Methodist Church In Zimbabwe Suspends Sunday Services {Full Text}

25 March 2020

To: Connexional Lay President District Bishops District Lay Presidents Superintendents

Lentern greetings

COVID-19 – Sunday services and other gatherings

Following a series of consultations and after prayerful reflection regarding the COVID -19 pandemic and the threat it poses, I write to advise the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe community that we are suspending worship services and other gatherings including District Synods with immediate effect.

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We will continue to assess the situation and will advise accordingly. Church buildings will remain open for individuals who may need to come for private prayer and reflection. Ministers and Stewards are directed to supervise any such visits and ensure compliance.

The Mission Department will provide more guidance regarding live streaming of services and sharing of devotions through social media.

As emphasised in my last communication, all ministers are encouraged to exercise their pastoral and leadership role more creatively.

Fellow Methodists, the COVID-19 turbulence is causing a lot of fear, panic and confusion. May we remain conscious of the promptings of the Holy Spirit and be attentive to what God is saying to us in the midst of all this.

During such a time when the Church has retreated from sanctuaries to homes, we are called upon to engage in deep prayer and fasting as God says “Be still and know that I am God… The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge” (Psalm 46:10-11).

Rev. Dr S. Zwana Presiding Bishop Methodist Church in Zimbabwe