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WHAT started as a gospel gathering with expectations of drawing worshippers into a powerful night of praise and ministry turned into a major celebration of music, generosity and faith.
The God the Lifter of Men was transformed into a free event courtesy of its major sponsor. Hosted by Minister Ellard Cherayi and his wife Sharon Cherayi, the gospel extravaganza attracted a strong following, with worshippers getting an opportunity to experience an impressive line-up of local and international gospel performers without paying an entrance fee.
The decision to make the event free added another dimension to the gathering, turning what could have been an ordinary ticketed concert into an open invitation for people from different backgrounds to come together in worship. And, the organisers were rewarded with an encouraging show of support.
One of the major attractions was the return of Tanzanian gospel outfit, Agape Group, who made their second appearance at the event, bringing their distinctive musical energy and worship experience to the Zimbabwean audience.
Their presence added an international flavour to the programme and reinforced the growing relationship between the Cherayis and gospel ministers beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
The group’s director JP praised the couple for their vision and commitment to creating a platform that brings people together through gospel music.
He described the initiative as an important contribution to the gospel community, particularly at a time when creating opportunities for ministers and musicians to share their gifts requires dedication and sacrifice.
He also revealed that discussions were underway for a possible musical collaboration with the Cherayis, suggesting that the relationship could extend beyond the concert platform.
The proposed collaboration would mark another exciting development for the initiative, potentially bringing together different creative and ministerial talents. For Minister Ellard Cherayi, the overwhelming support was something he had not anticipated.
He admitted that he was astounded by the response, particularly the willingness of people to turn up and support the vision after the event was converted into a free gathering.
“I am honestly overwhelmed by the support we received. We had a vision, but the way people embraced it went beyond our expectations.
“Seeing people coming together, worshipping and celebrating God was deeply encouraging,” he said.
Cherayi added that making the event free was about ensuring that financial limitations did not prevent people from experiencing the ministry and music on offer. “We wanted everyone to have an opportunity to be part of this experience. Gospel is about reaching people, touching lives and bringing hope.
“We are grateful to our major sponsor for making it possible for us to open the doors to everyone,” he said.
Local gospel musicians also delivered memorable moments, ensuring that the event had a distinctly Zimbabwean flavour.
The Unveiled brought their musical ministry to the gathering, while Takesure Zamar reminded audiences why he remains one of the country’s recognisable contemporary gospel voices.
Eleana Makombe also contributed to the programme with her performance, adding to the variety of worship experiences on offer.
Worshipper Larry Gunda was among the other performers who helped maintain the spiritual atmosphere, giving audiences different musical expressions of praise and worship.
The combination of established gospel names, emerging voices and international performers gave the programme a broad appeal. More importantly, the event demonstrated the growing appetite for gospel gatherings that combine quality entertainment with a strong spiritual message.
While concerts are often judged by attendance, production and headline performers, God the Lifter of Men also placed emphasis on accessibility and the power of collective worship.
The Cherayis’ initiative is therefore positioning itself as more than a once-off musical celebration.
The involvement of international performers such as Agape Group and the prospect of future collaborations suggest ambitions to build a wider gospel network.
The major sponsor also deserves recognition for supporting the decision to make the event free, ensuring that the organisers’ vision could reach a broader audience.
Ultimately, the gathering delivered a powerful reminder that gospel music remains an important meeting point for faith, community and entertainment.
For Ellard and Sharon Cherayi, the overwhelming response was perhaps the biggest reward, while the proposed collaboration with Agape Group could be the beginning of another exciting chapter.
God the Lifter of Men was not simply about filling a venue.
It was about opening doors, bringing people together and lifting spirits through music and ministry.
