Bishop Rocky Moyo, the president of the Council of Churches in Africa, has urged the church, particularly traditional churches, to discuss sex issues, rather than leave the youth and teenagers at the mercy of misleading information from the internet.
Moyo said newspapers are full of reports about teenage pregnancies and teenagers who have joined the sex work industry, and this is partly attributable to the church’s failure to discuss sex issues. Moyo said (via <a href="https://bmetro.co.zw/preach-about-sex-in-churches-bishop/">B-Metro</a>):
<blockquote>
I’m an avid newspaper reader, so I keep up to date with current affairs. One issue that has hit me hard is the issue of teenagers falling pregnant, after that, they stop coming to church and some adopt delinquent behaviours and join the sex work industry.
In some cases, after the teen falls pregnant, she drops out of school. Some youths desert their families while some stop attending church services as they would be depressed and ashamed of being labelled all sorts of names.
Some of the church members are the reason behind the depression as they are quick to accuse the girl of being promiscuous, but they do not blame the boy who would have impregnated the girl.
</blockquote>
Moyo said churches should have literature on sex that is specifically tailored for teenagers as this will help them make informed decisions rather than letting them rely on internet information.
A Brethren in Christ Church (BICC) reverend who chose not to be named told B-Metro that the issue of sex is rarely discussed at their church. Said the cleric:
<blockquote>
At our church, the issue of sex is rarely discussed and is discussed at Youth camps only and that is once or twice a year.
Sadly, some of the youths do not attend camps and they are left at the mercy of wrong information.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Moyo said some churches find it difficult to discuss the issue as parents and their children would be in the same room.
Zimbabwe’s teenage pregnancy rate stands at approximately 22%, placing the country at position 28 out of 54 on UNICEF’s early childbearing list.
Teenage pregnancy has significant psycho-social, economic, development, and health costs.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Church Bishop Calls For Sex Education In Churches

ZANU PF-aligned pastor Obadiah Musindo of the Destiny for Africa Network said Passion Java has no one to blame but himself after his much-hyped event, the “Night of Wonders” flopped.
Java, who is also a ZANU PF loyalist, had boasted that he would fill up the venue, the National Sports Stadium, vowing to quit preaching if he failed.
However, there was a poor turnout, forcing Java to prematurely end the gathering to avoid further embarrassment.
His followers claimed that he was sabotaged by fellow pastors who didn’t want the event to succeed.
But speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200026968/why-java-night-of-wonders-flopped">NewsDay</a>, Musindo said various organisations had mobilised people to attend the event but Java failed to avail buses to ferry them to the National Sports Stadium. He said:
<blockquote>
Passion should not blame anyone, be it other prophets or bishops. No one sabotaged him except his team. Except, I repeat, his team.
People are so bitter because they took their time. They did everything to mobilise people, only to be disappointed by failing to get transport.
And lastly, for example, on my side, he promised to hire buses for us.
There are different organisations, but I can’t speak for them as some of them came to me crying saying they were asked to hire buses, but the money never came.
Past five (5 pm), when the event was starting, that was the time that some money was released for us to hire buses.
Who was going to wait for Passion until midnight? Who in his sane mind was going to wait for Passion until late?
</blockquote>
Java is among a group of pastors who subscribe to the prosperity gospel which gained prominence in Zimbabwe and other parts of Africa, particularly Nigeria in the past few decades.
The prosperity gospel is a form of Pentecostalism that emphasises material wealth, health, and success as signs of God’s favour.
In Zimbabwe, proponents of the prosperity gospel claim to have the power to perform miraculous financial blessings sometimes referred to as “miracle money.”
Some Evangelical theologians consider it a serious heresy and a deception for many Christians arguing it can be misleading and distort fundamental Christian tenets.
Critics say that by focusing on supernatural wealth and blessings, prosperity preachers may divert attention from addressing tangible issues causing suffering, such as corruption.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF-aligned Pastor Explains Why Passion Java's “Night of Wonders” Flopped

A Zimbabwean woman has been named as the first deaconess in the global Eastern Orthodox Church.
The Eastern Orthodox Church, officially known as the Orthodox Catholic Church, is one of the three major doctrinal and jurisdictional groups within Christianity and has a strong presence in regions such as Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Greece, Belarus, Serbia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Moldova, North Macedonia, Cyprus, and Montenegro.
As reported by <a href="https://religionnews.com/2024/05/03/eastern-orthodox-church-ordains-zimbabwan-woman-as-its-first-deaconess/">Religion News</a>, the Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria and all of Africa named Angelic Molen as the first deaconess in the global Eastern Orthodox Church in a ceremony held on May 2, 2024.
The event, held at St. Nektarios Mission Parish near Harare, Zimbabwe, marked the culmination of efforts to revive the female diaconate within the Church.
Molen was ordained by Metropolitan Serafim, the Archbishop of Zimbabwe on Holy Thursday, just before Orthodox Easter.
Molen told Religion News that initially, she was nervous about entering the altar but felt comforted and ready after receiving blessings from Metropolitan Serafim. She said:
<blockquote>
At first, I was nervous about going to the altar, but when Metropolitan Serafim blessed me to enter the altar as part of my preparation this week, those feelings went away, and I felt comfortable. I am ready.
</blockquote>
Molen’s ordination is part of the Patriarchate’s broader efforts to address the growing need for priests and deacons in African parishes.
However, a deaconess is not a priest/priestess. Her responsibilities will include assisting priests in liturgical duties and addressing specific parish needs in Zimbabwe.
Molen is currently studying geography and environmental studies and has served Orthodox Christians in Zimbabwe for years, working with youth and establishing church schools.
She has also created several mother’s groups to serve women.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Woman Becomes First Deaconess In Eastern Orthodox Church

Controversial preacher Uebert Angel, whose real name is Uebert Mudzanhire, is reportedly facing a police investigation following allegations that he hired assassins to kill a rival church leader.
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/amp/news/article/200026368/police-investigate-uebert-angel-alleged-murder-plot">The Standard</a>, a report was made on April 26 at Harare Central Police Station alleging that Angel was linked to an alleged plot involving two suspected South African hitmen hired to kill Batsirai Java of the Tabernacle of Grace Church in Harare.
Angel, who is President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s special envoy to the Americas and Europe and Java have been involved in a long-running rift feud.
Angel, who is the leader of the GoodNews Church (Spirit Embassy), reportedly accuses Java of extortion and blackmail.
Java was married to late opposition MP and former prime minister Morgan Tsvangirai’s daughter Vimbai, who died following a car accident in 2019.
Batsirai Java is a brother to another Mnangagwa and ZANU PF apologist and self-proclaimed prophet Panganai “Passion” Java.
Last month, Java’s security aide Nigel Dutiro approached the police about the alleged South African assassins.
Dutiro confirmed to The Standard that he made the report under RRB number 141472. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s true. I made a police report because there was a threat to life.
</blockquote>
Dutiro, however, said he could not reveal more details about the report because the matter was now being handled by the police.
The alleged murder plot was exposed by a woman identified as Sharon Munro, who is said to be based in South Africa.
Munro was allegedly in Zimbabwe on March 31 where she was overhead by patrons at an upmarket bar in Borrowdale, Harare, talking about the alleged plot against Java.
She left the country on April 3 via the Robert Mugabe International Airport.
The Standard reported sources as saying the alleged murder plot was supposed to involve two South Africans only identified as Mkhwananzi and Ndimande.
The alleged hitman entered Zimbabwe through Beitbridge and were later transported as far as Harare.
The South Africans returned home without accomplishing the task after the woman allegedly linked to Angel leaked the details of the plot.
Java was last Sunday summoned by the police as part of the investigations. He said:
<blockquote>
l am aware that someone from my church has made a report to the police, and we are waiting for investigations.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said he was yet to get a briefing from Harare police where the matter was reported.
The person who picked up Munro’s phone reportedly said she had no idea what the publication was enquiring about when asked for a comment. She later posted the same questions on her WhatsApp status.
Angel did not respond to questions sent to him by The Standard two weeks ago.
Early last year, Angel was at the centre of a documentary by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit called “Gold Mafia” that exposed illicit gold trade and money laundering by powerful figures in Zimbabwe and the southern African region.
Angel was secretly recorded telling undercover journalists that he could facilitate the smuggling of gold and launder millions of cash by abusing his diplomatic privileges.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Uebert Angel Faces Police Investigation Over Alleged Murder Plot

Cossam Chiangwa, the leader of the Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe (AFMOZ), has reportedly ordered his church members and administrators to exclusively buy and consume Lobel’s Bread products.
AFMOZ was formed by former members of AFM who broke away after losing control of the church and its properties following years of internal conflicts related to leadership, finances, and governance.
Chiangwa did not explain the reasons for his directive which has raised suspicions among congregants.
A church member, Olivia Chiwara, told <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/afm-orders-churches-to-exclusively-buy-lobels-products-move-raises-stink/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> that the deal between Lobel’s Bread and Chiangwa and part of the church’s leadership has shut out competition from other companies. She said:
<blockquote>
We know that Chiangwa and his colleagues were offered jobs and benefits in exchange for granting exclusive rights to Lobel’s Bread.
Lobel’s will be the sole product sold at AFM functions and events, with other sections advised to purchase it for domestic use.
</blockquote>
Another church member who declined to be identified said is it dangerous for a religious leader to determine how congregants spend their money. Said the AFMOZ congregant:
<blockquote>
We cannot afford to have another Madzibaba Ishmael here. We cannot be told what to eat and what not to eat in a religious institution.
We have nothing against Lobel’s, but allowing a religious leader to determine how we spend our money is dangerous. This is how cults and cult following start.
</blockquote>
Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa is the founder and leader of a religious cult based in Nyabira called the Johanne Masowe Penyera Nyika sect.
Chokurongerwa spent considerable time in jail after he attacked police officers at his shrine in Budiriro. He was granted bail by the High Court on Friday, 27 April, after spending almost two months in remand prison following his arrest for allegedly violating the Burial and Children’s Act, respectively.
Efforts by NewZimbabwe.com to get a comment from the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) were fruitless as the commission’s chief executive officer (CEO) Zororo Muranda directed all questions to his director of research and public affairs, whose phone went unanswered.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

AFM Orders Congregants To Exclusively Buy Lobel's Bread Products

Controversial businessman and ZANU PF benefactor Wicknell Chivayo has donated US$1 million to the Zion Christian Church (ZCC).
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/chivayo-donates-us1-million-to-zanu-pf-associated-zion-christian-church/">The Herald</a>, Chivayo donated the cash during the church’s Easter Passover festival at Mbungo Estates in Bikita district, Masvingo Province where President Mnangagwa was the guest of honour.
ZCC leader Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi, who has publicly vowed the church’s support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling ZANU PF, announced the donation. He said:
<blockquote>
There is this young businessman, Chivayo, who is doing great work. He donated some money to our church. It is a six-zero figure, US$1 million. We are quite happy as a church and that is a show of love and kindness.
</blockquote>
Chivayo, who was part of the dignitaries that attended the annual event where more than 150 000 pilgrims drawn from Zimbabwe and 18 other countries were gathered, said:
<blockquote>
My small donation to the Church was largely inspired by the philanthropic work that the Church is mostly passionate about. Whenever an act of love is selflessly demonstrated, I easily associate with and promote it.
More importantly, ZCC is a church that has consistently illustrated its unwavering love for Zimbabwe’s development by regularly praying for its leadership.
His Grace, Bishop Mutendi, is the founder and patron of the Zimbabwe Indigenous Interdenominational Council of Churches which on many occasions carried out night vigils at State House praying for wisdom and knowledge upon our leaders in Government, under the visionary leadership of H.E President E.D. Mnangagwa.
This interdenominational council of churches has also advocated for socio-economic upliftment of indigenous people which is an act of compassion that deserves full recognition and financial support, particularly from the private sector.
</blockquote>
Chivayo’s donation to ZCC aligns with his mission to support groups and individuals closely linked to ZANU PF.
Prior to the August 2023 elections, Mutendi urged the church’s followers to vote for Mnangagwa during a gathering commemorating the death of the church’s founder, Reverend Samuel Mutendi, in Defe Dopota, Gokwe South.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chivayo Donates US$1 Million To Zion Christian Church

Tendai Mukombe, the first wife of Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa, has lifted the veil on their tumultuous marriage.
Her candid revelations paint a picture of hypocrisy, secrecy, and hardship within the confines of their unconventional family.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/madzibaba-ishmaels-ex-wife-claims-he-is-a-hypocrite-she-says-he-paid-lobola-for-her-took-birth-certificates-for-their-kids-marriage-collapsed-after-fallout-due-to-his-move-to-get-an/">H-Metro</a>, Mukombe said that Madzibaba Ishmael was a hypocrite. While he preaches to his devoted followers, his actions behind closed doors tell a different story.
She said his ability to sway minds and “brainwash” his army of faithful adherents contrasts sharply with the reality of his personal life.
Mukombe and Madzibaba Ishmael share a complicated history. They have eight children together, but two of their kids have passed away.
Four of their children reside with their father in the mystical realm of “Canaan.” Mukombe, on the other hand, lives with her two boys, in rural Murehwa, Mashonaland East Province.
The breaking point in their marriage came when Madzibaba Ishmael took a second wife.  Interestingly, Mukombe claims to know only the second wife, unaware of the existence of the other seven wives in Madzibaba Ishmael’s clandestine network.
Mukombe said her daughters are now married but she never received any lobola (bride price) for them. Madzibaba Ishmael’s decree outlawed this customary practice.
Strangely, he paid lobola for Mukombe in full, securing her as his first wife. Additionally, he possesses birth certificates for all eight of their children.
Yet, these certificates remain forbidden within the sacred confines of Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine. Said Tendai:
<blockquote>
I never received any lobola from my son-in-laws since Madzibaba Ishmael abolished the lobola custom.
Asi iye akandibvisira pfuma yose zvekuti baba namai vangu vakapfeka mbatya nekudya roora rese.
Madzibaba Ishmael acquired birth certificates for all his children with me.
It is my prayer for Madzibaba Ishmael to repent, to look after all his children and to be released from prison for good.
</blockquote>
She also claimed she was blocked by Madzibaba Ishmael from receiving any kind of support from him, his church and any of her children after she refused to support his church’s doctrine. She said:
<blockquote>
My life has not been good since the outbreak of COVID-19, in March 2020.
That is the time he ditched me, following a misunderstanding over his decision to marry his second wife.
Ndakaramba kuenda kuNyabira ndikati handingasiye dzimba dzangu, ndinofira pano.
My marital issues haunted me and I nearly took my life, but my neighbours urged me to soldier on and remain prayerful.
</blockquote>
Mukombe’s life took a dramatic turn when her rural home, a sanctuary of memories and struggles, was unexpectedly put up for sale by Madzibaba Ishmael.
In her desperate plea for mercy, she encountered compassionate homeseekers who understood the gravity of her predicament.
But the challenges did not end there. When Madzibaba Ishmael faced arrest after the Budiriro incident, Tendai found herself thrust into an unfamiliar role. With her husband behind bars, she became the sole provider for their children.
In the quiet corners of her modest home, Mukombe grappled with the harsh realities of poverty and the enigma of a spiritual leader who had once promised solace but now left her to fend for herself and their children. She said:
<blockquote>
He was jailed and I had to fend for the children alone. He was jailed when I was nursing our last born and the baby died while he was in prison.
Upon his release, Madzibaba Ishmael inflicted more pain on me by marrying another wife.
</blockquote>
She said her marriage caused her a great deal of suffering and she decided to stop going to Madzibaba Ishmael’s church and joined another Johanne Masowe yeChishanu because she was being mocked and her children were not being supported.
Mukombe said Madzibaba Ishmael convinced the children that he was not going to look after them if they were to remain with her.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael’s Ex-wife, Tendai Mukombe, Says He Is A Hyprocrite

The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference (ZCBC) has said the unresolved August 2023 election dispute has worsened the suffering of ordinary citizens and that there is a general feeling that the country is moving towards a one-party State.
In a statement issued on Monday, 12 February, to mark the beginning of the Catholic Church Lenten season, ZCBC said Zimbabweans are worried that democracy is slowly dying. Said the bishops:
<blockquote>
Our local environment has not been exempted from the global challenges noted above. Our country continues to suffer from the displacement of families due to the non-performance of the economy.
The decision by the Government to raise taxes at a time when ordinary people can hardly afford a meal a day has worsened the family situation.
For the majority of the elderly and the poor in particular, it has become unbearable to live. Prices of basic commodities are increasingly expensive.
The unresolved political contests since the August 2023 elections have not left the country in a good space.
Locally, there are fears among people that we are moving towards a one-party State, with democracy dying a slow death.
</blockquote>
The Catholic bishops said most of the challenges facing people are a result of “bad politics”. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
Whereas some of these ills are a result of natural disasters, most of them are man-made and are not accidental.
Poverty in the world is a direct result of the political and economic policies of governments, political parties and big businesses.
It is a result of policies and systems. In the light of bad politics, failed economic systems and their devastating effects, many people are in despair.
</blockquote>
The remarks by the Catholic bishops come as a small group of CCC activists connived with State institutions to reverse the results of the 23 August 2023 general elections and give ZANU PF a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, the Lower House of Parliament.
Fronted by one Sengezo Tshabangu who claimed to be CCC’s interim secretary-general, the activists recalled dozens of the party’s MPs and Councillors who won their seats in a hostile political environment.
After effecting the recalls, Tshabangu and his colleagues did not bother fielding candidates in some of the contested wards, allowing ZANU PF candidates to win uncontested.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabweans Suffering Due To Unresolved Electoral Dispute - Catholic Bishops

More than 40 per cent of Christians in Mashonaland West Province are members of apostolic sects, a development that some social commentators have attributed to rising poverty and disease caused by grand corruption and maladministration in the public sector under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.
Apostolic sects or white garment churches are known for their claims to deep spirituality and ability to miraculously change the fortunes of their adherents for the better and cure all manner of illnesses.
According to the latest Zimbabwe Statistical Agency (ZimStat) data, Christianity is the main religion constituting 79.9% of Mashonaland West Province’s population.
ZimStat demographic analysis manager, Perfect Makumbe, said of the Christian majority, 41.9% belonged to different apostolic sects.
Makumbe was presenting the 2022 Population and Housing Census provincial profiles, district data sheets and gross domestic product (GDP) during a dissemination workshop held in Chinhoyi on Tuesday. Said Makumbe (<a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zim-poverty-drives-40-of-mash-west-christians-into-apostolic-sects-seeking-miracles/">via NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
According to the census results, Christians constituted 79.9% of the population of Mashonaland West while a significant 12.1% did not identify with any religion.
Now looking at the Christians, and here we are saying those that identified as Roman Catholics, protestants and Pentecostals, 41.9% belonged to apostolic sects.
</blockquote>
Makumbe, however, did not elaborate on why nearly half of the Christians in Mash West have joined white garment churches.
Givemore Njovani, a social commentator, told NewZimbabwe.com that poverty and joblessness are driving people to join the white garment churches as they had become hopeless in the face of seemingly unending economic hardships. Said Njovani:
<blockquote>
The only logical conclusion as to why we have had a massive shift of churchgoers, particularly Christians, going to apostolic sects is that the masses have become hopeless and are seeking miracles because the leaders have failed dismally to provide better livelihoods.
Apostolic sects give holy water and anointed stones which are believed to bring good tidings and miracles.
</blockquote>
During the data presentation workshop, ZimStat also claimed that Mash West’s unemployment rate stood at a curious 14.1 %, contrary to the suggestion that about 90% of Zimbabweans are unemployed. Said ZimStat:
<blockquote>
When we dealt with the unemployment rate, we used the international labour law’s definition of unemployment and not street definitions.
The provincial unemployment rate was at 14.2 % and not those numbers we hear elsewhere.
</blockquote>
White garment churches, also known as Vapositori, are a group of African Independent Churches (AICs) characterised by their white garments and their practice of faith healing and prophecy.
The Vapositori churches have been involved in party politics, particularly in favour of ZANU PF, and have played a significant role in ZANU PF’s continued rule since independence in 1980 to the present.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

40% Of Christians In Mashonaland West Are Members Of Apostolic Sects - ZIMSTAT

A 30-year-old woman from Mafararikwa Village under Chief Marange’s area died last week after enduring pregnancy-related complications for three days.
The woman, Jane Muchichwa (30), a member of the Johane Marange Apostolic Church, died on her way to the hospital following her family’s intervention.
According to <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/dark-day-for-womens-health-woman-dies-with-fetus-arm-sticking-out/">The Manica Post</a>, Muchichwa died with her unborn baby’s arm sticking out of her uterus.
The acting spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Manicaland Province, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed Muchichwa’s death while in labour. He said:
<blockquote>
We received a report of sudden death after Ms Jane Muchichwa (30) passed on while giving birth.
On January 14, Ms Muchichwa, who was a member of the Johane Marange Apostolic Church, went to stay at a Johane Marange Apostolic Church prophetess, Ms Rupimo’s homestead in Mafararikwa Village in preparation for delivery as she was nine months pregnant.
On January 15, she started experiencing labour pains and at around 2 PM on the same day, the fetus’ arm and umbilical cord protruded while the rest of the body remained inside.
</blockquote>
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka said Rupimo (pictured above) continued praying for Muchichwa as she assessed her condition. He said:
<blockquote>
On January 16, Ms Rupimo told Ms Muchichwa’s husband, Mr Makebho Madziro (43) that she had failed to assist the pregnant woman in delivery and advised him to take her to another prophetess.
That evening, Mr Madziro took his wife to another prophetess, Ms Mahove, for assistance.
</blockquote>
Asst Insp. Chinyoka said Muchichwa’s elder sister, Sarah Muchichwa visited her the following day and discovered that her condition had deteriorated. He said:
<blockquote>
Ms Sarah Muchichwa phoned their brother, Mr Trymore Chiruka to come and ferry their pregnant sibling to hospital.
Sadly she died on their way to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital the following day. Police from Marange attended the scene.
</blockquote>
Chiruka, in whose car Muchichwa died on their way to the hospital, revealed that his sister had earlier been transferred from two other midwives, with all of them failing to deliver her baby.
He said by the time they embarked on the journey to the hospital, the baby was already lifeless, with its hand and the umbilical cord protruding. Said Chiruka:
<blockquote>
I consulted her husband on the way forward and he agreed to have her taken to hospital. My other sister, Sarah, accompanied us.
Jane was writhing in pain and crying out for help. After driving for about 7km on our way to the hospital, she died.
I immediately called her husband, informing him of the situation and he advised us to drive back to his homestead.
Police later arrived and ferried the body to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital.
Her death could have been avoided if she was taken to the hospital when she developed those complications.
By the moment they transferred her to the third midwife without any success in delivering her baby, they should have realised that her condition required medical attention without any further delays.
</blockquote>
Muchichwa was buried last week on Friday in Mafararikwa Village after the post-mortem fetal extrusion process was carried out at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital.
Postmortem fetal extrusion or coffin birth is the process whereby an unborn fetus is expelled from the body after a pregnant woman has died.
Mafararikwa Village Head, Crispen Mafararikwa said that Muchichwa was not accorded the usual rites members of the Johane Marange Apostolic Church get when they are buried as she was taken to the hospital in violation of the church’s religious beliefs.
The doctrine of the Apostolic sect does not believe in any medicine or conventional health services.
Pregnant women in the church deliver at home-based “maternity wards” referred to as “chitsidzo”, under the care of church-ordained midwives.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Woman Dies Giving Birth At Home Of Johane Marange Apostolic Sect "Midwife"

Emmanuel Makandiwa, the founder and leader of the United Family International Church (UFIC), recently shared his thoughts on the BBC Documentary about T.B. Joshua, the late Nigerian televangelist. The documentary featured allegations from some of Joshua’s disciples, accusing him of being involved in cult practices, rituals, and sexual abuse.
<h3>T.B. Joshua Probably Did It</h3>
In contrast to other preachers, Makandiwa did not defend or accuse Joshua. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCQBqCD7AcY">In a live recording on his YouTube channel,</a> Makandiwa acknowledged that Joshua, like any other preacher, including himself, was capable of committing the acts he was accused of. He questioned those who defended Joshua while attacking the victims. He said:
<blockquote>
He is not perfect. We are not saying a man of God cannot commit sin. We are not saying a man of God cannot do that and at the same time, you attack a victim. Why are you so sure that they (victims) are lying if you’re so sure that he is not perfect? He is not perfect, he can do that to you. Myself, I can do that to you. Treat me with caution, be careful, stay away! Be smart! It’s not an attack on him, I’m trying to protect you members from us, from men of God. The idea that you have that when a man of God sleeps with you you get some measure of anointing or grace that’s complete foolishness. There is nothing that you get.
</blockquote>
Makandiwa also mentioned that due to Joshua’s power and connections, it would have been difficult for anyone to believe the abuse allegations if they had come forward earlier. Makandiwa drew attention to situations where presidents visit churches where underage girls are married off, suggesting that the parents of these girls are often unable to challenge church leaders due to their proximity to power. Some, including Zimbabwean preacher Passion Java, speculated that Makandiwa was referring to apostolic sects in Zimbabwe that had hosted President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
<h3>BBC Shoddy Job</h3>
Makandiwa expressed his belief that the BBC documentary lacked convincing evidence against Joshua. He criticised the interviews, suggesting that people can be manipulated to tarnish someone’s reputation or defend wrongdoers through bribery. He said:
<blockquote>
I would have wanted to see proper, undeniable proof and it’s not there. There is nothing investigative about the documentary. It’s an interview. You’re inviting people to share their story. They did not give us any proof, there is no proof whatsoever. To me, crying is not enough. This is what I would have asked for as BBC because my credibility is at stake. Investigations should have started after the interview. If someone comes and tells you this is what has been happening in that facility, you have enough resources as a media house to pay SCOAN a visit and have some of these things verified in video format and not audio. Probably that was going to be more believable. You must have ways of extracting information from the ground. 
</blockquote>
He also mentioned that if Joshua were a white man, the BBC would not have gone to such lengths to expose him. Makandiwa stated that if Joshua had done good things, the BBC would not have covered his story either, because he is black.
<h3>Miracles Faked?</h3>
Addressing the idea that Joshua’s miracles invalidated the allegations against him, Makandiwa argued that miracles can still happen in churches led by individuals who have committed sins. He referred to 1 Samuel 2, which speaks of the iniquity of Eli’s sons, pointing out that despite their wrongdoing, miracles still occurred in that church. He said in that church where women were being raped by Eli’s sons, a declaration was made and Hannah who was barren conceived a baby – Samuel. Makandiwa dismissed the notion that Joshua had no power, emphasizing that he was the first contemporary prophet capable of delivering international prophecies. He said:
<blockquote>
There are things you must accept. You (disciples) cannot say T.B. Joshua had no power. You can’t say there wasn’t any power there. That’s not true. You make us question then everything else you’re going to say. Do you even know what power is? He had it. As of the source, be sure, you don’t expect us to be sure, you were there for years. You have to be sure.
</blockquote>
<h3>Watch more here:</h3>
<div class="jetpack-video-wrapper"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zCQBqCD7AcY?feature=oembed" title="Lessons from T.B Joshua and the BBC Documentary" width="640"></iframe></div>

<h3>Not Rape:</h3>
Makandiwa mentioned that some people may only consider speaking up about rape when they find out that the accused person is involved with other women. He explained that initially, there is mutual consent between them and there is no rape.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

BBC Documentary: Makandiwa's Neutral Stance On T.B. Joshua, Neither Accusing Nor Defending

Zimbabweans have recently revisited the topic of Knowledge Musona’s alleged “healing” at the Synagogue Church Of All Nations (SCOAN) by the late Nigerian preacher T.B. Joshua. Five years ago, T.B. Joshua claimed that Musona, the former captain of the Zimbabwe national football team, had been instantly healed from a five-year ankle injury. T.B. Joshua said on X formerly Twitter:
<blockquote>
Mr Knowledge Musona, captain of the Zimbabwe national football team, had suffered from an ankle injury for five years.
As the Belgium-based footballer refused the surgery the doctor suggested, he ran to the SCOAN (Synagogue Church Of All Nations) for divine restoration and was healed instantly.
</blockquote>
This announcement sparked mixed reactions among Zimbabweans, according to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/did-tb-joshua-heal-musona-or-was-it-just-another-hoax-five-years-ago-the-late-nigerian-televangelist-announced-the-then-warriors-skipper-had-been-healed-instantly/">H-Metro</a>.
However, the focus has now shifted to T.B. Joshua’s credibility following a BBC investigation that accused him of faking miracles at SCOAN. According to the investigation, individuals seeking healing were given fruit drinks containing the same medication they had been taking before they arrived at SCOAN. Mr. Paul, who supervised T.B. Joshua’s emergency department for a decade, revealed in the documentary that visitors would be urged to drink these cocktails, falsely believing they were blessed by Joshua. He said in the BBC documentary:
<blockquote>
Every foreign visitor who came to the church to be healed had to fill out a medical report, detailing their illness and the medication they were currently prescribed. They would be told to stop taking them, but Joshua would order pharmacists to procure the same medicine.
Without their knowledge they would ‘put those drugs in their fruit drinks.
This meant while visitors were residing at SCOAN, they would not become unwell and would believe in the divine healing powers of their pastor.
</blockquote>
Musona initially visited SCOAN in December 2018 and returned in May the following year, when the announcement of his healing was made. Since then, statistics show that Musona has experienced fewer ankle injury-related issues in his career. While some argue that this improvement is evidence of T.B. Joshua’s healing powers, others question the authenticity of the healing and whether it was simply another hoax by the late televangelist.
Musona’s improved performance and increased number of appearances for his clubs and country after his visit to SCOAN are seen as supporting evidence by those who believe in T.B. Joshua’s abilities. They also point out that Musona underwent three transfers to different clubs after his visit, suggesting that any lingering ankle injury would have been detected and potentially resulted in aborted transfers.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabweans Revisit Musona's "Healing" At SCOAN Amid BBC Documentary On T.B. Joshua

BBC Africa has released a <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/08/man-of-god-or-predatory-cult-leader-bbc-investigation-into-tb-joshua/">documentary titled ‘Man of God? Or predatory cult leader?’</a> that investigates the renowned televangelist TB Joshua. The documentary explores allegations made by individuals close to Joshua, suggesting that he was a fraud. In the first episode, two young women from Britain watch a video that depicts a Nigerian preacher who claims to have the power to heal the sick and cure diseases like cancer and AIDS. Intrigued, they decide to visit his church in Lagos and become his disciples. However, their experience as disciples turns out to be different from what they expected.
The documentary is produced by the BBC Africa Eye investigations team, known for their award-winning work. They delve into the shocking journey of manipulation and horrifying acts committed by TB Joshua, one of the most influential religious figures of the 21st century. The documentary features firsthand testimonies and historical footage. Twelve survivors bravely speak out together for the first time, shedding light on their experiences within the religious cult led by Joshua.
WATCH Episode 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZZVQxjXWCg&amp;list=PLajyiGz4JeyNQnWs8QEe-flPqe2xqrQAp&amp;index=1
In episode 2, the investigation continues, focusing on the testimonies of TB Joshua’s disciples and the alleged abuse and violence they faced. The documentary reveals serious evidence of widespread violence and abuse within the church.
WATCH Episode 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vvkUCesRdc&amp;list=PLajyiGz4JeyNQnWs8QEe-flPqe2xqrQAp&amp;index=2
Episode 3 examines the tragic incident when TB Joshua’s church guesthouse collapsed, resulting in the death of 116 people. Witnesses inside the compound share their firsthand accounts of that devastating day. As his disciples try to escape, TB Joshua does everything in his power to keep his darkest secrets hidden.
WATCH Episode 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4W8TnWslPxg&amp;list=PLajyiGz4JeyNQnWs8QEe-flPqe2xqrQAp&amp;index=3
The BBC Africa Eye investigations team uncovers a shocking journey of manipulation and terrifying atrocities committed by TB Joshua. The documentary presents detailed testimonies and historical footage to shed light on the experiences of those who were lured into his religious cult and suffered devastating consequences.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

WATCH: Documentary On TB Joshua In Which Disciples Allege He Raped Them

BBC Africa has released a documentary investigating the renowned televangelist TB Joshua, titled ‘Man of God? Or predatory cult leader?’ The documentary explores claims made by some individuals close to Joshua, suggesting that he was a fraud. In the first episode, two young women from Britain watch a video that portrays a Nigerian preacher who can supposedly heal the sick and cure diseases like cancer and AIDS. Intrigued, they decide to visit his church in Lagos and become his disciples. However, life as a disciple turns out to be different from their expectations.
The BBC Africa Eye investigations team, known for their award-winning work, delves into this shocking journey of manipulation and horrifying acts committed by one of the most influential religious figures of the 21st century. The documentary features firsthand testimonies and historical footage, as twelve survivors bravely speak out together for the first time, shedding light on their experiences within the religious cult led by Joshua. Watch here:
<div class="jetpack-video-wrapper"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UZZVQxjXWCg?list=PLajyiGz4JeyNQnWs8QEe-flPqe2xqrQAp" title="DISCIPLES: The Cult of TB Joshua, Episode 1 – BBC Africa Eye documentary" width="640"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2021/06/07/magaya-angel-mourn-tb-joshua/">TB Joshua died in June 2021,</a> just before his 58th birthday. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, although reports are suggesting he had been unwell for two days before his passing.
BBC says the documentary aims to reveal the truth behind the charismatic preacher’s controversial actions and provide insight into the experiences of those who were drawn into his religious cult, only to suffer devastating consequences.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Man Of God? Or Predatory Cult Leader? BBC Investigation Into TB Joshua

The Vatican has released a statement seeking to calm down Catholic bishops in some countries who are opposed to the approval of blessings for same-sex couples. In a statement issued by the Vatican’s doctrinal office on Thursday, it clarified that these blessings are not considered “heretical” or “blasphemous,” <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/vatican-lgbt-blessings-1.7074077">CBC</a> reported. Read the five-paged statement in part:
<blockquote>
Evidently, there is no room to distance ourselves doctrinally from this declaration or to consider it heretical, contrary to the Tradition of the Church or blasphemous.
</blockquote>
The Vatican acknowledged that in certain countries, where individuals receiving such blessings may face violence, imprisonment, or even death, it may be unwise to perform them.
Bishops in several countries, particularly in Africa, expressed confusion and varying degrees of disagreement following the declaration, known as Fiducia Supplicans (Supplicating Trust), which was issued on December 18. 
After the original declaration, several Catholic Bishops’ conferences released statements emphasising that the blessings did not constitute an official endorsement of gay sex or the sacrament of marriage for same-sex couples.
The Vatican’s doctrinal office reiterated these points in its recent statement, emphasising that blessings for same-sex couples should not be seen as endorsing their entire lifestyle or actions. The office encouraged a thorough and calm reading of the December 18 declaration to gain a better understanding.
More Pindula News

The Vatican Release Statement To Calm Bishops Opposed To Same-sex Marriages

Bishop Ancelimo Magaya of the Zimbabwe Divine Destiny (ZDD) has slammed local church leaders who attended the National Thanksgiving and Dedication Service held in Bulawayo on Sunday, 31 December 2023.
The 7th edition of the annual National Thanksgiving and Dedication Service was held at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Grounds.
The event was attended by several prominent clerics, among them Faith for the Nation Campaign (FANA) chairperson Reverend Andrew Wutawunashe, Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi of the Zion Christian Church, and Bishop Patrick Mahachi, among others.
However, Bishop Magaya criticised the religious leaders for attending the event yet they failed to speak out against the alleged abduction of political activists linked to opposition parties and injustices committed by those in power.
Posting on X, Bishop Magaya said God “hates” such gatherings because they are designed to hero-worship politicians are who behind the oppression of the people. <a href="https://x.com/BishopAMagaya/status/1741993518694805867?s=20">He said</a>:
<blockquote>
It is hypocrisy as it is an abomination for Church leaders to gather in Bulawayo for thanksgiving under the faith of the nation at a time when abductions, murders with impunity, and all forms of injustices are rife and fail to issue prophetic indictment.
As far as God is concerned, He disdains, detests and hates such gatherings designed to shower praises to a politician at whose behest the aforesaid injustices are committed, thereby strengthening the hands of the eve (Jer 23:14).
Any assembling, offerings and worshipping that do not have at their centre condemnation of injustices are not worth their salt. The Thanksgiving meeting is thus a nullity before God. Let justice flow like a never-ending stream. (Amos 5:24).
</blockquote>
In June 2022, Bishop Magaya <a href="https://nehandaradio.com/2022/06/29/bishop-magaya-not-afraid-of-death-threats-made-by-charamba/">was arrested by the police</a> while he was in the middle of leading prayers for the country’s peace and prosperity.
He was seized from his Rotten Row church premises by armed anti-riot officers, who arrested 36 more people in attendance.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Hypocritical And Abominable", Bishop Magaya Castigates Zimbabwean Clerics Over National Thanksgiving Service

The National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC) has reaffirmed its stance on sexuality, that marriage is between a man and a woman.
This comes after Pope Francis, who is the head of the Roman Catholic Church, recently allowed priests to bless same-sex couples.
According to a document issued by the Vatican recently, Pope Francis said priests should be permitted to bless same-sex and “irregular” couples, under certain circumstances.
However, in a statement issued on 21 December, the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Cameroon) denounced the new position announced by Pope Francis, saying homosexuality is an abomination. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
DECLARATION OF THE BISHOPS OF CAMEROON ON HOMOSEXUALITY AND THE BLESSING OF “HOMOSEXUAL COUPLES”
Faced with the semantic abuses designed to distort the value of realities and the true meaning of the notions of family, couple, spouse, sexuality and marriage;
Faced with the wave of indignation, questioning and concern that the Declaration “Fiducia supplicans” on the question of the blessing of same-sex couples has aroused among the people of God;
For the sake of human dignity and the salvation of all humanity in Jesus Christ; We, the Bishops of Cameroon, unanimously declare the following on the subject of homosexuality and the blessing of “homosexual couples”:
1. In conformity with our 2013 Declaration on Homosexuality, we strongly reaffirm the truth of the Church, Mother and Educator, which teaches the sacredness of the sexual identity of man and woman created in the image of God (Gn 1:26), of the dignity of their sexuality and of marriage which is the foundation of the family. The human person is created male and female: “Male and female he created them” (Gn 1:26). This invariable difference, which is the foundation of their relationship and their complementarity, is fulfilled in the bonds of marriage.
2. Homosexuality falsifies and corrupts human anthropology and trivialises sexuality, marriage and the family, the foundations of society. In the African culture, this practice is not part of family and social values. It is a flagrant violation of the heritage bequeathed to us by our ancestors. In the history of people, the practice of homosexuality has never led to societal evolution but is a clear sign of the imploding decadence of civilizations. Homosexuality sets humanity against itself and destroys it.
3. The profound identity of sexuality is misunderstood, hijacked and perverted outside the conjugal relationship between man and woman. Consequently, homosexual acts are not “sexual”, but “acts against nature” (Rm 1, 26).
4. Marriage is an institution that legitimizes sexual relations and procreation for the foundation of a new family. It is the union of a man and a woman who commit themselves to the life of a couple, to find a family and to live together in love. Homosexual unions are not marriages. They distort the meaning of marriage by reducing it to a sterile, pleasure-seeking and perverse bond: “infamy between man and man” (Rom 1:26).
5. Homosexuality is not a human right. It is an alienation that seriously harms humanity because it is not based on any value proper to the human being: it is a dehumanization of love, “an abomination”. (Lev, 18, 22). Rejecting it is in no way being discriminative; it is a legitimate protection of the constant values of humanity in the face of a vice that has become the subject of a claim to legal recognition and, today, the subject of a blessing.
6. Literally, “To bless is to speak well of”. And to “speak well of” to gain grace through the gesture of blessing a “homosexual couple” would be tantamount to encouraging a choice and a practice of life that cannot be recognised as being objectively ordered to the revealed designs of God. What is more, differentiating between liturgical and non-liturgical contexts to apply the blessing to same-sex “couples” is hypocritical. The act of blessing, whether performed in a liturgical assembly or in private, remains a blessing. We therefore declare non-compliant any form of blessing, public or private, that tends to recognize “same-sex couples” as a state of life.
7. Faithful to the constant teaching of Ecclesial Tradition which declares acts of homosexuality intrinsically disordered and contrary to the natural law (Catechism of the Catholic Church n. 2357), we, the Bishops of Cameroon, reiterate our disapproval of homosexuality and homosexual unions.
8. Consequently, we formally forbid all blessings of “homosexual couples” in the Church of Cameroon.
9. Since God does not want the death of the sinner, but his/her conversion to eternal life, we recommend those who are inclined to homosexuality to the prayers and compassion of the Church, with a view to their radical conversion. We also invite them to turn away from their mentality of victimization in which they take pleasure in considering themselves as “victims”, “weak”, and “minorities”; to seize the opportunity for conversion that God gives them in the many exhortations of His Word.
</blockquote>
The statement was signed by Andrew Fuanya Nkea, who is the Archbishop of Bamenda and President of NECC.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Catholic Bishops In Cameroon Reject Pope Francis' New Stance On Homosexuality

Pope Francis has allowed priests to bless same-sex couples, with a new document issued on Monday explaining a radical change in Vatican policy.
<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-67751600">BBC News</a> reported that the head of the Roman Catholic Church said priests should be permitted to bless same-sex and “irregular” couples, under certain circumstances.
However, the Vatican said blessings should not be part of regular Church rituals or related to civil unions or weddings.
It added that it continues to view marriage as a lifelong sacrament between a man and a woman.
The Vatican emphasized that blessings in question must be non-liturgical and should not be conferred at the same time as a civil union, using set rituals or even with the clothing and gestures that belong in a wedding.
It said people seeking a “blessing” should not be subject to “an exhaustive moral analysis” as a precondition for receiving it. The Vatican said:
<blockquote>
Ultimately, a blessing offers people a means to increase their trust in God. The request for a blessing, thus, expresses and nurtures openness to the transcendence, mercy, and closeness to God in a thousand concrete circumstances of life, which is no small thing in the world in which we live. It is a seed of the Holy Spirit that must be nurtured, not hindered.
</blockquote>
In the new document, the Vatican stressed that people in “irregular” unions of extramarital sex — gay or straight — are in a state of sin. But it said that shouldn’t deprive them of God’s love or mercy.
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, the prefect of the Church, who introduced the text, said that the new stance does not validate the status of same-sex couples in the eyes of the Catholic Church.
In 2021, the Pope said priests could not bless same-sex marriages because God cannot “bless sin”.
However, Pope Francis had suggested in October that he was open to having the Church bless same-sex couples.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pope Francis Approves Blessings For Same-sex Couples

A local church leader has urged pastors to desist from preaching the Prosperity Gospel to manipulate congregants into contributing money towards the church for their selfish benefits.
Prosperity Gospel preachers claim that faith, positive speech, and donations to religious causes will increase one’s material wealth.
Critics describe prosperity theology as “sloppy agape”, the “blab it and grab it” Gospel, or “greasy grace”.
Bishop Roger Jeffrey, leader and founder of Tabernacle of Worship Family Ministries International, said many leaders were now taking the Christian ministry as a business.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/clergy-hits-out-at-gospel-of-prosperity/">H-Metro</a> on the sidelines of his graduation celebrations which were held at his church in Harare, Jeffrey said:
<blockquote>
The main problem with today’s church is that most of the leaders are in it for prosperity.
To some, the church is now a business venture, something I am against as a church leader.
</blockquote>
Jeffrey graduated with a degree in Religious and Theology from the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU), as one of the best students, last week.
He said instead of exploiting members, the church should empower people spiritually and economically. Said the cleric:
<blockquote>
I have invited influential people from different sectors, including the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and the National Aids Council to address the congregants as I celebrated this achievement.
We want church leaders who help in eradicating poverty to complement the government’s efforts.
My thrust is to ensure that pastors within my ministry have to be educated so that we don’t exploit people.
As we preach the word of God, we have to teach people how to empower themselves.
We don’t want pastors, or church leaders, who just exploit the congregants.
It’s not that giving is bad but we want church leaders who empower people.
</blockquote>
Jeffrey said his church runs an orphanage in Mufakose, Harare and is now building a school in Mutoko.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare-based Church Leader Castigates "Prosperity Gospel"

The former General Secretary of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) Reverend Kenneth Mtata says he left Zimbabwe in November last year to assume global ecumenical responsibilities.
The top cleric said because of his new responsibilities, Zimbabwe is no longer the main source for his public theology and engagement. Below is <a href="https://x.com/kennethmtata/status/1728632112943665271?s=20">a statement</a> posted on X by Mtata:
<blockquote>
1. It’s been a year [November 2022] since I physically left Zimbabwe to assume my new responsibility in the global ecumenical space. My public theology and engagement have, however, remained shaped and informed by the developments in my beloved country, Zimbabwe. I love my country and my people, hence this long weaning process. But, this relationship can no longer be sustained. I am moving on.
2. My new responsibilities require me to read the global landscape as it impinges on the vision of God’s kingdom of unity, peace, justice, and abundant life for all people. While Zimbabwe will remain important from my personal orientation, it ceases to be the main source for my public theology and engagement.
There are, however, three issues that I must mention in these parting words.
3. First, I encourage us not to give up on the value of participatory democracy in our nation-building agenda. Democracy:
(a) allows all people to choose the leaders they want on the basis of accurate information,
(b) allows all people to meaningfully participate in their national affairs without fear or coercion,
(c) ensures the equal protection of the rights of all citizens, and 
(d) it ensures that all our engagements are regulated and protected by laws. This creates order, predictability, and protection for everyone.
4. Democracy has been under threat for some time now, but right now, it is at the throes of death because of two main forces. The first is the force of capital. Capital eats democracy for lunch because it knows no nationality and can get what it wants since everything has a price. It is my hope that God’s people will say, “Not everything can be sold for money.” The second challenge for democracy is that it has not been consistently applied and has not always contributed meaningfully to the well-being of the people. Therefore, it suffers a credibility challenge. It doesn’t have a great track record, yet it remains the best alternative system of governance. Any system that denies people meaningful participation and freedoms is not sustainable even if it appears successful for a time.
5. I am not talking about democracy only at the national level, although that is the ultimate aim. I am more concerned about democracy and good governance within the political parties and institutions. If there is no democratic culture in the political parties and the other spheres of society, it won’t miraculously come to life at the national level. The levels of mistrust in our current political environment makes broad participation not attractive. Followers prefer ready-made answers while “messianic” leaders are impatient for meaningful engagement.
6. Second, nation-building requires self-respect. Self-respect as a virtue means that we can not treat each other with indignity and expect the world to respect us. We need to treat each other the way we want other nations to treat us. Self-respect also means that we choose the best among us to carry out representative tasks. We need to honour merit and competence.
7. Since the liberation struggle, we have relied on one attribute as the basis for leadership, namely, courage. One needed courage to fight the settler colonial regime because it was risky. One needed (still needs) courage to confront the post-independence despotic systems because it was risky. Courage and sacrifice are important values. Actually, without them, we will never break some important new ground. Yet, courage alone is not enough. We need know-how and competence. Self-respect means that we are not afraid of people who are better than us in some areas. At the same time, we don’t get intimidated by differences if we respect ourselves.
8. The third, since nation-building is my calling, I WILL BE BACK!!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Reverend Kenneth Mtata Bids Zimbabwe Farewell

The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops have expressed concern about the constant threat to peace in the country. They stated that the threat does not come from war, but from new challenges that disturb people’s calm and tranquillity. They highlighted the high levels of crime, an increase in armed robberies, and domestic violence within families. In a pastoral letter seen by Pindula News, they mentioned the perpetual state of being in an election mood, which brings fear and unease. They noted that elections in Zimbabwe are often marked by violence. We present the letter below:
<blockquote>
<h3>ZIMBABWE CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE </h3>
PASTORAL LETTER 
21 NOVEMBER 2023 
The Coming of Christ; “The Prince of Peace”
“For the child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on his shoulders; And his name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”(Isaiah 9:6).
1. Dear Brothers and Sisters, Men and Women of good will, as the Church begins the Season of Advent, we your shepherds and fellow citizens would like to exhort and reflect with you on this Holy season. Advent is in many ways a season of contradictions. In terms of the Church calendar we are at the beginning of the new Church year and yet civilly we are in the last month of the calendar. Socially, the season is lived in the frenzy of shopping getting ourselves ready for Christmas. Spiritually, we are preparing for the coming of Christ. We remember the Lord’s promise that he will come at the end of time. We also remember that Christ once came and inhabited our common home: mother earth. That was when he was born in Bethlehem of Judea.
2. Christ’s first coming was heralded by the prophets who called him the “Prince of Peace.” At his birth the angels sang “Glory to God in the highest and peace to people of good will. Though Advent presents us with many themes for reflection, the theme of peace seems to be the most imposing one. Globally, we are in a world that has seen a prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine. As if that was not enough, we now have another war in Israel and Palestine. Our own continent is not exempt. In its different regions we have pockets of violence that have seen many people living as the internally displaced or refugees.
3. As a nation our peace is constantly under threat. Not that there is a war threat, far from that, but we are seeing new threats to people’s calm and tranquility, which is what the Hebrew word for peace, “Shalom” entails. There is a high level of crime in many communities. We have seen the upsurge of armed robberies. Gender-based violence in families is on the rise. Politically, we seem to be perpetually in the election mood, a reality that in this country, sends a shudder down the spine. For our elections are characterized by violence.
4. Before and during the elections we made a plea for peace. We emphasized the dignity of the human person, the importance of tolerance, co-existence and suggested the politics of persuasion. We would like to express our gratitude to all citizens who did heed the message of peace. The past election was indeed different. It was not characterized by violence. That should be applauded. Though this is not to say there was no violence. We had hoped that as a nation we had seen the light and we were beginning to appreciate each other as citizens with divergent views and people of different persuasions, men and women who can rise above their differences. Sadly, as reported by the different election observers, our elections left a lot to be desired. They were characterized by a new form of violence: refusal to let the nation’s voices be heard through the ballot. That act of robbing people of their voices is a form of violence that should be condemned by all people of integrity, by all loving and peaceful citizens.
5. In the post-election period most of the gains that we had made; the promotion of peace, diffusing the tensions between various political players and their supporters were lost. There were retributions targeting those who were perceived to have voted wrongly, whatever that means! With the recent political recalls of the elected members of parliament, senators and councilors, the nation has been thrust into a new form of violence: people rightfully elected, can wantonly be recalled. It would seem the voices of the people who voted can easily be ignored. as if they were insignificant. Were those elected not given the mandate by the people? What happens when the people’s voices are silenced by the masters of political expediency? One thing for certain is that people feel they are not respected and listened to. This breeds tensions and many who have no ways of diffusing them bottle them up. This is not healthy for people and the society. If it is true that. ‘an injury to one of us is an injury to all of us; then we are all living in a wounded Society.
6. What d worse is what these recalls have unearthed. Apart from holding all of us in the dreaded perpetual election mode. they have given birth to violence. Even those who, for a short while, had shunned violence. have fallen back on their default position of violent campaigns. People are being abducted, brutalized and left for dead. Recently, a life was lost because of politics What is the objective of this violence? Is it to terrorize people into voting for a particular candidate or not to vote at all? We would like to reiterate what we said before the August elections when we directed our plea to the citizens “…Refuse to oe used in violent attacks against your fellow brothers and sisters. Any party or politician that incites violence or persuades you to loin in violent attacks, is not worthy of your vote. Give your vote to those who deserve it’ To the politicians we said,” _Peace begins with each one of us. In your roles, be ambassadors of peace. Let no blood be shed in your name and for your vote. Remember, “The bloodshed in the land cries out to God (Gen. 4: 10).
7. Together as we prepare to welcome Christ at Christmas, let us remember that when the “Prince of Peace.- and that He Hour Peace. The peace of Christ finds abode. In those who are calm and enjoy tranquility, it also embraces what the ancient Greeks said peace entails- unity and accord. Calm and tranquility, unity and accord are not far from our reach, we can achieve these if once again we recognise the dignity of the human person, something that Christ upheld by choosing to be born In human form and being in solidarity with us which is what his coming as “The Prince of Peace,” entails: ‘He identifies with us in all things but sin’ (Hebrews 4:15).
8. This Advent we once again appeal to our political leaders to denounce politically motivated violence. To the law enforcement agents, bring perpetrators of political violence to book. To the legislators, revisit the enacted laws that can easily be manipulated at the expense of the people’s basic rights and freedoms. It Is in the same vein that we would like to remind everyone that we all have a duty to work for the promotion of peace and to be agents of peace. We all need peace. Lack of peace has a negative effect on our country. Economically, it works against all our ideals of a middle Income economy and the realization of vision 2030. Socially, it breeds animosity and creates a divided nation. Spiritually, it robs us of our identity as the sons and daughters of God for, ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, because they will be called the sons of God’ (Matthew 5:9).
9. In this reflection we would like to exhort all peace4oving Zimbabweans to pray for peace particularly in our land and everywhere in solidarity with other people in other parts of the world which are troubled Let us work to foster peace, the greatest good that facilitates the development of nations and the progress of people. May the Lord look with a kindly countenance on our efforts to promote and build peace. We pray for all those whose mandate In the land is to safeguard the rights of our people that they may never tire in working for the creation of peaceful environments. May Christ, ‘the Prince of Peace’ who Is our Peace come and transform our attitudes and make all of us instruments of his peace.
We wish you a blessed Advent season and the peace of Christmas. 
Prayer 
“The Lord bless you and keep you; 
The Lord make His face shine upon you 
and be gracious to you; 
the Lord turn his face towards you give you His peace’ 
Amen. (Numbers 6: 24 26).
</blockquote>
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Full Text: "As A Nation Our Peace Is Constantly Under Threat" - Catholic Bishops

The Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe (AFMOZ), which broke away from the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe a few years ago, is facing a potential split due to clashes between church elders over its constitution, reported <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/chiangwa-led-afm-church-heads-for-split/">H-Metro</a>.
This comes after the church’s president, Reverend Cossum Chiangwa, allegedly amended the constitution without involving other elders in an attempt to remain in power.
The report said the AFM constitution calls for elections every three years to elect a new president and deputy president from among senior pastors.
Chiangwa has been accused by concerned pastors of not paving the way for elections and not adhering to the constitution.
Reports claim that Chiangwa’s tenure has lapsed and he has exceeded the 65-year age cap for one to preside over the church, under its constitution.
On Saturday, Mid North Province members reportedly clashed at a meeting as they tried to find common ground to avoid a possible split in Kadoma.
The resolutions of a meeting held by the Mid North Province dated 24 October, copied to Rev Chiangwa and Rev Mathe, read in part:
<blockquote>
As concerned pastors, we feel we are being undermined by the chairman, Rev C Chiangwa, Rev Mathe and Pastor Gutura.
We feel we cannot work in harmony with Rev Mathe and Pastor Gutura unless and until you come and resolve our differences.
We feel a fellowship that commenced at 10 AM to 2 PM on October 23 with Rev Chiangwa, Rev Muhamba, Rev Mutikanhi and all pastors, did not address our concerns objectively, hence it left us more divided than before.
Yet we had hope that our concerns would be heard, but this was far from our hope. We pray that as the executive, you shall be able to help us resolve this long overdue problem.
We are sincerely writing this letter with pain because of what we have been going through since 2019.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Breakaway AFM Church Faces Potential Split

A gang armed with pistols and machetes reportedly stormed a Bulawayo-based self-proclaimed prophet (madzibaba)’s church service, forcing him to flee for his life.
According to <a href="https://www.bmetro.co.zw/armed-gang-disrupts-church-service/">B-Metro</a>, the incident occurred on Sunday last week in West Nicholson, Matabeleland South province.
Archbishop Emmanuel Mutumwa leader of the Johanne Masowe eChishanu was ministering to his congregants when he was confronted by the eight-member gang.
The assailants are believed to have been friends of a gold miner from Gwanda who recently died in a road accident on his way to Bulawayo.
They stormed the shrine and tried to attack Archbishop Mutumwa as revenge after he allegedly prophesied the gold miner’s death.
At around 5 PM, the assailants approached Archbishop Mutumwa and ordered him to end the service saying he should follow them.
B-Metro reported a source as saying the assailants told Mutumwa that they did not want the members of the church to be caught in the crossfire.
When some members of the congregation asked why they were being asked to leave early, one of the gang members allegedly drew a gun from behind and pointed it at Archbishop Mutumwa’s face before other gang members ran to their vehicles to get machetes.
Archbishop Mutumwa then jumped into his car and drove off at high speed while his assailants pursued him for about 30 kilometres.
At one point, the gang members allegedly tried to force Archbishop Mutumwa to drive into a bridge, pointing a gun at him the whole time.
The source, who is a senior member of the church who witnessed the incident, was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
He was (Archbishop Mutumwa) chased by the gang for about 30 kilometres along the Gwanda-Beitbridge highway.
He later sought help from police officers and soldiers manning a roadblock near Makhado Business Centre.
He narrated his ordeal to them and they later sought help from police officers from Gwanda Town who later escorted him to Bulawayo.
Archbishop Mutumwa is now living in fear of being harmed by the suspects after they vowed to kill him.
The suspects also harassed some church members accusing them of supporting the prophet. He went into hiding soon after he reported the matter to the police.
</blockquote>
Archbishop Mutumwa later told B-Metro that he reported the matter to the Police and said that he was glad that no one was injured in the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
It is true that a gang armed with pistols and machetes stormed and disrupted my church service while threatening to shoot me and later attacked church members with machetes.
They chased me for about 30 kilometres while trying to shoot me. They only retreated after they failed to catch up with me…
Violence is never the answer, and we should all respect each other’s beliefs and opinions.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson in Matabeleland South Province Inspector Loveness Mangena said she had not yet received the report of the incident.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Armed Gang Storm Madzibaba's Shrine Over Death Prophecy

An Awake Grace Ministries Church building in Chinhoyi was completely destroyed by fire after being struck by lightning on Saturday night.
However, some of the equipment, such as chairs and a PA system were saved.
Church leader, Pastor Nicholas Mavhondo, confirmed the incident to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/lightning-razes-down-church/">H-Metro</a> but said he is currently in northern Zambia conducting crusades. He said:
<blockquote>
Unfortunately, the fire brigade came but they had no water. It’s sad that our fire brigade inogara isina mvura. Last year we called them to Niasha and they had no water again.
We officially opened and dedicated it on the 30th of July and today the 30th of September it’s gutted by fire caused by lightning.
It’s really a setback. It’s not human error, but a natural disaster.
</blockquote>
The chairperson of the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe in Mashonaland West Province, Pastor Tafadzwa Mafukidze,  expressed confidence that they will be able to rebuild the church. He said:
<blockquote>
This was quite unfortunate as we lost a great investment to the fire. We are grateful to the people who fought and managed to save the chairs, PA System and some other equipment from the fire.
We stand today with our fellow Servant of God and the entire Awake Grace Ministries family during this time of loss.
We are not ignorant of the devices and schemes used by the enemy as he pounces on us trying to steal, kill and destroy.
We believe that God will restore all that was lost.
</blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, lightning strikes are common during the rainy season which normally runs from late October/early November to March.
Here are several ways to prevent lightning strikes:
<ul>
<li>Installing lightning rods on the roof of a building can help to attract lightning strikes and direct the electrical current safely into the ground.</li>
<li>Installing surge protectors on electrical equipment can help prevent damage from power surges caused by lightning strikes.</li>
<li>Ensuring that electrical systems are properly grounded can help to prevent damage from lightning strikes.</li>
<li>Avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms. If you are outdoors during a thunderstorm, seek shelter immediately to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.</li>
<li>Unplugging electrical equipment. Unplugging electrical equipment during a thunderstorm can help to prevent damage from power surges caused by lightning strikes.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Lightning Strike Destroys Church In Chinhoyi

The Apostolic Christian Council of Zimbabwe (ACCZ) is investigating the matter in which a local church bishop is accused of locking his physically challenged son inside a room for two years.
ACCZ, which is the umbrella body for apostolic churches in the country, said it will take action against the Zion Sabbath Christian Church bishop, Namatai Nemaramba if he is found guilty.
Members of the Zion Sabbath Christian Church are also demanding that the bishop resign from his post.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/abusive-bishop-under-probe/">The Manica Post</a>, secretary to the chairperson for ACCZ, Pedius Sikisa said:
<blockquote>
Our official position on the matter will be made public after September 30. We have yet to meet all the interested parties, that is church members, traditional leadership, Nemaramba, the family and the community.
</blockquote>
It is alleged that Nemaramba’s son, Joseph Nemaramba (21), was found malnourished, dirty and wounded all over the body in a room where he was kept by his father.
His limbs were reportedly crooked and he could neither talk nor walk.
Joseph was rescued by the community which was led by Acting Chief Saurombe.
Acting Chief Saurombe told The Manica Post that Nemaramba is now on the run and is suspected to have fled to Birchenough Bridge. Said the traditional leader:
<blockquote>
We suspect that Nemaramba fled to Birchenough Bridge. When we went to his homestead on Sunday for a cleansing ceremony, he was nowhere to be found.
We are making frantic efforts to locate him so that the cleansing ceremony is done so that his son can be healed.
We have information that there is a mole within his family who is tipping him off and helping him to escape from justice.
We will leave no stone unturned to bring him to book.
</blockquote>
The bishop was supposed to appear before Acting Chief Saurombe’s court on Sunday, but the Messenger of Court couldn’t find him at his homestead.
It is alleged that during an earlier court appearance, Nemaramba confessed that he caused his son’s illness.
He allegedly said his rituals to enhance his spiritual powers and attract more people to his church involved keeping his son captive in a room and denying him access to the outside world.
It is further alleged that Nemaramba surrendered the items he used in his rituals.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bishop Locks Paraplegic Son Inside A Room For Two Years

The majority of Zion Christian Church Kumuka Kwavakafa Nhaudzashe (ZCCKK) members have reportedly rallied behind Bishop Lyphet Matenda Mugaviri who allegedly proposed love to his daughter-in-law.
There are fears that the church could be headed for an acrimonious split after some members pushed for Mugaviri’s ouster following the scandal.
<ul>
<li class="text-4xl border-b-2 border-[#e8e9ea] tracking-tight pb-4 font-bold pt-4"><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/07/29/bishop-expelled-from-church-for-attempting-to-bed-his-daughter-in-law/">Bishop “Expelled” From Church For Attempting To Bed His Daughter-in-law</a></li>
</ul>
The bulk of the church elders have reportedly backed Bishop Mugaviri to remain their leader although other members who wanted him disciplined have already left the church.
Church spokesperson, Mubhoyi Kufakunesu told <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/church-backs-bishop-dismisses-split-claims/">H-Metro</a> that mistakes happen but they were fully behind Bishop Mugaviri. He said:
<blockquote>
All church branches are in support of our bishop and only one centre leader by the name Elder Jonathan decided to go his way.
We are moving forward as a church and we have managed to hold our ground-breaking ceremony for Canaan Junior School followed by celebrating the birthday anniversary of Bishop Nhaudzashe Matenda.
The church is working together with the community in uplifting their livelihoods.
The church is no longer going to lose focus or get distracted but we will continue to grow our church and shepherd the Lord’s flock.
We are grateful that we are guided by our constitution and led by the word of prophecy.
We acknowledge mistakes happen and we have corrective measures.
l can confirm to you that it was a long battle within the family and that matter was blown out of proportion.
That minor fraction had a selfish reason to tarnish the church.
</blockquote>
Mubhoyi said, out of the 30 elders, only two decided to leave the church.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Church Backs Bishop Who Proposed Love To His Daughter-in-law

The Roman Catholic Church in Bulawayo on Saturday witnessed the ordination of a record seven new priests who took up their final vows at a ceremony presided over by Archbishop Alex Thomas, the head of the church in the Archdiocese of Bulawayo.
The event was attended by hundreds of Catholics drawn from across the Archdiocese of Bulawayo and other dioceses in Zimbabwe such as Gweru, Hwange, Mutare and Archdiocese of Harare and also as far as Botswana, Zambia, South Africa and DRC.
The priestly ordination was held on Saturday at Our Lady of Fatima in Pumula South.
The <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/roman-catholic-church-ordains-record-7-priests/">Chronicle</a> reported that Reverend deacons Thomas Maqandar Moyo, Thabiso Clive Sibanda, Jackson Dube, Musawenkosi Moses Sibanda, Nobert Mandungumana, Thabo Dube and Patrick Mpofu took their final vows to become full priests.
Archbishop Thomas who assumed the bishop role in 2009, and has ordained 59 priests, said:
<blockquote>
Today is a great day having ordained seven priests, five from the Archdiocese of Bulawayo and two from the religious congregations but they all belong here and they will work here.
It’s a great joy for us, it is not very easy to get a priest because they go through a long period of training and formation and to choose a life that is different from others, a life of promise of obedience and to live a life of being very simple and humble.
Today was the highest number we had together in the Archdiocese of Bulawayo. As of now, we are 104 priests who are active, 58 of which belong to the local diocesan clergy and others belong to various religious congregations.
Ever since I became the Archbishop for Bulawayo in 2009, I have ordained 59 priests so I am very happy that in such a short time I was able to get so many priests.
It is not my greatness; it is the help of God. It is God who calls priests, deacons, brothers and sisters to lead a life of commitment.
</blockquote>
Training for priesthood takes close to 10 years.
All seven new priests conducted their first Thanksgiving Mass at their respective parishes.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Roman Catholic Church's Archdiocese Of Bulawayo Ordains Record 7 Priests

At least half of Johane Masowe eChishanu members who used to worship at Madzibaba Sirage’s shrine at Negombwe Village in Hwedza, have left and are now meeting at new shrines.
Chrispen Kanerusine, popularly known as Madzibaba Sirage, was among three people who were shot dead in cold blood by former detective Jaison Muvevi (Muvhevhi) in January this year.
Before his death, Sirage allegedly foretold about a “special” death, and that his shrine will be abandoned. He said:
<blockquote>
Ndaona muonde uyu waoma zvikakatyamadza vanhu (I am seeing this cactus drying). I am seeing a flag at half-mast symbolising the death of someone special, I am seeing sect members leaving this shrine, scattered and joining other apostolic sects.
</blockquote>
Some of Madzibaba Sirage’s followers believe he foretold his own death and accurately prophesied about what will happen to the shrine after his demise.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200014620/is-muvhevhi-victims-prophecy-being-fulfilled">NewsDay</a> reported that the shrine in Negombwe Village, along the Wedza-Mutiweshiri highway, used to attract a huge crowd before Sirage’s death but it is no longer the case now.
Madzibaba Sirage’s shrine is almost deserted with a few people still meeting at the place.
A new shrine is currently being cleared about 100m away, confirming that Kanerusine’s shrine has been abandoned.
One of the sect’s supreme board members, popularly known as Mudare in apostolic sect circles, Elisha Chingwaru (55), said:
<blockquote>
It took us three months to return to the shrine after that fateful day. At first, only men would come to hold prayers and go back home. There was no gathering.
As you know, we are guided by the holy spirit, we were told to move to a new place.
Moreover, we were called by Headman Negombwe, who advised us to look for another place of worship.
Culturally, it is not advisable to continue occupying a place where blood was spilled.
The new shrine is now being led by a prophetess identified as Madzimai Ellen.
</blockquote>
Chingwaru also said that some members had left to join other sects. He said:
<blockquote>
It is not a secret, we have members who left after the death of Madzibaba Sirage and formed their own sects.
There are now two sects in Ruswa and Barnabas, whose leaders were from this sect.
If a thing of that nature happens, people take it differently. Two prophets have also left, and we also lost two vadare. I can say half of the members have left.
We accepted what happened at the shrine, but some interpreted it differently. I am confident that as time goes on, the sect members will troop back and fill the shrine again.
</blockquote>
Sirage was shot dead during a session at the shrine by Muvhevhi, who also killed a top police officer and a bartender at a local shopping centre later that day.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Congregants Abandon Madzibaba Sirage’s Shrine

A journalist was taken into police custody on Monday after a small drone he was operating crashed into the IQRA Islamic Centre in central Harare.
In a statement, ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that Columbus Mavhunga, a correspondent for the Voice of America, was assisting police with investigations into the incident. Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that investigations are being conducted in connection with a report of trespass and invasion of premises made at ZRP Waterfalls by IQRA Islamic Centre, Harare.
In this regard, a journalist attached to a foreign media house, Columbus Mavhunga (51), is assisting the police with investigations after a Mevic 2 Pro model Lip drone which he was operating along Masotsha Ndlovu Way near Simon Mazorodze Road rammed into the Islamic Centre’s building and fell down.
A misunderstanding ensued resulting in the centre’s administrator Pharoh Osward (53) making a report to the police.
The police is also looking into allegations that the drone was not licenced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police urges individuals and institutions to ensure that they obtain licences to operate drones and engage neighbours if using drones for private purposes.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Drone Crashes Into Islamic Centre In Harare

Archbishop <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Eunor_Guti/">Eunor Guti</a>, widow of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Ezekiel_Guti/">Ezekiel Handinawangu Guti</a>, formally announced on Saturday, August 22, 2023, the appointment of Apostle Joe Guti as the new leader of the ZAOGA Forward in Faith (FIF) Ministries, succeeding his late father.
Joe Guti, her eldest son, will take up the new role to lead the church, with two other apostles to assist him in carrying on his father’s legacy. In her announcement, she emphasized the importance of unity among the new leaders and the church. This announcement came following the arrival of Guti’s body in Harare. She said:
<blockquote>
And you know he did not leave us, it’s organised, he organized everything…
Let’s see somebody says our Father is gone the church is going to die, the church is not going to die…. Let me say to each one of you, we all need to unite. We all need to love one another. In love everybody, with the love of Christ. The same love that was in our Father, the same love that he taught us and showed us…..
</blockquote>
On July 5, 2023, the leader of the ZAOGA Forward in Faith (FIF) church passed away in South Africa, leading to discussions about succession. Prior to his death, US-based Zimbabwean preacher Passion Java, born Panganayi Java, had predicted that the church would split following the death of its founder.
Guti’s body was transported back to Zimbabwe and received a warm welcome from the congregation upon arrival. Since the announcement of his passing, notable figures from various fields have come forward to pay their respects.
Despite the sombre mood of mourning, the church has made meticulous preparations to organise lavish celebrations that will honour and commemorate Guti’s remarkable life and enduring legacy. These festivities, scheduled to take place from August 3 to 6, are not limited to Harare alone and have been extended to welcome attendees from all corners of Zimbabwe and beyond.
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