St Luke’s Mission Hospital Celebrates 75 Years with Opening of New Medical Facilities

Posted by admin on 2025-10-26 10:06:58 | Last Updated by admin on 2025-10-30 16:54:39

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By MKHOKHELI ZIBENGWA 

Sunday 26 October 2025 | 10:00CAT
St. Luke’s Mission Hospital yesterday marked 75 years of dedicated service to the people of Matabeleland North with a vibrant celebration attended by Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Honourable Retired General Dr. Constantino Chiwenga.

The event was both a commemoration of the hospital’s remarkable journey and a moment of renewal, as the Vice President officially commissioned several new facilities, including a modern Outpatients Department, an operating theatre, a maternity labour ward, a neonatal ward, and a new classroom block for the School of Nursing. A mothers’ waiting shelter is also currently under construction and expected to be completed soon.

These new developments were made possible through the collaboration of the Archdiocese of Bulawayo and the Africa Project Ubuntu Schales Trust, a partnership that continues to strengthen the hospital’s mission of delivering quality healthcare rooted in compassion, faith, and service.

Addressing the gathering, Vice President Chiwenga hailed St. Luke’s as a “pillar of hope and healing” that has stood firm in its commitment to serve the people of Lupane and surrounding districts for decades.

“For 75 years, this institution has stood as a true symbol of dedication and resilience,” said the Vice President. “Government fully acknowledges the vital role mission hospitals play in providing healthcare, especially in remote areas, and we remain committed to supporting them in their efforts.”

He also commended the hospital staff for their devotion to service despite challenges, and praised His Grace Archbishop Alex Thomas for his steadfast leadership and vision in steering the institution forward. The Vice President further pledged government support to improve critical infrastructure, including the upgrade of mortuary facilities at the hospital.

Delivering his homily during the celebrations, Archbishop Alex Thomas of the Archdiocese of Bulawayo described St. Luke’s as “a living testimony of Christian love and service,” emphasizing that the hospital’s longevity is a result of faith-driven commitment and moral integrity.

“Service to humanity is more valuable than personal gain,” the Archbishop said. “Those who serve here do so with humility and compassion, following Christ’s example of love and selflessness.”

Archbishop Thomas also paid tribute to the late Dr. Davies and Dr. Schales, two pioneering medical missionaries whose dedication laid the foundation for the hospital’s success. He said their legacy continues to inspire current and future generations to serve with the same passion and devotion.

The 75th anniversary celebration drew hundreds of congregants, government officials, healthcare workers, and members of the local community, all gathered in thanksgiving for the institution’s enduring legacy.

As the celebrations came to a close, one message resonated throughout the day — St. Luke’s Mission Hospital remains not just a place of healing, but a beacon of faith, compassion, and community service that continues to touch lives 75 years on.