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Walter Nyamukondiwa
Mashonaland West Bureau Chief
The Government has hailed churches for partnering it in overcoming societal challenges such as drug and substance abuse and ameliorating the impact of calamities such as bad weather and diseases.
Speaking at the ordination of seven bishops from various apostolic churches, Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Marian Chombo said the church was another avenue through which, the mantra of leaving no one and no place behind is realised.
“We have seen the church playing a major role throughout our history as a nation. Our partnership won us our independence and saw us through the challenges brought by Cyclone Idai and Covid-19,” she said.
“Churches are key in winning the fight against drug and substance abuse. In this drought, churches have been playing a critical role and fulfilling the Government’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.”
Minister Chombo said the nation was facing the scourge of drug and substance abuse and the church needs to double its effort in recalibrating the conscience of society.
Apostolic Christian Council International grand president Professor Johannes Ndanga said the church could not be divorced from the Government.
“This is historical and biblical in that there was never a time when the two were not moving together, except during persecution,” said Prof Ndanga.
“The church handles spiritual matters while the Government deals with the physical matters. We have ordained bishops so that they can play their part in dealing with the spiritual matters of people in the country.”
Apostolic Christian Council of Zimbabwe Edgar Maireva said the church has a role to inculcate values that shun drug and substance abuse.
Those ordained included bishops Alex Hamandishe and Peter Kasakara Nhundu among others.
Online Reporter