AFRICA/ZIMBABWE – Since the beginning of missionary activity caring for the sick has been important: Archbishop of Harare for Lent

Harare (Agenzia Fides) – A Lenten Season with special attention for sick and weaker members of society. This was requested by Archbishop Robert Ndlovu, of Harare, capital of Zimbabwe, in a Lenten Pastoral Letter, a copy of which was sent to Fides. “The situation of the sick in our country is well known, and their plight is personally felt by all of us” says Mgr. Ndlovu, recalling that for the Church “from the onset of missionary activity, health care was a special concern and an important aspect of our pastoral care.”.
“Prominent at any mission station established was the pharmacy, dispensary, clinic or hospital. Our sisters, brothers and priests gave of themselves tirelessly in the establishment, building, caring, maintenance and development of health care facilities. The Church excelled in the education, training, formation, renewal and support of a variety of healthcare personnel,” says the Pastoral Letter.
Archbishop Ndlovu adds “In the times of outbreaks of pandemics the church has stepped in, through its healthcare facilities and other initiatives to help fight diseases. Our response to the HIV/Aids pandemic, attending to the infected and affected, supporting orphans and vulnerable children, raising awareness, contributing to research and management, is second to none. Our mission hospitals are a shining beacon, and our health care personnel and pastoral care workers are the human face of the compassion of God much needed by the sick. ”.
Archbishop Ndlovu says he wishes to direct the Lenten Collection this year to support the diocesan healthcare system and concludes “Let us not spare an effort to look after the sick; to pray for them, to offer our sufferings together with the suffering of Jesus for their healing, and to direct our alms to the noble work of our health institutions and initiatives in the Archdiocese”. (L.M) (Agenzia Fides 21/2/2015)