Online Reporter
Samuel Kadungure
News Editor
VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Constantino Chiwenga last week emphasised Government’s responsibility towards creating investment programmes tailor-made to empower millennials, and foster an environment where their natural talents can flourish.
He made this assertion last Saturday while addressing a gathering of Roman Catholic Millennials for Christ in Nyanga.
He was accompanied by the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza and other Government officials.
The event, a core concept of the church that reflects younger Catholics engaging with their faith and finding relevance in its timeless teachings and traditions, was attended by millennials from Borrowdale and Nyanga. The occasion sought to bring the millennials closer to the heart of God, while focusing on a generation that carries the promise and future of both the church and nation. VP Chiwenga said millennials – individuals born between 1981 and 1996 – constitute a unique generation, distinct from those who preceded them.
He described them as “children of transition” – shaped by the profound impacts of the digital revolution, economic reform, globalisation, and widespread social transformation. “They are digital natives, with knowledge and information at their fingertips. This reality has sharpened their worldview and produced a dynamic generation, courageous, questioning, and innovative. Let us first affirm the great opportunities with which God has blessed this generation: Access to limitless knowledge. As Proverbs 18:15 says: “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”
“Millennials are positioned to learn from every corner of the globe, enriching their minds and broadening their perspectives.
Unparalleled connectedness. Technology allows them to form communities across boundaries, fulfilling Hebrews 10:24-25, which urges us to “consider how we may spur one another towards love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another,” he said.
VP Chiwenga highlighted the millennials’ passion for justice and fairness, as well as their commitment to advocacy, which resonates with the Biblical principle outlined in James 1:27, which emphasises the importance of caring for the vulnerable, including widows, orphans, and those in distress.
He said millennials are driven to make a positive impact, refusing to stand idly while others suffer. However, despite these admirable traits, they face unparalleled challenges.
He said many millennials experience isolation despite being hyper-connected, struggling to form authentic relationships.
“Yet, alongside these blessings, you face unprecedented challenges. Many feel isolated in an age of hyper-connection, struggling to find authentic relationships. The fabric of family life is often frayed, leaving some without strong support systems. The same technology that empowers you also overwhelms you, creating mental fatigue, anxiety, and even addiction. The dangers of cyberbullying, exploitation, and privacy violations are ever-present. Global threats-climate change, economic instability, and geopolitical tensions create uncertainty. The search for stable employment and financial security is a major struggle, causing frustration. These are not small matters. They weigh heavily on your hearts. But I stand before you today to declare that even in the face of these struggles, you are not without hope. Romans 5:5 reminds us that God’s love is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. This is the divine assurance that no matter how heavy your burdens may feel, God is with you-always.
The church is your refuge. In the Roman Catholic Church, you will find a family that walks with you. It is here where we bear each other’s burdens, uplift one another in prayer, and celebrate victories together. Government, too, has a responsibility in this journey. Our investments in education, health, and community support are designed with you in mind. We want to empower you, equip you, and create conditions where your God-given talents can flourish.
As you stand at the threshold of adulthood, your faith must remain your compass. Stay anchored in God. Seek Him first in all things. Let your prayer life be your foundation, for when God is first, all else finds its proper place,” said VP Chiwenga.
He also referenced Romans 5:5, which states: “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
He emphasised that this verse resonates deeply with the purpose of their gathering, offering a powerful reassurance that in Christ, there exists an unshakeable hope, unwavering love, and unbreakable strength.
“Millennials; those born between 1981 and 1996, represent a generation unlike any before them. They are children of transition, shaped by the digital revolution, raised during times of economic reform, globalisation, and social transformation. They are digital natives, with knowledge and information at their fingertips. This reality has sharpened their worldview and produced a dynamic generation, courageous, questioning, and innovative,” he said.
He also encouraged the youths to learn from failure, and not fear mistakes.
“Instead, see them as opportunities for God’s grace to shine. As the Scripture teaches, His power is made perfect in
weakness. Be wise stewards.
Manage your time, finances, and talents with discipline. create budgets, avoid unnecessary debt and above all, cultivate generosity. Remember: giving is not loss-it is an investment in eternity. Build Godly relationships. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Surround yourself with companions who inspire you to walk faithfully with Christ.
Your calling is bigger than a career. Your work, your profession, and your service must glorify God and uplift humanity. Discover your talents, use them with diligence, and know that your ultimate purpose is to love God and love others. Never forget that life is a journey filled with temptations and trials. The world offers roses, but many hide thorns. The devil works tirelessly, but Christ’s victory is already assured. Hold on to it, for without faith, it is impossible to please Him,” he said.
