By Religious Correspondent
The African Christian Council International (ACCI), the largest Christian board in Africa, has ordained six new bishops in Zimbabwe. The momentous occasion took place in Chegutu, Mashonaland West Province, last Friday. ACCI’s Grand President, Professor Archbishop Johannes Ndanga, presided over the ordination ceremony, which was attended by Honorable Marian Chombo, Minister of State for Mashonaland West Province, representing the government of Zimbabwe led by President Emerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
Speaking during the occasion, Professor Archbishop Ndanga emphasized ACCI’s commitment to advancing Christian values globally, promoting unity and harmony in the face of adversity. He also stressed the importance of decolonizing the mind, encouraging members to support their own government, as traditionally, chiefs and priests worked together. “Leaders are ordained by God, so the church needs the state and the state needs the church,” Ndanga said, highlighting the dual co-existence necessary to achieve Vision 2030.
Government-Church Collaboration
Honorable Marian Chombo, speaking on behalf of the Zimbabwean government, reiterated the importance of collaboration between the government and the church. “Government and the church are one,” Chombo said, thanking President Mnangagwa for enabling freedom of worship in Zimbabwe. Chombo acknowledged the instrumental role churches play in fighting drug and substance abuse.
The Newly Ordained Bishops
The six newly ordained bishops are:
– Overseer Alex Bhudherere of Sungano Apostolic Church
– Bishop Alex Hamandishe of Chitsidzo Chavatendi Apostolic Church
– Bishop Rangarirai Mutesva of Tsime Reupenyu Apostolic Church
– Bishop Nhundu of African United Faith Healers
– Prophet Madzimai Daiza Johane of Masowe
– Bishop Alice Chipote of Internal Invisible Pentecostal Church
ACCI’s Global Presence
The ACCI Zimbabwe Chapter was officially launched by President Mnangagwa last year in Kadoma. ACCI has a significant presence in Africa and globally, representing indigenous churches, Zionists, Pentecostals, and Apostolic Churches.
The ordination ceremony marks a significant milestone in ACCI’s mission to promote unity, decolonization, and collaboration between the church and state.
