26/05/2026
Ss. Peter and Paul Bondolfi Mission celebrates 75 years of evangelization
Ss. Peter and Paul Bondolfi Mission commemorated 75 years of evangelization and dedicated service to the Church and society during a celebration marked by thanksgiving, reflection and renewed commitment. The Diamond Jubilee brought together priests, religious men and women, lay faithful, traditional leaders, and members of the wider community to honour the mission's enduring legacy.
The historic occasion was graced by Rt Rev. Bishop Raymond T. Mupa, the Diocese's Shepherd, alongside Rt. Rev. Bishop Rudolf Nyandoro of the Diocese of Gweru, who once served at the mission. Also in attendance were the Vicar General of the Diocese, Very Rev. Dr. Oscar Chagweda, the Chancellor of the Diocese of Gweru, Rev. Dr. Gilbert Chibira; Honourable Chief Charumbira; and village heads, reflecting the strong partnership between the Church and traditional leadership.
The celebrations began with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Bishop Mupa. In his homily and keynote address, he paid tribute to the Bethlehem Mission Society (SMB) fathers, religious sisters and brothers and lay leaders whose dedication has sustained the mission's growth over the years.
Established in 1951 by the SMB, a Swiss Catholic missionary congregation, and named in honour of Canon Pater Bondolfi, the mission was founded amid significant challenges. Despite limited resources and difficult conditions, the pioneers persevered, anchored in Christ and inspired by Ss. Peter and Paul-steadfast in faith and zealous in proclaiming the gospel.
During the Diamond Jubilee celebration, the Bishop reminded the faithful that the Second Vatican Council teaches that "the church on earth is by its very nature missionary" (_Ad Gentes, 2_), affirming that Bondolfi Mission's history is a living testament to this sacred calling.
He also highlighted how the primary and secondary schools have nurtured generations of learners, forming men and women of integrity and service; how the clinic continues Christ's healing ministry by responding compassionately to human suffering; and how the Teachers' College has contributed significantly to national development by preparing educators who have served across Zimbabwe and beyond.
Above all, he emphasised that Bondolfi Mission has remained a true house of prayer, where generations have encountered Christ through the sacraments and grown in faith, embodying the Church's enduring mission of evangelisation.
A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of individuals who made significant contributions to the mission's development, including bishops, former parish priests, religious brothers and sisters, catechists and founding members. Their sacrifice and commitment laid a firm foundation for a mission that has become a house of prayer, a centre of learning, and a beacon of hope for generations. Bishop Mupa urged the faithful to embrace the spirit of synodality, reminding them that the Church is called to live out "communion, participation, and mission" as it journeys forward together.
Honourable Chief Charumbira commended the Church for its pivotal role in uplifting the livelihoods of many within the community. He acknowledged the respectful and cooperative relationship between the Church and traditional leadership, noting that this collaboration has fostered unity, development, and social harmony.
The Diamond Jubilee celebration was further enriched by vibrant entertainment, as songs, dance, and spoken words expressed gratitude to God for the mission's blessings.
As the commemorations concluded, there was a shared sense of pride and hope, with the mission looking confidently to the future and remaining committed to its sacred calling for generations to come.
