Story by Memory Chamisa
GOVERNMENT says it remains committed to partnering with indigenous churches in advancing economic development and social programmes as part of efforts to build a prosperous Zimbabwe.
This emerged during the 41st anniversary celebrations of the St John Apostolic Church of the World held in Harare this Sunday.
Thousands of congregants gathered at the Kuwadzana open space, dressed in the church’s signature green and white colours, to commemorate 41 years of spiritual growth and service.
Founded in 1985, the St John Apostolic Church of the World has grown to more than 90 assemblies across Zimbabwe and has expanded its presence beyond the country’s borders.
Congregants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the church’s milestone and acknowledged the growing recognition of indigenous churches in national development.
“I am excited to have been part of these celebrations. Many people could not make it to witness this event, and I am grateful to the church leadership and Government for allowing us to celebrate this day,” said one congregant.
Another congregant said the recognition of indigenous churches by Government has helped change perceptions about apostolic communities.
“I am thankful to Government for recognising apostolic churches. We were once marginalised and looked down upon, but today you find educated people in these churches, which shows the progress we have made in terms of development,” she said.
The relationship between Government and indigenous churches continues to contribute to national development, peace and improved livelihoods.
“Traditionally, the church has been at the forefront of guiding society. We stand for unity, peace and development. We appreciate the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa for allowing the church to work closely with Government in building the nation,” said St John Apostolic Church of the World Founder, Dr Sidney Mabhiza.
Madzibaba Moses Gwanzura said indigenous churches appreciate the support they have received from the Second Republic.
“We will continue to support and rally behind President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership. He brought apostolic churches together and empowered us through various initiatives that have transformed our communities,” he said.
Madzibaba Obey Mapura also commended the prevailing peace, which he said allows Zimbabweans to freely practise their faith.
“We thank our Father, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and the ZANU PF Government for the peaceful environment prevailing in the country, which allows Zimbabweans to worship freely at any time,” he said.
The Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Charles Tawengwa, said indigenous churches have an important role to play in supporting national economic strategies and policies.
“Indigenous churches like the St John Apostolic Church are partners in developing the nation towards becoming an upper middle-income society; hence they should be at the forefront of initiating impactful projects that contribute to socio-economic transformation.
“The President has made it clear that a country is developed by its own citizens through his now-popular mantra, ‘Nyika Inovakwa, Igotsigirwa, Igonamatigwa neVene Vayo.’ This demonstrates the value the President places on the role of churches in creating a peaceful and prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.
Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with indigenous churches, with several religious organisations being supported through access to land for the construction of shrines and places of worship.
