The Diocese of Chinhoyi, in northern Zimbabwe, covers a vast area of over 56,000 km², considerably larger than countries like Switzerland or the Netherlands. With only 22 parishes to minister to numerous scattered villages, priests face the daunting task of covering immense distances to serve their people.
In their journey of faith, the local communities urgently need the presence of a priest to bring them the sacraments and help them improve their living conditions. However, these priests receive no fixed salary, as the diocese lacks resources and the faithful are often too poor to provide support through Sunday collections.
The Vital Impact of Support
Thanks to the help of our benefactors, Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) provides regular support for the 44 priests of the diocese through Mass stipends. This relief allows them to focus on their mission without the crushing burden of financial survival:
“We can afford the fuel we need and so visit the remotest villages more frequently. These can sometimes be up to 140 km away, on rough and lonely roads. The stipends really ease the financial burdens we face.”
Health, Training, and Spiritual Growth
Beyond transportation, these offerings allow priests to obtain vital food, medicines, and medical treatment. Furthermore, it enables them to purchase religious literature for their personal spiritual development and for the ongoing training of lay catechists.
As a result, the pastoral ministry becomes more intensive, the people’s faith is strengthened, and the bond between priests and the faithful grows deeper. This year, we aim to continue supporting these «good shepherds» so they can maintain their health and energy for the service of God’s people.
