Antony Chawagarira
BULAWAYO– The Archdiocese of Bulawayo on Saturday marked a historic milestone for the Catholic Church in Zimbabwe after twin brothers were ordained as priests for the first time in the country’s history.
Fr. Francelino Joachim Machirika and his twin brother, Fr. Franklin Joachim Machirika, were among four deacons ordained to the priesthood during a solemn Mass held at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Bulawayo.
The ordination ceremony, which began at 9:30am, was presided over by Archbishop Alex Thomas SVD.The historic occasion also saw the ordination of Fr. Bongani Ndlovu CMM and Fr. Dumisani Dube CMM, bringing the total number of new priests ordained on the day to four.
The ordination of the Machirika twins has been widely celebrated by the Catholic faithful as an unprecedented event in Zimbabwe, symbolising God’s call and grace upon one family. Church members described the occasion as a source of inspiration for young people discerning religious vocations.
Following their ordination, the newly ordained priests are expected to celebrate thanksgiving Masses in their respective parishes on Sunday.
Fr. Francelino Joachim Machirika and Fr. Franklin Joachim Machirika will celebrate their thanksgiving Mass at Holy Trinity Parish in Cowdray Park this Sunday.Fr. Bongani Ndlovu CMM will celebrate his thanksgiving Mass at Uganda Martyrs Parish in Luveve , while Fr. Dumisani Dube CMM will celebrate his at St Bernards Parish in Pumula.
The priestly ordination marks the culmination of years of spiritual formation, theological studies and pastoral preparation, with the four priests now set to begin their ministry of serving the Church and communities through the celebration of the sacraments, preaching the Gospel and pastoral care.
As one Bulawayo laity and member of St Joseph guild, Jacob Chikarakara said: “Today we witnessed history in our church and my family and I wish the twins and indeed the other two new priests a long and blessed journey in their chosen vocation. Our guild stands ready to support them as they go through their journey as priests.”
The Archdiocese of Bulawayo said the occasion was a joyful celebration of faith and a reminder of the continued growth of vocations within the Catholic Church in Zimbabwe.
