The Catholic community in Zimbabwe recently witnessed two significant events that filled the hearts of the faithful with joy and gratitude. First, the priestly ordination of two Redemptorist brothers (Frs. Magwenzi C.Ss.R. and Magaya C.Ss.R.) and two Franciscan friars (Frs. Munyanyi OFM and Marunga OFM) by His Grace, Archbishop Robert Ndlovu of the Archdiocese of Harare, and second, the celebration of Fr. Kunaka’s 10th anniversary of priestly ordination hosted by St. Alphonsus, Tafara Parish.
A New Chapter: Priestly Ordinations at St. Gerard’s Parish
On February 14, 2025, the Redemptorist and Franciscan congregations welcomed two new priests into their fold during an ordination ceremony held at St. Gerard’s Parish in Harare, respectively. The four men were ordained by Archbishop Robert Ndlovu at a well-attended Mass that drew hundreds of friends, family members and faithful from near and far.
In his homily, Fr. Gweme, Provincial Vicar of the Redemptorist Province of London and Zimbabwe, reminded the ordinands of their weighty responsibilities. He outlined their primary duties as priests, which include celebrating Mass for the faithful promptly and respectfully, visiting and ministering to the sick, administering the Sacrament of Reconciliation, preaching the Word of God through both their words and the witness of their lives, and maintaining a strong prayer life.
Fr. Gweme C.Ss.R. emphasized, “A priest cannot live without prayer. Christ Himself was a man of prayer to the extent that His disciples asked Him, ‘Teach us to pray.'” He also urged the congregation to pray for priests, so that they may remain patient, faithful, and committed to their calling.
The Provincial Superior, Fr. Richard Reid C.Ss.R., encouraged the newly ordained to always remember the support of the faithful gathered to witness their ordination. “Look around you. Never forget this. Never forget this day because you are surrounded, behind, in front of you, and beside you with everyone here who is so full of love,” he told them.
This ordination marks a significant boost to both the Redemptorist and Franciscan missions in Zimbabwe, underscoring the continuing growth and vitality of the Catholic Church in the region.
A Decade of Dedication: Fr. Kunaka’s 10th Anniversary
Just days after the ordinations, the spotlight turned to St. Alphonsus, Tafara Parish, where parishioners from both St. Alphonsus and St. Clement Eastview centres gathered to celebrate Fr. Kunaka’s 10th anniversary of priestly ordination. The celebration was a heartfelt tribute to a decade of faithful service, marked by a Thanksgiving Mass and a vibrant reception.
Fr. Kunaka, visibly moved by the outpouring of love and support, reflected on his journey as a priest. He expressed deep gratitude to God for the gift of his vocation and thanked the Redemptorist community, his parishioners, and all who have walked with him over the years. In his homily, Fr Manyenga C.Ss.R., he spoke of the joys and challenges of the priesthood, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and trust in God’s plan.
A Time of Gratitude and Hope
These two events – the ordination of new priests and the celebration of Fr. Kunaka’s anniversary – remind us of the beauty and importance of priestly vocations. They are a testament to the enduring power of faith and the transformative impact of those who dedicate their lives to serving God and His people.
Ad multos annos!
RedComzw_Region of Zimbabwe
