Thousands flock to Byo for AFMA’s ‘Mother of All Revivals’

THE usually busy White City Arena in Bulawayo was transformed into a sea of worship, song and prayer yesterday as thousands of congregants from across Zimbabwe and beyond gathered for the opening of the Apostolic Faith Mission of Africa (AFMA)’s four-day evangelistic crusade dubbed the “Mother of All Revivals.”

Long before the official start of the gathering, buses, commuter omnibuses and private vehicles streamed into the city carrying worshippers from different provinces, while others arrived on foot carrying bibles, blankets and bags in anticipation of days filled with prayer, healing and spiritual renewal.

Inside the giant arena, gospel music echoed through the stands as choirs led spirited worship sessions punctuated by ululation and emotional scenes of congregants raising their hands in prayer.

The revival, which runs until Monday, has drawn believers from neighbouring countries and international delegates, including visitors from the United Kingdom, highlighting the growing regional reach of the church.

AFMA overseer and president Reverend Rosewell Zulu officially opened the crusade amid thunderous applause and chants of “Amen” from the packed crowd.

Reading from Matthew 18:20 — “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” — Rev Zulu described the gathering as a spiritually significant moment for the church and the nation.

“This revival is unlike any other we have hosted before. The name ‘Mother of All Revivals’ reflects the scale of what God is doing here and the diversity of people who have gathered from across Zimbabwe and beyond,” he said.

“We are believing God for healing, restoration, deliverance and transformation of people’s lives. Jesus Christ remains at the centre of everything that is happening here.”

As the sermon progressed, emotional scenes unfolded across the arena, with some congregants openly weeping while others knelt in prayer.

At the conclusion of the sermon, Rev Zulu invited worshippers for an altar call, triggering a wave of people rushing towards the front of the stage seeking prayer and spiritual intervention.

For many who attended, the revival represented more than just a church gathering.

Ms Thandeka Ncube, who travelled from Gweru with her family, said she attended the crusade seeking spiritual encouragement and healing.

“We came here because we believe God can change situations. There is something special about worshipping together with thousands of believers,” she said.

“I have never seen such a huge gathering before. The atmosphere is powerful and uplifting.”

Mr Bhekimpilo Moyo from Plumtree described the revival as a unifying event bringing together people from different backgrounds and regions.

“People are coming from everywhere. You can see young people, families, church elders and even visitors from outside the country. It shows that people are hungry for God and spiritual renewal,” he said.

The gathering also featured energetic gospel performances from various church choirs whose songs stirred the spiritually starved souls.

One of the most notable aspects of the crusade is the church’s decision to provide free meals and accommodation for congregants.

Rev Zulu said no one would be turned away from participating in the revival because of financial limitations.

“We want everyone to experience the love of Christ freely. That is why all activities, including prayers, sermons and deliverance sessions, are open to everyone at no cost,” he said.