Chronicle Editor
Flora Fadzai Sibanda, [email protected]
FORGET stuffy rooms and rigid schedules! The Women of Virtue movement is shaking things up by introducing a fun and refreshing way to delve into the Bible — picnics in the park!
Nigel Ngonidzashe Stewartson, the group’s mentor, explains how it all began.
Last year, his sister, Edith Mhlanga, envisioned a new approach — a way to make reading the Bible enjoyable, especially for younger generations.
Traditionally, Bible studies have been confined to indoor spaces, often adhering to a more formal style. But the tide is turning. Young people are embracing new formats that resonate with them.
Think cosy Bible study pyjama parties. Women gather in comfy PJs, ditching the sleepover wine for fancy Bibles and journals. They share devotionals, chat the night away and pray together.
Another innovative approach gaining traction is the Bible shower. Similar to popular baby showers, Bible showers bring women together to share tips for reading the Bible and discover inspiring verses.
The Women of Virtue take it a step further. Their studies unfold during picnics, lunch dates and prayer gatherings in serene outdoor spaces, often parks. Here, they can appreciate the beauty of nature — the chirping birds, the gentle breeze and the calmness of their surroundings.
These outdoor settings provide a welcome change from the usual indoor environment, fostering a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for studying the scriptures.
“The picnics are not only for studying the Bible and worshipping but are also a safe space for women especially to connect, grow and support one another.
“When this idea first came about it was meant for just a small group of friends. Funny enough after the first edition last year in August a lot of people reached out across different cities and all said they wanted to take part,” said Ngonidzashe.
The Women of Virtue movement prioritises creating a welcoming and accessible space for everyone. Ngonidzashe stresses their commitment by highlighting that the studies are completely free.
Further fostering a spirit of community, participants bring food to share during picnics, creating a potluck-style family atmosphere.
The movement’s innovative approach has resonated far beyond Bulawayo. Ngonidzashe reports that Bible study picnics are now held in eight cities across Zimbabwe, including Harare, Mutare, Masvingo, Gweru, Kadoma, Zvishavane and Marondera.
Their most recent picnic in April boasted a fantastic turnout, showcasing the movement’s growing popularity.
“Apart from the picnic get-together that the group is doing, Women of Virtue also reaches out to vulnerable children in orphanages, sharing God’s love and providing support and resources to these young lives,” he said.
Ngonidzashe beamed with pride, noting how the outreach has brought joy and hope to many women. It has become a cornerstone of the movement’s mission to spread the word of God in a fresh and engaging way. He extended a warm invitation to all women interested in joining their regular picnics, emphasising that everyone is welcome. —@flora_sibanda
Online Reporter