02/02/2026
ST DOMINIC PARISH
DIACONATE ORDINATION CEREMONY
Ordination of Bro. Austin Sayira CMF & Minister Honest Dangaiso
Date: 31 January 2026
Venue: St John The Baptist Cathedral, Gokwe
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
1. *Introduction*
St Dominic Parish had the honour and privilege of participating in the Diaconate Ordination Ceremony of Bro. Austin Sayira CMF, and Minister Honest Dangaiso held on 31 January 2026 at St John The Baptist Cathedral, Gokwe. The sacred celebration marked an important milestone in the vocational journey of the two candidates, who were formally ordained to the Order of Deacons in the Catholic Church.
The ordination was presided over by His Lordship, the Right Reverend Eusebius J. Nyathi, Bishop of the Diocese of Gokwe, in the presence of clergy, religious, and a large congregation of the faithful.
2. *Presiding Bishop and Clergy*
The ordination was officiated by Rt. Rev. Eusebius J. Nyathi, Bishop of Gokwe Diocese. The ceremony was celebrated by almost all priests from Gokwe Diocese together with Clerical priests from Zimbabwe, notably from St Charles Parish, St Dominic Parish, and Zhombe Parish. Their presence reflected strong ecclesial unity and support for vocations within the Church.
3. *Homily*
The homily was delivered by Fr Joaquin Bejah, who reflected deeply on the call to diaconal ministry. He emphasized humility as the foundation of service, obedience to the Church, commitment to proclaiming the Word of God, and service to the poor and the People of God.
4. *Programme of the Ordination Ceremony*
The liturgical programme followed the traditional rite of diaconate ordination, including the procession of clergy, calling of candidates, questioning, nuptial readings in Tonga, Ndebele and Shona, the ordination rite, Holy Mass, notices, and final blessing.
5. *Episcopal Message*
During the notices, Bishop Nyathi made a strong pastoral appeal urging all Catholics not to support the legalization of abortion, emphasizing the sanctity of human life. The message was received with seriousness and reflection.
6. *Attendance and Participation*
The ordination was attended by clergy from Gokwe Diocese, Clerical priests from Zimbabwe, religious men and women, altar servers, and a large number of parishioners. The full church testified to the joy and importance of the occasion.
7. *Conclusion and Fellowship*
After the conclusion of the Holy Mass, the faithful shared a communal meal before dispersing peacefully. The celebration ended at approximately 1:00 p.m.
8. *Conclusion*
The Diaconate Ordination of Bro. Austin Sayira CMF, and Minister Honest Dangaiso was a spiritually enriching and well‑coordinated event that strengthened the faith of the St Dominic Parish community and reaffirmed the Church's commitment to nurturing vocations.
