By Portia Muzorava
In a powerful display of unity, faith, and community responsibility, the Apostolic Churches Council of Zimbabwe (ACCZ) on Saturday ordained 19 bishops representing 19 different indigenous churches.
The sacred ceremony took place at Chiedza-Karoi Primary School, drawing hundreds of congregants, traditional leaders, political figures, and civil society stakeholders from across Mashonaland West province.
The event was officiated by ACCZ President, Archbishop Dr. Tobias Zunguzira, who used the platform to urge all Apostolic and Zion sects to align with national development goals. He encouraged churches to formally register with authorities, construct proper ablution facilities at places of worship, and play an active role in public health programmes such as child immunisation and vaccination.
Archbishop Zunguzira also called on church leaders to champion education, urging parents to ensure their children attend school and avoid harmful cultural practices such as early child marriages. He emphasized that the church has a moral obligation to promote social welfare and protect children.
The Archbishop added that the ACCZ is working hand-in-hand with various government and civic stakeholders to combat drug and substance abuse, especially among the youth. He said spiritual leadership must not only serve congregants spiritually but also help address real-world challenges affecting communities.
Hurungwe Central MP Richard Ziki, praised the ACCZ for hosting such a transformative event in Karoi, noting that it reflects growing collaboration between the church and the state in tackling pressing social issues.
Chief Dandawa, a respected traditional leader in the area, expressed his gratitude for the occasion being held in his jurisdiction. He said the presence of the church and the ordination of multiple bishops would strengthen the moral fibre of communities and help curb social ills such as domestic violence, drug abuse, and early marriages. He described the church as a pillar of peace, harmony, and moral guidance in society.
Representing the Mashonaland West province State Minister, Karoi District Development Coordinator, Frank Ngirazi, hailed the ACCZ programme as a commendable step towards fighting child marriages and substance abuse. He highlighted the government’s commitment to working with faith-based organisations in advancing national development goals.
The ordination event ended with song, celebration, and solemn prayer as the newly ordained bishops were presented with certificates, symbolising a renewed mandate to serve not only their churches but also the broader society.
