Zimbabwe: Historic mission reopened

Bishop Ncube blesses the Mission

Source: Catholic Diocese of Hwange

Bishop Raphael Macebo Mabuza Ncube, from the Catholic Diocese of Hwange in Zimbabwe, has consecrated and reopened a historic Mission on the Victoria Falls - Bulawayo highway. I Thisis a significant revival of a once-abandoned sacred site, which has been out of use for decades.

The newly revived mission is located in the Matetsi area, between the town of Hwange and Victoria Falls city. Historically, this location was home to an old mission that served as a spiritual hub for pilgrims and local Catholics alike.

The recent consecration of the mission, by Bishop Ncube, signifies a renewed recognition of this sacred place, which is expected to be a choice stopover for tourists and pilgrims.

Also situated near the mission, a few kilometres away is the Pandamatenga Marian Shrine. The newly revived mission is dedicated to Mary Queen of the Assumption.

"This Mission is open so that it becomes a place of prayer. Whoever wishes should come and pray ... The mission will serve not only the local community but also pilgrims travelling on the Victoria Falls Road. Many Catholics, including those from other dioceses, prompted the development of this mission over the years. The faithful thirsted for a place of prayer as they travelled on the Victoria Falls - Bulawayo Road," explained Bishop Ncube.

The Bishop dedicated the new mission for prayer and healing of physical and mental ailments.

Part of the mission also comprises tombs of missionaries at Pandamatenga -these were some of the pioneer missionaries in this part of the country.

Bishop Ncube has since appointed Fr Trust Luyando Mwembe as the acting priest in charge of the newly revived mission. Fr Mwembe is the Dean of the new Jambezi Deanery, to which the Mary Queen of the Assumption Mission belong.

The Hwange prelate further said the revival of the mission was made possible through the support of Sacred Heart Jambezi Mission, which played a nurturing role.

Today Pope Leo sent a message to Zimbabwe expressing his sadness at the news of a fatal ferry accident which took place on Lake Kariba, last Tuesday, 11 August. More than 80 people, including numerous children are know to have died.

In a telegram signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and sent today, 18 August, the Holy Father sent his "heartfelt condolences" to those who are mourning the loss of loved ones, assuring them that he is entrusting the souls of those who died "to the loving mercy of Almighty God.