The Provincial Commissariat of Zimbabwe Celebrates 80 Years During 2026

The Carmelites in Zimbabwe are celebrating 80 years of Carmelite presence in that country during 2026. Adopting the theme “Rooted in Faith: Growing in Hope: 80 Years of Carmelite Presence in Zimbabwe,” the celebrations will be various and many throughout the year. In 1946, three Carmelites, Donal Lamont, Anselm Corbett, and Luke Flynn, left Ireland to bring Carmel to an area which was initially evangelized by the Trappists, the Jesuits, and the Marianhill Missionaries.

In an editorial in the Commissariat of Zimbabwe’s publication, Carmeletter, the appropriateness of the oak tree as the symbol for this jubilee year was presented. The oak brings to mind strength, durability, and reliability. The wood from the tree is used to make furniture and barrels that endure the passage of time. Neither wind nor storms can dislodge the tree because of its deep roots anchoring it securely. And as an oak tree has branches reaching up, the Carmelites in Zimbabwe continues to grow, looking forward to a strong future.

In fact, the Commissary Provincial, Shelton Zimondi, challenges that the jubilee not be a mere reflection on the past but “a look to the future with hope and confidence. Our hope is informed by our history, our past, and our faith.”

At a Eucharist in Whitefriars Street in Dublin for the celebration, the Ambassador of Zimbabwe to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, Retired Colonel Christian M. Katsande spoke of the Carmelites “bringing not only their religious vocation but also a deep commitment to serve the people of Zimbabwe.”

He also spoke of Donal Lamont who later became the bishop of the Diocese of Umtali (now called Mutare) as “not only a man of deep faith, but also a man of great courage.” Lamont’s pastoral letter “Purchased People” and his “Speech from the Dock” when he was standing trial under the Ian Smith government, “gave voice to the moral responsibility of the Church to stand with the oppressed.” While his words led to his expulsion from the country, they also “inspired many and contributed to the growing spirit of justice and liberation that saw the country of Rhodesia transform into the independent nation of Zimbabwe.”

Many other Carmelites—from Australia, the USA, and elsewhere—have also served the people well but quietly. More important than the buildings, the Commissary today is flourishing with Zimbabwean vocations. The future is indeed bright.

One of the projects for the anniversary year is a series of videos on the Commissary.

You can access the first of these here

Makorokoto! Congratulations!