A mission experience in Africa

On July 25, a vision to replace a shed-like church with a modern building, capable of holding a thousand people, was realised.

The new church is built of brick, with a steel and corrugated iron roof, spacious gallery and decking and a sanctuary with very beautiful altar, ambo and tabernacle. It stands proudly beside the local primary and secondary schools, which cater for over a thousand pupils. A mission fund in the parish of Templemore, Clonmore and Killea raised over €54,000 to help with the building costs.

A representative group from Templemore, Frances Maxwell, her daughter Bríd, Bridget Jones and her sister Mary had the privilege of attending the ceremony. It was a colourful, joyful occasion. The consecration rituals and Mass, concelebrated by many priests of the diocese of Mutare featured wonderful harmonious singing and liturgical dancing, accompanied by enthusiastic drumming and hosho shaking. After the Mass there was food for the huge attendance, cooked outdoors in true African fashion. The parishioners expressed their sincere gratitude for the Templemore financial contribution to their church.

The Irish party enjoyed much sightseeing in Zimbabwe, visiting Harare, Bulawayo, Masvingo, Gweru and the Victoria Falls. They visited schools, hospital and family homes and learned about the traditions and culture of this beautiful country. Many warm and friendly Zimbabweans struggle to make a living despite the fact that the country is rich in minerals and has fertile soil and wonderful scenery. Some have come to Ireland to work and provide financial assistance to their families back home. Members of the Zimbabwean Catholic Community in Ireland come to Templemore once a month for Mass and a chance to meet up with friends. Our parish is privileged to have befriended these happy, faith-filled, hardworking people who have made Ireland their second home.