By Thabisani Dube

Following the passing of Pope Francis, Catholic leaders in Zimbabwe have expressed deep sorrow while reflecting on his legacy and its impact on the Church. Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit Pope, was known for his commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and environmental protection, reshaping Catholicism globally.

Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC) spokesperson Father Tryvis Moyo described him as a leader who encouraged the Church to reach beyond traditional structures. 

“He will be remembered for urging the Church to serve those on the peripheries, embracing the marginalised and prioritising justice,” Moyo said.

Father Anesu Manyere, from Makumbi Mission highlighted Pope Francis’ dedication to reforming Church leadership. 

“He consistently spoke against clericalism, calling for leaders who serve rather than rule. His emphasis on synodality ensured that all voices, including laity, were valued in Church decision-making,” Manyere said.

Stewart Gwatirinda, from Gokwe, Midlands Province, highlighted Pope Francis’ environmental advocacy, particularly his encyclical Laudato Si’. “He spoke not only of justice for the poor but also of justice for our planet. He called us to care for those at the margins, but also for nature, which suffers due to human neglect,” Gwatirinda explained.

His teachings on mercy and inclusion were widely embraced. Pretty Tshuma, a Catholic from Bulawayo, said Pope Francis inspired believers to focus on God’s grace rather than judgement. “He reminded us that faith should be welcoming, ensuring no one feels excluded,” Tshuma said.

Catholic youth activist Benjamin Matsika, from Harare, praised Pope Francis’ outreach to young people. 

“He gave us a sense of belonging, urging the Church to acknowledge and support the struggles of youth,” Matsika said.

His advocacy for inclusion extended to those marginalised by society. Pope Francis made headlines by calling for greater acceptance of refugees, the poor, and excluded communities within Church structures. His approach made a significant impact in Zimbabwe, where poverty remains a pressing challenge.

One of Pope Francis’ most transformative contributions was his push for synodality, encouraging a more participatory, collaborative, and inclusive Church.

Fr Manyere, emphasised the significance of the Synod on Synodality, which encouraged dialogue between clergy and laypeople. 

“Pope Francis redefined the Church as a space where all voices matter. He shifted it away from hierarchy to a collaborative journey, where we listen, engage, and discern together,” Fr. Manyere said.

Lesley Tshuma, from Dete, agreed. “His emphasis on listening, dialogue, and participation helped us see the Church as a living, evolving community, not just a rigid institution,” Tshuma said.

This shift towards inclusivity was particularly impactful in Zimbabwe, where Church leadership often remains structured.

 Mary Dzingirai, from St. John’s Cathedral in Gokwe, reflected on how Pope Francis’ teachings encouraged grassroots involvement. 

“Pope Francis taught us that the Church is not just about bishops and priests—it is about all of us walking together. He showed us that everyone’s voice matters,” she said.

As the Catholic Church mourns Pope Francis, discussions on the future papacy are beginning. Many believe the next Pope should uphold Francis’ legacy while addressing new challenges.

Father Moyo believes the next Pontiff must continue Pope Francis’ focus on social justice and mercy. 

“The next Pope should listen deeply, remain faithful to Christ’s teachings, and not be swayed by ideological battles,” Fr Moyo said adding: “Pope Francis was about listening to the people and living the Gospel authentically.”

Father Manyere hopes that Pope Francis’ emphasis on peace and unity will remain central in future Church leadership because he spoke powerfully about peace, especially in his final days. 

Catholic youth Matsika emphasised the need of a leader who can respond to modern challenges while staying true to the faith. 

“Whether it’s climate change, inequality, or the digital age, the next Pope must guide the Church through today’s realities,” Matsika noted.

As Catholics in Zimbabwe reflect on Pope Francis’ passing, the season of Easter offers hope.

“We are consoled by Easter, which reminds us that life emerges from death,” Father Moyo shared. “Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to shape the Church, and his vision will live on.”

Father Manyere noted that Pope Francis’ leadership fostered unity within the Church, particularly in Zimbabwe. “His papacy reminded us that we are Church together—not just a hierarchical institution, but a family of faith,” he said.

Gwatirinda emphasised how Pope Francis’ call to serve the marginalised will continue to inspire Zimbabwean Catholics. “His words on mercy and justice pushed us to rethink how we engage with the poor,” he explained.

Pretty Tshuma summed up the sentiments of many Zimbabweans: “Pope Francis taught us to be a Church that goes out to those who are forgotten. His legacy is one of mercy, inclusion, and hope.”

As the world mourns Pope Francis’ passing, Zimbabwe’s Catholic community finds solace in Easter, the season of renewal and resurrection. The Pope was buried on Saturday in Santa Maria Maggiore where thousands of faithfuls and world leaders paid their respects.

“We trust that Pope Francis, who led the Church with hope and compassion, will find God’s mercy and grace,” said Father Moyo.

From his teachings on mercy and justice to his vision for a participatory, inclusive Church, Pope Francis has left a lasting impact on Zimbabwe’s Catholic community—one that will continue shaping future generations for years to come.