GWERU – Vice President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga, a devout Roman Catholic and one of Zimbabwe’s top government officials, on Saturday commissioned the newly constructed Gweru Diocese Pastoral Centre — a modern, multi-purpose facility that will serve as a hub for spiritual, pastoral, and administrative functions within the Catholic Church in the Midlands Province.
The occasion, held in the heart of Gweru, was a deeply spiritual and celebratory event marked by two significant milestones: the commissioning of the long-awaited Pastoral Centre and the solemn ordination of six deacons into the priesthood.
The new centre, hailed by Church leaders as a “landmark achievement,” is expected to play a vital role in the coordination of diocesan activities, including priestly formation, leadership training, youth programmes, and community outreach. It stands as a symbol of the Church’s growth and evolving role in Zimbabwe’s spiritual and social development.
Delivering his keynote address at the commissioning ceremony, Vice President Chiwenga lauded the Catholic Church for its unwavering commitment to national development, moral leadership, and community service. He praised the Gweru Diocese’s leadership, particularly Bishop Rudolf Nyandoro, for envisioning and executing the transformative project.
“The Pastoral Centre we inaugurate today is not merely a structure of bricks and mortar — it is a living testimony of faith, vision, and determination,” said Chiwenga. “It is the fulfilment of a dream first publicly shared during Bishop Nyandoro’s Silver Jubilee last year. That vision has now become a reality, and it will continue to serve generations to come.”
VP Chiwenga Commissions Gweru Diocese Pastoral Centre, Witnesses Ordination of Six New Priests
The Vice President described the centre as more than just a religious building, noting that it will serve as a beacon of hope and a platform for the Church’s continued efforts in nation-building. “This is a space for leadership development, spiritual renewal, and community dialogue — a true asset not just to the Diocese of Gweru, but to the entire country,” he said.
The highlight of the day was the ordination of six new priests, each of whom had undergone years of theological training and pastoral formation. The ordination Mass, presided over by Bishop Nyandoro, was a moving ceremony attended by congregants from across the diocese. The six newly ordained priests are:
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Reverend Kudzai Mabhena (Kwekwe)
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Reverend Gerald Dube (Mberengwa)
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Reverend Brian Kanyai (Gweru)
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Reverend Reynold Machirori (Kwekwe)
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Reverend Carlos Masiya (Kwekwe)
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Reverend Calvin Mbenene
In his remarks to the newly ordained priests, Vice President Chiwenga spoke of the sacred nature of priesthood and the responsibility it carries.
“To our newly ordained priests, I offer my heartfelt congratulations. You have answered a divine call that demands humility, sacrifice, and relentless devotion. Your mission is noble — to be healers of the soul, bearers of hope, and guardians of the faith. May your journey be guided by love, compassion, and the unwavering will of God,” he said.
Also speaking at the event was Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa of the Masvingo Diocese, who urged the newly ordained to remain faithful to the values of Christianity and lead their future congregations with compassion and courage.
“You are being sent into communities that are searching for spiritual guidance and hope. Uphold the highest standards of moral integrity and be true shepherds of the people. You must walk with the people, protect them, and inspire them to live lives rooted in faith and service,” he said.
The newly ordained priests will soon be deployed to serve in various parishes across the Gweru Diocese, where they are expected to play critical roles in evangelisation, pastoral care, and community engagement.
The commissioning of the Pastoral Centre and the ordination of the six priests underscore the Catholic Church’s expanding role in not only spiritual matters but also national development. Through investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and moral formation, the Church continues to be a key partner in shaping Zimbabwe’s social fabric.
The Saturday event drew hundreds of worshippers, community leaders, government officials, and clergy, all united in celebration of the Church’s achievements and future direction. As the sun set over Gweru, the mood was one of reflection, gratitude, and renewed hope — a day marking a new chapter in the Diocese’s journey of faith and service.
