Online Reporter
Zimpapers Reporter
THOUSANDS of Bulawayo residents and members of the Unshakable Pentecostal Church today thronged Lady Stanley Cemetery for the memorial service and tombstone unveiling of Apostle Professor Haney Resten Sawasawa, the revered leader of the Unshakable Pentecostal Church based in Old Magwegwe.
Bishop Sawasawa, who passed away in October last year, was among the pioneering figures of black-led Pentecostal churches in Zimbabwe. Ordained as a pastor in 1964, he went on to establish the United Pentecostal Church movement in 1967. The church held its first services under a tree in Mpopoma — a humble beginning that would grow into a far-reaching ministry with over 300 churches across Southern Africa, and also having offshoots in other parts of the world.
He later founded the Unshakable Pentecostal Church, which initially held services at Mabuthweni Hall before relocating to Old Magwegwe, where the congregation acquired land to build a permanent auditorium.
Speaking during the memorial service, Pastor Godfrey Nyoni, representing the church board, described Apostle Sawasawa as a faithful servant of God whose life exemplified humility, integrity, and deep commitment to ministry.
“Prof Apostle Sawasawa was not only a leader but also a living example of one who, like Joshua, declared, ‘As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord’ (Joshua 24:15),” said Pastor Nyoni. “He gave tirelessly and sacrificed deeply — not for recognition, but for the advancement of God’s kingdom.”
He added that the tombstone would stand as a lasting symbol of Apostle Sawasawa’s sacrifice and devotion.
“It will speak of a shepherd who embodied Christ’s model of servant leadership. He taught us to stay united, to uphold righteous character, and to remain steadfast in faith.”
Apostle Sawasawa’s children also paid tribute to their father, describing him as a man who preached and lived the gospel of love.
“He loved people and taught us to love everyone,” said Alpha Sawasawa, speaking alongside her brother Victor. “At home and in church, he always preached about love and unity. Today we stand together as a family in love and unity, and we pray that the whole church will keep his legacy alive.”
At the graveside, Pastor Calvin Sawasawa delivered an emotional sermon centred on love, goodness, and faithfulness.
“This headstone will be a visible reminder of a life that touched ours and ministered to God, who holds all life in His hands,” he said. “Though we feel the absence of a father, pastor, and bishop, we have the presence of the Lord — and that presence is greater.”
The celebratory service concluded with prayers, hymns, and messages of gratitude celebrating the enduring legacy of Apostle Prof Haney Resten Sawasawa — a servant leader whose work continues to shape lives across generations.
