St Gerard’s Church

Did the walls of St Gerard’s Church ever whisper secrets of a turbulent past? Let’s unravel the story of this iconic church, nestled in Borrowdale, Harare. St Gerard’s isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a testament to a community’s resilience and a beacon of hope amidst challenging times. The church, consecrated in 1960, stands as the first Redemptorist church in Zimbabwe, a unique landmark in the nation’s spiritual landscape. Its circular design, inspired by the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, though smaller, sets it apart, a silent echo of architectural grandeur from across the globe. St Gerard’s Church wasn’t always the serene sanctuary you see today. Its story intertwines with the struggles of a nation grappling with its past. In the 1960s, the Redemptorists, driven by their mission to serve the marginalized, arrived in what was then Rhodesia. They found a community divided, a farming area where the affluent white community existed alongside the marginalized black farm laborers. The Redemptorists, recognizing the need for education, established makeshift schools for the farm laborers’ children. This act of defiance against the prevailing inequalities was met with resistance from the Smith regime. The government, in an attempt to suppress the spread of knowledge and empowerment, shut down these schools, a stark reminder of the oppressive forces at play. Yet, St Gerard’s Church remained, a symbol of hope, a place where the whispers of faith echoed in the face of adversity. Over the years, it has continued to serve the diverse communities of Greystone Park, Glen Lorne, Borrowdale, Borrowdale Brooke, Pomona, Vainona, Colray, Philadelphia, and Quinnington. The church hosts mass in English and Shona, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures and languages that make up its vibrant congregation. St Gerard’s Church has also played a vital role in nurturing other parishes, including the Church of the Immaculate Conception Highlands sub-parish and St Cecilia Charlotte Brooke. St Augustine’s Hatcliffe Parish, once a sub-parish of St Gerard’s, now stands as an independent, fully-fledged parish, a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable church. As you stand before St Gerard’s Church today, take a moment to listen. Hear the echoes of the past, the whispers of resilience, and the unwavering spirit of a community that has found solace and strength within its walls.