Thousands of congregants, government officials, political leaders, traditional leaders and well-wishers have gathered at Gokomere Mission in Masvingo to commemorate the 25th Priestly Anniversary of Rt Rev Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa, in a celebration marked by faith, fellowship and national recognition.
The milestone celebration has drawn a high-profile gathering, with Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Retired General Dr Constantino Dominic Nyikadzino Chiwenga, among the distinguished guests attending the occasion.
Also present is Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Hon Ezra Ruvai Chadzamira, who is also the Member of Parliament for Masvingo West Constituency and a Central Committee member of ZANU PF.
The event has further attracted senior Government officials, with Permanent Secretary Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa represented by Director Coordination Mrs Rosemary Chingwe. Director Caleb Mahoya of Agritex is also among the officials attending the celebrations.
“Today we give thanks to God for 25 years of priesthood. It has been a journey of faith, sacrifice, and the grace of the people of God who walked with me.
“Gokomere has taught me that the Church is not in buildings, but in people. When we gather in faith, we become one family under God.”
“As we celebrate this milestone, let us continue to pray for our nation, our leaders, and for peace and unity in Zimbabwe,” said the bishop.
The gathering has brought together people from across different sectors of society, including ZANU PF Elders Council member Mr Dzikamai Mavhaire and Cde Mainah Mandava , other Government and party officials, traditional leaders, church representatives and thousands of congregants who have converged at the historic mission to honour Bishop Mupandasekwa’s quarter-century of priestly service.
The 25-year milestone represents a significant chapter in Bishop Mupandasekwa’s religious journey and is being celebrated as an opportunity to recognise his years of service to the Church and the wider community.
Gokomere Mission has been transformed into a hive of activity as congregants and guests participate in the celebrations, with messages of gratitude, fellowship and reflection taking centre stage.
The presence of national and provincial leadership has further elevated the significance of the occasion, underscoring the important role played by religious institutions and their leaders in Zimbabwean communities.
Sources: Godfrey Gusha and Tafara Pande
