The Church News

Prophet Uebert Angel Mourns "Brother" Wicknell Chivayo

2026-10-02T07:56:31.773+02:00

By A Correspondent-

Spirit Embassy leader Prophet Uebert Angel has paid an emotional tribute to businessman Wicknell Chivayo who died in a helicopter crash on Wednesday night alongside his wife Lulu Muteke and three others.

In a heartfelt statement, Angel said he was struggling to come to terms with the loss of a man he considered family.

"I struggle to find the right words to express the pain of losing a man who was far more than a generous giver. He became my family, someone whose presence, kindness, friendship & love left a lasting mark on my life, my family & the lives of so many people around the world," he said.

"He left this world alongside his beloved wife, Lulu, the two pilots & his wife's aide. 4 precious lives were suddenly taken, leaving behind families and loved ones who are now trying to make sense of a loss that is almost impossible to comprehend. My heart goes out to every family affected by this tragedy," he said.

Angel said he was holding onto his faith despite the pain.

"But even in the middle of this pain, I choose to hold on to Jesus. I choose to believe His promises when my heart is broken. I choose to believe we did not lose these souls, Heaven gained them. That truth does not mean we don't grieve. We grieve because we loved them & also because they mattered. We feel this emptiness because their presence meant so much to us. But our faith reminds us that death does not have the final word," he said.

He said Chivayo will be remembered more for his generosity than his wealth.

"When I think about him, what I will remember most is not simply what he had, but what he chose to do with what he had. He understood that true wealth is measured by the lives we touch, people we lift & the difference we make while we are here," he said.

"He gave millions in support of the work of the Lord, helping to advance its mission, strengthen its ministry & enable us to reach people who needed hope, encouragement, and practical support. He didn't stop at the church, he gave to individuals, families, communities & causes that mattered to him. Many people benefited from his kindness, often in ways that may never become known publicly," he said.

"For me personally, his loss carries a different kind of pain because he was not simply someone I knew through his generosity. He was family. We shared moments, conversations, dreams, laughter, & memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. My kids called him UNCLE, & he truly became their uncle. He was involved in their lives, cared about what they were doing, celebrated their achievements. He was part of their world. That is something I will forever be grateful for," he said.

"There are people whose names are remembered because of what they achieved. Others are remembered because of what they accumulated. But Wicknell will be remembered because of what he did. His life reminds us that whatever God places in our hands can become a blessing to others when we are willing to give. His generosity helped build, support, encourage, and transform lives. And his impact will continue through the people and institutions he supported, especially the Church that he believed in & generously stood behind," he said.

Angel said his family is mourning all five victims.

"Today, my family and I mourn not only the loss of a brother and his dear wife, Lulu, but the loss of someone who became deeply woven into our family story. We mourn the two pilots and his wife's aide as well, and we remember the families who are now carrying their own unbearable grief. Five lives. Five stories. So many people left behind to mourn. We may never fully understand why their journey had to end when it did. I don't have the answers. But I know Jesus. And I know that even when we cannot understand His ways, we can still trust His heart," he said.

"So I choose to be grateful for the years we had. Grateful for the memories. Grateful for the conversations. Grateful for the laughter. Grateful for the lives he touched. Grateful for the millions he gave to the work of God. And most of all, grateful that God allowed him to become part of my life and part of my family. There are moments now when I will think, I need to tell Uncle something, and then I will remember that he is no longer here. That is the kind of pain that words cannot explain. But then I remind myself that he is not lost. He has gone ahead. And because of Jesus, I believe there will be a day when we meet again. So although my heart is broken, my faith remains. Although I am grieving, I still have hope. Although I cannot understand why this happened, I still trust Jesus," he said.

"For me, he will always be remembered as more than a man who gave millions to the Church. He was a man who gave from his heart. He was my brother. He was my children's Uncle. He was family. He will never be forgotten," Angel said.

He extended his condolences to the bereaved families.

"To his family & to the families of the two pilots & his wife's aide, I extend my deepest condolences. May Jesus Himself comfort you in the places where words cannot reach. May He hold you through the tears, the silence, the questions, & the memories. Find comfort in knowing that the lives they lived mattered, the love they gave mattered, & us they touched will carry their memory forward. Today, we mourn because we loved. But we also rejoice because we know where our hope lies. We did not lose them. Heaven gained them. And one day, by the grace of God, we will see them again. Until then, rest well, my brother. Rest well, Uncle. Rest well, Lulu. And may the two pilots and Lulu's aide rest well," he said.

Finnish Envoys Tour ZCC Resilience Projects In Mwenezi, Officially Open Kushinga Hub

2026-10-01T06:48:18.601+02:00

Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) on 21 September 2026 hosted officials from Finland's Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission (Felm) for a monitoring visit in Mwenezi, which included the official opening of the Kushinga Resilience Hub in Ward 14.

During the tour, the delegation saw first-hand how local communities are tackling water scarcity and food insecurity through interventions such as solar-powered boreholes, community gardens and conservation agriculture.

The newly opened hub is now supplying water to a community garden, livestock drinking troughs and community standpipes, a development that is boosting livelihoods and enhancing community resilience to climate shocks.

The delegation also visited the rehabilitated Sonopi Dip Tank, which continues to service more than 2,000 cattle from surrounding villages, highlighting the long-term impact of the partnership.

As part of the visit, officials took part in planting baobab and musumha trees, a symbolic act representing resilience grounded in indigenous knowledge and strengthened through international collaboration.

The ZCC expressed gratitude to Finland's Ministry for Foreign Affairs through Felm for support under the ECRA-Zim project, as well as to community members, traditional leaders and the Government of Zimbabwe for their commitment.

"Together, we are nurturing hope, protecting livelihoods and building stronger communities," ZCC said.

Ecumenical Leadership Development Academy Opens Applications For Young Leaders Aged 21-45

2026-09-30T06:52:53.297+02:00

Are you a leader aged between 21 and 45, ready to grow, learn and make a meaningful difference in your church, community and society?

The Ecumenical Leadership Development Academy (ELDA) is inviting applications from emerging and established leaders who are passionate about strengthening their leadership skills and deepening their understanding of ethical and servant leadership.

The Academy is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, confidence and practical tools needed to lead and serve effectively in various spheres of life.

Programme Structure

Successful applicants will be required to commit to full participation in both components of the Academy:

*Virtual Sessions:* 5 - 8 October 2026

*In-Residence Programme:* 27 - 29 October 2026

Applicants should have access to a gadget and reliable internet connection for the virtual sessions, and must be available to attend the in-person residential programme.

*How To Apply*

Applications close on *2 October 2026*.

Interested candidates can apply through the official application form here:

*https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf48G4y6JbVIJ_DrwTlKH7L6JKJn7x-BcrYOIyJ4Tn5dJ_I1g/viewform*

International Evangelist Trymore Muparinga Ignites Masvingo Mega Crusade

2026-09-29T06:48:18.797+02:00

By A Correspondent - International Evangelist Trymore Muparinga is ministering at the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, Masvingo North Circuit Mega Crusade this week.

The powerful crusade, which is running through to Sunday, 4 October, has already drawn huge crowds.

Muparinga, who began his ministry at Pagomba in First Street, Harare, drew scores of congregants to the Charles Austin Theatre on Monday.

Today he is ministering again, with expectations of an even bigger turnout.

The evangelist preached about the power of Jesus Christ to transform lives through faith, leaving many congregants uplifted and inspired.

The Mega Crusade continues throughout the week, with believers from across Masvingo expected to attend until the grand finale on Sunday.

Faith Leaders To Spotlight Mining Justice At 5th African Business and Human Rights Forum

2026-09-28T06:41:50.721+02:00

The 5th African Business and Human Rights Forum kicks off next week, with faith actors set to take centre stage on mining accountability.

Organisers have announced a side session titled _“The Moral Compass of Mining: Faith, Justice and Environmental Rights in Africa’s Mining Sector”_ that will unpack the human and environmental impacts of mining across the continent.

The session is expected to bring together church leaders, justice advocates and environmental defenders for a vibrant conversation on how Africa’s mineral wealth can be governed more justly.

Participants are invited to engage, connect and inspire action towards rights-based mining practices.

The event is convened in partnership with the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, All Africa Conference of Churches, FECCLAHA and Guro Almås.

Peace Begins With Us...

2026-09-26T05:17:54.317+02:00

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” - Matthew 5:9

Peace begins with each of us. As we commemorate International Peace Day, let us reject hatred, resist violence, bridge divisions and become agents of healing in our families, churches, communities and society...ZCC

ZCC Women Reflect On God’s Timing At Greater Harare Mubatanidzwa

2026-09-25T06:52:26.171+02:00

Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) Greater Harare Women Ecumenical Fellowship gathered on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, for its Routine Mubatanidzwa, drawing women from different Christian denominations together for fellowship, reflection and prayer.

The gathering was held under the theme "Anoita Seanonoka", based on John 11:39-44, which recounts the raising of Lazarus by Jesus Christ.

The biblical account provided an opportunity for the women to reflect on the reality that God's timing does not always correspond with human expectations. Although Mary and Martha had hoped that Jesus would arrive earlier to save their brother, Lazarus, Christ's intervention ultimately demonstrated a deeper purpose beyond what they had anticipated.

"God's timing may not always align with our own expectations, but His purposes remain greater than what we can see," the fellowship reflected during the gathering.

Women have historically played an important role in the ministry of Jesus, with Mary and Martha standing out as central figures in the Lazarus account. Their story continues to speak to questions of faith, perseverance and hope in difficult circumstances.

The Greater Harare Women Ecumenical Fellowship also highlighted the continuing role of women in strengthening churches and communities through peacebuilding, solidarity and collective action.

Through local ecumenical fellowships, women from different denominations are able to come together, build relationships and address issues affecting their communities, demonstrating that ecumenism is not confined to church leadership structures but is also lived at grassroots level.

The gathering reaffirmed the importance of women as agents of faith, hope and transformation, while encouraging participants to remain steadfast even when answers to their prayers appear delayed.

The message of "Anoita Seanonoka" therefore served as a reminder that perceived delays do not necessarily mean abandonment, and that faith can remain anchored in God's purposes even during periods of uncertainty.

The fellowship continues to promote unity among Christian women while creating spaces for prayer, reflection and conversations that strengthen communities.

Breaking Cycle of Worry...

2026-09-24T05:53:59.693+02:00

“There Is Abundance”: Seer Langton Malak Shares Powerful Message of Faith

2026-09-23T04:25:24.241+02:00

Staff Writer- Seer Langton Malak, a prophet, teacher and visionary, has shared a message encouraging believers to maintain their faith in God’s provision and to avoid placing limitations on what they believe is possible.

In the message, Malak declares, “God is not on budget,” challenging the mindset that God's ability to provide is restricted by human circumstances or limitations.

He further states, “God’s warehouse is still full,” using the imagery of an overflowing storehouse to emphasise his message about continued divine provision.

“There is abundance from where it is coming from,” the message adds, encouraging believers to remain hopeful and trust that provision can come from sources beyond what they can currently see.

Malak’s message centres on faith, hope and the belief that difficult circumstances should not cause people to abandon their expectations of better things.

The message encourages believers to look beyond present challenges and to remain confident in God’s ability to provide, while maintaining faith even when circumstances appear uncertain.

As a prophet, teacher and visionary, Malak presents the message as a reminder that faith should not be confined by human calculations, limitations or present circumstances.

EFZ Congratulates ZAOGA FIF Leadership On Historic Consecration

2026-09-22T03:28:10.400+02:00

The Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) has congratulated ZAOGA Forward in Faith on the historic consecration of Archbishop Dr Joseph Joe Guti and Apostle Nyasha Miriam Guti, describing the occasion as an important moment for the church and the wider Body of Christ in Zimbabwe.

The EFZ extended its heartfelt congratulations to ZAOGA FIF as the church marked the new chapter in its leadership and ministry.

EFZ General Secretary Pastor Clarah Chiseko delivered a message of solidarity during the celebrations, highlighting the longstanding contribution of ZAOGA to the Christian community in Zimbabwe.

The fellowship also recognised the church's legacy and its role in promoting unity within the Body of Christ.

"As an integral pillar of the EFZ family, we pledge our continued prayers and support to the new leadership as they advance the Kingdom of God and the Great Commission across the nations," the EFZ said.

The fellowship expressed hope that the new leadership would continue building on ZAOGA FIF's longstanding ministry and missionary work while strengthening its contribution to Christianity in Zimbabwe and beyond.

The EFZ concluded its message by wishing ZAOGA FIF continued growth and success in its mission, saying: "May ZAOGA FIF continue to grow from strength to strength."

Christians Mourn Methodist Church Presiding Bishop's Wife...

2026-09-21T05:36:29.367+02:00

Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has joined the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe (MCZ) in mourning the death of Mrs Adelaide Sithole, wife of MCZ Presiding Bishop and ZCC Supervisory Council member Bishop Sithole.

The burial service is being held on Sunday, 20 September 2026 in Gweru, where ZCC President Bishop Kenneth Sibanda and other Supervisory Council members are gathered with the Methodist Church family to lay Mrs Sithole to rest.

In a statement, the ZCC said the ecumenical family stands in solidarity with Bishop Sithole, the Sithole family and the entire Methodist Church during this difficult time.

"We continue to pray for God's comfort, strength and peace for the Bishop, the family and the entire Church during this difficult time," the ZCC said.

Mrs Sithole is being remembered as a beloved wife, mother and faithful servant of the Church whose support to her husband's ministry touched many.

The Christian community has sent messages of condolence from across the country, including from MCZ circuits and societies in Kadoma, Msasa Park, Marlborough, Harare East, Epworth and the MCZ Youth Work.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.

International Evangelist Trymore Muparinga To Preach At Masvingo Mega Crusade

2026-09-19T06:19:41.182+02:00

Staff Writer- The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, Masvingo North Circuit, is set to host a Mega Crusade at the Charles Austin Theatre at the Civic Centre in Masvingo from September 27 to October 4, 2026.

International Evangelist Trymore Muparinga will be among the preachers at the eight-day gospel gathering, which will be held under the theme, "Do It Again Lord."

The crusade will also feature Bishop Mafukidze, Reverend T. Mapfumo, the Masvingo North Circuit Superintendent, Reverend M. Kumire, Reverend Gono, Bishop Nyabonda, Reverend P. Timire and Evangelist T. Nduku.

The event is expected to bring together Christians and members of the public for preaching, worship and prayer throughout the week.

With a line-up comprising bishops, reverends and evangelists, The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe Masvingo North Circuit is preparing for what promises to be a major Christian gathering in the city.

The crusade will run from September 27 through October 4 at the Charles Austin Theatre, with the organisers calling on members of the public to attend.

Methodist Church In Zimbabwe Presiding Bishop's Wife Burial Set For Sunday

2026-09-18T05:10:33.225+02:00

Staff Writer- The burial of the late Ruwadzano/Manyano President, Mrs A. Sithole, wife of the Presiding Bishop of The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, Reverend Simbarashe Sithole, will take place in Gweru on Sunday.

The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe community is mourning her passing and continues to offer prayers and support to Bishop Sithole and the family during this difficult time.

"Minerals Are a Sacred Trust From God": ZCC President Demands Justice in Mining at ZAMI 2026

2026-09-17T07:02:22.971+02:00

Staff Writer-

Communities and civil society have called for a new model of mining governance that protects people and the environment, as the Zimbabwe Alternative Mining Indaba (ZAMI) 2026 officially opened.

Speaking during the opening session, Zimbabwe Council of Churches President Bishop K. Sibanda said the country's minerals must benefit ordinary Zimbabweans and not just a select few.

He said a mine cannot be considered successful if surrounding communities lose access to clean water, health services and livelihoods while profits are captured elsewhere.

"Mining governance must ensure that every license granted, every river protected, and every dollar earned serves human dignity," he said.

Bishop Sibanda said the current extractive model needs to shift towards one that restores land, repairs harm and rebuilds communities, ensuring that wealth taken from beneath a community leaves a lasting inheritance for future generations.

He also stressed that true development and energy transition must protect land, water and food systems, which are the foundation of community survival.

"Let us move from mere extraction to a covenant of stewardship, ensuring our mineral wealth becomes a shared blessing of justice, dignity and life for all," he said.

This year's Indaba is being held under the hashtags #ConversationsOfHope, #zami2026 and #Faith4Equality, with a focus on accountability, justice and community rights in the mining sector.

Countdown To Dorcas Moyo Album Launch...

2026-09-16T05:29:50.150+02:00

Gutu Mission Hospital Fundraising Ride Underway In Canada

2026-09-14T06:46:46.220+02:00

Staff Writer- A fundraising cycling initiative for Gutu Mission Hospital is currently underway in Canada.

The initiative is being spearheaded by Reverend Nobbington Murambadoro and a group of dedicated cyclists who are determined to raise funds for the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe-run hospital.

Rev Murambadoro said the team is making huge sacrifices to ensure the hospital continues to serve thousands of people in Gutu and surrounding areas.

"Rev Murambadoro and the cyclists are behind the noble cause. They are sacrificing a lot to raise funds for our hospital," he said.

He explained that the fundraising ride seeks to mobilise resources to improve health service delivery at the institution.

"There are cyclists behind the noble cause. The noble cause seeks to raise funds for the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe run hospital," said Rev Murambadoro.

He commended all well-wishers supporting the initiative in Canada.

THEME: TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS

2026-09-12T07:43:40.631+02:00

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

(Psalm 90:12)

Life often gives us the impression that we have plenty of time. We postpone important decisions, delay reconciliation, put off opportunities, and tell ourselves, “I will do it tomorrow.” Yet the truth is simple: we do not have all the time we think we have.

Many people have procrastinated on opportunities, believing that another opportunity would come, only to discover that the door they ignored was the door they needed. Others live recklessly today because they assume they will have tomorrow to correct their mistakes. But tomorrow is not promised. It may never come, and even when it comes, it may arrive with circumstances that make today’s opportunities impossible.

The Psalmist therefore prays, “Teach us to number our days.” To number our days is to understand that time is precious. Every sunrise is a gift, every opportunity has a season, and every person we love will not always be within our reach.

Yesterday is a memory. Today is reality. Tomorrow is an imagination.

So, if you need to forgive someone, forgive quickly. If pride has separated you from someone, humble yourself quickly. Love your family while you can still tell them. Appreciate your parents, children, siblings, relatives and friends while they can still hear your voice. Be happy with the blessings God has placed before you today. Plan wisely. Take the opportunity. Make the phone call. Say, “I am sorry.” Say, “I love you.” Say, “Thank you.” Do the good you have been postponing.

Do not spend today regretting yesterday or worrying excessively about tomorrow. Yesterday cannot be changed, and tomorrow cannot be guaranteed. The only day God has placed in your hands is today.

There are things you can do today that you may not be able to do tomorrow. There are people you can embrace today who may not be there tomorrow. There are doors open today that may be closed tomorrow. There are decisions you can make today that can change the direction of your life.

Therefore, make today count.

Do not wait for a “better day” to become the person God is calling you to be. Because when today becomes yesterday, we cannot bring it back.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

Sad: Missing Roman Catholic Priest Found Dead...

2026-09-10T07:08:39.360+02:00

By A Correspondent| The search for a missing Roman Catholic priest has ended in tragedy following the discovery of his body at Parirenyatwa Hospital mortuary.

Father Regis Chikuni, 58, a senior priest in the Archdiocese of Harare, reportedly went missing on September 5, prompting the Catholic Church to appeal for information from priests, religious communities and members of the faithful.

Four days later, on September 9, the Archdiocese confirmed the devastating news that Father Chikuni had been found dead.

In a death notice issued by the Archdiocese and signed by Archbishop Robert C. Ndlovu’s secretary, Father Ephraim Murwira, the Church said, "Tragically, he was found deceased at the mortuary of Parirenyatwa Hospital."

The announcement brought an abrupt end to efforts to locate the priest, with the Church now mourning his death instead of continuing the search for him.

Father Chikuni was remembered by the Archdiocese as a committed priest whose pastoral service had made a meaningful contribution to the Church and the communities he served.

Offering words of comfort to the Catholic community, the Archdiocese said, "We take comfort in our faith that Father Chikuni has returned to the loving embrace of our Lord."

The circumstances surrounding his death have not yet been made public.

The Archdiocese said details regarding his funeral and burial arrangements would be communicated in due course.

EFZ Maps Out National Advocacy Roadmap To Equip The Church For Transformation

2026-09-09T07:05:22.889+02:00

Staff Writer- The Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe says strengthening the Church from within is the key to seeing lasting change in the nation.

In a statement last week, EFZ said its secretariat held an intensive strategy session to develop a national advocacy roadmap. The gathering focused on building capacity across the Fellowship’s network and membership structures.

"While we build capacity across our network and membership structures, strengthening our own internal foundation remains key to sustaining long-term impact," EFZ said.

According to the Fellowship, the new strategy is rooted in its biblical mandate. It directly aligns with EFZ’s overarching goal: equipping the Church to drive meaningful national transformation through prayer, engagement, and service.

EFZ leaders emphasized that a stronger internal strategy will translate into greater collective impact in communities, government, and society.

The roadmap comes as EFZ continues to mobilize pastors, congregations, and Christian leaders around its pillars of discipleship, good governance, and national healing.

"Stronger internal strategy leads to greater collective impact," the Fellowship noted, calling on believers to remain steadfast in prayer and action.

EFZ is using #PrayEngageBuild as it moves forward with the plan.

#Leadership #StrategicPlanning #NationalTransformation #EFZ #AdvocacyInAction

Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe Leads Intercession for the Nation

2026-09-08T06:01:08.263+02:00

Staff Writer- The Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe [EFZ] says last week’s gathering was more than an event. It was a moment of national unity before God.

In a statement released following the prayer meeting, EFZ reflected on a time of coming together “with one heart and one purpose” — *To pray and intercede for Zimbabwe*. 🇿🇼🇿🇼

“A Nation United in Prayer, A People Standing in the Gap,” the Fellowship declared, describing the gathering as a collective act of faith and responsibility for the country.

Church leaders, congregants, and citizens from different denominations came together to lift the nation in prayer, seeking God’s guidance, healing, and peace for Zimbabwe during challenging times.

EFZ expressed gratitude to everyone who attended and stood with them.

“Thank you to everyone who came through and stood with us in prayer. God Cares!” the statement read.

The Fellowship emphasized that prayer remains central to the nation’s hope, calling on Zimbabweans to continue interceding for leaders, communities, families, and the future of the country.

The event adds to EFZ’s ongoing role in mobilizing the church to engage in spiritual matters affecting the nation, with a focus on unity, repentance, and God’s intervention.

Fungisai Praises Legendary Guitarist Zivanai Masango

2026-09-07T07:09:44.023+02:00

Staff Writer- Gospel musician Fungisai Zvakavapano Mashavave has heaped praise on guitarist Zivanai Masango, describing him as one of the most outstanding and humble talents in Zimbabwe’s music industry.

In a message shared on Monday, Fungisai introduced Masango to churchgoers and music lovers, crediting him for his work behind some of her most celebrated projects.

“Churchpersons, please meet ZIVANAI MASANGO, the sole producer and lead guitarist of the _Tinokutendai Ishe_, _Toita Zvedenga_ and _Makomborero_ Albums,” Fungisai wrote.

She described Masango as “the most calm but outstanding talent I have ever known,” and urged her followers to show him support. “Mupei malove nemalikes,” she added.

Masango played a key role in shaping the sound of the three albums, which remain firm favourites among gospel audiences for their worship-driven lyrics and rich instrumentation.

Fungisai’s tribute highlights the often unseen contribution of musicians and producers who work behind the scenes to build the sound of gospel music in Zimbabwe.

Fans and fellow musicians have since flooded the comments with messages of appreciation for Masango’s skill, humility and decades of service to gospel music.

GOD’S PLANS ARE GREATER THAN OURS

2026-09-05T07:18:10.301+02:00

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Jeremiah 29 was written as a letter to people whose hearts were not in sync with God’s plans. The exiles in Babylon wanted a quick escape, a sudden miracle, and an immediate return to Jerusalem. False prophets were promising speed, but God was speaking stability. While the people were planning survival, God was planning transformation. He told them to build houses, plant gardens, marry, and seek the peace of Babylon because their stay would not be short. Heaven’s timeline was different from human expectation.

This reveals the difference between our plans and God’s plans. We plan for speed, but God plans for stability. We plan for an escape, but God plans for endurance. We plan for quick recovery, but God plans for character. Sometimes we want God to remove the fire immediately, yet He allows the furnace because He is producing faith that cannot be destroyed. His plans may include a dungeon of fire and a den of lions, yet every painful season is still working for our good. Before His people arrived in Babylon, God had already walked before them. Their captivity was not beyond His control.

God’s plans are never random. Even delays are filled with divine purpose. The greatest proof of this is Jesus Christ. Humanity expected a conquering king, but God sent a suffering Savior. Through the cross came salvation, hope, and eternal life. Jesus is the perfect plan of God revealed to the world.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

ZCC Takes Evangelism and Soul Winning to the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show

2026-09-04T06:46:31.985+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) used the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show in Harare not only as a platform for economic empowerment, but also as an opportunity to advance evangelism, Christian witness and soul winning among people attending the annual exhibition.

Through its participation, the ZCC sought to bring the message of hope, faith and transformation into a public space where thousands of people from different backgrounds converge. The initiative highlighted the church's role in reaching communities beyond traditional places of worship and making Christ known through both word and action.

The ZCC also provided space for Zimbabwean returnees participating in its Home Office Returns and Reintegration Programme to showcase their businesses, interact with customers and explore new markets. The programme, supported by the UK Government, assists eligible Zimbabwean nationals returning from the United Kingdom to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

Returnees involved in the programme have established businesses in areas including agriculture, dairy farming, metal fabrication, manufacturing and food production. Their participation at the Agricultural Show demonstrated how restored livelihoods can become a testimony of resilience, dignity and renewed hope.

For the church, however, economic empowerment goes hand in hand with spiritual transformation. By engaging people in a public environment such as the Agricultural Show, the ZCC creates opportunities to share the Gospel, encourage people in their faith and reach individuals who may not ordinarily walk into a church building.

The initiative therefore presents evangelism as more than preaching from a pulpit. It demonstrates the importance of meeting people where they are, building relationships and using community programmes as avenues for soul winning and Christian ministry.

Through its continued engagement with communities, the ZCC is seeking to demonstrate the practical expression of Christian faith while pointing people towards hope in Christ and encouraging transformed lives.

ZCC Joins African Faith Leaders in Renewed Push for Debt Justice

2026-09-03T06:07:47.282+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has joined faith leaders, policymakers, civil society organisations and other stakeholders in calling for greater African unity and stronger action on the continent’s growing debt crisis.

The ZCC participated in the 6th African Conference on Debt and Development (AfCoDD VI), held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 25 to 28 August 2026. The conference was convened under the theme, "From Fragmentation to Influence: Advancing the Common African Position on Debt."

A major highlight for the ZCC was a side session jointly hosted with the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC), bringing together faith-based organisations and other stakeholders to examine Africa’s changing debt situation and discuss how churches can contribute to the campaign for debt justice.

Participants stressed that Africa’s debt crisis extends far beyond economic statistics, with debt-related pressures having direct consequences for access to healthcare, education, livelihoods and sustainable development.

The discussions also emphasised the responsibility of faith communities to speak out against unjust systems and advocate for vulnerable communities affected by economic policies and financial burdens.

For Zimbabwe, the deliberations come at a significant time as the country continues efforts to resolve its longstanding debt arrears and secure a sustainable path towards debt resolution.

The ZCC said the discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that Zimbabwe’s debt resolution process is transparent, accountable and centred on the needs and welfare of ordinary citizens.

The church grounded its advocacy in the biblical call contained in Isaiah 1:17: "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed."

The conference has therefore provided an opportunity for African churches and their partners to strengthen their collective voice in demanding fairer and more sustainable approaches to the continent’s debt challenges.

Zimbabwe Council of Churches Stands in Prayer With Families of The Missing

2026-09-02T07:05:18.276+02:00

_Harare, 30 August 2026_ – The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, standing in solidarity with victims, survivors and families who continue to live with the pain and uncertainty of not knowing the fate or whereabouts of their loved ones.

Enforced disappearance leaves behind more than an absent person. It leaves families searching for answers, communities carrying unanswered questions, and loved ones longing for truth, justice and closure.

As people of faith, we affirm the dignity and sacredness of every human life. We continue to pray and work for a world where every person is protected, where truth is not buried, and where justice and accountability prevail.

We remember that our God is near to the brokenhearted. We commit to walk alongside grieving families, to lift them in prayer, and to speak for the dignity and worth of every person made in God’s image.

_“For there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.”_ - *Luke 8:17*