Story by Abigirl Tembo
VICE PRESIDENT General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga is in Rome, Italy, where he is set to engage in crucial meetings with the Vatican leadership.
The visit coincides with the Year of the Pilgrimage of Hope, a celebration declared by the late Pope Francis, which brings together faithful Christians and non-Christians worldwide.
In an interview at Rome Ciampino Airport, Vice President Chiwenga highlighted the significance of the pilgrimage, emphasising its theme of hope.
“This year is the Year of the Pilgrimage of Hope, as declared by the late Pope Francis. It is during this year that the doors of Saint Peter’s Basilica are opened. This is where the early Church began, tracing back to biblical times before the emergence of various denominations,” he said.
“Saint Peter’s Basilica sits above the relics of Saint Peter. In ancient times, the Basilica was opened every hundred years, later reduced to fifty, and now every twenty-five years. During each opening, the faithful from across the world gather in pilgrimage. This year’s jubilee focuses on hope, and it is that message of hope which brings us here.”
The Vice President will also visit the Franciscan headquarters, a congregation that played a pivotal role in his education and has helped educate many Zimbabweans through Catholic philanthropic works.
Vice President Chiwenga’s visit follows his attendance of Pope Francis’ funeral on April 26.
The Roman Catholic Church plays a vital role in Zimbabwe’s education and healthcare sectors, operating numerous schools, hospitals, and clinics that contribute significantly to the country’s development, benefiting the broader population beyond its approximately 1.4 million Catholic followers.
