formed a new community at to kriste mambo Kriste Mambo High School for Girls in the Diocese of Mutare. The Sisters took up residence at Kriste Mambo on the 5th of January 2019. Sister Monica Maparura has been appointed Headmistress at Kriste Mambo High School by the Ministry of Education at the request of the Carmelite Commissary Provincial and Council in Zimbabwe and with the approval of the Provincial and Council of `The Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood` in Zimbabwe, Sr. Veronica Dingi CPS. Sr. Veronica Dingi, CPS, Provincial, Council members and Sisters of the Precious Blood came Students at Don Bosco Technical College in Hwange to witness the opening of the new Community House at Kriste Mambo early this year. Father Vitalis Benza, the Carmelite Commissary Provincial, Father Alexio Makokowe (Prior, Kriste Mambo) and the Carmelite Community members at Kriste Mambo welcomed the Sisters to their new foundation. The Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood` are no strangers to the Diocese of Mutare. They were the first Missionary Sisters to come to Triashill Mission in 1910 and other Missions during the very early years of the Church in Manicaland. The Sisters also guided the Carmelite Sisters both in Leadership and in Formation up to 1977 when Sister Gertrude Bhobho was elected the first Carmelite Mother General of the Congregation. The Carmelite Provincial, Fr. Vitalis Benza in company of other priests welcome the Precious Blood Sisters to Two Precious Blood Sisters are at present resident Kriste Mambo. The Precious Blood Sisters opened a community at Kriste Mambo early this year after one of in the community at Kriste Mambo, Sister Monica them was appointed to lead the school as head. Maparura and Sister Maria Immaculate Kachasu.

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ZIMBABWE HEADS OF CHRISTIAN DENOMINATIONS “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly, (John 10:10)”

“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called Children of God” (Matthew 5 Verse 9)

APPRECIATING OUR RICH POLITICAL DIVERSITIES FOR NATIONAL UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT, PEACE AND STABILITY

2.8. Frustrated, duped, angry and hurt; let down and disappointed that we have everything in our constitution and in our country, but nothing to show in our real lives: where are jobs; where is peace; where is water, food and shelter? Where is unity for the common good? 3. Appreciating: 3.1. The role of our Defence Forces (ZDF) as defined in Section 212 of the Constitution and their humility and willingness to engage, 3.2. the role of the Chapter 12 Constitutional Commissions as defined in Section 233 of the Constitution; and their humility and willingness to be always available for us and 3.3. The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD) for bringing together youths from different political parties under one roof as God's children to accept political diversities and work together towards national unity, national development, peace, stability and the common good. 4. Kindly request: 4.1. The Defence Forces to 4.1.1.be more involved in protecting Zimbabwe and its people neutrally in accordance with Sections 212 and 48-84 of the Constitution, 4.1.2. Institute and popularize a Human Rights Safeguarding Chaplaincy, 4.1.3. create civilian facility – with a real time response - for citizens to submit their concerns or complaints and Youths from different political backgrounds share the same table 4.1.4. Carry out national, provincial and district in trying to find solutions to problems affecting the nation. information sharing activities – with the assistance of the ZHOCD - to increase civilians' understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the Statement by youth leaders from 20 Zimbabwe 28 June 2019 at Rockwood Pastoral Centre and Cresta ZDF. Political Parties following Youth Political Party Oasis Hotel respectively to reflect on how youth 4.2. Chapter 12 Independent Commissions Dialogues with the Security Sector and Chapter 12 leaders from different political parties could swallow Supporting Democracy to Commissions convened by the Zimbabwe Heads of their political egos and work together as 4.2.1. To be more visible and assertive in their work, Christian Denominations (ZHOCD) on 7 June and Zimbabweans for a more peaceful, inclusive and 4.2.2. To be more effective in fulfilling their 28 June 2019 respectively prosperous nation; constitutional responsibilities in practice and not …………………………………………………… 2. Reflecting on what is provided in the Preamble of just in words and ……………………………………… the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20) 4.2.3. To be more helpful and accessible by e, the youth leaders of the following Act 2013 (thereafter referred to as the decentralizing to the rest of the country, especially to political parties: #1980 Freedom Constitution) against the realities on the ground and the poor and marginalized communities. WMovement Zimbabwe; Coalition of expressed our universal feelings: 4.3.The government of Zimbabwe to: Democrats (CODE); Democratic Opposition Party of 2.1.of encouragement to be faithful to God and to be 4.3.1.ensure that the Constitution and all the other Zimbabwe (DOP); Divine Alliance for Vitalisation masters of our lives, EMPOWERING CHURCHES laws are faithfully observed, of Inspired Development (DAVID); FreeZim FOR NATIONAL TRANSFORMATION (LUKE 4.3.2.recognize and improve the potential and Congress (FreeZim); Good People's Movement: 4:18-19) entrepreneurship of the youths in small and Zimbabwe People's Party (GPP:ZPP); Movement 2.2. of inspiration and empowerment that we can remove medium enterprises, agriculture, mining, for Democratic Change Alliance (MDC-A); the word DARK on Zimbabwe, business and commerce so that they could produce Movement for Democratic Change- Tsvangirai 2.3. of patriotism, unity, love for and protection of for export to generate foreign currency –no one will (MDCT); National Action Party (NAP); National our country to honour brave sons and daughters develop this nation except ourselves! Alliance for Good Governance (NAGG); National who fought for us in the liberation struggle, 4.3.3. Take REAL, CONVINCING AND Constitutional Assembly (NCA); National 2.4. of respecting and tolerating one another as sons TANGIBLE ACTION against corruption especially Patriotic Front (NPF); New Patriotic Front (NPF); and daughters of Zimbabwe and as reported by the Auditor General - and RECOVER Rebuilding Zimbabwe Party (RZP); United 2.5. of independence and sovereignty, optimism and all that was “stolen” for the benefit of all African National Council (UANC); United hope that we are no longer a colony Zimbabweans and Democracy Movement (UDM); United But also 4.3.4. complete and implement affirmative action Democratic Front (UDF); Zimbabwe African 2.6. In deep pain of experiencing opposite of what the to include the youth in policy formulation, National Union Patriotic Front (ZANU PF); Constitution proclaims: where are we missing it if the monitoring and implementation. Zimbabwe African People`s Union (ZAPU) and Constitution says everything everybody affirms? 4.4. The Business to Zimbabwe Partnership for Prosperity (ZPP); 2.7. Feeling cheated that guardians of the constitution 4.4.1. Support the government in implementing 1. Invited by the Church under the ZHOCD on 7 and often become the first to disobey it, Cont on P17 Page 16 Catholic Church News July- Sept 2019

VOCATION EXPO OPENS YOUNG PEOPLE TO CHRISTIAN MINISTRY. By Vimbai Masoso Malbereign as the parish has a unique strength and gift He said: “God created us to Chichester in 1932 and it is the invited different religious with which they can make a know him, love him and also first local congregation in positive contribution for the to work for him. Any other Zimbabwe. good of the church Religious groups that were represented on this day were the Jesuits, the Little Children of our Blessed Lady Sisters, the Franciscan Capuchins, the Poor Clare Sisters, the sisters of Charity the Redemptorists, Diocesans Priests, Franciscan Friars, Sisters of Jesus of N a z a r e t h , D o m i n i c a n Brothers, Sisters and Priests. They all had time to interact with the youth who had many questions on what it takes to be a religious. The Poor Clare he month of July is a congregations to share their Sisters, the Sisters of Charity vocation follows after Addressing couples, Fr. month to celebrate apostolate, charism and and the Sisters of Jesus of knowing why God created us. Ephraim Murwira stressed the different vocations that spirituality with the young and Nazareth were represented by He stressed that people need importance of love and unity in existT in the Catholic Church. girls, Mutsai and Tsitsi who to illuminate the parish on the to listen to what God says the family. There is a special Sunday role they play in the Church. have a special devotion to the because at times the route that He said: “love is the most dedicated to promoting and The Vocation Expo offered above religious organisations people take is not the way that important thing in life that binds campaigning for different people especially the young a n d t h e y s h a r e d t h e God has planned for them.” families together and couples vocations ranging from ones an opportunity to know congregation's apostolate, People had a chance to should keep that love until they priesthood, religious life and more about different religious charism and spirituality. The understand the background of have been separated by death.” married life. On this day orders that exist within the Poor Clare Sisters needed different congregations and The diverse religious groups in congregations in different Catholic Church. On this day special representation as they why they are named after the Catholic Church reminds us dioceses visit parishes to the parish also celebrated live a cloistered life of prayer different saints. Sr. Kudzanai of the fact that the Church is one explain and solicit for young wedding anniversaries for and contemplation. Chidenga said: “The Little body with many parts destined people to join their path of couples that have been Fr. Haparari said that the first Children of Our Blessed Lady for different functions. evangelisation. 21 July is a day married for five years and vocation of every Christian is (LCBL) was started by to remember for those who above. A vocation is based on to know why God created Archbishop Aston Ignatius belong to Holy Name Parish in the idea that each individual them.

A vocation has a general and a particular meaning in Catholic parlance. In general, the term refers to the call of Christ, offered to all the baptised, to follow him and to become signs and witnesses of the reign of God. The particular meaning refers to a specific state of life to which believers understand that God is calling them. Priest, Publisher & Historian From P13 identifying with their quest for Plangger received a prison and knowledge, Father Plangger role in training African Dhliwayo. independence — was deported sentence under the Law and remained modest. journalists and providing As a fiery critic of white to Switzerland in 1970 for his Order (Maintenance) Act for Modest priest and editor them with the opportunity to minority rule in Zimbabwe role in fighting the white publishing a Pastoral Letter by As an editor and journalist, practice their profession. (renamed Rhodesia under minority Rhodesian Front Bishop Lamont in which he Father Plangger listened more The MOTO newspaper that British colonialism), Father government. Father Albert attacked the Rhodesian than he talked, and he hardly both the late Fathers Albert Plangger and Mambo Press was Plangger maintained Mambo constitution and compared the talked about himself. His body of Plangger and Michael regularly harassed by Ian Press's strident posture despite Rhodesian Front political work spoke for him— and is Traber are associated with Smith's Rhodesian Front (RF) official intimidation of its doctrine with that of the Nazis. starkly different from a small but w a s f o u n d e d o n t h e government. editorial staff, advertisers and Father Plangger's appeal noisy crop of narcissistic principles of fairness and distributors. He was arrested against the sentence was characters hawking for attention justice, and a commitment to Building on Father Michael several times for publishing dismissed by the Supreme in Zimbabwe's media space. be a “fearless conscience of Traber subversive material in Moto, Court which ruled that In the book “The Mass Media in its readers, condemning evil Father Michael Traber (SMB) and the government stopped the “destructive criticism” could the Struggle for Zimbabwe,” and acknowledging good — under which Moto (Shona circulation of a number of exacerbate the (political) published by Mambo Press regardless of where they word for fire) had become the editions of the weekly situation in the country. under the directorship of Father might be found.” newspaper of choice for newspaper before it was For all his historical role and Plangger, Elaine Windrich says Zimbabwe's black majority for banned. In 1977, Father contribution, all his contacts MOTO also played an important July- Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 17

APPRECIATING OUR RICH POLITICAL DIVERSITIES FOR NATIONAL UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT, PEACE AND STABILITY

From P15

government policy 4.4.2. prioritise youth empowerment and resourcing so that they become more useful in promoting national unity, national development, peace, stability and the common good. 4.5. Political parties to 4.5.1. Humble themselves and put the interest of the country ahead of their political interest and 4.5.2. come together to engage and dialogue as Zimbabwe political parties for national unity and development, peace and stability 4.6. The ZHOCD, as Church, to 4.6.1. demonstrate good faith in facilitating peace and dialogue among citizens and state institutions such as the ZDF, Traditional Leaders, Constitutional Commissions and duty bearers 4.6.2. Calm and sober up the nation to prevent volatile conflicts before lives and livelihoods are lost 4.6.3. Pray for the nation We, as representatives of young people of Zimbabwe constituting 60% of the population, say YES to peace and NO to violence. We believe in working for national NOT Youths from different political parties set aside differences to discuss the way forward for the partisan or individual interest. We are fully prepared and country at dialogue meeting organized by Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD.) committed to contribute to the socio -economic and political development of Zimbabwe in any legal and meaningful way.

Facilitated and supported by the ZHOCD comprising Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ), Union for the Development of African Churches in Zimbabwe and Africa (UDACIZA), Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops' Conference (ZCBC) and Zimbabwe Council of Churches.

Tribute to Fr. Eliot Vumbanyama

The Late Fr. Eliot Vumbanyama died in Cape Town after swallowing a fish bone. Fr. Vumbanyama belonged to Gokwe Diocese and was seconded to work in Namibia by the then Bishop of Gokwe Diocese, Bishop Emeritus Angel Floro. Fr. Vumbanyama was born on 24 January 1968. For his primary school, he attended St. Dominic’s Chireya between 1980 and 1986 before proceeding to Marist Dete for his secondary education. He later joined the Seminary in 1991 and was ordained in 1999. He served as a priest at Sengwa, Kana, Nembudziya before he went to Namibia. He died in Cape Town where he had been transferred for treatment on 17 July 2019 and was buried in Gokwe at Uganda Martyrs Mission on 3 August 2019. Page 18 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019

Hwange Diocese HOLY CROSS SISTERS TO BREATHE to host 2019 St. Cecilia NEW LIFE IN CHIKOMBEDZI Chikombedzi is an arid mosquito infested territory. This description paints a picture Music area in the South east of Chiredzi, of a very difficult place for human boardering Mozambique. During habitation. Yet there are many people who Competitions summer time it is only accessible along live in the area especially the ethnic Venda Rutenga road. This is the hottest area in and Shangaan speaking people where the Mwenezi deanery which falls under famous and late Church Music composer By Leonard Ncube geographical region five with less than Mr. Fifteen hailed from. It is an area that 300 milimetres of rain. Animal requires infrastructural development HWANGE Diocese has been afforded an husbandry is the main economic activity since it continues to lag behind. Primary opportunity to host the annual St. Cecilia rather than crop production. Before evangelization is also required since the Day national music competitions for the independence, most of this area from Missionaries didn't make in-roads into it. first time in its history. Chilonga, Malipati right up to Sango A Church-run hospital and a school will Out of the eight dioceses, Hwange is the boarder post was a wild life habitat with breathe new life into this forgotten part of only one that has never hosted the annual many conservancies for wild-life the country. Once again the Church is Fr. Peter Chimombe event. conservation. Today Wild animals like playing a pioneering role just as it did in The Zimbabwe Catholic Association of elephants and lions usually stray from the 1890s when missions like Empandeni, Silveira, Kutama, Holy Cross, Sacred Music (ZICASAM) selected the Gonarezhou National park into the Chishawasha, Triashill, Driefontein, Diocese to host the 2019 competitions, Cont on P20 which will surely be a learning curve for Hwange. ZICASAM secretary Mrs. Melania Mupunga-Taruvinga said the music competitions will be held on November 23. She said the national music council decided to choose Hwange Diocese as the hosts, to console the diocese following a tragic accident that Chemicals Company claimed the life of choir master Kenny Muzengi last year. The diocesan choir was travelling in two buses to Gweru for the 2018 music competitions when one of the buses was Manufactures and Distributes products: involved in an accident near Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo leading to the death of Muzengi on the spot. Several other choristers were injured. “We are going to have St. Cecilia Day music competitions on November 23 in Hwange Diocese. ZICASAM met on 19 July and council agreed that we come to Hwange because everyone was touched by what happened last year. It was agreed that we go and console the diocese,” said Mrs. Mupunga- Taruvinga. She said ZICASAM committee will soon visit Hwange to finalise on the exact venue and other logistical issues that need to be sorted out for the day to be a success. She said a lot of issues were considered for Hwange in order to host the event. “A lot of considerations were put in place. Most of all, Hwange choristers were afraid to travel long distances while the Diocese will also be hosting St. Cecilia music competitions for the first time. They have been travelling to other dioceses every year. We love everyone and noone should be left behind,” she added. The competition set piece is Baba voKudenga composed by Hillary Matias of the Archdiocese of Harare. The song was composed for the 2019 theme of the year 'Baptized and sent.' St. Cecilia celebrations are usually held every November with dioceses hosting them on rotational intervals. Last year ZICASAM reduced the number “Brita brands big savings”Brita * Kelsyrup*Tunksta of participating choirs to 31 as a way of trying to harmonise logistical issues during the celebrations. Contact: Beauty: 0772 383 164 Tauro: 0772 255 172 salesbritachemicalsgmail.com Page 19 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019 Caritas Zimbabwe Stresses Importance of Coordination By Vimbai Masoso

aritas Zimbabwe, on 30 July held a coordination Services (CRS) and Trocaire. of the church as they fund and implement different meeting with In-country Caritas Internationalis The National Coordinator for Caritas Zimbabwe, Mr. projects in various Dioceses of the country. In CMember Organisations (CIMOS) at Africa Marius Zibgwi stressed the importance of order to create harmony in the operation of Synod House to discuss coordination efforts between coordination among Caritas funding partners and their different CIMOs coordination is key to tap and the two partners. The importance of coordination was implementing partners. He said coordination should harness the different technical expertise which the clearly stated that it helps in bridging gaps between start from within Caritas and all Church institutions. partners have. Caritas Zimbabwe as the Caritas members and their funding partners so that they “In Country Caritas Internationalis Member development arm under the Zimbabwe Catholic operate in harmony, not competing but cooperating Organisation (CIMOs) (CAFOD), (CRS), Bishops' Conference (ZCBC), has the mandate to towards fulfilling the goal and vision of the universal (TROCAIRE) and (CORDAID) operate under ZCBC take the coordination role. For that reason, a Caritas Internationalis. to assist and achieve the broader goal of Caritas country forum consisting of the CIMOs and Present at the CIMOS were Cafod, Catholic Relief Internationalis in line with the evangelizing mission chaired by Caritas International Office has been formed as a supporting mechanism to guide all programs done by Caritas Zimbabwe or CIMOs through Diocesan partners,” said Mr. Zibgwi.

The meeting also discussed issues pertaining to Cyclone Idai appeal and mobilisation of more resources to support those affected by the disaster. Mr. Zibgwi said: “In the event of a disaster, like Cyclone Idai, Caritas National Office has the mandate to launch an appeal with immediate technical and financial support of in-country CIMOs and later other CIMOs members.” This year the CIMOs have held three coordination meetings to cover Cyclone Idai emergency report, capacity building, joint monitoring and formation of CIMO cluster working groups. Such meetings were held monthly with CIMOs program staff and quarterly with CIMOs country directors and all these will be under the guidance of ZCBC Caritas Internationalis Member Organisations (CIMOs) including CAFOD, Catholic Relief Service (CRS), Secretary General. TROCAIRE, CORDAID and Caritas Zimbabwe discuss different ways of coordination in the implementation of programmes and in mitigating disasters. Page 20 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019

from P18 Makumbe, and Gokomere among others, areas including Soti Source (Tongogara), Nyika, The Rt. Rev. Michael Dixon Bhasera, Bishop for revolutionized the socio-economic and religio- Chivamba, Ngundu, Mativore, Makura, Mandini, Masvingo Diocese has directed the Holy Cross cultural perspective of the people. Neshuro and Mafomoti among others. sisters to bring a new lease of life to the remote The development of Triangle sugar estates and Hippo In August 1999, the Lowveld St. Annes' association corner of Mwenezi deanery. The sisters have started Valley citrus farms in the Lowveld saw the gathered at Makambe for their annual deanery building Makambe hospital and Secondary school concentration of European and African populations congress. The late Sr. Maria Carmela Ingwani (HC) and have been provided with over 40 000 bricks by in the south eastern part of the then diocese of Gwelo. spoke about her wish to have Makambe raised into a the diocese to jump-start the project. Teaching, The late Bishop Aloisius Haene opened Chiredzi and new Mission with a school and hospital for her ethnic nursing and pastoral work are the three pronged Triangle parishes in 1964 and 1965 respectively. Shangaan speaking people. Twenty years later this activities that constitute the apostolate of the Holy After the division of Gweru diocese to form the new will soon be a reality and “mbuya Carmela” as we Cross sisters since their arrival at Mukaro in 1958 in diocese of Masvingo on 24 April 1999, the Priests' used to call her must be saying to God “Ayisekeni the then Fort Victoria prefecture .The sisters have council of Masvingo diocese unanimously voted to chikwembu, ngikesile ngofu” (Praise be to God, since entrenched themselves in Bangala Mission, raise Makambe in Chikombedzi to the status of a new thank you very much). Bondolfi Mission, Chivi, Beitbridge, Mukaro and Mission together with seventeen other proposed Masvingo urban. St. Barbara's Mission Celebrates Fr Joachim Petrausch SJ Dies Gift of Local Vocations oachim Petrausch was born Breslau, By Fr. Rangarirai Mutanga O. Carm Germany on 3 October 1934. On finishing Jhis secondary education he entered the Society of Jesus in Jacobsberg, Bingen on 16 September 1953. After his first vows he did his juniorate in Tisis, Austira and then studied philosophy at Pullach in Germany. He came to Africa for regency, and spent two years at Marymount, 19519-1961. For theology he went to Milltown Park, Dublin, where he was ordained to the priesthood on the feast of St Ignatius, 31 July 1964. Tertianship followed at St Beuno's. Joachim returned to Africa in 1966 and after spending some months in the language school at Garnet House took up a number of pastoral assignments: Chitsungo (1967), St Albert's (1968), Marymount (1969-1971) and Chinhoyi (1972-1973). During this time his health gave cause for concern, he was unable to turn his head. Bilharzia was diagnosed and treated but the condition persisted and in 1974 he returned St. Barbara’s Mission, the hub of local to Germany on sick leave. During the next four vocations to priestly and religious life. years there were further investigations and two operations, but Joachim made only a partial and women attended the memorable Etched silently in the remote area recovery. He returned to Africa once more in of Mutasa district, St. Barbara's event. Fr. Joachim Petrausch SJ. 1934-2019 The occasion kicked off with the 1978 at the invitation of Mgr Reckter and Mission has been the oasis of faith undertook light work as his secretary. Later he down through the years. It has celebration of the Eucharist. Fr. butter and cheese, careful divided into six also helped with the accounts. He remained in stood the test of time and storms of Mundopa, was the main celebrant segments was an elaborate ritual. Very Chinhoyi for thirty years. In 2008 he retired to incessant opposition as witnessed and assisted with six priests, a observant, he was quick to point out any defect, Richartz House where for some years, until by the exodus of its numerous sons deacon, a minister, and three real or imagined in the house. 2015 he helped in the province archives. and daughters who have been lured seminarians all from St. Barbara's In July this year he developed a cold which he was A kindly man, he could only talk quietly and to serve God and humanity in Parish. Sisters most of whom were unable to shake off. In the morning of Thursday, perhaps for this reason took little part in general st different religious congregations 1 August he suffered a severe heart attack and conversation. Perhaps due to his sickness as brothers, sisters and priests. St. died that evening without regaining Joachim was very precise in everything he did; Barbara has surpassed a century Cont on P22 consciousness. with 109 years. Humble as the preparing his slice of toast for tea, with peanut parish is, she has something golden to show for her achievements. The parish has given birth to numerous TRUST ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL vocations to religious life and to priesthood, the total number of living religious and priests being pegged at forty: eight priests, one deacon, four seminarians and 27 Sisters. A number of sisters and priests from the parish have, seeds HOLIDAY REVISION LESSONS of the same parish have died and among them is the well-known Fr ENROLMENT IN Alois Nyanhete, the founder of the PROGRESS Agnes and Alois guild. While vocations are dwindling in some parts of the country, St. Barbara's mission continues to be a seed bed for vocations, supplying different congregations and dioceses with young blood to rejuvenate their apostolates. This is evidenced by the growing number of young men and women who hails from this mission to build the church. It is in thanksgiving to God that on 27 July the Parish Priest, Fr. James Mundopa, together with the parishioners, and the parish's sons and daughters scattered all over the world organised a get-together ceremony for priests and religious whose roots stem from St. Business Enterprise Barbara's mission. Twenty-four of Heritage Studies the forty living consecrated men 0772 442 988 July - Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 21

Word of God and the Mission of the Church. (Bible Month; September – 2019)

Pope Francis invites the Church to celebrate her 3); John 14,23-26 The method for Lectio Divina can be a modified and Mission which she received from Jesus, a Mission to Day 20 Acts 16,1-16; Psalm 100,1b-2.3.5. (R - 1); adjusted. It can be practiced by individuals or by groups. bring his Word to all the nations. During the Bible John 16,5-11 It can also be followed by a discussion on Month we will respond to his call through reading and Day 21 Acts 16,22-34; Psalm 138,1-2ab.2cde-3.7c- implementation of some practical and concrete actions listening to the stories of the Acts of the Apostles. 8. (R - 7); John 15,18-21 that might come to light during the exercise. However, it Usually the Acts of the Apostles are read at Mass Day 22 Acts 17,15.22-18,1; Psalm 148,1-2.11- can never be reduced to a mere group discussion on the during the Easter season. 12.13.14; Luke 8,4-15 Word of God. The essence of Lectio Divina is a personal We to listen to the stories of the early Church and Day 23 Acts 18,1-8; Psalm 98,1.2-3ab.3cd-4. (R - encounter with God in His Word on a very intimate and rediscover in them the power of the Word of God. With 2); Mathew 10,5-13 deep level. the help of the Holy Spirit we discover our Mission as Day 24 Acts 18,9-28; Psalm 47,1-2.3-4.5-6.7-9 (R - individuals and Communities and join the saving 8); John 16,20-28 LectioYouth.net Mission of the Church. Day 25 Acts 19,1-8; Psalm 68,1-2ab.3-4acd.5-6ab. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light for my path.” - The list of the readings that follows is for private as (R - 32); John 16,29-33 Ps 119:105 well as for community reading and prayer in Small Day 26 Acts 20,17-38; Psalm 68,9-10.19-20.28- What is LectioYouth.net? Christian Communities during September. These 29.32-35 (R - 32); John 17,11b-19 Idea readings will help us to know the plan of God and find Day 26 Acts 20,17-38; Psalm 68,9-10.19-20.28- LectioYouth.net is a Catholic program for systematic the way to follow it so that we become living words to 29.32-35 (R - 32); John 17,11b-19 reading and study of the Word of God. It is intended for each other and bring the Word of God to those who do Day 27 Acts 22,3-16; Psalm 117,1bc.2. (R - Mark groups and individuals, particularly the youth in Africa not understand it yet. 16,15); Mark 16,15-18 and Madagascar. Through our community listening we will find Day 28 Acts 22,30; 23,6-11; Psalm 16,1-2a+5.7-8.9- The primary goal of LectioYouth.net is to facilitate the practical ways of fulfilling the Mission of Christ. His 10.11. (R - 1); John 17,20-26 encounter with the word of God through Bible study Mission will become our Mission. Day 29 Acts 25,13b-21; Psalm 103,1-2.11-12.19-20. groups, especially for youth. It is devoted to systematic The reading that you are invited to do, is not a study but (R - 19); John 21,15-19 and regular study and reflection on the Word of God, in rather a way of Lectio Divina (prayerful listening to Day 30 Acts 28,16-31; Psalm 11,4.5+7. (R - 7); John order to be guided and transformed on both the personal the Word of God). Please follow the usual ways of 21,20-25 and local community level. Since it is intended primarily reading, sharing, prayer and celebrating the Word of Lectio Divina but not exclusively for the Catholic community, its God that you know from your community. If you are What is Lectio Divina? primary, but not exclusive, beneficiary is the Catholic not sure how to do so ask others to assist you. Lectio Divina is a method of prayerful reading of the community. At the Eucharistic celebrations in September, October Bible as the Word of God. Literally it means “divine LectioYouth.net follows the Catholic liturgical calendar and November we will listen to the Gospel of Luke. reading” or “to read God”. The goal of Lectio Divina is of Africa and Madagascar providing biblical study Luke is the author of the gospel and of the Acts of the to hear God's voice deep within the heart in and materials and resources for the Sundays and Feasts of the Apostles. Listening to the gospel readings will help us through the words of the Bible read in the context of liturgical year. to deepen our understanding of Jesus teaching on the our life, in order to be guided and transformed by the Our Method Mission to all the nations. Make sure you have access word of God. The method of Bible study and reflection proposed by to these readings. History LectioYouth.net consists of five main steps: Reading the There is going to be a WhatsApp “Bible Month” Lectio Divina is perhaps the oldest and most popular Word of God, Hearing the Word of God, Listening to the platform for all to use. It will contain helps to celebrate method of reading and reflecting on the word of God in Word of God, Proverb and Action. It begins and ends this year’s Bible Month. the history of Christianity. Its roots lie in the Jewish with a prayer. Listening to the Word - Bible Month 2019 tradition and the life of Jesus himself, who in the Approach and Materials The list of the readings that follows is for private as Synagogue at Capernaum (Lk 4:16-30), read the text LectioYouth.net approaches the Word of God in Liturgy well as for community reading and prayer in Small from Isaiah and then re-read it in the context of his life. from a distinctive perspective. It offers a comprehensive Christian Communities during September. At the end After the Second Vatican Council, which invited and thematic approach to the readings, contains of each day's readings you will find teaching of the members of the Roman Catholic Church to an attentive Church regarding our Mission today. Reflect on these listening of the word of God, Lectio Divina became words in the light of the Word of God that you heard in popular again, specially in Latin America in the meditation of the Scriptures. the context of Basic Cristian Communities. Day 1 Acts 1,1-14; Psalm 47,1-2.5-6.7-8. (R - 5); Elements Originally CONSEQUENCES OF UNEMPLOYMENT Luke 24,46-53 Lectio Divina involved slow and repeated There are things that burn me now Day 2 Acts 2,1-11; Psalm 104,1+24.29-30.31+34. reading of a short biblical passage, separated Which turn golden when I am happy. (R - 30); John 14,15-16.23b-26; 15,26-27; 16,12-15 by long periods of silence. It was essentially Do you see the mystery of our pain? Day 3 Acts 3,1-26; Psalm 105,1-2.3-4.6-7.8-9. (R - meditation on the Word which moved That we are now bearing poverty, 3); Luke 24,13-48 through the steps of reading, reflection, I tried my best to face the flames Day 4 Acts 4,1-37; Psalm 118,1+8-9.21- prayer, and contemplation. These steps bear but now I'm falling, no more games 23.26+21+29. (R - 22); John 21,1-14 Latin names which define the method: Day 5 Acts 5,12-33; Psalm 118,2-4.13-15.22-24. Lectio – “reading.” The first step involves Procrastination is the thief time (R - 1); John 20,19-31 slow and prayerful reading of a text. We To those in authority Day 6 Acts 6,1-15; Psalm 33,1-2.4-5.18-19. (R - allow the word to enter deep into us, become Dialogue is the best 22); Luke 10,38-42 a part of us, so that we can interact with it. Quarrels need to rest. Day 7 Acts 6,7-15; 7,54-8,1a; Psalm 31,2-3.5- Meditatio – “meditation or reflection or re- When the funding is cut 7.16.20. (R - 5); Mark 8,31-9,1 reading” This second step involves our Day 8 Acts 8,26-40; Psalm 66,8-9.16-17.20. (R - refection on the text using our mind. We The hospitals shut 1); John 6,44-51 think and reflect on the meaning and When the poverty bites Day 9 Acts 9,1-31; Psalm 117,1.2. (R - Mark message the text carries and we confront it Then you lose the human rights. 16,15); Mark 16,15-20 with our life. This is where God speaks to our Day 10 Acts 9,31-42; Psalm 116,12-13.14-15.16-17. life. My legs are in straps, (R - 12); Luke 4,16-30 Oratio – “prayer.” The third step is a prayer Straps that were once shoes Day 11 Acts 10,1-48; Psalm 98,1.2-3a.3b-4. (R - 2); of the heart in response to God's word. My body in tatters, Mark 7,24-30 Inspired by it, we allow our heart to rise up to Tatters that were once clothes Day 12 Acts 11,1-26; Psalm 87,1b-3.4-5.6-7. (R - God in a prayer inspired by His word. That's the result of unemployment Psalm 117,1); Luke 19,1-10 Contemplatio – “contemplation or rest.” Day 13 Acts 12,1-11.24-13,5; Psalm 34,1-2.3-4.5- The final step is a prayerful presence before The entire country is suffering, 6.7-8. (R - 4); Mathew 16,13-19 God. Without any activity, words or Suffering from this disease, Day 14 Acts 13,13-33; Psalm 89,1-2.20-21.24+26 thoughts, we rest before God aware of His No medicine will minimise this (R - 1); Luke 10,1-9 presence, in a silent dialogue. No doctor can write the prescription, Day 15 Acts 13,44-52; Psalm 98,1.2-3ab.3cd-4. (R - This allows God to transform us from within But only the employer can 3); Mathew 28,16-20 according to his will reveled through his Who is nowhere to be found. Day 16 Acts 14,1-18; Psalm 115,1-2.3-4.15-16. (R - word. 1); John 14,5-21 Effects of Lectio Divina are carried into our Will this disease ever be eradicated Day 17 Acts 14,19-28; Psalm 145,10-11.12- daily life. Encounter with God in His word To some yes, but not to the deprived, 13ab.21. (R - 11); John 14,27-31a directs our actions, influences our thoughts, I am one of the unemployed, Day 18 Acts 15,1-21; Psalm 122,1-2.4-5. (R - 1); and shapes our character. The practice of I suffer from unemployment. John 15,1-17 Lectio Divina allows us to grow as women Day 19 Acts 15,1-2.22-31; Psalm 67,1-2.4.6-7. (R - and men of God. Elena Mupandawana Page 22 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019

Word of God and the Mission of the Church. (Bible Month; September – 2019)

systematic study of the texts and proposes understand what the Bible means, and then pastoral application in the African context. leads them to “incarnate” its message in the LectioYouth.net builds on the ancient practice context of a local group or community. of Lectio Divina: transformative encounter with Communitarian Dimension the Divine Word. However, it approaches it While the program can be used by individuals, from a distinctive perspective. It features: our desire and primary objective is formation of A Comprehensive and Thematic Approach local groups in parishes and other Catholic While most Lectio Divina resource programs institutions, who would regularly gather to focus exclusively on the Gospel, study the Word of God guided by this program. LectioYouth.net adopts a comprehensive and This community context is essential for the thematic approach. The Liturgy of the Word of Word of God to be effective in our world. After each Sunday is studied as a coherent message all, the Bible is primarily the Book of the with a particular focus which unifies the Church, and the Church must be formed by it. readings, and which guided the selection of the Community four biblical passages in the first place. We aim While the program can be used by individuals, to recognize and be guided by it. our desire and primary objective is the Exegetical (study) Dimension formation of local groups in parishes, schools According to the Catholic approach, in order to and other Catholic institutions who would understand the revealed message of the biblical regularly gather to study the Word of God text, the historical, cultural and literary contexts guided by this program. in which it was written must be taken into Community context is essential for the Word of account. This systematic and scientific study of God to be effective in our world. After all, the the context is known as exegesis. This Bible is primarily the Book of the Church, and exegetical preparation is not available to most the Church must be formed by it. Catholics. This program, in some measure at LectioYouth.Net builds on the ancient practice least, attempts to provide the participants with of Lectio Divina: transformative encounter with modest but firm exegetical foundations to the Divine Word. You might find it beneficial to facilitate a deeper and better founded learn about this method which Christians have understanding of God's word. used for many centuries to encounter God in His Contextualized Approach word. The program focuses on the African context. The Bible was born within the community, as a Pastoral reflections come from within the result of people's experience of God. African context, are written by African writers, Consequently, the community is the most appeal to African proverbial tradition, and focus appropriate environment for reading the Bible. on African youth. You can use LectioYouth.net individually. Holistic Biblical Formation Simple steps and materials are provided for The program offers biblical formation in a groups and individuals. Catholic way that is holistic or inclusive. It We hope you find this way of praying with the combines biblical intellectual formation with Word of God interesting and fruitful. We also On internet go to: lectioyouth.net pastoral engagement. Thus, it not only teaches encourage you to share it with others and invite Access to WhatsApp: send “Dei Verbum” to +263 779 501 640. There the people what the Bible says, but leads them to them to pray together with you. are also WhatsApp platforms for: the Shona Lectionary.

St. Barbara is the seed bed for vocations in Zimbabwe from P20 P r o v i n c i a l o f t h e Carmelite Fathers in Carmelite and one Sister of the Zimbabwe; Divine Child this day occupied Sr. Ernestina Makowa the left side of the alter. The old H M L C , t h e Vi c a r and young religious and priests G e n e r a l o f t h e present on the day were a symbol of Handmaids of Our Lady God's response to the prayer for of Mount Carmel; local vocations - 'vapikiri verudzi Fr. Alexio Makokowe O. rwedu.' Fr. Vitalis Benza O. Carm, Carm, the Principal of challenged religious from St. Kriste Mambo Girls Barbara to be credible witnesses of High School; the gospel that that they received Sr. Irene Dumbura from those who laid the foundation HMLC, the Financial of faith. He called them to be in a Manager of St. Killians profound and authentic relationship High School; with Jesus Christ and to be the Fr. Lovemore Gutu O. embodiment of the God. This Carm, the Parish Priest mandate, he stressed, lies on all of Kriste Mambo parish; Christians who are baptised-and- F r . A b r a h a m sent especially those consecrated to Nyamupachitu, Parish ministry as priests and religious. Priest of St James Although there is nothing special to Chipinge as well as the brag about in the economic well fair Spiritual director for the of this rural mission, St. Barbara is a Catholic Commission hub for vocations to priesthood and for Justice and Peace, religious life. Almost every Mutare Diocese; congregation be it of priests, Fr. Owen Kudumba brothers and sisters have some of O.Carm, the Director of Priests and religious from St. Barbara’s Mission provide entertainment during a get their members from this humble but Carmelite Students; together to celebrate local vocations. great St. Barbara. Many sons and Fr. Rangarirai Mutanga daughters from St. Barbara hold O. Carm the Vocations St. Barbara's. The poems and successful. He exhorted the a mouth-watering lunch and influential positions in the local Promoter for the Carmelite Friars speeches that were given later on faithful to pray for more braai while they had a chance to Church and in their respective Sr. Calista Sambaza HMLC the hammered on the fact that the vocations and to give their socialize and mingle with congregations and orders. These Vocations Promoter for the religious and priests should continue children a chance when they feel families and friends. Indeed, it is are: Fr. Frederick Chiromba, the Handmaid of Our Lady of Mount deepening the level of their called to work in the Lord's right and just to give God thanks Secretary of the Zimbabwe Carmel. The day was filled with commitment and zeal to work for the vineyard. After mass, the and praise for such great gifts Catholic Bishop's Conference prayers imploring God to protect Lord. Fr. James Mundopa thanked all religious and priests from St. and wonders. His love endures (ZCBC); Fr. Vitalis Tendai Benza those he has chosen to do his work who had contributed to make the day Barbara's mission were treated to for ever! O. Carm, the Commissary with special mention of those from July - Sept 2019 Catholic Church News Page 23

AGONISING EXPERIENCES OF DISTRIBUTING A SHONA WOMAN BELONGINGS Dr. Stanislaus Steyn Paridzirai Matindike Reference to deceased's unsettled scores with her FREELANCE SOCIAL WORKER husband or in-laws Some members of the deceased's family may go into he aim of this article is to remind Christian men fault-finding – searching for any misgivings the and women of the basic Christian duty: 'Love deceased had with her husband, children or in-laws. Tthy neighbour as you love thyself'. I believe The idea is to force the husband and his family, as it Christian love applies in all situations including in the were, to pay for misgivings (identifiable in Shona process of distributing belongings of a dead married custom) in cash or animal. Misgivings are crafted as Shona woman. Family members (Christian or non- punishment or shame of the husband with his family Christian) play key roles during the distribution that members. Usually, this is done at the most involves at least two families namely the husband and inopportune moment with the impact that the the late wife's families. The two families are expected affected people are embarrassed. This is practised to respect the dead woman by distributing the even where the deceased left specific instructions in belongings under conditions of peace and tranquillity. writing. Where the deceased's family members fail If the dead woman was Christian, the expectations are to push for their word, they would simply say: “She within the belief system of her church denomination. is going to fight her war alone” (Shona: Acharwa Lack of respect for church beliefs is encountered very hondo yake ega). The distribution is stopped among the would-be heirs. often in the distribution of the belongings of a dead indefinitely. No specified alternative process is To prevent such fights, some women work so hard person. In the case of belongings of a dead married suggested (Shona: yangova mvengemvenge kana during their lifetime in order 'to have enough things' to Shona woman, the belongings may not be distributed kuti chero zvinoita). be shared by their relatives against their own children. for ages due to misunderstanding between the two It is common for a woman to say: “I have enough dining families. The reasons may be many but they are Tug-of-war over the 'custody' of children sets for my sisters when I die. I do not want them to fight summed up in the expression: “Tiri kuita chivanhu Where the deceased left children, the children may over my things.” Unfortunately, that form of 'will' does chedu” (English: we are following our tradition). not prevent implied in-fighting during the preparation Because the expression does not take the time factor for the distribution. For example, where there is a car, into account, the goods may be destroyed by ants, rats, heirs will fight over it whether they can drive or not. rust, heat, wear and tear due to passage of time. In Generally, it seems relatives define inheritance as a public, each of the two families would be blaming the birth/blood right rather than a privilege subject to the other family for negligence (Shona: kushaya hanya) or wishes of the deceased. insolence (Shona: kuzvidzana). Conclusion In this article, we choose a few general reasons why The analysed sources of disputes over distribution of there are delays in the distribution: 'holy' estates of married Shona women seem to be on the considerations, moody exchange of words, reference increase. I believe that the church can make a to the deceased's unsettled scores with her husband or be at the mercy of the deceased woman's family who contribution by teaching their followers how to handle in-laws, tug-of-war over the custody of children and are expected by tradition to provide a substitute such situations in the interest of the deceased, the undeclared interest in specific belongings. These mother to care for the children. The substitute children and the husband. Destroying the peace, in the factors tend to make the distribution delicate, mother can be part-time or full-time. A part-time one eyes of the survivors, that existed before the passing on unpredictable and volatile – messy (Shona: is called the sarapavana while the full-time one is of the mother/wife, should be discouraged in the spirit kusarongeka), in one word. called chigaramapfihwa because she is a substitute of loving one another within and between the family of Holy' considerations mother of the deceased's children and wife to the the husband and the family of the deceased. The two Each individual, family or clan may have their own deceased's husband. A chigaramapfihwa can be the families should collaborate without embarrassment in taboos (Shona: zviera). The word 'taboo' has become deceased's young sister or niece chosen by the order to reduce the mourning mood and period of the an English word originally borrowed in the eighteenth children in consultation and with consent of their survivors. father. Failure to seek consent and consultation can The cited problem areas are so practical that church be disastrous for the chigaramapfihwa. groups can discuss them at their regular meetings with The appointment of a sarapavana or choice of the the help of the religious familiar with both Shona chigaramapfihwa is done once the belongings of the customs and canon law. The church is interested in the deceased have been distributed. When the material and spiritual prosperity of the living as well as distribution is suspended, the relatives of the the spiritual gift for the deceased to settle in paradise as deceased may sarcastically say: “Children are not a the purpose of believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, the problem, we will care for them as long as the in-laws owner of the Church. The question for Church advisors are co-operative with us. We are not to blame for the in inheritance cases should be: “How are you going to death of our relative.” (Shona: Vana havasi please the deceased in defining and distributing the dambudziko, chero baba vavo nedzimwe hama estate. Peculiar inheritance issues should be addressed dzavo vachiwirirana nesu. Kufirwa haisi mhosva.” A within the belief system of the deceased?” (Shona: statement of this nature may suggest disagreements Tingabatsirana sei kutsangura zvinogoveka zvomufi? during the deliberations about the distribution of the Tinoziva hedu kuti tsika dzokugova dzingasiyana- belongings especially where assets of value are siyana asi ngatirangarirei pfungwa dzomuchitendero concerned. chomufi.) century from the Far East languages (Tongan/Maori: Undeclared Interest in Specific Belongings tapu meaning 'prohibited'; Fijian: tabu meaning The deceased's relatives are concerned about the New Regional Leadership 'disallowed'. In English, taboo is now means a strong protection of the assets. They do not want the Team for the CJ prohibition relating to any area of human activity or deceased's husband to inherit things of great value custom that is sacred or forbidden based on moral especially where the widower prefers to get a new Congregation (Mary judgment, religious beliefs or cultural norms of a wife from outside the family of the deceased. Yet the specific group of people. law of the land recognises the estate of the deceased Ward Sisters) in to be shared between the widower and his children Nowadays, very few people are conscious of their unless she left a written will suggesting a different Zimbabwe. family and clan taboos. Individuals may be more formula for the distribution. The law of the land is conscious of their religious taboos or regulations trying to protect all belongings in the interest of the Sr. Maria Goretti Mudhovozi (Regional rather than their family or clan traditional values and survivors. In the case of a deceased woman, the Superior) practices. Strong emphasis on individual, family and survivors are the children and the husband. The law clan taboos can lead to failure to distribute the expects any rational extended family to understand Sr. Anna Jinga (1st Assistant) belongings of a dead married woman when the two what the law says. But in reality, where the deceased families fail to reach an agreement on an issue as a had more than household goods, relatives will be matter of religious or cultural principle. Conflict may casting their eyes on anything. The Shona custom Sr. Aleta Dube (2nd assistant) emerge from an unacceptable manner in which the does not allow a new wife obtained from outside the deceased was handled during her sickness, how she deceased's family to use kitchen ware and dresses. Sr. Faith Dhlamini (3rd assistant) died and the manner the husband's family reported the The Shona tend to extend the custom to include illness or death to her family. The worst is to abandon everything in order to discourage the widower from Sr. Veronica Rufurwokuda (Regional Bursar) the process (Shona: Kungozvisiya zvakadaro). remarrying outside the deceased's family. If the widower disagrees with that, in-fighting may erupt Sr. Tendai Chirhomoh (Regional Secretary) Page 24 Catholic Church News July - Sept 2019

St. Agnes’ Muzvazva nurtures local talent for Premier League

By Admire Jamu-MLAMBO young boys at St Agnes' B e n j a m i n M u s a k a a n d Zengeza Parish, before Tafadzwa Sibanda (both FORTY-ONE YEAR-OLD St. spreading his outreach around Highlanders) and Zimbabwe Agnes parishioner, Trust the streets of Zengeza and St Warriors left back Ronald Muzvazva popularly known as Marys' community and beyond. Pfumbidzai, who now plays for Bloemfontein Celtic in South "Mdara Trust" in the football Not only did the initiative help in fostering a deeper connection Africa. circles has become a hero in his with Christ and more zeal in Muzvazva explained: "l started community of Zengeza in serving others to the by recruiting at the church, but Chitungwiza as he continues to participants but it also provided then the numbers were not use the power of sport to bring them with a platform to convincing so l had to tell them young people to Christ in the showcase their talent in the to go out and come with their ministry. Muzvazva, who was sport of football. friends. enlisted by Shingirai Club run by One of the early products of "With time the numbers started Jesuits whose offices are located Muzvazva is none other than the to increase and the most notable in Ardbennie, Harare to recruit f o r m e r D y n a m o s a n d face l started with was Obey fledgling football players with Zimbabwe Under-23 defender Mwerahari." Muzvazva revealed that he the aim of introducing them to Obey Mwerahari, who is now playing for the Zimbabwean initially found it very difficult God at very tender age through topflight club Triangle. to recruit youngsters in the the power of football has gone a In total, during 19-year journey early stages of the initiative as step further. as Shingirai Youth Club coach, he would move around the "I am a congregant at St Agnes Muzvazva has produced six streets of Zengeza and St Trust Muzvazva (in red shirt) with some of his former players Zengeza Parish in Chitungwiza players plying their trade in Marys' with a soccer ball and l was chosen to recruit very Zimbabwe's Premier Soccer followed by a multitude of ball and the children would follow to Zengeza 2 ground. I then young boys in the year 2000 League who include Innocent young boys. In a bid to created age groups of Under-11, 13, 15 and 17 which I called from as young as eight years up Muchaneka (Chicken Inn), regularise his activities he Shingirai Youth club," he said. to 17-year-old," Muzvazva said. Leeroy Murape and Nelson joined the Zifa Junior League. Muzvazva added that his team of youngsters has made a very Inspired by the mission to spread Sibanda (Black Rhinos), "During my first days I had to huge impact in the Zifa Junior League in Chitungwiza, winning the gospel through sport, Mwerahari (Triangle FC), walk around the streets with a medals and other accolades in cup tournaments. Muzvazva started off with a few

Adonai Corporate Training (ACT) and the Zimbabwe Evaluation Association (ZEA)

The new administration block that is being constructed at Mutare Diocese Bishop’s House. The block will serve to accommodate different diocesan offices thereby creating more space for different Commissions.

The gigantic church being built at Rhodesvile Parish, Grendale in Harare. Construction of the church building started in May 2017 and is expected to finish in four years time. The carrying capacity of the new church is pegged at 1200 as it has an upstairs. The parish was challenged to build a new structure as the old church has become too small to accommodate all parishioners forcing children to attend their mass in the parish hall. The project which started during Fr. Maganga’s time is being pursued by Fr. Reki Mashayamombe who is the Parish Priest.