Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike recently in Masvingo
THE Zimbabwe Indigenous Inter-denominational Council of Churches (Zicc) has reaffirmed its commitment to continue working with and supporting Government development programmes.
Zicc chairperson Bishop Andrew Wutaunashe made the affirmation while addressing thousands of Zion Christian Church (ZCC) congregants during Easter celebrations held at Mbungo Estates in Masvingo Province on Sunday.
President Mnangagwa attended the service, accompanied by senior Zanu-PF and Government officials.
Bishop Wutaunashe said churches were encouraged by the work being undertaken by the Government and pledged their support.
“As Bishops and Churches, we are appreciative of the work that you are doing to transform our country. We continue to pray for you, and we feel that you are doing a great job for our nation,” he said.
ZCC leader, His Grace Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi also pledged his church’s commitment to continue working with Government in promoting peace, unity and national development.
Bishop Mutendi said the role of the Church was to complement, not compete with, Government efforts.
“Matthew 26 verse 41 says, ‘watch and pray,’ and as Churches we are watching and praying. We have witnessed developments implemented by the Government across the country and we are grateful.
“As Churches, we do not compete with you, we do not withdraw from national matters though we anger you, we affirm what builds, we remain alert to what weakens it, and we remind leadership that authority is never owned, it is entrusted, and the people have done it,” said Bishop Mutendi.
In his address, President Mnangagwa urged churches to continue preaching peace, unity and love among congregants.
“It is with great humility and profound sense of pride, that together with my family and colleagues from Government, as well as representatives of industry, we come here to this sacred shrine of the Zion Christian Church, Mbungo, famously known among you as the ‘City of Peace’, to fellowship and worship with you at this special Easter Church Service.
“Since its establishment, the Zion Christian Church remains one of our dependable and reliable partners in development, including in various sectors such as agriculture, education and tourism, among others,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said Easter symbolises Christ as the original conveyor of peace through love, faith and forgiveness.
“This is not merely a statement, but a call to action,” he said.
The President said leaders, believers and citizens should embody the spirit of Christ in pursuit of peace and development.
“In a world fraught with conflict, disruptions and natural disasters that are induced by climate change as well as the negative effects of illegal sanctions, the importance of peace, unity and development cannot be over-emphasised.
“Against these realities, we must remain vigilant, focused and hard-working, insulating our economy as well as addressing any vulnerabilities. Colossians 4 verse 2 says in summary, we must continue to devote ourselves to prayer, being alert and watchful as well as giving thanks to the Lord Almighty.
“Through prayer and fervent interceding for our country, victory is certain for us to achieve our vision to be an empowered and prosperous upper middle-income society. With God, nothing is impossible,” he said.
