The Church News

United Methodist Church Donates Relief Supplies to Support Zimbabweans Returning from South Africa

2026-08-22T04:20:04.706+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has received a donation of food and non-food items from the United Methodist Church, aimed at bolstering ongoing support for Zimbabwean citizens returning home from South Africa.

The consignment was formally handed over at a ceremony held in Harare, with ZCC officials receiving the donation on behalf of the organisation.

Through this initiative, ZCC continues to work alongside Government efforts to ensure a safe and dignified return and reintegration process for citizens coming back from South Africa.

Since the crisis began in June 2026, ZCC has provided direct assistance—both independently and through its network of member churches—including food, personal hygiene supplies, transport fare to final destinations, healthcare support, psychosocial counselling, and spiritual care to those in need. This work is carried out in close coordination with multisectoral Government teams under the Civil Protection Department, particularly at the Beitbridge port of entry and other temporary waiting centres set up nationwide.

ZCC expressed deep appreciation to the United Methodist Church for heeding the call and standing in solidarity with returning citizens, describing the donation as a powerful example of the Church's mission extending beyond the pulpit—putting faith into action to preserve dignity, ensure safety, and offer hope during times of crisis.

Churches Mourn Passing of Sekuru Malachi Ruwona

2026-08-21T07:18:03.648+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has joined the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland and the Ruwona family in mourning the death of Sekuru Malachi Ruwona, the father of Bishop Eric Ruwona, a member of the ZCC Supervisory Council.

As the family and church community gather for the Requiem Mass in Rusape today, ZCC General Secretary Rev Wilfred Dimingu is standing in solidarity with the bereaved family and the wider Christian community.

Rev Dimingu has conveyed condolences to the Ruwona family, offering prayers, Christian comfort and ecumenical solidarity during the difficult period of loss.

The ZCC said it was praying for strength and comfort for all those affected by the death of Sekuru Ruwona.

"May God grant comfort and strength to the family and all who mourn, and may Sekuru Malachi Ruwona's soul rest in eternal peace," the council said.

The church also drew comfort from the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:4: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

Members of the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland, the CPCA Anglican Council of Zimbabwe, ZimGospel Masters Radio and Magazine, The United Methodist Church Masvingo District and United Theological College Zimbabwe joined in expressing their condolences.

ZCC Pays Tribute To Bishop Eric Ruwona's Father

2026-08-20T06:30:32.392+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) joins the family and the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland in mourning the passing of Sekuru Malachi Ruwona, father to Bishop Eric Ruwona, ZCC Supervisory Council member.

As the Requiem Mass is held today, ZCC General Secretary, Rev Wilfred Dimingu, joins the Ruwona family, together with the wider Church community, in Rusape sharing in their grief and offering Christian comfort, ecumenical solidarity and hope in this time of bereavement.

May God grant comfort and strength to the family and all who mourn, and may Sekuru Malachi Ruwona’s soul rest in eternal peace.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” - Matthew 5:4

Anglican Diocese of Manicaland, CPCA Anglican Council of Zimbabwe ZimGospel Masters Radio And Magazine The United Methodist Church Masvingo District

United Theological College Zimbabwe

Source: Zimbabwe Council of Churches

THEME: YOUR PAST DOES NOT HAVE THE FINAL WORD.

2026-08-19T06:46:13.294+02:00

Scripture: “So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife… and the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.” (Ruth 4:13)

Ruth’s story is a powerful testimony of how the grace of God can locate a person in the most unlikely circumstances. Ruth was a Moabite woman, from a people viewed by Israel as outsiders and excluded from the assembly of the Lord because of their origin. Yet Ruth’s life was also marked by personal tragedy. She lost her husband, her father-in-law, and her husband’s brother, and she was left without a child or obvious future.

Many people today carry stories that resemble Ruth’s. Some have broken beginnings, painful family histories, failed relationships, bereavements, rejection, financial struggles, or circumstances they never chose. Sometimes life seems to close every door just when hope begins to rise.

But Ruth teaches us that your origin does not determine your destination when God’s grace is upon your life.

Grace located Ruth in a field belonging to Boaz. The woman who could have remained an outsider became the wife of a respected man in Judah. More remarkably, she became part of the lineage of King David and ultimately the earthly lineage of Jesus Christ.

What people considered a limitation, God turned into a testimony. Beloved, do not allow your past to convince you that your future is finished. When the grace of God locates you, rejection can become acceptance, loss can become restoration, and obscurity can become significance.

Your story is not over. Grace is still writing it.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

ZCC Joins Church Leaders In Nairobi For Advocacy Agenda

2026-08-18T06:32:19.834+02:00

Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches delegation

was in Kenya last week for a high-level gathering aimed at strengthening faith-based advocacy across Africa.

ZCC took part in the Norwegian Church Aid Advocacy Programme Africa Partner Learning and Reflections Meeting, held in Nairobi. The 5-day forum brought together NAPA partners to review progress, share lessons, and map out coordinated action.

According to organizers, the meeting was designed to deepen evidence-based work, improve results tracking, and explore new areas for collaboration among church and civil society groups.

ZCC led one of the peer-learning sessions where it presented its experiences, achievements, setbacks, and key takeaways from work on the ground in Zimbabwe. The session was aimed at encouraging practical dialogue and mutual learning among partners.

A major focus of the talks was advocacy. Delegates worked to sharpen thematic priorities, identify joint campaign opportunities, and agree on collective commitments to influence policy.

The gathering wrapped up with a joint action plan, with partners pledging specific follow-up steps to turn research and learning into real impact in their communities.

Through the engagement, ZCC said it remains committed to using evidence, shared learning, and united advocacy to drive sustainable change.

Emotional Send-off For Veteran Educationist Thomas Nzengere Makanyire

2026-08-17T07:14:11.293+02:00

The legacy of veteran educationist Thomas Nzengere Makanyire was celebrated in an emotional farewell attended by former students, fellow educators, church leaders, family members and people whose lives were shaped by his decades of service to education.

Makanyire was laid to rest on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Makanyire family homestead in Chivasa Village, Gutu East, under Chief Chitsa, following his death on Monday, August 10, at Gutu Mission Hospital after battling a chronic heart condition.

He was 85.

Among those who gathered to pay their respects were former students, including popular opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) Chief Executive Officer Sugar Chagonda, Professor Tatira and Rev Judah Mashamba.

Also present was Rufaro High School headmaster Jameson Shumbanhete, Makanyire's nephew, who joined other mourners in celebrating the life of a man remembered for his commitment to education, discipline and mentorship.

Makanyire's academic journey laid the foundation for a distinguished career in education.

He attended Fletcher High School from 1962 to 1967 before proceeding to the University of London, where he studied for a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree between 1968 and 1970.

From 1971 to 1972, he pursued a Graduate Certificate in Education at the University of Rhodesia, further preparing him for a career that would span several decades.

His professional teaching career began at Makumbe High School, where he served from 1973 to 1979.

He later joined Gutu High School, serving between 1982 and 1989, including a period as Deputy Headmaster.

His leadership experience eventually took him to Alheit Mission High School, where he served as headmaster from 1990 to 1996.

It was during his tenure at Alheit that he came into contact with several students who would later make their mark in public life and various professions, among them Chamisa and Chagonda.

After leaving Alheit, Makanyire continued his career at Nerupiri Given High School, where he served as headmaster until his retirement in September 2011.

His career reflected a steady progression from classroom teaching to school administration, with his influence extending across generations of learners and educators.

At his funeral, tributes from former students and colleagues painted a picture of an educationist who placed considerable emphasis on discipline, academic achievement, character development and personal responsibility.

Those who knew him recalled not only his professional achievements but also his ability to guide young people at crucial stages of their lives.

The presence of former students who travelled to mourn him was a reflection of the enduring relationships he established during his years in education.

For his family, the funeral was also a celebration of a patriarch whose influence extended beyond his professional career.

Makanyire is survived by four children, 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His wife predeceased him in 2019.

As mourners gathered to bid him farewell, the tributes underscored the lasting impact of a teacher whose working life was devoted to developing young minds.

His journey from Fletcher High School and university studies in the United Kingdom to classrooms and school leadership positions in Zimbabwe ultimately culminated in a career that lasted until his retirement in 2011.

For former students, colleagues, relatives and members of the communities in which he worked, Thomas Nzengere Makanyire leaves behind a legacy measured not only by the schools he led, but by the generations of students he helped shape.

He also taught George Charamba, Dr Anxious Masuka, Professor Amon Murwira, Dr Marume, Gutu East MP Zvarevashe Masvingise among others

God's Plan Is Life, Not Addiction: A Call For Young People To Choose Hope

2026-08-08T04:32:48.649+02:00

By Kundai Kwenda, Chairperson of the Kwenda Foundation

Drug and substance abuse continues to rob countless young people of their futures, destroying families, careers and dreams.

It is a growing crisis that demands urgent action from parents, communities, schools and young people themselves.

As someone who has experienced the devastating effects of addiction, I want young people to understand that there is always hope. My life story is proof that no matter how far a person has fallen, recovery is possible. Addiction does not have to define your future.

Many people turn to drugs as a form of escapism, believing they can temporarily run away from pain, disappointment, stress or emotional struggles.

The reality is that escapism through drugs is destructive. It deepens problems instead of solving them, often leading to broken relationships, poor health, financial hardship and lost opportunities.

I encourage every young person to stay away from drugs and other harmful substances. Do not allow peer pressure or difficult circumstances to determine the direction of your life.

The choices you make today will shape the person you become tomorrow.

If you are already struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. Reach out for help.

Speak to a trusted family member, counsellor, faith leader, healthcare professional or a recognised rehabilitation service. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

At the Kwenda Foundation, we believe that every life has value and every individual deserves a second chance.

Through sharing my own journey, I hope to inspire others to believe that change is possible.

Recovery takes courage, commitment and support, but it can be achieved.

My message to every young person is simple: choose life, choose hope and choose a future free from drugs.

Your past does not have to determine your destiny, and with the right support and determination, you can overcome addiction and build a brighter future.

https://www.facebook.com/share/19KrtGeNg4/

https://www.youtube.com/@kwendafoundation

Instagram: kwendafoundation

kwendafoundation@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Kwenda Foundation

Contact email for Kwenda foundation is kwendafoundation@gmail.com

"Do Not Neglect Strangers": ZCC Joins Regional Churches To Stand With Migrants In South Africa

2026-08-07T04:50:59.269+02:00

Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) is in South Africa this week for a Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa (FOCCISA) Regional Solidarity Visit hosted by the South African Council of Churches (SACC), the current Chair of FOCCISA.

Church leaders and delegates from Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Namibia, Tanzania, Eswatini and South Africa have gathered in what organisers describe as "a shared expression of faith and regional solidarity."

The delegation will travel to the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal for engagements with churches, migrant communities, government institutions and civil society partners. The goal, according to the ZCC, is to "deepen understanding, strengthen ecumenical collaboration, and affirm the dignity and rights of migrants."

Leading the ZCC delegation is General Secretary Rev. Wilfred Dimingu. He is joined by former ZCC President Bishop Dr. I. Makumbe.

Speaking on the mission, the ZCC said it "remains committed to accompanying migrants with compassion, advocating for their dignity and rights, and working with ecumenical partners to build communities where every person is welcomed, protected and valued."

The visit is anchored in scripture. The ZCC quoted Hebrews 13:2 as the basis of its engagement:

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.”

FOCCISA regional visits are held periodically to allow member councils to pray with, listen to, and walk alongside communities facing displacement, xenophobia and economic hardship across Southern Africa.

SEEING VICTORY THROUGH EYES OF FAITH

2026-08-06T05:02:29.065+02:00

THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS

with Major Kudzai Marime

Dz Extension Corps

Harare West Division

Before David stepped onto the battlefield, he arrived at a camp filled with fear. While everyone else saw an unbeatable giant, David saw an opportunity for God to display His power. The spirit of David should also be found in us as children of God. We are not called to focus on the size of our problems but on the greatness of our Heavenly Father.

Because we are born of God, defeat is not our identity. Our Father is always in control, and He goes before us to fight the battles we cannot win on our own. Whatever giants stand before us today, we can face them with confidence, knowing that victory belongs to the Lord.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, strengthen our faith to trust You in every season of life. Help us to see every challenge through eyes of faith, knowing that You go before us and fight on our behalf. May we walk each day in the confidence that our victory is found in You. Amen.

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist Online

Daily Devotion

2026-08-05T05:58:49.608+02:00

Church Leaders Strengthen Media Capacity Through Regional Communications Training in South Africa

2026-08-04T05:46:23.322+02:00

By A Correspondent - The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) is taking part in a regional Communications Training Programme in Johannesburg, South Africa, alongside National Christian Councils from across Southern Africa and partners of the Economic Justice Network (EJN) under the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa (FOCCISA).

The three-day training programme, supported by the Economic Justice Network, is designed to enhance the skills of communications practitioners in podcasting and strategic storytelling. Participants are learning practical techniques to amplify the voices of communities, promote economic justice, and strengthen faith-based advocacy throughout the region.

According to the ZCC, the initiative reflects its commitment to improving communication efforts so that the experiences, concerns, and aspirations of communities are effectively shared and influence conversations on justice, accountability, and hope.

"The ZCC is committed to strengthening our communications for greater impact, ensuring that the stories, experiences, and aspirations of our communities shape conversations that promote justice, accountability, and hope," the organisation said.

The training also provides an opportunity for church organisations across Southern Africa to collaborate, exchange ideas, and develop innovative communication strategies that support advocacy and community transformation.

The programme is being held under the themes #ConversationsOfHope and #VoicesOfHope, highlighting the importance of using powerful storytelling to inspire positive social change and promote economic justice across the region.

TIME,CHANCE FOR US ALL.....

2026-08-03T05:42:31.593+02:00

Popcorns are prepared in the same

pot ,under the same heat ,in the same

oil but they don't pop at the same

time....God has not forgotten you and

is not yet done with you ,just wait for

your time until He makes you pop!

As much as you look around unowona kunge

zvevamwe zvirikuita bt only zvako zvisiri kufamba. Rega ndikuudze ndichiti the same God knws and loves us all the same. Zvako iwewe zvichaita nekuti we are in the same pot we are same corn we are being heated by the same heat.

Yes hatisi kuzoroora nekuroorwa same time. Yes hatisi kuzoita mari same time. Yes hatisi kuzobata vana same time. Bt ndatumwa neizwi retariro kwauri mudikani uchapopper chete.

Ramba urimupoto usabuda mumafuta. Be still and knw tht he is God. Your time is coming and God is never too early or too late. His time is always right. Believe keep faith and keep waiting upon the Lord. Jesus

is Lord...

By Dorcas Moyo

THEME: DO NOT DESPISE THE ONE GOD MAY USE.

2026-08-01T02:44:30.814+02:00

he stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” (Psalm 118:22)

Life has a way of changing our positions and reminding us of our shared humanity. The person we ignore today, the one we consider insignificant, or the one we reject because of their appearance, status, or circumstances may be the very person God uses to help us tomorrow. Therefore, we must never allow privilege, wealth, education, or social standing to make us look down upon those who have less than we do.

The world often measures people by what they possess, where they come from, or how influential they appear. But God looks beyond outward appearances and sees the potential, purpose, and greatness hidden within every person. The person struggling today may rise tomorrow. The one asking for assistance today may become the source of your rescue in a season of need. Since the future is unknown to us, humility, kindness, and respect must guide the way we treat others.

The Bible is filled with examples of people who were underestimated yet chosen by God for great purposes. The greatest example is Jesus Christ Himself. When people heard that He came from Nazareth, they asked, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Yet the same Jesus who was rejected, mocked, and crucified became the Savior of the world and the hope of all humanity.

May we learn never to despise anyone, for the person society rejects may be the very stone that God is preparing to become a cornerstone.

Prayer: Lord, teach us to see people through Your eyes. Remove pride and prejudice from our hearts and help us to honor every person, knowing that You can raise the lowly and use the rejected for Your glory. Amen.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

Hundreds Of Women Unite For Prayer And Unity At ZCC Harare Greater Mubatanidzwa

2026-07-31T05:59:40.055+02:00

Staff Writer - Hundreds of women from diverse Christian denominations converged at the Roman Catholic Church in Glen View Area 8 this week for the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) Harare Greater Mubatanidzwa.

The gathering brought together congregants from across Harare and surrounding areas in what organizers described as a powerful demonstration of faith, unity and fellowship among women of God.

The Harare Greater Mubatanidzwa, which means "coming together" in Shona, is part of ZCC's ongoing efforts to strengthen ecumenical relations and provide a platform for women to pray, worship and address issues affecting families and communities.

Participants engaged in prayer sessions, worship, testimonies and discussions centered on the role of women in building peace, moral values and social cohesion in Zimbabwe.

Church leaders who addressed the gathering commended the women for their commitment to unity despite denominational differences, saying such platforms were critical in responding to challenges facing society including poverty, drug abuse and family breakdowns.

The event also featured special music ministries and reflections on scripture, with speakers urging women to remain steadfast in faith and to be agents of transformation in their homes, churches and neighborhoods.

ZCC officials said the turnout reflected the growing importance of women's ministries in the church and the need for continued collaboration across denominations to advance the gospel and community development.

The Mubatanidzwa concluded with prayers for the nation, families and leaders, with participants calling for God’s intervention on Zimbabwe’s social and economic challenges.

Fire Night Loading

2026-07-30T05:29:40.636+02:00

WHEN GOD CLOSES A DOOR

2026-07-29T05:36:49.493+02:00

THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS

with Major Kudzai Marime

Dz Extension Corps

Harare West Division

Some doors close despite our prayers, tears, and deepest desires. There are moments when God says "No," and His decision is final—not to harm us, but to position us for something far greater.

Joseph experienced this truth. The door to comfort closed, and he found himself serving as a slave and later as a prisoner. Yet those painful closures were preparing him for the palace, where God opened a new door with a new purpose. He entered not as a servant, but as a ruler entrusted with authority.

If God has closed a door in your life, trust that He has not abandoned you. Every closed door in God's hands has a purpose. In His perfect time, He will open the right door, and you will understand why the previous one had to close.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord... (Jeremiah 29:11)

Be patient with God. He never closes a door without a reason.

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist Online

MINISTRY IS NOT FOR THE FAINTHEARTED

2026-07-28T04:46:41.005+02:00

Apostle Aleck Lionde-

When you understand that some things are normal in ministry you just make up your mind to deal with them as they come and it shouldn't bother you. Be strong mentally and understand these:

1. Understand that ministry can be very lonely.

2. Many fathers will withdraw from you when your offering is small.

3. Many people will only relate with you when you can give them the pulpit.

4. Once you go through any challenge you will be sidelined.

5. Pastors can be the most wicked people you may have to deal with in ministry.

6. People rejoice when you encounter challenges.

7. Never let it get into your head that you have people around you....wait till there's a shaking.

8. Sometimes people won't sacrifice for you at all.

9. When friends feel they have more members than you they have a nice way of cutting you off.

10. People will always misunderstand you and have their own opinion about you.

13. Genuine covenant friends are few in this thing called ministry.

14. Some of these members that call you mummy and daddy have no loyalty and can leave you easily.

15. The enemy can use your family against you. He used Job's wife, he used Joseph's brothers and Jesus's brothers did not also believe in him.

FINALLY

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF TO AN EXTENT EVEN IF YOU ARE THE ONLY MEMBER OF YOUR CHURCH, YOU WILL STILL PREACH TO YOURSELF.

IN THE END, THE LORD SHALL NOT FAIL YOU.

Your Beloved Apostle

A. Lee

Zimbabwe Council Of Churches Engages RBZ On Cost Of Living And Livelihoods

2026-07-27T05:32:09.531+02:00

Staff Reporter | The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) met with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) on Thursday, 24 July 2026, to present its input ahead of the 2026 Mid-Term Monetary Policy Review.

Led by former ZCC President Bishop Dr I. Makumbe, the delegation also took the opportunity to introduce the newly elected ZCC Presidium.

During the engagement, ZCC commended the RBZ for maintaining open dialogue with stakeholders. The Council highlighted key issues affecting households and communities, including the cost of living, access to financial services, sustainable livelihoods, and the need for economic approaches that promote dignity, fairness and shared prosperity.

Drawing from scripture, ZCC referenced Christ’s words: _“I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly”_ (John 10:10).

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to advocate for policies and practices that uphold human dignity and enable all Zimbabweans to flourish.

Theology Conference Urges Church To Build Communities Of Equality

2026-07-25T08:59:48.075+02:00

The 48th Biennial General Assembly wrapped up today with a clear call for the Church to move from dialogue to action.

On Day 3 of the Theology Conference, delegates tackled inequality, exclusion, gender justice and youth leadership. Speakers argued that faith must be lived out through concrete steps to create communities grounded in justice, dignity and equality.

The discussions challenged church leaders to confront systems that leave people behind and to prioritize inclusion at every level of ministry. Youth voices and calls for gender equity were central to the conversations, with participants stressing that the Church must reflect the values it preaches.

As the Assembly concludes, the message was consistent: belief must be translated into practice. The Conference urged congregations to build spaces where everyone is valued and given the opportunity to lead.

ZCC Assembly Day 3 Begins With Renewed Push For Church Unity

2026-07-24T08:43:58.762+02:00

Day 3 of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches’ 48th Biennial General Assembly is underway, following a second day centered on introspection and moral responsibility.

The focus on Tuesday was on the Church examining itself first. In her address, Rev. Lydia Neshangwe challenged delegates to dismantle internal divisions before seeking to mend fractures in society. Her message set the tone: healing must start from within.

That theme carried into the Theological Conference and Public Lecture, where discussions turned to justice, peace, social cohesion, and the role of the Church as a prophetic voice in Zimbabwe’s current climate.

Organizers say the conversations were meant to move beyond debate, toward concrete discernment and action as the Assembly progresses.

The ZCC is continuing to share updates from the gathering as leaders deliberate on the way forward for the Council over the next two years.

For full coverage and documents from the Assembly, visit the ZCC website.

#ZCC48thAssembly #BreakingWallsBuildingBridges #VoicesOfHope #ConversationsOfHope

---

Want me to also do 2-3 alternative headline options in different tones — more prophetic, more newsy, more social?

"The Church Cannot Retreat Into Private Spirituality," WCC Leader Tells ZCC Assembly

2026-07-23T05:20:27.610+02:00

The World Council of Churches has urged Zimbabwean churches to remain vocal and engaged in national issues, warning against withdrawing from public life.

WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay delivered the message during the 48th General Assembly of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches in Harare. The assembly is running from 21 to 24 July under the theme _“Breaking Walls: Discerning the Signs of the Times.”_

Pillay addressed delegates on _“The Church's Prophetic Responsibility in Promoting Peace, Social Cohesion, Justice, and Sustainable Development.”_

He said the WCC delegation traveled to Zimbabwe for a four-day visit to meet church and community leaders, not just to attend the assembly.

“I am here because I know that the churches in Zimbabwe are carrying a heavy burden—not only for the life of the church, but for the life of the nation,” Pillay said.

He added: “We have been following your public witness with a lot of admiration.”

Pillay stressed that faith leaders have a duty to speak out on peace, justice and development, and cannot limit their role to worship alone.

Learn more: https://oikoumene.org/news/in-zimbabwe-the-church-cannot-retreat-into-private-spirituality

ZCC Delegates Gather for Leadership and Empowerment Sessions Ahead of 48th General Assembly

2026-07-22T06:52:26.906+02:00

Delegates and fellowship leaders from across Zimbabwe have begun arriving for a series of pre-General Assembly engagements as the Zimbabwe Council of Churches [ZCC] prepares to open its 48th Biennial General Assembly.

Women and Youth Delegates from ZCC Member Churches are meeting separately with the leadership of the Women Ecumenical Fellowship [WEF] and Youth Ecumenical Fellowship [YEF] for focused sessions on Leadership Development and Economic Empowerment.

At the same time, leaders from the Men's Ecumenical Fellowship [MEF] and Local Ecumenical Fellowship [LEF] are also convening. The Supervisory Council is meeting ahead of the official opening of the General Assembly.

The pre-assembly engagements are designed to set the tone for the main gathering, which will be held under the theme: _"Breaking Walls, Building Bridges and Projecting the Future."_

Organizers say the meetings are laying groundwork for what they hope will be a Spirit-led Assembly focused on unity and action.

Quoting scripture to capture the spirit of the gathering, organizers shared:
*"How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!" - Psalm 133:1*

The ZCC General Assembly brings together member churches to deliberate on church life, social justice, and the role of faith in national development.

ZCC Seeks China’s Support To Assist Returning Zimbabweans From South Africa

2026-07-21T07:31:50.710+02:00

By A Correspondent -

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has engaged the Chinese Embassy in Harare to address the rising humanitarian needs of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa.

On Sunday, July 20, 2026, ZCC General Secretary Rev. Wilfred Dimingu met with officials from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to discuss how partners can support affected families.

Rev. Dimingu met with Mr. Pan Xiongwen, Director of the Political and Press Section, and Counsellor Zhang Yi. He briefed them on the scale of the returns and outlined the Church’s current response.

“We continue to provide psycho-social support, temporary accommodation, food, essential relief items, and onward transport assistance to returnees through our local ecumenical structures,” Rev. Dimingu said.

He also highlighted the Church’s appreciation for China’s earlier assistance.

“ZCC expressed its appreciation for the Embassy's previous donation of solar lights, some of which have already been distributed to returning families, bringing hope and practical support as they rebuild their lives,” he noted.

With the number of returnees continuing to climb, ZCC said it is pushing for coordinated support to ensure people are not left behind.

“As the number of returnees continues to rise, ZCC remains committed to working with government, development partners, the Church and the private sector to ensure that returnees are received with dignity, compassion, and the support they need for successful reintegration,” Rev. Dimingu said.

#ConversationsOfHope

THEME: I WILL SEE THE GOODNESS OF GOD IN THE LAND OF THE LIVING

2026-07-20T07:30:03.695+02:00

“I would have died, if I had not believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” (Psalm 27:13 KJV)

Life on this side of eternity is not always easy. There are seasons when the burdens seem heavier than our strength. Sometimes the salary is not enough to feed the family. Sometimes the doctor’s report leaves us trembling. Sometimes relationships break, doors close, prayers seem unanswered, and heaven appears silent. Life can be cruel. Life can be exhausting. Life can be overwhelming.

David understood such moments. He confessed that without faith in God’s goodness, he would have lost heart. What kept him alive was not the absence of trouble but the certainty that God was still at work.

There are times when you cannot trace God’s hand, but you can trust His heart. Behind the scenes, the Lord is arranging what you cannot yet see. He is opening doors you cannot unlock, healing wounds you cannot mend, and preparing breakthroughs you cannot imagine. His delays are never His denials.

Today, refuse to let your present circumstances define your future. Hold tightly to the promises of God even when everything around you seems to contradict them. The God who has carried you this far will not abandon you now.

Make this your declaration of faith: I will not die until I see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. I will see His provision. I will see His healing. I will see His restoration. I will see His faithfulness. My story will not end in despair because my God is still writing it. His goodness will surely find me, and I will live to testify of His unfailing love.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

Dorcas Moyo To Feature As Guest Artist At Masvingo Paralympic Games

2026-07-18T07:18:11.462+02:00