Njabulo TAVODZERA, OMI

On February 17, 1826, Pope Leo XII granted approval to the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, a significant decision that not only confirmed our way of life, but also assigned us an important role within the Church and filled our hearts with deep gratitude and joy.

In a solemn celebration, the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate in Zimbabwe together with the Missionary Associates of Mary Immaculate, parishioners, Archbishop Alex Thomas, SVD, of Bulawayo and religious brothers and priests of the Archdiocese gathered at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Khumalo on Saturday, February 18, 2023. The occasion was a double celebration: the 198th anniversary of the papal approval of our Congregation and its Constitutions and Rules and 40 years of Oblate presence in Zimbabwe.

Fr. Jonathan PETERSEN, Provincial Vicar, Rodney GEORGE, Provincial Administrator, and Mildred, a representative of the Missionary Associates of Mary Immaculate in South Africa, were in attendance. During the Mass, Father Jonathan, OMI, gave a moving homily in which he challenged the Oblates in Zimbabwe to honor their heritage by embracing the values enshrined in the Constitutions and Rules of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and to promote unity among our Mazenodian Family.

A highlight of the ceremony was Brother Tyson NDLOVU, one of our Scholastics, renewing his vows, symbolizing a deep commitment to the Oblate mission. Additionally, Lucky MANDAVA shared a brief reflection, shedding light on the journey of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate in Zimbabwe, recounting the missions and parishes served over the decades.

Br. Tyson NDLOVU, OMI, renews his vows.

In conclusion, Archbishop Alex Thomas, SVD, of Bulawayo expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the 40 years of work of the Oblates in the Archdiocese and in Masvingo and expressed hope for continued collaboration and a lasting cordial relationship in the years to come. The resonance of the celebration at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish was a testimony to the enduring legacy of faith and service embodied by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate.