On the 15th of May 2024, Bondolfi Teachers’ College had the honour of hosting Rt. Rev Bishop Raymond T. Mupandasekwa for a special Thanksgiving Mass. The event was organized to celebrate the college’s exceptional Teaching Practice (TP) results and to express gratitude for the smooth transition to a semester system. The day also served to acknowledge Sekuru Mupandasekwa’s unwavering support for this unique Catholic institution, the only one of its kind in Zimbabwe.
Sekuru’s arrival was met with great enthusiasm. A guard of honour, comprising lecturing staff, ancillary staff, and students, warmly welcomed him, reflecting the deep respect and anticipation surrounding his visit.
During the Mass, Sekuru Mupandasekwa delivered a profound homily that resonated deeply with the attendees. He posed thought-provoking theological questions, asking the audience to consider the foundational roles of Jesus and St. Paul in the Church. This challenge to reflect on the contributions of key figures in early Christianity underscored the importance of understanding and appreciating the roots of the faith.
Drawing from the day’s Gospel passage from John’s Gospel, Sekuru Mupandasekwa emphasized the significance of prayer in the life of believers, urging everyone to avoid self-centeredness in their prayers. He reminded the congregation of the communal aspect of prayer embodied in the Lord’s Prayer, where the emphasis is on “we” rather than “I” or “me.” He stressed that prayer should be inclusive and universal, echoing Jesus’ teaching.
In his speech, Sekuru praised the college for its hard work and achievements, encouraging everyone to continue striving for excellence in all endeavours. His words were a source of inspiration, motivating the staff and students to maintain their dedication and commitment to quality education.
The celebration was rich with cultural diversity, featuring entertainment, talks, and expressions of gratitude in multiple languages, including Shona, Shangaani, Ndebele, Tshivenda, and English. This multilingual tribute highlighted the inclusive and diverse nature of the Bondolfi community.
Sekuru Mupandasekwa’s visit was a memorable and enriching experience for all at Bondolfi Teachers’ College. His messages of faith, humility, and excellence left a lasting impression, reinforcing the college’s mission and values. The event not only celebrated past achievements but also set a hopeful tone for the future, with the Bishop’s support and guidance serving as a beacon for continued success.
