Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu
SEVENTEEN soon-to-be pastors were dedicated at Solusi University ahead of the institution’s 29th graduation ceremony set for Sunday, 16 November.
The colourful Dedication Programme, sometimes called Commissioning in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, is a key event for Theology students who have completed their three-year training and are ready to join the pulpit.
This year’s ceremony, held from 7 to 8 November, saw 17 pastors-in-training being dedicated — a sharp drop from last year’s 38.
Dr Pastor Ngabaite Muchinguri, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Theology and Chaplaincy, said the event draws from the biblical command in Matthew 28:18–20, where Jesus commissioned His disciples to go out and make more followers.
“The programme takes its resemblance from that moment when Christ gave His disciples the mission to teach and baptise those who accept the gospel,” said Dr Muchinguri.
The event featured top clergy including Pastor Logan Masayiti, the Ministerial Director from the Zimbabwe Central Union Conference, who delivered the vespers sermon, and Dr Evans Muvuti from the Zimbabwe East Union Conference, who preached during the main Sabbath service.
Dr Muchinguri said the programme also recognises the important role played by pastors’ wives, known in Adventist circles as “shepherdesses.”
“Ministry is a partnership, so the programme ensures that shepherdesses receive counsel and mentorship from experienced women in ministry,” he said.
Dr L. Zvandasara, wife of Pastor Nkosiyabo Zvandasara, was tasked with mentoring the pastors’ wives during the service.
Music lovers were treated to a lively performance by the Advent Chorale from Phelandaba SDA Church in Bulawayo, whose powerful voices carried the congregation throughout the ceremony.
The event ended with the presentation of gifts to the guests and graduating pastors.
Meanwhile, Solusi University’s 29th graduation ceremony runs from Friday to Sunday, with Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe expected to officiate. The Baccalaureate address will be delivered by Pastor Ladious Chambalama, while Dr Canaan Mkombe will give the Consecration sermon.
