Story by Fungai Jachi
THE United Methodist Church (UMC) in Africa has reaffirmed its opposition to homosexuality and same-sex marriages, saying such practices are not in line with Christian values and pose a threat to African cultural norms and the sanctity of human existence.
Speaking to ZBC News on the sidelines of a church service in Harare on Sunday, Bishop Mande Muyombo, the President of the African Bishops in the United Methodist Church, who is in Zimbabwe on an official visit said the church in Africa remains unwavering in its stance and is calling on congregants to remain rooted in biblical teachings and African traditions.
“We have been very clear, not only we but even our elders who have gone ahead of us, Africa has been very consistent that we continue to be consistent with our values that marriage is between a man and a woman. We also believe that this is the biblical message as well. We are also guided by marriage laws in our different cultures that do not allow same sex marriages and even when paying a bride price, they will not accept if it’s for the same gender,” Muyondo said.
Congregants at the service welcomed the church’s reaffirmed position, expressing relief that the leadership has publicly clarified its stance.
“It was heartwarming to hear our bishops clearly declare the position of the church with regards to same sex marriage issue, and now there is no grey area, it is now very clear,” a church member noted.
“Marriage is between a man and a woman; that is the norm, the church is alive, and as the United Methodist church, we condone homosexuality,” another church member said.
“We are glad to have heard a clear position because we have been hearing different versions but now we have the clear position of the church,” another member added.
All 15 bishops representing UMC conferences across Africa attended the revival gathering, where they collectively reinforced the denomination’s commitment to traditional Christian and African family values.
