Zimbabwe Episcopal Area

Gospel musicians record a song for an online worship service at Chisipiti United Methodist Church in Harare, Zimbabwe. United Methodists across the country are using music to provide strength and comfort during the pandemic. Seated, from left, are: Patricia Mapani, Christine Anesu Hove and Ricky Mapani. At rear is Ali White. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.

Gospel music sparks hope amid COVID-19

Across Zimbabwe congregations, United Methodists keep music alive, offering solace and uplifting spirits.

Vivian Chigweshe sheds tears as she expresses appreciation for her new home in Bikita, Zimbabwe, sponsored by the Baltimore-Washington Conference of The United Methodist Church. Nearly two years after Cyclone Idai left catastrophic damage and a humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe, four families received new homes through the program. Photo by Priscilla Muzerengwa, UM News.

Cyclone survivors receive new houses

Longtime partnership with Baltimore-Washington Conference provides hope to families in Zimbabwe left homeless by the March 2019 disaster.

Mission and Ministry

Innocent Mushayavanhu (left) and Tariraishe Mubazangi prepare hand sanitizer at The United Methodist Church’s Murewa High School in Murewa, Zimbabwe. “We managed to prepare ministerial-approved sanitizers and face masks for the school of 1,250 learners, 30 workers and 55 teachers,” said Sydney Mapisaunga, the school’s headmaster. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.

Schools, students struggle with COVID-19 closures

From preschool through college, students and staff at United Methodist schools in Zimbabwe face challenges and find innovative ways to cope.

Mission and Ministry

The Rev. Anesu Katsande (left) displays the personal protective equipment that was distributed to all pastors and evangelists in the Harare West District of The United Methodist Church in Zimbabwe. Katsande is superintendent of the Harare West District. Photo courtesy of Eunice Kadiki, HWD Communications.

COVID-19 deaths complicate pastors’ calling

Need for social distancing and lack of personal protective equipment challenge pastors in Zimbabwe to find safe ways to be in ministry with grieving church members.

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