Fr. Cephas Tafadzwa Shambare celebrated ten years of devoted priesthood at the Visitation Mission in Domboshava, under the Archdiocese of Harare last weekend.
The occasion drew fellow priests, religious sisters, family members and parishioners from the distant Hwedza region, all gathering to honor a decade of service to the church.
The celebration featured a heartfelt homily from Fr. Henry Wasosa, who urged Fr. Shambare to remain steadfast in his faith and to always follow Christ.
“Mukange muina Christo akabvako uye akadzokerako, uye achadzokazve hamurasiki,” Fr Wasosa reminded encouraging Fr. Shambare to trust in Christ’s guidance.
Throughout the event, speakers highlighted Fr. Shambare’s humility and dedication to his ministry.
Mr. Bopoto, vice-chairperson of Uganda Martyrs Parish, praised him warmly, stating, “Baba vanoshandika navo ava,” underscoring the deep connection Fr. Shambare has forged with the community he serves. Similarly, Uganda Martyrs Parish priest, Fr. Tozivepi Chari, commended Fr. Shambare for his commitment and punctuality in his pastoral duties.
Born on December 4, 1983, Fr. Shambare is the fifth of six children. His journey towards priesthood began at St. Lazarus Makumbi Mission, where he completed his primary education, followed by studies at Parirewa High School.
He received the sacraments of Baptism and First Communion in 1998, and was confirmed in 2002, laying a strong foundation for his vocation.
Fr. Shambare’s theological journey commenced when he joined the seminary on September 1, 2005. He completed his philosophical studies at St. Augustine Seminary in Bulawayo in 2009 and later earned his theological degree from Ss. John Fisher and Thomas More National Seminary in Chishawasha in 2013. His diaconate ordination took place on January 11, 2014, at Sacred Heart Cathedral, where he gained valuable pastoral experience serving in Rhodesville and Marlborough Parishes.
Ordained a priest on August 2, 2014, at Holy Rosary Church in Mvurwi, Fr. Shambare began his ministry at St. Francis Parish in Chegutu, where he served until 2016. He then moved to Mt. St. Mary’s Mission in Wedza from 2016 to 2018, earning recognition for his leadership and pastoral care. His pursuit of academic excellence led him to Rome, where he obtained a licentiate and master’s degree in Spirituality and Formation of Priests and Religious between 2018 and 2020.
After returning to Zimbabwe, Fr. Shambare took on the roles of Vocation Director and Rector of Holy Rosary Minor Seminary at Rothwell Farm until 2021, when he was appointed Spiritual Director at Ss. John Fisher and Thomas More National Seminary in Chishawasha, guiding future priests in their spiritual journeys.
During the anniversary celebration, Fr. Shambare expressed profound gratitude, reflecting on the support he has received over the years. “When I was ordained, WhatsApp was relatively new. I remember writing on my status, ‘I am so loved,’ because of the love you showed me then, and you continue to show such love,” he shared.
Post-celebration, Fr. Shambare remarked on the genuine affection he feels from the community, saying, “People give you what you give them in return. What is so touching about these celebrations is to realize that people genuinely love you.” He further noted the swift passage of time, stating, “Ten years is a milestone that came so fast. It shows God’s faithfulness and steadfast love.”
Source Soccom.
