Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
HARARE – The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart marked a century of faith in Harare on June 28th, celebrating under the theme “100 Years of Faith, a Legacy of Love, a Future of Hope.” While honouring its rich past, the landmark event also served as the launchpad for a visionary future project: the Centenary Block.
Due to space limitations at the cathedral grounds, the celebrations were held at the Dominican Convent High School Quadrangle. Though attendance was slightly below the anticipated 4,000, the event was graced by high-profile dignitaries. Guest of Honour Vice President of Zimbabwe, Honourable General (Rtd) Constantino Chiwenga, led the attendees, joined by Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda, Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province Senator Charles Tawengwa, and former First Lady Mai Grace Mugabe.
In his keynote address, Vice President Chiwenga reflected deeply on Zimbabwe’s Christian heritage, stretching back centuries.
“This history is very important, and for many years it was hidden,” he stated, “because when the Pioneer Column came in 1890, they advocated as though we had never been Christianised before.”
Quoting Pope Francis, the Vice President underscored the importance of historical grounding: “a people without their history risk losing their identity.” He elaborated on its relevance to the centenary:
“We remain grounded in the roots of our faith journey not merely to recall past times, but to inform our present responsibilities and anticipate future aspirations. We don’t live in the glory of the past, but we want the past to inform the present so that this present informs the future.”
Looking ahead, the focal point of the celebrations was the unveiling of the Centenary Block Project. This proposed three-storey building, planned for the cathedral site, aims to solve critical space shortages. It will provide dedicated facilities for the cathedral’s numerous lay associations, catechesis classes, and pastoral programmes.
A technical team is already driving the project:
- Project Manager: Mrs Lydia Mugore
- Architect: Mr Karol Chakaodza
- Quantity Surveyor: Mr Adie Mbengo
Engineering drawings are currently under review and will soon inform cost estimates and Bills of Quantities before submission to the City of Harare for approval.
However, the project faces immediate challenges. During a special briefing, Vice President Chiwenga expressed concern over the limited space available at the current cathedral site. He proposed exploring alternative locations:
- A government-owned parking area between 5th Street and Herbert Chitepo Avenue. Ms Mugore was tasked with initiating a formal request for this site via the Minister’s office.
- A block of flats adjacent to the cathedral, owned by Mr Kamushinda, which might also be considered for relocating the project.
These proposals will be a key agenda item at the next Centenary Committee meeting scheduled for July 27, 2025.
As the Sacred Heart Cathedral stands at the intersection of a storied past and an active mission, the Centenary Block Project emerges as both a monument to its first century and a vital beacon for its future, ensuring it remains a vibrant hub of faith and formation for generations.
Zim GBC News©2025