Online Reporter
Yeukai Karengezeka-Chisepo
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Everything is now in place for the third edition of the Relentless Worship Encounter, with thousands of gospel music lovers expected to converge at the United Family International Church (UFIC) Basilica in Chitungwiza tomorrow for what organisers have described as a Christ-centred worship experience.
The annual event, which has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s biggest gospel gatherings since its launch in 2024, will feature an array of renowned local gospel ministers, including Minister Michael Mahendere, Psalmist Hubert Chigumira, Ellard and Sharon Cherayi, Siphesonkosi “Snowy” Ncube and worship leader Larry Gunda.
Also set to minister are the UFIC Choir, The Unveiled, Caroline Nyakuba and Sharon Rose Bishi.
Speaking in an interview, event spokesperson and gospel musician Psalmist Hubert C said preparations were at an advanced stage, with all participating artistes expected to complete sound checks ahead of the event.
“Our preparations are very advanced and the stage is almost set. We will be doing sound checks for all the artistes to ensure everything is in place. All is in order and we are ready. The musicians are also ready,” he said.
Chigumira said the vision behind the Relentless Worship Encounter is to create an atmosphere where people focus entirely on worshipping God without distractions.
“We are hosting this encounter to carry forward the torch of creating an environment of relentless worship where people focus only on God. We are not there to ask for anything, but simply to worship Him.
“We believe that as praises go up, His glory comes down. As people worship, we believe God will respond to their cries, answer their prayers and intervene in their situations.”
He said the event was designed to bring together people from different Christian denominations and even those who may not ordinarily attend church.
“The inspiration is to create a platform where people from all walks of life, Christians and non-Christians alike, can gather and worship God without any hindrances,” he said.
Chigumira said this year’s edition carries a unique focus on Jesus Christ, distinguishing it from previous editions.
“The major difference this year is that everything is centred on Jesus. We are not focusing on brands or personalities. Jesus is the theme of this year’s Relentless Worship Encounter.
“We are also adopting an interdenominational approach by inviting believers from different churches to come together as one body of Christ and worship with one voice.”
The event has continued to grow in popularity since its inception, with last year’s edition attracting more than 15 000 worshippers.
The 2025 gathering featured celebrated Nigerian gospel artistes Sunmisola Agbebi and Ebuka Songs.
Organisers are optimistic that this year’s edition will draw an even bigger crowd as worshippers gather for a night dedicated solely to exalting God.
