The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Pastoral Letter addresses the country’s economic crisis and political instability, urging for justice and renewal. It outlines the impact of corruption, calls for debt relief, and promotes a national metanoia, while advocating for systemic change to restore dignity amid ongoing challenges. The bishops also commend progress with the abolition of the Death Penalty Act, emphasizing the need for continual reform in governance and society as Zimbabwe approaches the Jubilee Year 2025.
The Pastoral Letter from the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops, released days before Ash Wednesday, addresses the dire economic situation in Zimbabwe, burdened by a $21 billion public debt against a $10.6 billion budget for 2025. The economic crisis is worsened by rampant corruption, company closures, and significant job losses, deepening the socioeconomic divide.
Entitled “…to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (Luke 4:19), the Letter draws on the spirituality of the Jubilee Year 2025, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” focusing on debt relief and social justice. It describes the harsh realities facing Zimbabweans, indicating how excessive interest rates hinder development, trapping the nation in economic bondage.
The bishops echoed Pope Saint John Paul II’s appeal for global debt relief reforms, emphasizing the need for struggling nations to escape poverty cycles. They further highlighted the political instability within Zimbabwe, marked by the arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, raising concerns over political repression.
Discussions regarding a potential ‘Third Term’ for President Emmerson Mnangagwa have intensified divisions within the ruling ZANU-PF party. The bishops lament that such debates distract from urgent national issues like poverty, unemployment, and corruption, which require immediate attention and systemic change.
The Letter also starkly addresses the alarming levels of corruption permeating various sectors, noting the disconnect between accountability and the lack of consequences for wrongdoers. The bishops call for a national metanoia—an essential collective transformation within society.
Following the abolition of the Death Penalty Act, the bishops commend this progress in human dignity but stress further reforms are necessary to ensure fairness and equity in governance. In light of the upcoming Jubilee Year, they encourage reflection on forgiveness, restoration, and social justice, urging a collective commitment to societal change.
As Zimbabwe navigates these challenges, the bishops frame their message as a crucial call to action, urging all individuals to restore dignity, combat injustice, and embody the spirit of hope in these turbulent times.
The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ recent Pastoral Letter underscores the profound economic and political challenges faced by the nation, calling for justice, renewal, and collective transformation. With themes rooted in the Jubilee Year 2025, the bishops advocate for debt relief and social justice while critiquing the prevalent corruption and divisive politics. Their message is a compelling appeal for the citizens of Zimbabwe to unite in restoring dignity and addressing pressing societal issues through meaningful action and change.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
