Story by Bengani Ncube
In a momentous celebration of faith and community, this Sunday Trinity Methodist Church marks its 132nd year with a splendid tribute to its rich legacy and profound impact on the spiritual and social tapestry of Zimbabwe.
The festivities commenced with a jubilant march from Town House in Harare to the church’s historic location at 3rd and Central, a powerful symbol of resilience and unwavering dedication to nurturing souls for Christ.
This Sunday morning, the air was filled with a sense of reverence and joy as church members shared their heartfelt reflections with the ZBC News crew.
Harare East Bishop, under whose jurisdiction Trinity falls, expressed deep gratitude and honour in serving at the Methodist Church Cathedral.
“It is an honour to serve at the Methodist Church Cathedral, just being picked among great people of God,” he said.
He added that this role calls for more prayers, more fasting days, and a closer walk with God.
“Trinity is the epicenter of Methodism in the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe,” he declared emphatically. “When Trinity sneezes, the whole church catches a cough.”
One member, with a voice trembling with emotion, said, “To me, Trinity is a sanctuary, a safe space.”
Another member, Tembedza, shared, “Trinity is my second family. My spiritual and leadership growth developed at Trinity. My family grew while fellowshipping at Trinity. We received maximum support during our many ups and downs.”
Indeed, Trinity Methodist Church stands as a beacon of inclusivity and adaptability, offering three Sunday services at 7 am, 9 am, and 11 am, each thoughtfully designed to accommodate the diverse schedules of its congregation.
“It is indeed a metropolitan church,” another member remarked. “What I enjoy most is its flexibility. Whichever service you choose, it gives you ample time to do other things on a Sunday.”
Throughout its storied history, Trinity Methodist Church has risen to the call of duty in times of crisis. During the devastating Cyclone Idai disaster in 2019, which wrecked havoc upon Chimanimani, the church emerged as a pillar of hope, providing essential food and clothing to those in dire need.
In the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, Trinity Methodist once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the community, leading efforts to distribute sanitizers and masks to the less privileged, safeguarding the health and well-being of the vulnerable.
Today, the church continues its noble mission, operating a soup kitchen that offers sumptuous meals to the needy every Saturday. Moreover, in a compassionate gesture towards women’s health, it provides monthly gynecological services to support those who are less fortunate.
Established in 1891 by pioneering missionaries Reverend Owen Watkins and Reverend Isaac Shimmin, Trinity Methodist Church has blossomed into a vibrant, inclusive institution.
Its roots run deep within Zimbabwe’s spiritual and social fabric, a testament to its enduring legacy and the boundless faith of its congregation.
As the church celebrated this remarkable milestone, it was a poignant reminder of its journey—a journey of faith, compassion, and unwavering service to humanity. The spirit of Trinity Methodist Church continues to shine brightly, a sanctuary through time, ever committed to its divine mission of love and hope.
