The Catholic community in Zimbabwe came together on Saturday to mark a major milestone — the 100th anniversary of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Harare. The centenary celebration, steeped in reverence and joy, highlighted a century of unwavering faith, service, and devotion to God and the nation.
Held under the theme “100 Years of Faith, a Legacy of Love, a Future of Hope,” the event brought together hundreds of congregants, clergy, religious leaders, ecumenical partners, government officials, and members of the diplomatic corps. The commemorative mass was presided over by His Grace, Archbishop Robert Christopher Ndlovu, who delivered a deeply reflective homily.
“This sacred place is more than bricks and stained glass,” Archbishop Ndlovu said. “It is a symbol of resilience, unity, and God’s enduring love for His people. We are honoured to be part of these milestone celebrations and to reflect on the journey of faith that brought us here.”
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, built in 1924 and formally consecrated in 1925, serves as the mother church of the Archdiocese of Harare. Over the decades, it has been more than just a place of worship—it has been a sanctuary of spiritual formation, a hub of community support, and a sacred space for countless sacraments and celebrations that have defined the lives of many Catholic families.
For many congregants, the centenary was a deeply personal occasion. Some recalled life-defining moments within the Cathedral’s walls—baptisms, weddings, confirmations—and reflected on the privilege of witnessing such a historic event.
“This church holds a lot of memories for me. I was baptised here, and 50 years ago I got married in this very church,” shared one congregant. “To be here today, celebrating 100 years of this sacred place, is both humbling and uplifting.”
Sacred Heart Cathedral Celebrates 100 Years of Faith, Love, and Legacy
Another parishioner who served on the centenary organising committee spoke of how fulfilling the experience had been. “I feel blessed to have been part of this celebration. Being involved in marketing, public relations, and resource mobilisation has helped me realise how I can use my God-given talents to serve the Church. It has truly been a spiritually rewarding experience.”
Vice President General (Rtd) Dr. Constantino Chiwenga, himself a devout Catholic, was the guest of honour. In his speech, he paid tribute to the Catholic Church’s historic and ongoing contributions to nation-building—particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and social services.
“As a proud Catholic and servant of the Republic, I wish to underscore the significant role the Church has played in Zimbabwe’s development,” said Vice President Chiwenga. “From the early missions of Makumbi, Musami, Gokomere, and Kutama, the Church laid the foundation for a national spiritual presence that uplifted generations.”
He further emphasized the need for continued partnership between the Church and the Government in addressing the country’s social challenges.
“We stand today as humble children of God, celebrating the gift of the Church and its impact on our lives,” he said. “In these times of economic and social difficulty, we must draw closer to the Cross. We are called to renew a covenant between Government and Church, grounded in justice, compassion, and service.”
Quoting the scripture from Isaiah 1:17 — “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, and plead the widow’s cause” — Chiwenga urged both leaders and congregants to be bold in faith and diligent in their service to society.
“Let us raise a generation of young people who know the Lord, honour their neighbours, and serve their country with integrity,” he added. “Let us build parishes not only with bricks and mortar, but with love, compassion, and purpose.”
The day’s celebrations were enriched by a centenary exhibition that showcased the architectural, historical, and spiritual legacy of the Cathedral. Youth groups added vibrancy through musical performances, drama presentations, and traditional dances, celebrating not only the church’s past but also its dynamic future.
As the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart enters its second century, it remains a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s Catholic identity. The centenary served as both a remembrance of the journey so far and a recommitment to the faith, service, and hope that will carry it into the next 100 years.
Source- ZBC
