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Samuel Kadungure
Senior Reporter
THE Christian community was plunged into mourning on Wednesday following the death of famed academic and evangelical minister, Archbishop Ezekiel Guti whose personable sermons remain perched in the minds of millions.
Archbishop Guti, who died after a milestone 100 years, was the founder of ZAOGA Forward in Faith International Ministries, arguably one of the largest Pentecostal churches in Zimbabwe.
Archbishop Guti, who was born in Chipinge, was a towering force who earned the respect and admiration, not only of Christian adherents, but of secular leaders locally and abroad.
As is the case with many charismatic evangelical leaders, Archbishop Guti’s success as a pastor allowed him to build considerable influence and industry.
The oft-praised preacher fought hard to lead his congregation, earning him a reputation for faithful obstinacy, a commitment to following God’s will and a life of devout prayer.
ZAOGA national executive chairman, Apostle Joseph Guti said church leaders and family will meet and deliberate on the programme which will be announced in due course.
“It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the promotion to great glory of our dearly beloved spiritual father, visionary and iconic leader, Archbishop Professor Ezekiel Handinawangu Guti.
“Our father, the born servant and apostle of God, Archbishop Ezekiel Handinawangu Guti peacefully departed from this world today, Wednesday, the 5th of July 2023,” he said.
Archbishop Guti dedicated 75 years of his life to preaching, teaching, and establishing Bible schools and orphanages.
He was the author of several best-selling books on Christianity, including “A Wise Man”; “Prayer of a Righteous Man”, and “The Book of Remembrance”.
As the founding leader of ZAOGA, he also oversaw one of the biggest networks with over 4 500 pastors and evangelists.
He remained on the pulpit until his demise and was widely regarded as one of the best preachers of his generation.
His preaching was widely praised in the country, especially for its simplicity, practicality, and effectiveness.
He also frequently spoke of the importance of prayer, faith and his own practice of getting down on his knees daily to talk to God.
Archbishop Guti was also renowned for his ability to perform miracles, which earned him a special place in the hearts of many believers.
In addition to his religious contributions, he was actively involved in philanthropic work, supporting children’s homes, orphanages, and health service centres.
No wonder what was supposed to be an inspirational week has turned into a memorial for an extremely influential evangelical leader.
Indeed, the Christian community will be poorer without him.
Prominent Mutare lawyer and ZAOGA member, Mr Passmore Nyakureba said he is one of the many people who were blessed to have learned from Archbishop Guti’s rich and captivating teachings and leadership, hence his personal growth.
“Our hearts are broken, but we understand that he is in a better place. He has been very helpful in shaping generations of successful and hardworking individuals who have been obedient to his teachings on self-dedication and financial discipline.
“He never taught miracle prosperity, but diligence and hardworking. Yes, he goes to the Lord, but he also leaves behind an indelible legacy.
“As his disciples, we celebrate his life changing teachings and do not mourn his passing because it is a timely promotion to another level of glory,” said Mr Nyakureba.
Retired clergy, Bishop Dr Sebastain Bakare admired Archbishop Guti’s ingenuity in establishing a vibrant church like ZAOGA (FIF).
“I admire him for that, and that is the kind of church leadership we need in Zimbabwe. I convey my condolences to his wife, the family, pastoral fraternity and Christian community that identified with him. He has done his job and we will miss him. He had such a positive impact on church life, both locally and abroad,” said Bishop Bakare.
Another ZAOGA member, Mrs Nyarai Mironga had this to say: “May he rest in peace. We celebrate his life. He touched the souls of so many nations and accomplished his purpose on earth diligently.”
Mr Victor Dzingwe said Archbishop Guti lived a life worth celebrating.
“May the Great Man of God rest in peace, we celebrate his life, and we thank God to have lived in part of his time and drew from the ancient well,” said Mr Dzingwe.
Mr Robert Mutambanuki said: “Heaven has gained an Apostle. We celebrate Baba’s life. We will miss him.”
Archbishop Guti is survived by his wife, Dr Eunor Guti, who also holds a significant leadership role within their church.
Together, they had a child named Ezekiel Junior Guti, who was an evangelist in their ministry, but passed away in 2018.
ZAOGA has experienced tremendous growth and has established a presence in 106 countries worldwide.
In 2010, the church celebrated its 50th anniversary.
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