Soccom Archdiocese of Harare

09/06/2026

9 June 2026

Tuesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

1 Kgs 17:7-16; Ps 4:2-3, 4-5, 7b-8; Mt 5:13-16

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Today's readings place before us two powerful images: a land suffering under drought and a people called to be salt and light. At first glance, these images may seem unrelated, yet together they reveal something fundamental about the vocation of God's people. The story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath unfolds in a time of scarcity, uncertainty, and fear. The Gospel, on the other hand, presents disciples who are called to transform the world around them through the witness of their lives. Between these two readings lies a profound truth: God does not abandon His people in times of drought, but calls them to become signs of His presence precisely within those difficult circumstances.

The drought described in the first reading is more than a climatic disaster. It becomes a symbol of every situation in which life appears to be drying up and hope seems to be disappearing. Elijah's brook runs dry, the widow's flour is almost exhausted, and her little oil is nearly finished. Humanly speaking, both are confronted by a future without prospects. Yet it is precisely there, in the midst of scarcity, that God's providence reveals itself. The miracle begins not with abundance but with faith. The widow entrusts her last resources to God and discovers that the jar of flour does not go empty and the jug of oil does not run dry.

The experience of drought is not foreign to our own context. Many Zimbabweans encounter various forms of drought in their daily lives. There is the economic drought experienced by families struggling to make ends meet; the drought of employment opportunities confronting many young people; the drought of hope that often accompanies prolonged hardship; and the moral drought that manifests itself through corruption, dishonesty, and the erosion of social trust. The growing scourge of drug and substance abuse among the youth has become another alarming sign of this dryness, destroying lives and communities while leaving many to wonder what future remains for the next generation.

Faced with such realities, the temptation is either to despair or to become resigned to the situation. The Word of God proposes another path. Like Elijah and the widow, we are invited to trust that God continues to work even in situations that appear exhausted. God's grace is often revealed not through spectacular interventions but through the faithfulness of ordinary people who continue to trust Him despite difficult circumstances.

The Responsorial Psalm captures the cry of a people living amid uncertainty: "Lord, let your face shine on us." It is a prayer that remains deeply relevant today. The Psalm also contains a warning against seeking false solutions and placing our trust in what is vain. True renewal, whether personal, social, or ecclesial, begins when we allow God's light to illuminate our hearts and guide our actions.

This leads naturally to the Gospel. Jesus tells His disciples: "You are the salt of the earth" and "You are the light of the world." These words are not simply a description of what Christians ought to be; they express the very mission of the Church. Salt preserves and prevents corruption. Light dispels darkness and enables people to see clearly. In a society experiencing different forms of drought, Christ calls His followers to become instruments through which God's presence, truth, and hope become visible.

The challenge of the Gospel therefore extends beyond individual Christians to the entire Church. The Church is called to be a visible sign of hope in the midst of social, economic, political, technological, legal, and environmental challenges. Her mission is not simply to comment on these realities but to illuminate them with the light of the Gospel and to respond through concrete acts of faith, charity, justice, and service.

It is within this context that the annual plenary meeting of the bishops gathered in Harare assumes particular significance. Their task is not merely to discuss the implementation of the Synod on Synodality as an ecclesiastical programme. Rather, they are called to discern how the Church in Zimbabwe can more effectively live her mission as salt and light within the realities facing the nation today. The challenge is to move from reflection to action, from theory to practice, from structures to mission.

Yet today's readings remind us that authentic synodality begins with something deeper than structures or processes. It begins with holiness. Before the Church can walk together effectively, she must walk with God. Before she can renew society, she must continually allow herself to be renewed by God's grace. Synodality is not primarily about meetings, consultations, or plans; it is about becoming more fully the People of God journeying together in fidelity to Christ and in service of His mission.

The bishops, together with the entire Church in Zimbabwe, are therefore called to ensure that synodality bears visible fruits. It must help the Church become more responsive to the struggles of families, more attentive to the needs of young people, more courageous in confronting corruption and injustice, and more effective in addressing the growing crisis of drug and substance abuse. A synodal Church cannot remain at the level of discussion; it must become a Church whose light shines before others through concrete works of faith and charity.

The widow's jar of flour and jug of oil remind us that God can accomplish much through what appears small and insignificant. The Gospel reminds us that even a small light can illuminate a dark room. These images offer hope to the Church in Zimbabwe. Despite the challenges facing society, God continues to provide the grace necessary for His mission. The question is whether we are willing to trust Him and to place what we have at His service.

As the Church seeks to implement the vision of synodality, today's readings invite all of us to remember that the ultimate goal is not simply a more participatory Church, but a holier Church—a Church that remains the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Only such a Church can offer a credible witness to Christ and become a source of hope in the midst of every drought.

07/06/2026

05/06/2026

5 June 2026

Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr

2 Tim 3:10-17; Ps 119:157, 160, 161, 165, 166, 168; Mk 12:35-37

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On this Memorial of Saint Boniface, bishop and martyr, the Church gives us a simple yet demanding message: stand firm in the word of God, even when faith costs you something. Today's readings reveal where such fidelity comes from. Scripture forms us in the truth, charity binds us to Christ in loving obedience, and Christ himself stands above every false explanation that would lead us away from him. The witness of Saint Boniface reminds us that this fidelity is not merely admired in theory but lived in practice, sometimes at great personal cost.

It is easy to think of faith primarily as a source of comfort or reassurance. Yet today's readings present a more demanding vision. They speak of endurance rather than ease, of peace rooted in fidelity rather than convenience, and of the discernment needed to resist teachings that distort the truth.

Saint Paul reminds Timothy not only of what he has taught but also of the life that accompanied that teaching: faith, patience, love, endurance, and persecutions. Doctrine and discipleship belong together. Paul does not deny the reality of suffering; rather, he points to God's faithfulness within it: "from all these things the Lord delivered me." The Christian is not promised freedom from trials but the assurance that the Lord never abandons those who belong to him.

Aquinas observes that Paul strengthens Timothy against future dangers by directing him both to sound doctrine and to living example. Yet Paul's concern extends beyond persecution. He also warns against deception. "Wicked people and charlatans" will continue to mislead others, making discernment an essential part of Christian life. Aquinas speaks similarly of guarding the faith against profane novelties—teachings that appear impressive or enlightened while quietly undermining the truth handed down by Christ and the Apostles.

Because deception is always possible, Paul directs Timothy back to the Scriptures he has known from infancy. All Scripture is inspired by God, useful for teaching, correction, and training in righteousness. Scripture is not merely information about God; it is God's instrument for forming his people. Through it, believers are equipped to persevere in truth and grow in holiness.

The Responsorial Psalm reveals the fruit of such formation: "Great peace have they who love your law." This peace is not the absence of conflict but the stability that comes from being rooted in God's truth. The one who loves God's law may still suffer, but remains anchored amid the storms of life.

The Gospel deepens this theme by showing that fidelity to God's word is ultimately a matter of love. Jesus declares that whoever loves him will keep his word, and to such a person the Father and the Son will come and make their dwelling. Aquinas explains that charity disposes the soul to receive Christ's manifestation and that obedience is the visible expression of love. To love Christ is not simply to admire him but to live according to his word.

Mark's Gospel then presents Jesus challenging the crowd's understanding of the Messiah. How can the Messiah be merely David's son if David himself calls him Lord? As Aquinas notes, Jesus uses Scripture to correct an inadequate understanding of his identity. Mary Healy observes that the question is meant to draw listeners into deeper reflection. Christ is not merely a human descendant of David; he is David's Lord. Every age is tempted to reduce Jesus to something manageable, but he continually surpasses our expectations and categories.

The life of Saint Boniface illustrates what these readings look like when lived. As a missionary bishop, he proclaimed the Gospel among peoples who often resisted it, working tirelessly to strengthen the Church and lead others to Christ. Pope Pius XII praises his apostolic zeal, courage, and steadfastness. What is striking is how closely his life mirrors the pattern described by Saint Paul: fidelity to sound doctrine, perseverance in adversity, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

Even in old age, Boniface continued his missionary work. When opposition arose, he did not compromise the truth he preached. Instead, he remained faithful to Christ to the end, eventually suffering martyrdom. His death was not an isolated act of heroism but the culmination of a lifetime formed by Scripture and sustained by love for Christ.

These readings speak powerfully to our own time. Many Christians may never face physical persecution, but they do encounter ridicule, pressure to conform, and countless voices competing for their allegiance. The challenge is not only to endure opposition but also to remain rooted in the truth.

A useful test is simple: Does a teaching deepen love for Christ? Does it foster obedience to his word? Does it strengthen communion with Scripture and the faith of the Church? If not, it may be one more "novelty" leading us away from the Gospel.

This week, spend time each day with Scripture, allowing God's word to shape your mind and heart. Choose one aspect of Christ's teaching and strive to live it more faithfully. And when difficulties arise, remember Paul's confidence that the Lord remains faithful to those who persevere.

Saint Boniface reminds us that fidelity to Christ can be costly, but it is never futile. Scripture forms the mind, charity strengthens the will, and obedience reveals the authenticity of love. In a world marked by confusion and competing voices, may we remain anchored in the truth we have received and have the courage, like Saint Boniface, to remain faithful to Christ until the end.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, keep your word alive in our hearts. Teach us to love you through faithful obedience, to cling to the Scriptures that lead to salvation, and to reject every false novelty that weakens faith. Strengthen us when opposition comes, and grant us the courage of Saint Boniface to witness faithfully to you in all circumstances. Amen.

04/06/2026

04/06/2026

4 June 2026

2 Tim 2:8-15; Ps 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14; Mk 12:28-34

Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

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The Word of God today invites us to fix our eyes on what is most important in the Christian life: remembering Jesus Christ, remaining faithful to the truth of the Gospel, and allowing that truth to become love of God and neighbour.

In the first reading, St. Paul urges Timothy: “Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead.” These words are more than a reminder of a past event. They are a call to place Christ at the centre of life, ministry, and discipleship. Paul writes these words while enduring suffering and imprisonment. Yet even in chains, he remains confident because “the word of God is not chained.”

This message speaks powerfully to our situation today. Many people in Zimbabwe carry heavy burdens. Economic uncertainty, unemployment, rising costs of living, and concerns about the future can leave many searching for hope. In such circumstances, there is a temptation to seek religious messages that promise quick solutions, instant prosperity, or a life free from struggle. Yet Paul points us to something deeper and more lasting. The Christian faith is not founded on promises of comfort but on the person of Jesus Christ, who suffered, died, and rose again.

The resurrection does not remove every difficulty from our lives. Rather, it assures us that suffering, hardship, and even death do not have the final word. Because Christ is risen, believers can persevere with hope. As Paul reminds us: “If we persevere, we shall also reign with him.” Faithfulness to Christ is measured not by how free we are from problems but by how steadfastly we walk with Him through them.

Paul also warns Timothy against “disputing about words.” Such arguments, he says, serve no useful purpose and only harm those who listen. These words are remarkably relevant in our own time. We live in an age of constant debate, where social media, public platforms, and even religious gatherings can become places of endless arguments. Sometimes Christians spend more energy defending positions, attacking others, or proving themselves right than growing in holiness and charity.

The temptation to manipulate others is not confined to religious circles. Many Zimbabweans also experience forms of political manipulation through gifts, promises, intimidation, or threats. Such practices can leave thoughtful citizens asking difficult questions: Where are we going as a nation? What values are we promoting? What legacy are today’s leaders leaving for future generations? The Word of God challenges every form of leadership—political, religious, economic, or social—to be rooted in truth and service rather than control and self-interest. Leadership that seeks loyalty through rewards or fear weakens the moral fabric of society. Authentic leadership, by contrast, respects the dignity of others, promotes the common good, and inspires people through integrity and example.

The Apostle's concern is not that Christians should stop thinking or asking questions. Rather, he warns against arguments that produce division instead of truth, pride instead of humility, and conflict instead of growth in faith. Authentic Christian teaching should lead people closer to Christ, inspire greater holiness, and strengthen the bonds of charity within the community.

The Gospel reveals the heart of that authentic faith. When a scribe asks Jesus which commandment is the greatest, Jesus responds with words that remain the foundation of all Christian life: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength,” and “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.”

Everything else flows from these two commandments. Prayer, worship, doctrine, ministry, service, and even the exercise of spiritual gifts find their true meaning when they lead to love of God and love of neighbour. A faith that does not produce charity has lost its centre. A spirituality that does not lead to greater compassion, honesty, forgiveness, and service needs careful examination.

This Gospel also offers an important criterion for discernment. In a society where many voices claim to speak for God, Christians must learn to ask not only whether a message is impressive or emotionally moving, but whether it leads people to love God more deeply and to serve others more generously. The true work of the Holy Spirit always leads to Christ and bears the fruits of charity, humility, peace, and holiness.

The response of the psalm today captures the attitude we need: “Teach me your ways, O Lord.” Rather than seeking messages that simply confirm what we want to hear, we are called to become disciples who allow God to teach us. The Lord guides the humble, reveals His friendship to those who seek Him, and leads His people along paths of kindness and faithfulness.

As we reflect on these readings, perhaps we can ask ourselves a few simple questions. Is Jesus Christ truly at the centre of our lives? Do we seek the truth of the Gospel even when it challenges us? Do our words and actions build up others or contribute to division? And does our faith express itself in genuine love of God and neighbour?

Today, the Lord invites us to return to what is essential. Remember Christ, risen from the dead. Remain faithful to the truth of the Gospel. Avoid quarrels that distract from the mission of Christ. Above all, love God with your whole being and love your neighbour as yourself. In doing so, we will discover that we are drawing ever closer to the Kingdom of God.

Lord Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, strengthen our faith and deepen our hope. Teach us to remain faithful when life is difficult, to seek truth with humility, and to love with generous hearts. Free us from every distraction that draws us away from You, and guide us along the path that leads to Your Kingdom. Amen.

03/06/2026

A Letter to Chinhoyi: The Shepherd You Are Receiving

"Dai vekuChinhoyi vauya vaona kuti akabva kune vanhu. Aidiwa."
(The people of Chinhoyi would have seen firsthand that he came from people. He is loved.)

— Fr. Makokova, Dean of the South-East City Deanery, Harare

To the Clergy, Religious and Faithful of the Diocese of Chinhoyi

By Cheu Pswarayi

As the calendar moves steadily towards 4 July, you are undoubtedly preparing your hearts and your diocese to welcome your new shepherd, Bishop-elect Monsignor Patrick Ngwenya.

You already know his impressive curriculum vitae. You know him as the former Secretary to the Archbishop of Harare, a man known for administrative competence, discipline, and fidelity to duty. Yet, as the parish family of St Francis Xavier and St Martin de Porres in Braeside gathered on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity to bid him farewell, another story emerged — a story not written on paper but inscribed in the hearts of those who have lived, prayed, and journeyed with him.

We write this to tell you about the man behind the mitre and how deeply he is loved by the people among whom he has ministered.

The celebration began, fittingly, at the altar — the centre of Christian life and the place from which Monsignor Ngwenya's priestly ministry has always drawn its strength. He presided over the Holy Mass surrounded by a sanctuary filled with priests whose presence testified to friendships and relationships forged over many years.

Among them was Fr. Mberi, a childhood friend who shared with him not only the parish pews of Glen View but also the journey into priesthood, having entered the seminary on the very same day. Present too was Fr. Gasa, another son of Glen View and now Assistant Priest at Braeside, who has shared the daily rhythms of parish life and ministry with him. There was Fr. Murwira, the current Secretary to the Archbishop of Harare, occupying the office that Monsignor Ngwenya served with distinction for many years, and Fr. Johnston Mlambo, the Social Communications Coordinator of the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference. They were later joined by Fr. Makokova, Dean of the South-East Deanery, and yet another childhood friend from Glen View, Fr. Sagwete.

These were not merely brother priests fulfilling an obligation. They were men who had walked with him through various stages of life and priestly ministry. Their presence spoke eloquently of the esteem and affection in which he is held.

True to his character, Monsignor Ngwenya's homily on the mystery of the Holy Trinity was brief, disciplined, and deeply theological. Reflecting on one of the central mysteries of the Christian faith, he reminded the faithful that the Trinity transcends the limits of human understanding. He cautioned against attempting to reduce the mystery to purely human categories, lest we lose sight of its divine reality.

It was a characteristic moment: thoughtful, measured, and reverent.

As the liturgy concluded and the farewell tributes began, a remarkable theme emerged. Whether one listened to his elderly mother, childhood companions, parish leaders, youth groups, or young children, the message remained strikingly consistent.

His mother spoke with the tenderness and vulnerability only a mother can offer. She described a son who had always sought to do what the Lord asked of him, carrying out his responsibilities with dedication, humility, and faithfulness. She spoke of her prayers for him throughout the years and of the quiet anxieties that naturally accompany a mother's love.

His childhood friends affectionately referred to him as "Mukoma Pati," recalling a young man known for discipline, integrity, and a strong moral compass.

The generations he served at Braeside echoed much the same sentiment.

The parish youth composed two songs in his honour. Their lyrics portrayed a priest who had become more than a parish leader. He was a guide, mentor, protector, and father figure whose presence had helped shape their lives and faith.

Members of the St Agnes and St Alois Guilds could scarcely contain their joy. They regarded Monsignor Ngwenya as one of their own — a fellow guild member now called to the episcopacy. As they presented their gifts, their pride was evident. His appointment was not simply a personal achievement; it was a source of encouragement for countless ordinary Catholics who serve quietly in the Church through guilds, parish ministries, and apostolates.

The parish choir offered perhaps one of the most revealing testimonies. They spoke candidly about the changes they experienced under his leadership. At first, his insistence on discipline and excellence challenged them. Yet, because he maintained high standards, the choir grew stronger and more united. In gratitude, they pledged to continue striving for excellence and expressed their determination to honour his legacy through continued growth and achievement.

When Monsignor Ngwenya finally rose to address the gathering, the hall fell silent.

His remarks were simple, heartfelt, and characteristically humble.

He expressed profound gratitude to the parish community for its cooperation, commitment, and willingness to work together in advancing the mission of the Church. He paid tribute to the unique spirit of St Francis Xavier Parish and acknowledged the many individuals who had supported him throughout his ministry.

In a particularly touching moment, he reflected on the role of his family, especially his mother. With warmth and affection, he remarked that whenever he needed honest counsel and unwavering support, he always found himself returning to her.

As he concluded, he asked for one enduring gift from the people he was leaving behind: their prayers.

With characteristic humility, he acknowledged that he might not have much else to offer in return, but he assured them that they would always remain in his prayers.

Our Gift to You, Chinhoyi

Dear Church of Chinhoyi,

As you prepare to receive Monsignor Patrick Ngwenya as your bishop, know that you are receiving far more than an accomplished administrator or a man deeply knowledgeable in Canon Law.

You are receiving a son deeply rooted in faith and family. You are receiving a brother who has remained loyal to lifelong friendships. You are receiving a priest whose ministry has touched people across generations. You are receiving a shepherd whose leadership combines discipline with compassion, conviction with humility, and fidelity with genuine pastoral care.

His departure leaves a significant void in the Archdiocese of Harare. As Fr. Makokova observed during the farewell, replacing Monsignor Ngwenya will be no easy task. His influence extends beyond parish administration; he has been a pillar of pastoral coordination, a trusted collaborator, and a source of stability within the Archdiocese.

Perhaps the people of Chinhoyi should have been present at the farewell celebration to witness firsthand the tears, gratitude, laughter, and affection that filled the hall. They would have seen what Fr. Makokova meant when he remarked that Monsignor Ngwenya comes from among the people and is deeply loved.

We in Harare shed tears because we are losing a shepherd whose steady hand and fatherly presence have accompanied us for many years.

Yet we rejoice because we know precisely the kind of shepherd who is now walking through your doors.

Welcome him warmly. Pray for him faithfully. Walk with him generously.

And know that the heart now beating for Chinhoyi was formed, tested, and deeply loved in Harare.