SYDNEY MUBAIWA
GWERU- In a solemn and joyous ceremony, six devoted men of God were ordained as priests in Gweru on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in their spiritual journeys and commitment to serving the community.
The ordination ceremony which was presided over by Gweru Diocese Bishop His Lordship Rudolf Nyandoro was attended by Vice President General Rtd Constantino Chiwenga and his wife Miniyothabo Chiwenga, Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo, fellow clergy, family members, and friends who gathered to witness the men take on their new roles.
Speaking at the ordination ceremony, Gen Chiwenga, a devout catholic, described the milestone achievement as a crucial role in the growth and development of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Gweru, reaffirming the government’s commitment in fighting the scourge of drugs and substance abuse.
“The church is a pillar of moral strength, and it plays a critical role in shaping the values and future of our nation.
“Together, we must confront the social challenges of our time, including the scourge of drugs and substance abuse,” he said.
He described priesthood as a noble and sacrificial vocation which requires support from the church.
“To our newly ordained priests, I extend my warmest and most heartfelt congratulations. You have embraced a calling that demands sacrifice, faith and unwavering devotion. It is not an easy path, but it is one of eternal purpose and profound impact.
“May your hands bring healing to the broken, your words offer hope to the lost and your hearts remain open to the will of God. You are now stewards of the sacred,” he said.
The Vice President encouraged catholic families to take up vocations, saying priesthood was going to lead in fighting drugs and substance abuse.
Speaking at the same ceremony, Masvingo Diocese Bishop, His Lordship Raymond Mupandasekwa urged the newly ordained priests to carry out their duties with compassion and integrity.
“You now have a duty to preserve the value of Christianity. Go out there and protect the communities you are going to lead. These communities need your spiritual support and guidance,” he said.
The newly ordained priests include:
Reverend Carlos Masiya (Kwekwe).
Reverend Brian Kanyai (Gweru).
Reverend Calvin Mbenene (Kwekwe)
Reverend Kudzai Mabhena (Kwekwe) .
Reverend Gerald Dube (Mberengwa) .
Reverend Reynold Machirori (Kwekwe).
The six had completed several years of theological and pastoral formation.
