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Born in Trieyland, Schlochac, Germany in 1931, Fr. Norbert Gille, SJ entered the Society of Jesus in 1955 at Jakobsberg, Bingen. His formation took him through studies in philosophy at Pullach and theology at Heythrop College in England. He was ordained a priest in Berlin in 1961.
In 1964, Fr. Norbert was missioned to Africa, beginning his apostolic work at St Albert’s Mission near the Zambezi escarpment. He remained there until 1976, serving faithfully as a pastor during the turbulent years of the liberation war. He would later reflect on this period as “the happiest time of my life.” With missionary zeal, he established numerous Mass centres in remote areas such as Muzarabani, often travelling by bicycle, navigating dangerous terrain where wheel tracks were mined. In those early days, before chapels or homes were available, he would sleep by the roadside.
With characteristic determination, Fr. Norbert worked to establish a new parish at Mount Darwin, facing resistance from local white farmers who were reluctant to see a Catholic presence in the area. Finding a way forward, he secured land on the edge of the town in the tribal trust area with the help of the local sabhuku (village head). Although initial efforts were obstructed—he was even fenced in without access—his perseverance prevailed.
From 1976 to 1980, he remained in Mount Darwin, before being sent to Mhangura, then to St Rupert’s in Makonde. In 1996, he moved to Chishawasha and later to St Kizito’s in Murombedzi, where he served until 2015. From there, he took on lighter duties in Harare.
True to Ignatian principles of cura personalis and forming others, Fr. Norbert also launched a youth apostolate named Shingirirayi (“Persevere”). The initiative engaged young people through sport—organizing football teams under local leadership—and gradually drew them into Christian formation. With resourcefulness, he developed catechetical materials, drawing inspiration from various sources, and secured support from benefactors in Germany. This funding enabled the construction of guest lodges, which now sustain the programme financially.
At 94, Fr. Norbert continues to animate the Shingirirayi project from his room at Richartz House in Harare, supported by a dedicated team. His life remains a testament to the Ignatian spirit: generous, grounded, and wholly committed to being a man for others.
First published in Ad Intra No.35
English