Catholic believers at the Tanzanite mines in Mirerani, Simanjiro District of Manyara Region, have celebrated a special Mass at their outstation in honor of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, a gathering that highlighted both the spiritual and social dimensions of life in the mining community.
The Mass was led by Rev. Fr. Krisantus Assenga, Assistant Parish Priest of the Holy Rosary Parish, who called on miners and residents to reflect on personal responsibility in their everyday lives.
“We are here to celebrate the feast of the Archangels, but we must ask ourselves: are we fulfilling our duties faithfully, or are we waiting to be served?” he said during his homily.
While underscoring the role of faith in offering hope and strength, Fr. Assenga warned against neglecting safety in mining activities.
He emphasized that although many rely on God’s protection, miners should also take proactive steps to protect their health, particularly against silicosis, a lung disease caused by inhaling dust.
“God indeed safeguards us, but we must also take responsibility by observing health precautions,” he stressed.
The occasion also served as an opportunity for the faithful to support the construction of their outstation church.
According to committee chairman Bazili Raphael, the congregation raised Tsh 447,000 in cash and pledged an additional Tsh 300,000.
They also received commitments of 167 bags of cement, two truckloads of sand, and three truckloads of water for the project.
Catechist Martin Mbuya explained that the outstation, established in 1995 as a small Christian community, has played a central role in the spiritual life of miners, many of whom have joined the Church after receiving catechism and sacraments.
“Today’s celebration demonstrates that mining is not tied to superstition as often assumed, but that faith and work can go hand in hand,” he said.
The Mirerani mines, home to the world’s only source of Tanzanite, attract thousands of small-scale miners who face both economic opportunity and health risks in their pursuit of the rare gemstone.
The Catholic Church’s presence at the site, observers say, offers not only spiritual guidance but also a platform for advocating responsible practices in a sector often marred by hardship and misconceptions.