By CCN Reporter
The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference Social Communications Commission held a national meeting for all diocesan Communications Coordinators on 2 March 2023 to reflect on ways to enhance Church communication in the country. The meeting that was attended by the ZCBC Chairman for Social Communications, Bishop Paul Horan was held at St. Theresa Cathedral in Gweru and led by the Commission’s National Coordinator, Br. Alfonce Kugwa.
Those who attended the meeting include Fr. Jonston Mlambo of Harare, Fr. Elisha Nyathi of Bulawayo, Fr. Martin Gambiza and Fr. Shingai Nduku of Gweru, Fr. Cuthbert Mavedzenge and Cecilia Dzvairo from Masvingo, Fr. Libert Tagwirei of Gokwe, Sr. Macelline Mudambo and Richard Mupindu of Mutare, Fr. Romeo Chirenje of Chinhoyi, Fr. Vincent Lumano and Brian Nyati Mubata from Hwange and Sr. Mufaro Chakuinga from Social Communications National Office.
Coordinators deliberated on the relevance and impact of Social Communications as the mouth piece of the Church, based on Pope Francis’ 57th World Day of Social Communications message whose theme is “Speaking with the Heart; ‘The truth in Love’” (Eph 4:15). They also evaluated the Commission’s role in evangelization and challenged the local church to involve Social Communications at all levels so as to increase the institution’s visibility.
Bishop Paul Horan said communication is always at the centre of every diocese and that the Church needed up to date communication so as to make her visible, strong and connected.
“The work of Social Communications touches all dimensions of the Church. The Church media play a big role as a Synodal instrument to connect all people in the Church. You should make use of your capability to make the church and her programmes visible,” said Bishop Horan, who is also the President of the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference.
Bishop Horan challenged Church communicators to be fully alive to issues that affect the church and report them effectively and timeously. He also called for collaboration between Social Communications and other arms of the church through sharing of information and coverage of programs.