Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube | Zim GBC News
BULAWAYO – The road to the altar is one often walked alone, but for twins Franklin and Francelino Machirika, it has been a parallel journey from the start.
Born on the same day, raised in the same Cowdry Park home, and now ordained as deacons on the same day at St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica, the Archdiocese of Bulawayo has formally witnessed the ordination of the 25-year-old twins—a remarkable event that has captured the imagination of the local Catholic community.
The story of these identical twin brothers—one assigned to Uganda Martyrs in Luveve and the other to St. Pius in Njube—promises a profound narrative of faith, family, and individual purpose within a shared destiny.
In accordance with canon law, archdiocesan banns signed by Archbishop Alex Thomas called for any objections to be lodged by December 15.
None were forthcoming.
Archbishop Thomas conferred the Sacrament of Holy Orders in a Basilica filled to overflowing, with many of the faithful seated outside due to the lack of space. The Diocesan Choir, led by the local Basilica choir, offered sacred hymns throughout the Mass.
Following the liturgy, Archbishop Thomas addressed the congregation.
“This is a blessing to the Archdiocese of Bulawayo,” he said.
“Yes, it is the first time to ordain twins in our diocese. These brothers have been an example to the other seminarians—well-behaved and well-natured. They are the most intelligent deacons.”
A Shared Calling, Individual Voices
In an interview after the ceremony, the brothers reflected on their journey. While their identical voices made attributing quotes a challenge, their shared conviction was clear.
One of the twins expressed gratitude for their path.
“It’s a blessing. God has been with us from day one,” he said.
“Many people have been wondering why twins want to be priests. We are not surprised at all because we accepted our call. It is the love we have for our Church and for God.”
He added,
“It’s not easy for parents to give up two children to the church to be priests. We are a gift from God, and our family has returned that gift to God.”
When asked why they chose priesthood while many of their peers pursue worldly pleasures, the other twin pointed to faith as the foundation of their decision.
“It all has to go back to our faith. If you really understand your faith and the power of God in your life, choosing to serve God is the best choice you can make,” he said.
He cited Psalm 115:1 as a guiding scripture in their acceptance of the call to priesthood:
“Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory.”
The Ministry of the Diaconate
The ordination marks their entry into the diaconate, the first degree of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. In Catholic doctrine, deacons are ordained for a ministry of service (diakonia), not for the priesthood. Their functions include baptizing, witnessing marriages, presiding over funerals, and blessing.
For those, like the Machirika twins, who are on the path to the priesthood, this “transitional diaconate” is a final step of preparation, emphasizing that all ordained ministry is rooted in service to others, following the model of Christ who “came not to be served but to serve” (Mark 10:45).
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