Catholic Church Exposes Married Man Masquerading As Priest In Harare Archdiocese
The Roman Catholic Church in Zimbabwe has exposed a man who has been masquerading as a priest and Franciscan deacon across various parishes and communities
Harare Archbishop Robert Ndlovu issued a warning identifying Francis Gano as the person at the centre of the controversy, saying he had been misleading worshippers by acting as though he was an ordained minister of the Church.
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Archbishop Ndlovu Calls Situation Serious
In a statement to the Catholic community, Archbishop Ndlovu described the matter as a “serious situation” and said Gano had been performing religious duties without the authority or recognition of the Church.
“I wish to inform you of a serious situation regarding Mr Francis Gano, who has been falsely presenting himself as a Catholic priest or Franciscan deacon within various parishes and communities,” Archbishop Ndlovu said.
The Archbishop said Gano had been “preaching and acting as if he were an ordained minister of the Catholic Church.”
However, he made it clear that Gano has never been officially recognised as clergy.
“To clarify, Mr Gano is not, and has never been, a Catholic priest or deacon,” Ndlovu stated.
Church Says He Had No Authority To Perform Sacraments
Archbishop Ndlovu explained that Gano did not undergo the required formation or receive ordination from recognised Catholic institutions.
“He lacks any ordination or formation from recognised Catholic institutions and, therefore, has no authority to preach, celebrate sacraments, or perform any ministry,” he said.
The Archbishop further revealed that Gano’s personal circumstances also differed from those expected of Catholic clergy.
“In fact, he is a married man,” Ndlovu added.
Parishes Ordered Not To Allow His Ministry
The Archdiocese has instructed priests, religious leaders and members of the Catholic community not to allow Gano to participate in official Church activities.
Archbishop Ndlovu urged parishes not to permit him to preach, celebrate liturgies, administer sacraments or carry out any form of ministry within the Archdiocese.
“Do not recognise him as a priest, deacon, or minister,” he instructed.
He also reminded Church leaders that anyone claiming to exercise ministry must first have their credentials verified.
Worshippers Urged To Stay Alert
The Archbishop said the Church must remain cautious to prevent members from falling victim to deception.
“I urge everyone to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of those presenting themselves in this capacity,” he said.
Ndlovu added that protecting the Church’s integrity required collective effort.
“Together, we can protect our community from deception and uphold the integrity of our Church,” he said.
The Archdiocese has urged all Catholics to follow the guidance and report any concerns involving individuals claiming to represent the Church without proper authorisation.
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