New UMC Bishop dismisses split claims, vows to unite church

Remember Deketeke, Herald Correspondent

Newly-appointed United Methodist Church Bishop Dr Gift Machinga has reaffirmed the church’s commitment to unity, promising to uphold one mission and one Christ.

He made the remarks at his inaugural meeting with pastors last week following the resignation of 12 pastors, which he attributed to internal power struggles rather than the homosexuality issues they cited.

Bishop Machinga stressed that individual departures did not signify a schism in the body of Christ.

“When people choose to walk away from Christ’s body, it does not mean the church has split. We are more united than ever in purpose, and our mission remains clear: to serve and uplift our communities,” he said.

The bishop also introduced sweeping reforms across all mission centres, including the revitalisation of church-run schools and health facilities.

“We are revamping all our mission centres to ensure they are responsive to today’s needs. Education and healthcare are not just services; they are ministries,” he declared.

“Our mission facilities have served communities for decades. It’s time we modernise them to meet today’s challenges. Reviving these centres will not only improve service delivery but also restore trust in the church’s role in society.”

Bishop Machinga unveiled plans to establish church-led business units that will act as both economic empowerment tools and sources of sustainability for church programmes.

“The economic well-being of our people is spiritual business too. We are creating business units to empower our pastors and members alike,” he explained.

Bishop Machinga’s remarks come at a time when parts of the church have been mired in theological and structural disagreements. Nevertheless, reactions from congregants have been largely positive.

“We needed this reassurance. The church has been through uncertainty, but this vision brings hope,” stated Mr Tafadzwa Chijongwe.

“It is a good direction, but the church leadership must be transparent and inclusive if these reforms are to succeed.”

As Bishop Machinga begins his new term, he faces the dual challenge of reconciling differing views within the church while advancing development initiatives—a true test of both faith and strategy.