Apostolic Nuncio headlines Masvingo Catholic Silver Jubilee celebrations
Ivayinerudo Magarazano
MASVINGO- Apostolic Nuncio to Zimbabwe, Archbishop Janusz Stanislow Urbanczyk will lead the Masvingo Diocese Jubilee celebrations as the Guest of Honor to be held Gokomere Mission Marian Shrine on 25 and 26 October.
This momentous occasion which is going to run under the theme “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19), promises to be a spiritual spectacular event.
The entire Catholic family including bishops and archbishops from across the country is expected to converge at the shrine and the celebrations will be graced by the Apostolic Nuncio to Zimbabwe, Archbishop Janusz Stanislow Urbanczyk who will lead the festivities as the guest of honor.
The diocese is led by Bishop Raymond Tapiwa Mupandasekwa.
The Diocesan Pastoral Council Chairperson Dr Simon Parwaringira confirmed this to The Midweek Watch during an interview.
“This jubilee presents a unique opportunity for the Catholic Church to reflect on God’s abundant grace, service and commitment to His Church. It’s also a chance for us to renew our pledge to serve the Lord, Jesus Christ and one another,” said Parwaringira
The Masvingo Diocese was established on 24 April 1999 and before that it was the area was under Gweru Diocese.
Masvingo is the youngest Diocese in Zimbabwe. However Despite its relatively short history the diocese has achieved remarkable growth establishing new parishes, missions and 2 new guilds which were successfully introduced.
“Under the guidance of Bishop Emeritus Michael Dixon Bhasera, the diocese witnessed significant development over the past 25 years. Notable achievements include the construction of the majestic St. Mary’s Cathedral in Masvingo, the establishment of St. Monica Chikuku in Bikita, St. Josephine Bhakita in Gutu, St. Alex Ndanga and St. James Chivamba in Zaka, St. John Maraire in Zimuto and St. John Makambe in Chiredzi, among others” added Parwaringira.
The sacred Gokomere Marian Shrine which is a beacon of faith has attracted thousands of pilgrims from across the diocese and beyond. This jubilee celebration serves as a testament to the diocese’s unwavering commitment to spread the Gospel and serve the community.
Meanwhile, Nuncio will hold a mass at St Mary’s Parish in ZIMRE Park, Masvingo at 4pm on Thursday and a dinner soon after that at St Peter and Paul Cathedral for invited guests and priests from Masvingo Diocese and beyond.