Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in GOA, India
The Roman Catholic Church is delighted to see global leaders embodying the values of empathy and community service, which are key anchors of Christianity, Cardinal Felipe Neri Ferrao, the Archbishop of Goa and Daman in India, said while hosting a dinner in honour of Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga.
VP Chiwenga is leading a Zimbabwean delegation aimed at tracing and proving the history of civilisation prior to colonisation, as well as documenting Zimbabwe’s role in spreading civilisation and Christianity internationally. The Goa archives have been a critical source of records of pre-colonial history.
A significant focus of the visit is to highlight the contributions of the heirs to the Mutapa Empire in the 15th century, who served as trade ambassadors and later became prominent figures within the Roman Catholic Church.
In May, the Government formally requested the Papacy to acknowledge this history during VP Chiwenga’s meeting with the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Gallagher.
Speaking at the dinner with VP Chiwenga, Cardinal Ferrao, a member of the sacred college of Cardinals, the Pope’s advisors, emphasised the need for leaders to commit to the values of Christianity.
“I want to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for your unwavering faith and the steadfast commitment you have demonstrated to the teachings of the faith,” said Cardinal Ferrao.
“It is truly inspiring and makes me happy to see leaders like you embody the values of the faith and share these principles with the wider community.
“Your efforts to promote integrity, compassion, and service resonate deeply with us all. I congratulate you on your remarkable work and dedication. As you trace your history and the contributions you have made, I want you to know that you have our full support. I wish you continued strength and success in all your endeavours.”
Cardinal Ferrao assured support from the church in India for research efforts to ensure that Zimbabwe’s legacy is recognised and celebrated.
In response, VP Chiwenga highlighted Zimbabwe’s rich historical ties with India and the economic synergies that have strengthened their partnership over the years.
“We acknowledge the invaluable opportunity to reflect on our shared history and the lessons it imparts.
“The act of sharing food is one of humanity’s oldest traditions of peace and goodwill. It reminds us that community is cultivated not solely within the halls of governance or the sanctuaries of worship, but also in the simple yet profound act of breaking bread together.”
He further emphasised the parallels between church and Government.
“Our faith reminds us that true leadership is not only about authority but about responsibility. We share a collective duty to uplift the marginalised, protect the dignity of every person, and foster harmony among diverse peoples,” said VP Chiwenga.
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