Chronicle Editor
Kudzai Chikiwa, Sunday News Reporter
THE founder of Oneness Pentecostal Church Ministries, Apostle Timothy Towe Magagula appointed a successor before his death, it has emerged.
Apostle Magagula (83) died at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo recently where he had been admitted for two days.
Delivering his sermon at the funeral service, Apostle Niah Mpofu said a few weeks before Apostle Magagula died, he appointed Overseer Elison Shava to be his successor.
“Apostle Magagula invited me at his church during the Easter Conference and during the sermon the most touching moment was when he called Overseer Shava and made him kneel down and prayed for him. Though to other people it may not be clear but he was appointing him to continue with the ministry after his departure,” he said.
Apostle Mpofu said the late founder has been mentoring Overseer Shava for 20 years in preparation for the succession.
He challenged the newly appointed leader to continue with the ministry and follow Apostle Magagula’s footsteps.
“The man we are bidding farewell to was a very humble man whose wings were open for everyone and I am saying to my young brother this task you are given needs you to fasten your belt. Preach the undiluted gospel and welcome people with a warming heart,” he said.
In an interview at the sidelines of the services, Overseer Shava said he was aware that he will take over from the founder as he was mentoring him.
“For 20 years he has been mentoring me and I knew it but the Easter Conference event took me by surprise because it was too soon. When he made it official to me I felt that it was a huge task to take but I trusted God for everything,” he said.
Asked on how he will manage the ministry which has spread to different parts of Zimbabwe and South Africa, Overseer Shava said he wants the ministry to expand.
“The ministry has spread to Matabeleland North and South Provinces, Midlands, Bulawayo but my vision is to see it going beyond borders. I am taking over from a man with a warm heart and I need to follow his steps. It’s a huge task but I believe God through his grace will lead me through,” he said.
Mourners described Apostle Magagula as a humble, God fearing man who knew no creed, race or tribe and had a desire to raise young people.
Apostle Magagula was laid to rest today at his rural home in Filabusi. He was survived by three children, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Apostle Magagula served the church for 49 years.
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Bongani Ndlovu