The Church News

Theme: WHEN TRAUMA IS MISTAKEN FOR DEMONIZATION

2026-11-14T06:13:12.963+02:00

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS – PART 2

By Rev B Chinhara

Not every battle of the mind is a spiritual attack. Sometimes, what appears to be demonization is the manifestation of deep emotional wounds, unresolved trauma, and psychological distress.

In many Christian communities, people struggling with mental health challenges are sometimes misunderstood, labelled as demon-possessed, or subjected to repeated deliverance sessions when what they desperately need is understanding, compassion, counseling, and appropriate professional care.

But how do we distinguish between spiritual struggles and psychological trauma? Can prayer, deliverance, counseling, and medical treatment coexist?

In this second episode of Mental Health Matters, we explore the danger of misinterpreting trauma as demonization, the silence surrounding men’s mental health, and the importance of creating safe spaces for healing within our churches, families, and communities.

Faith and professional mental health care should not be viewed as enemies. God can work through prayer, compassionate relationships, counseling, and medical professionals.

The Church must be a place of healing, not a place where wounded people are further wounded through misunderstanding and stigma.

Join me in this important conversation as we seek to replace judgment with compassion, stigma with understanding, and silence with hope.

Watch, reflect, and share. Someone may be suffering in silence and desperately needs this message.

#MentalHealthMatters #WhenTraumaIsMistakenForDemonization #FaithAndMentalHealth #TraumaHealing #ChurchAndMentalHealth #MensMentalHealth #BreakingTheStigma

EFZ Announces Walk4Gratitude Community Walkathon In Harare

2026-11-13T04:33:43.369+02:00

Staff Writer - The Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) has announced plans to host a community walkathon in Harare on November 28, 2026, as part of an initiative encouraging people to reflect on their achievements and express gratitude for the year.

In a statement issued on Thursday, EFZ invited members of the public to participate in the #Walk4Gratitude event, which seeks to bring communities together through physical activity, reflection and appreciation.

The walkathon will begin at 6am at Prince Edward High School in Harare, with participants required to pay a registration fee of US$10 per person.

EFZ said the initiative was designed to provide an opportunity for people to celebrate personal milestones, appreciate their loved ones and recognise the positive contributions made within their communities throughout 2026.

"Gratitude is best expressed in motion!" the organisation said, encouraging people from different backgrounds to join the walk.

The fellowship said participants should expect a refreshing morning characterised by social interaction, wellness and positive energy.

Interested participants have been encouraged to register through the online registration form ahead of the event.

The initiative is being promoted under EFZ's broader message, #PrayEngageBuild, alongside the hashtags #Walk4Gratitude, #Community and #Wellness.

EFZ Empowers Women Through Inheritance Laws at 2026 Annual Conference

2026-11-12T05:16:50.511+02:00

By A Correspondent-

The Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) has stepped up efforts to empower women through legal awareness, with inheritance rights taking centre stage at its 2026 Women's Annual Conference held in Bulawayo last week.

EFZ Board Member, Advocate T. Rabvukwa, took participants through inheritance laws, equipping women with knowledge about their legal rights and the importance of understanding issues surrounding inheritance and property ownership.

The conference was held under the theme "Breaking Camp", which sought to encourage women to move beyond existing limitations and embrace opportunities for personal growth, empowerment and greater participation in society.

Rabvukwa's presentation highlighted the importance of legal education in helping women understand inheritance matters and become better positioned to protect their rights and interests.

The initiative reflects the importance of combining spiritual development with practical knowledge that enables women to make informed decisions and navigate legal and social challenges.

Through such engagements, EFZ continues to provide platforms for women to access information, share experiences and strengthen their capacity to contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.

ZCC: Returning Migrants Deserve Dignity, Not Despair

2026-11-11T05:53:15.414+02:00

By Staff Writer - The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) says no returning citizen should be left to face reintegration alone, after hosting a high-level monitoring visit in Beitbridge to assess its migration response work.

On 5 November 2026, ZCC welcomed a Diakonia delegation led by Program Manager Tendai Pikirayi and Finance Officer Rosemary Bopoto, under the South Africa Migration Response Project.

The team visited the Beitbridge Reception and Support Centre, where they met the Beitbridge District Development Coordinator's (DDC) office, ZCC local church leaders, IOM and the Red Cross to witness first-hand how returnees are received.

Speaking during the visit, ZCC officials said the work is about far more than handouts.

"For us, this response goes beyond providing immediate assistance. It is about upholding human dignity, offering compassion and ensuring that returning migrants are not left to navigate the challenges of reintegration alone," a ZCC representative said.

"Returning citizens often arrive exhausted, distressed and uncertain about what lies ahead. Meeting them with a safe journey onward, basic necessities and a listening ear is what dignified return should look like."

With support from Diakonia, ZCC has now reached more than 2,000 individuals with cross-sectoral support, including bus fares for onward travel for vulnerable migrants, hygiene care packages, blankets, and psychosocial and spiritual care.

The DDC's office commended ZCC for the intervention, saying the support had made a real difference at the border.

"We commend ZCC's work, made possible through Diakonia's support, and we reiterate that such efforts should continue," the DDC's office said.

ZCC said it will continue to stand with returning citizens, ensuring they are received with dignity, care and hope as they rebuild their lives back home.

RCZ Ibex Hill Congregation Welcomes Rev. Allan Makukula

2026-11-10T05:25:54.335+02:00

By A Correspondent -

The Reformed Church in Zambia (RCZ) Ibex Hill Congregation has expressed its commitment to supporting and praying for Rev. Allan Makukula as he takes up his leadership responsibilities within the church.

In a message shared last week, the congregation warmly welcomed Rev. Makukula, pledging to stand alongside him as he leads the church and serves its members.

Drawing inspiration from 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, which encourages believers to recognise and appreciate those who labour among them and provide spiritual leadership, the congregation emphasised the importance of honouring church leaders and supporting their ministry.

"Rev. Allan Makukula, we receive you with love, and we commit to pray for you, support you, and walk with you as you lead us," the congregation said.

The message highlighted the congregation's readiness to work together with its new leader, underscoring the importance of unity, prayer and mutual support in strengthening the church's mission.

The biblical passage also calls on believers to hold their spiritual leaders in high regard and live peacefully with one another, reinforcing the values of respect, fellowship and collective responsibility within the Christian community.

Faith Builds Healing: ZCC Opens Mission Hospital To Serve Bikita South

2026-11-09T06:39:28.235+02:00

Staff Writer - In the hills of Mazengwa, in Bikita South, a new mission hospital stands as a testament to faith put into action. Built by the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Moria Zimbabwe and its partners, the facility is now waiting only for medical equipment and government support before it can open its doors to the sick.

For the Church, the hospital is not just bricks and mortar. It is ministry.

The completed Mazengwa Mission Hospital is expected to end years of painful journeys for villagers who have had to travel long distances to Mashoko and Silveira hospitals for basic care. For pregnant mothers, for children, and for the elderly, those journeys have often meant the difference between life and death.

Residents say they welcomed the hospital as an answer to prayer, but they are now appealing to Government to equip it so that healing can begin.

"For years, we used to travel to Mashoko and Silveira hospitals to access healthcare services, which affected the elderly, pregnant women and children. However, when this institution was established, we were happy, although it is still to be equipped and capacitated," said one villager.

Another community member said the Church had shown what it means to love one's neighbour in practical terms.

"We want to appreciate the role being played by the Church in serving the community. A hospital is a big investment in our community, and we are looking forward to this facility becoming operational very soon," said the villager.

ZCC Moria Zimbabwe spokesperson Mr Simon Mazengwa said the project flows directly from the Church's Christian calling to care for the vulnerable.

"Our objective is to provide free primary healthcare, focusing on maternal and child health for vulnerable rural families. As a church, it is also our role to look after our communities as we continue working with our Government to improve on our community needs," he said.

Church leaders say the hospital reflects the biblical mandate to heal the sick and to serve those whom society often forgets. In a rural community where clinics are few and transport is scarce, the mission hospital is intended to be a place where faith and healthcare meet, where mothers can deliver safely, where children can be treated early, and where the elderly can be cared for with dignity.

For now, the building stands ready, a symbol of what the Church has already given. What remains is for Government and partners to provide beds, medicines, equipment and health workers, so that the vision can move from construction to compassion in action.

THEME: IT IS NOT HOW MANY TIMES YOU FALL, BUT HOW MANY TIMES YOU RISE!

2026-11-07T06:23:15.489+02:00

“Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.” (Micah 7:8)

Life is not measured by how many times we fall, but by our courage and determination to rise again. Falling is part of the human journey, but remaining fallen is a choice we must refuse to make.

Sometimes we fall because of failure, disappointment, betrayal, sickness, financial struggles, broken relationships, or circumstances beyond our control. At other times, we fall because of our own mistakes and poor decisions. But whatever brought us down must never have the final word over our lives.

Many successful people are not strangers to failure. They stumbled, lost opportunities, suffered rejection, and experienced painful setbacks. What distinguishes them is not that they never fell, but that they refused to remain on the ground. They gathered their strength, learned from their failures, and began again.

Remember, you are not your fall. Your past failure is an event, not your identity. Your setback is not your destination. Your fall cannot define your future.

Micah boldly declares, “When I fall, I shall arise!” This is the language of faith, resilience, and unwavering hope in God.

Above all, look to Jesus Christ, our greatest inspiration. He fell beneath the weight of the cross, yet continued towards Calvary. He was crucified, buried, and on the third day rose victoriously from the grave.

Because Jesus rose, we too can rise. Your story is not over. Rise again!

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

Benny Hadassah Muzanambombe Reflects On First-Ever Live Show With Bishop Charamba 15 Years Ago

2026-11-06T06:42:55.205+02:00

Staff Writer - Gospel music minister Benny Hadassah Muzanambombe has shared a nostalgic reflection on her first-ever live music show, recalling how he met Bishop Charamba 15 years ago in Mutare.

In a post on Friday, Muzanambombe said the two photographs captured a 15-year journey since he first met the celebrated gospel musician at Sakubva Beit Hall in Mutare.

He revealed that the occasion marked his first experience attending a live music performance, with Elder Fungie Partson Kaguramamba playing a special role by purchasing his entry ticket.

"These two images have a 15 years difference. I met Bishop Charamba for the first time paSakubva Beit Hall in Mutare and that was my first time to attend a live show ever. Special thanks to Elder Fungie Partson Kaguramamba for buying the entry ticket for me," he said.

ZCC Congratulatory Message to the Anglican Diocese of Matabeleland

2026-11-05T06:41:59.663+02:00

Congratulatory Message to the Anglican Diocese of Matabeleland- ZCC

Roman Catholic Mourns Monsignor Mhishi

2026-11-04T06:04:36.966+02:00

Staff Writer -The Roman Catholic Church is mourning the deat

h of Monsignor Matthew Mhishi, one of the longest-serving priests in the Archdiocese of Harare, who died on 2 November 2026 at the age of 96.

The death of Monsignor Mhishi was announced by Fr Ephraim Murwira, Secretary to the Archbishop of Harare, who confirmed that the cleric passed away at his residence at Belvedere Presbytery.

Born on 30 September 1930, Monsignor Mhishi dedicated several decades of his life to priestly service, building a legacy through his commitment to the Church and pastoral ministry.

During his long religious vocation, he served in various capacities, including as a pastoral worker and Parish Priest, where he guided congregations, strengthened Christian communities and supported the spiritual growth of the faithful.

He later assumed administrative responsibilities within the Archdiocese of Harare, drawing on his extensive experience, knowledge and leadership to contribute to the running of the local Church.

His decades of service were marked by commitment to his religious calling, from working directly with parish communities to undertaking responsibilities in the broader administration of the Archdiocese.

His death marks the end of a long chapter of dedicated service to the Catholic Church, with fellow priests, religious communities and the faithful reflecting on his contribution to the institution.

As the Church grieves his passing, prayers have been offered for the repose of his soul and comfort for his family, fellow clergy, religious and all those affected by his death.

"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen."

Dorcas Moyo Takes Album Launch To SA

2026-11-03T05:35:35.294+02:00

Staff Writer - Gospel songstress Dorcas Moyo is set to launch her new album in South Africa this December.

The award-winning musician confirmed the development on Monday, announcing that she will be taking her latest project across the border.

"South Africa let's make a date... Ndirikuuya neKoronaaaa yeimvi ikoko..." she said.

Methodist Church in Zimbabwe Mourns Rev Matata

2026-11-02T06:34:19.037+02:00

By A Correspondent -

The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe is mourning the death of Reverend Munashe Matata, the Superintendent of Parktown Circuit, who has died.

Rev Matata passed away on Sunday, 25 October 2026.

His death was confirmed by the church's General Secretary, Revd L. Molife, in a statement that described the mood in the church as sombre.

"A dark cloud has befallen us," Revd Molife said.

"It is with a heavy heart that I inform the Methodist Community that Revd Munashe Matata (the Superintendent of Parktown Circuit) has passed on. He was called to Church Triumphant this afternoon Sunday, 25 October 2026," he said.

"May his dear soul rest in eternal peace. May we pray for the family and the Church in these difficult times," Revd Molife added.

The church had indicated that funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.

Rev Matata was laid to rest last week on Wednesday in Chegutu.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

2026-10-31T05:50:17.563+02:00

ARE YOU TRULY HEALTHY, OR ARE YOU SIMPLY NOT SICK?

A Reflection on the Body, Soul, and Spirit

My dear friends, greetings to you all!

Following our first video lesson on Mental Health and Wellness, today I invite you to reflect on a question we rarely ask ourselves: Can someone appear physically healthy while suffering psychologically, emotionally, or spiritually?

We often associate being sick with visiting a hospital, taking medication, or experiencing physical pain. But what about the person who smiles in public while battling anxiety, fear, guilt, loneliness, or spiritual emptiness?

The expression “dis-ease” helps us reflect on anything that makes us feel not at ease. Our well-being involves more than the absence of a medically diagnosed disease.

This brings us to three important concepts:

🟢 DISEASE: What is happening in the body?

🟠 ILLNESS: How does the person experience and respond to suffering?

🟣 SICKNESS: How does society recognize, interpret, and respond to someone’s condition?

These concepts help us understand why the body, soul, and spirit must be considered together when discussing holistic well-being.

1 Thessalonians 5:23 reminds us of the spirit, soul, and body.

👇 I invite you to read the accompanying poster carefully and join the discussion.

Here is my question to you:

Is it possible to be physically healthy but psychologically or spiritually unwell? How should our families, churches, and communities respond?

Your contribution may encourage someone who is suffering silently.

Together, let us break the silence, challenge stigma, and promote holistic wellness.

Healthy Minds • Healthy Bodies • Healthy Spirits • Stronger Communities

#MentalHealthMatters #BodySoulSpirit #MentalHealthAwareness #HolisticWellness #FaithAndMentalHealth #BreakingTheCycleOfWorry

ZCC Selects 50 Leaders For Ecumenical Leadership Academy 2026

2026-10-30T07:03:32.985+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has selected 50 leaders from across Zimbabwe for the 2026 Ecumenical Leadership Development Academy (ELDA).

One of the selected participants, Mairosi Watungwa, who is also the Cranborne UMC CM Chair and Cranborne Ecumenical Secretary, said he is honoured to be part of the programme.

"Honoured to be part of the 2026 Ecumenical Leadership Development Academy (ELDA) convened by the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC). We had virtual learning sessions now as we move into the in-residence phase in Harare," Watungwa said.

He said the academy has enhanced his knowledge on key governance and leadership principles.

"The journey has deepened my understanding of ethical leadership, peacebuilding, democratic governance, and political economy," he said.

Watungwa said true leadership is anchored on values rather than titles.

"Leadership is not about position, but about integrity, accountability, and service. Grateful to ZCC for investing in leaders and for creating space for critical conversations on Zimbabwe's future," he said.

He expressed gratitude for being among the few chosen for the prestigious programme.

"Nyasha dzega dzega 50 people chosen the whole of Zimbabwe and I am one of them," he said.

Watungwa said he is committed to putting the lessons into practice.

"Committed to translating these lessons into action for hope, justice, peace and accountable leadership," he added.

A Note To The Editor ...

2026-10-29T17:57:44.864+02:00

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Please the lady in question contact us for your right to reply

ZCC Distributes Rice To Returnees In Mwenezi, Chiredzi

2026-10-29T06:06:25.834+02:00

Staff Writer -

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) is distributing rice donated by the Government of China to vulnerable citizens who recently returned from South Africa.

A total of 20 metric tonnes of rice is being distributed to hundreds of returnee households in Mwenezi and Chiredzi districts in Masvingo Province.

The two districts are among those that recorded the highest number of returnees from South Africa and are also vulnerable to climate-induced food insecurity.

ZCC said additional supplies have been pre-positioned at the Beitbridge Reception Centre to support ongoing humanitarian response.

The church body conducted distributions in Mwenezi yesterday with support from district government officials, with the exercise continuing in Chiredzi today.

ZCC expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for the donation, describing it as a gesture of solidarity.

Zimbabwe Council Of Churches Raises Awareness On Breast Cancer, Urges Early Screening

2026-10-28T06:56:39.168+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has expressed solidarity with all people affected by breast cancer, calling for hope, compassion and early action.

In a statement on Tuesday, the ZCC said it stands with patients, survivors and families impacted by the disease.

"The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) stands in solidarity with all those affected by breast cancer, offering hope, compassion and encouragement," the organisation said.

The Council urged the public to take proactive steps to protect their health and to prioritise regular screening.

"As we raise awareness, we encourage everyone to: Know your body. Know the signs. Seek care early. Visit your local healthcare facility for screening," the statement read.

The ZCC said its message was guided by faith and the need to care for the body.

"Guided by 2 Corinthians 4:7, we are reminded that while our bodies may be fragile, hope remains. Let us continue caring for the bodies God has entrusted to us," it said.

It further called for collective efforts to fight the disease through awareness and support for those affected.

"Together, let us promote early detection, timely treatment and a culture of care," the ZCC said.

ZCC Launches Climate Change Strategy as Faith Communities Unite for Creation Care

2026-10-27T04:50:08.636+02:00

Staff Writer - The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has launched its Climate Change Ecumenical Response Strategy for 2026 to 2030, in a major push to strengthen the Church's role in tackling climate change.

The strategy was officially launched on Monday 19 September 2026 in Harare during the Multistakeholder Climate Change Dialogue: Towards COP31.

The dialogue brought together faith actors, government representatives, Parliament, civil society and development partners to chart a common path towards climate justice.

According to the ZCC, the strategy is anchored on three key pillars: "Advocacy and Public Witness, Adaptation and Resilience, and Institutional Stewardship and Ecological Transformation."

Participants at the launch also agreed on a Joint Call to Action, pushing for "better access to climate funding, greater environmental accountability, and solutions that respond to the needs of local communities."

The Council called for collective action, urging the Church, government, civil society, development partners, businesses and communities "to build strong partnerships, and commit resources to climate action."

"The success of this Strategy depends on what we do together, starting now," the ZCC said.

The launch was guided by the scripture: "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it." - Psalm 24:1

Dorcas Moyo Confirms Alick Macheso To Perform At Her Album Launch On Saturday

2026-10-26T07:03:09.255+02:00

By A Correspondent| Gospel musician Dorcas Moyo has confirmed that sungura music heavyweight Alick Macheso will perform at her album launch on Saturday, 31 October, expressing her excitement at having the celebrated musician as part of the event.

Moyo shared the announcement in a heartfelt message, referring to Macheso as her father and expressing gratitude for his willingness to support her special occasion.

"My father will be there. I am humbled to have you, Baba Vangu, on Saturday, 31 October. Thank you, Baba Vangu Alick Macheso," Moyo said.

She also used the message to invite fans and music lovers to attend the launch, encouraging them to join her for the anticipated gathering.

"Iwewe neni ngatisanganei musi weSaturday," she added, inviting her supporters to come together on the day.

Macheso, one of Zimbabwe's most prominent sungura musicians, has built a strong following through his music and energetic stage performances. His confirmed appearance is expected to add excitement to Moyo's album launch, bringing together fans of both gospel and sungura music.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, 31 October, with Moyo looking forward to sharing the occasion with her supporters and fellow musicians.

INTRODUCING BREAKING THE CYCLE OF WORRY: A BIBLICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH TO ANXIETY AND MENTAL HEALTH.

2026-10-24T05:40:11.901+02:00

Mental health and wellness can no longer be treated as secondary concerns. In Breaking the Cycle of Worry: A Biblical and Psychological Approach to Anxiety and Mental Health, I invite readers to understand anxiety not simply as a spiritual weakness, a lack of faith, or merely a medical condition, but as an experience that can affect the whole person, body, mind, relationships, and spirit.

One of the central ideas explored in this book is that anxiety can become a self-perpetuating cycle. Anxious thoughts can intensify physical symptoms, while those physical sensations may convince the mind that danger is present, producing even more worry. Breaking that cycle therefore requires us to take seriously the different dimensions of human wellbeing.

The book brings biblical and psychological perspectives into conversation rather than competition. Prayer, Scripture, worship, Christian community, hope, forgiveness, and pastoral care remain powerful resources of faith. At the same time, seeking professional counseling, psychological support, or appropriate medical care should not be regarded as evidence of weak faith. Caring for mental health is part of caring for the whole person.

This message is particularly important within Christian communities. We must resist the temptation to spiritualize every emotional or psychological struggle. Telling someone simply to pray more, have more faith, or assume that every mental-health difficulty is caused by spiritual forces may prevent a suffering person from receiving the help they need. Mental-health struggles can become severe and, in some circumstances, life-threatening. Taking warning signs seriously, listening without condemnation, and connecting people with appropriate support can help protect lives.

Readers should therefore expect a book that seeks to build bridges: between faith and psychology, pastors and clinicians, prayer and professional care, spiritual wellbeing and mental wellness. Ultimately, Breaking the Cycle of Worry calls us toward compassionate, informed, whole-person care in which faith offers hope while responsible mental-health care helps people move toward healing and wellness.

To God be the glory

By Rev. B. Chinhara

Dorcas Moyo Ready To Release New Album

2026-10-23T07:59:03.764+02:00

Dorcas Moyo on Friday...

What are you selling today??? Inini am selling ma tickets hangu eLaunch....Nhasi ndirimo mutwn you can call me or app me ndokuigira ticket rako +263775090529 or 0774029953

EFZ Women Empowered With Word and Law at 2026 Annual Conference in Bulawayo

2026-10-22T05:58:55.493+02:00

By A Correspondent- Women attending the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) 2026 Women's Annual Conference in Bulawayo have been empowered with knowledge on inheritance laws.

EFZ Board Member Advocate T. Rabvukwa took women through the country's inheritance laws during a session held under the theme "Breaking Camp."

The session sought to equip women with legal knowledge to protect their rights and those of their children in the face of loss and inheritance disputes.

Advocate Rabvukwa unpacked key provisions of the law, urging women to know their rights and to stand firm against cultural practices that disinherit widows and children.

The conference, which has drawn hundreds of women from across the country, is running under the banner #Empower The Woman, Empower The Nation.

The EFZ Women's Conference continues to blend the Word of God with practical empowerment, ensuring women are spiritually grounded and legally informed.

#EmpowerTheWomanEmpowerTheNation

ZCC Joins Global Church Leaders In Thailand For World Council Of Churches Meeting

2026-10-21T03:28:03.807+02:00

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has joined global church leaders in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for the 2026 World Council of Churches (WCC) Joint Biennial Meeting of Commissions and Reference Groups on Life, Justice and Peace.

The high-level meeting, led by WCC General Secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, is running from 4 to 10 October and has brought together church leaders and practitioners from across the world at a time of armed conflict, growing inequality, ecological crisis and threats to human dignity.

ZCC is being represented by its Head of Programs for Humanitarian Services and Diakonia, Ms Maria T. Dendere, who is attending both on behalf of the organisation and as a member of the Ecumenical Diakonia Reference Group (EDRG).

At the centre of the discussions is one question: how are churches called to witness together today?

According to organisers, delegates are revisiting the ethical foundations of ecumenical social thought, drawn from more than a century of church engagement with society, and discussing principles that still hold in a fractured, fast-changing world and which need renewing.

The programme also includes an outreach component, with delegates visiting local organisations working on migration, health, refugees and climate change.

The visits have shown how communities and partners in Thailand are responding to challenges that many of the communities served by ZCC in Zimbabwe also face, providing ideas and possible partnerships.

"This event produced a shared reading of the signs of the times, renewed guiding principles for the churches' public witness, a common conference message, and stronger cooperation among WCC commissions, reference groups and ecumenical partners," ZCC said in a statement.

For ZCC, the meeting is an opportunity to share lessons from its work with communities, build partnerships with ecumenical partners worldwide, and bring home ideas that will strengthen its climate resilience, humanitarian, development, peacebuilding, and justice efforts.

The meeting is expected to produce a common conference message and renewed guiding principles for the churches' public witness.

Fungisai To Perform At Dorcas Moyo Album Launch

2026-10-20T06:10:35.283+02:00

MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERIES

2026-10-19T07:08:14.794+02:00

First and foremost, I give all glory to God for His amazing grace.

I am deeply humbled by the overwhelming response to my recent graduation from Grand Canyon University, where I earned my Master of Science in Mental Health and Wellness, with an Emphasis in Integrated Health.

To everyone who viewed my graduation picture, sent congratulatory messages, prayed for me, or shared in my joy, THANK YOU! Your love and encouragement have touched my heart.

As a Pastor, counselor, and mental health practitioner, I believe that mental health matters just as much as physical and spiritual well-being.

During my studies, I wrote a book entitled Breaking the Cycle of Worry: A Biblical and Psychological Approach to Anxiety and Mental Health.

One of the central messages of this book is that worry is not merely a feeling; it can become a cycle.

A troubling thought creates fear. Fear triggers physical tension. We begin imagining the worst, seeking reassurance, or trying to control tomorrow. Before we realize it, we are trapped in a cycle of anxiety.

But here is the good news: The cycle of worry can be broken.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:34 not to be consumed by anxiety about tomorrow.

Faith does not mean pretending that emotional pain does not exist. Neither does seeking professional mental health support demonstrate a lack of faith. Biblical wisdom, psychological understanding, appropriate treatment, and compassionate care can work together toward healing and wholeness.

STARTING THIS WEEK, I WILL BE SHARING A WEEKLY MENTAL HEALTH MESSAGE RIGHT HERE ON FACEBOOK.

Together, we will explore anxiety, stress, depression, overthinking, emotional exhaustion, relationships, spiritual well-being, and practical ways of managing life’s pressures.

My prayer is that this platform becomes a place where people find knowledge, encouragement, hope, and the courage to seek help when needed.

Remember: You do not have to carry every burden alone.

My book is available through Amazon and Lambert Academic Publishing (MoreBooks).

Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Cycle-Worry-Blessmore-Chinhara/dp/6630320948

MoreBooks:

https://www.morebooks.shop/shop-ui/shop/product/9786630320947

LET US BEGIN WITH A QUESTION:

What is one thing people worry about today that you would like us to discuss in this weekly series?

Share your thoughts in the comments. Your response may inspire one of our upcoming discussions.

Please follow this page and share this message with someone who needs encouragement.

Breaking Worry. Building Wholeness. Living with Hope.

May God bless you and grant you peace.

Rev. Dr. Blessmore Chinhara

#MentalHealthMatters #BreakingTheCycleOfWorry #FaithAndMentalHealth #MentalWellness #HopeAndHealing #RevDrBlessmoreChinhara