The Apostolic Nunciature in Zimbabwe, through Archbishop Janusz S. Urbanczyk, the ZCBC (Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference) and IMBISA, joined the Universal Church in joyful thanksgiving to God for the celebration of the first anniversary of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, on this blessed day of May 7, 2026, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Harare, Zimbabwe. The celebration, presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio to Zimbabwe, was attended by the Bishops of the ZCBC, members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Harare, members of the Government and civil society, priests, nuns, religious men and women, and lay faithful.
On this solemn day, one year ago, the Church welcomed with deep gratitude and joy the mission entrusted to the successor of Peter. From the beginning of his ministry, the Pope has guided God’s people with simplicity, wisdom, zeal, and evangelical courage. In his homily, Bishop Raymond highlighted that, throughout this first year of Leo XIV’s pontificate, he has been witnessed by faith and humility, becoming a source of hope for the Church and the world. His tireless appeals for peace, reconciliation, justice, and human fraternity have touched hearts in various countries and renewed confidence in the Gospel, especially among those who suffer because of war, poverty, corruption, displacement, and social injustice.
The Church in Africa remains deeply grateful for the Apostolic Visit to the continent and especially to CEAST (Episcopal Conference of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe), a member of IMBISA. His presence among us was not only a pastoral journey, but also a powerful sign of communion, closeness and encouragement. His Holiness came to Africa as a true Apostle of Christ and Messenger of Peace, strengthening the faith of the people, consoling the afflicted, inspiring the youth and reaffirming the dignity of every human person.
Let us continue to pray for the Holy Father and his ministry, that it may be ever more fruitful and a visible sign of Christ in the world!
Congratulations, Holy Father!