HARARE NOVEMBER 18, 2016 (CISA) – The Catholic Diocese of Gokwe on November 17 commemorated it’s achievements in 25 years of its existence.
The event which was held at St. John Cathedral was graced by The Papal Nuncio to Zimbabwe, Archbishop Marek Zalewski, in the company of bishops and priests.
They celebrated Holy Mass to bless the diocese and to thank God for the realistic milestones the diocese has accomplished in different sectors.
“From two primary schools, the diocese now has 20 primary, secondary and high schools and the diocese runs some hospitals and clinics,” said the local ordinary of Gokwe, Bishop Angel Floro during the occasion, as reported by Catholic News Agency in Africa.
The Diocese was created by Pope St. John Paul II at the request of the late Rt. Rev Ignatius Prieto on October 19, 1991 and Bishop Michael Bhasera was the first bishop to govern the diocese.
“Apart from the four missions and two more created in 1991, there was nothing else except people. He (Bishop Bhasera) did not have even a house to live in. I was privileged to work with him since 1992…” said Bishop Angel Floro.
“I accompanied him when I doubled as Vicar General and Financial Administrator during those years, so I know pretty well the hardships and challenges he encountered and his enthusiasm and commitment to develop the diocese, to open new missions and put up infrastructure required for the diocese to operate properly,” added Bishop Angel Floro.
At the moment, Gokwe Diocese is home to a plethora of home grown vocations with over 150 vocations to religious and priestly life.
Hundreds of people from all over the country also joined the local Church to mark the historic event.
