AoB/Cir 05 2024

Dear Clergy, Religious and Laity of the Archdiocese of Bulawayo,

In the month of October in the Catholic Church we have two main focus: the Month of Rosary and the Month of the Missions. Accordingly we pray for the success of the mission started by Jesus handed down to the apostles and His followers. It is our duty to pray for the works of the Church, support its activities and be part of that mission which comes from our baptismal commitment In this year of Co responsibility of all the baptised let us do our part wholeheartedly.

1. Gratitude:

1.1 . Launch of Police Church Partnership in Bulawayo:
I am very grateful to all those who took part in the launch of the Police Church Partnership in. Bulawayo. Our presence and witness was next to none. We see the power and witness of the Catholics wherever we are. Let us be witnesses of Christ in our daily life.

1.2 . Pilgrimage to Empandeni:
Despite the cold weather conditions the witness at Empandeni was amazing. The great numbers that turned out show our love for faith and the desire to grow further. Pilgrimage is one of the activities required of a Catholic as part of our faith. Thank you to all who participated and organised it very well.

2. Pilgrimage Places:

In the Archdiocese of Bulawayo we can easily have three powerful centres of pilgrimages; Empandeni, Our Lady of Fatima and Old Bulawayo. In order for us to develop these places to certain standards with proper facilities we need people who can drive the process and raise funds. If any individual or groups who can adopt anyone of those places, you are most welcome to see me to plan together. We need more 'spiritual power houses' in our Archdiocese.

3. AGM of Laity:

This will take place from 22 to 24 November at Emthonjeni Pastoral Centre starting at 17:00 hours on Friday and ending with lunch on Sunday. All parishes/missions and associations/movements should submit their annual report regarding the implementation of the theme to the Archbishop before 15 November. Reports should be just one full page of A4 sheet precise to the activities done.

4. AGM of Priests:

This will take place on 2 December 2024 at Emthonjeni Pastoral Centre.

5. Annual Thanksgiving Day:

This year it will be done in each parish for all associations together on 17 November. There will be no Deanery or Archdiocese thanksgiving day.

"I like to think of the Church as the simple and humble people who walk in the presence of the Lord - the faithful people of God"
- Pope Francis -

Sincerely
+ Alex Thomas
Archbishop of Bulawayo