HARARE FEBRUARY 24, 2015(CISA)-Archbishop Robert Ndlovu of the Catholic Archdiocese of Harare has said that this year’s Lenten collection will be channeled to support diocesan healthcare system.

“The situation of the sick in our country is well known, and their plight is personally felt by all of us,” Archbishop Ndlovu said in a Lenten Pastoral Letter sent to Fides on February 21.

“Let us not spare an effort to look after the sick; to pray for them, to offer our sufferings together with the suffering of Jesus for their healing, and to direct our alms to the noble work of our health institutions and initiatives in the Archdiocese,” said Archbishop Ndlovu.

The prelate said that “From the onset of missionary activity, health care was a special concern and an important aspect of our pastoral care.”

He noted that what was prominent at any mission station established was the pharmacy, dispensary, clinic or hospital.

“Our sisters, brothers and priests gave of themselves tirelessly in the establishment, building, caring, maintenance and development of health care facilities. The Church excelled in the education, training, formation, renewal and support of a variety of healthcare personnel,” said Archbishop Ndlovu.

He said that the church had always stepped in times of pandemics through its healthcare facilities and other initiatives to help fight diseases.

“Our response to the HIV/Aids pandemic, attending to the infected and affected, supporting orphans and vulnerable children, raising awareness, contributing to research and management, is second to none,” he said.