The Church News Online

The Church News Online

Wednesday, 4 February 2026

Integrity Music Mourns Death of Praise and Worship Icon Dr. Ron Kenoly



Integrity Music has paid tribute to legendary praise and worship leader Dr. Ron Kenoly, describing him as a pioneering voice whose life and ministry shaped generations of believers around the world.

In a statement, the music ministry said it was “deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Ron Kenoly,” hailing him as “a pioneering voice in praise and worship, and a faithful servant whose life and ministry shaped generations of worship leaders, ministers, and churches around the world.”

Beyond his global influence as a worship leader, Integrity Music said Ron Kenoly’s impact was rooted in his character and calling. “Ron was more than a powerful worship leader with a global platform. He was a shepherd, a teacher, and a man of deep integrity who carried the presence of God with sincerity, humility, and joy,” the statement read.

The organisation credited his music and leadership with transforming how churches worship. “Through his music, leadership, and discipleship, Ron taught the Church how to sing with faith, freedom, and conviction. His impact across nations and generations is unmatched, and his legacy will continue to lead the Church in praise for years to come,” Integrity Music said.

Integrity Music also reflected on its long-standing relationship with the gospel music icon, expressing gratitude for their shared journey. “We are grateful for Ron’s legacy, his partnership with Integrity Music through the years, and the countless lives impacted through his obedience to God’s call,” the statement said.

The organisation extended its condolences to those closest to him, adding, “We extend our deepest love and prayers to Ron’s family, friends, and the many spiritual sons and daughters shaped by his life and ministry.”

In a personal farewell, Integrity Music concluded, “We love you, Doc. Thank you for your many, many years of faithful service in the Kingdom of God. ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’”

Tuesday, 3 February 2026

ZCC Engages Chinese Embassy on Mining Practices, Community Benefits and Social Cohesion

 


The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC), led by its President Bishop Dr. I. Makumbe, on 30 January 2026 held a progressive and constructive dialogue meeting with the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe, aimed at promoting peace, cohesion, and sustainable development in the country.

The engagement, which took place at the request of the ZCC, was led on the Chinese side by His Excellency Zhou Ding, the Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe. Discussions focused on concerns arising from mining practices by some companies operating in Zimbabwe and the need to strengthen efforts to ensure that mineral resources meaningfully benefit communities in mining areas.

During the meeting, it was acknowledged that the concerns raised by communities are genuine, although some are influenced by perceptions and long-standing grievances linked to certain Chinese mining operations. Mining-affected communities were said to be facing environmental degradation, weak development driven by mining activities, limited employment opportunities, and poor access to social services.

The dialogue noted that if communities in mining areas continue to see little benefit from mining activities, there is a risk of rising social tensions, the loss of social licence for investment, and potential conflict between investors and local communities.

It was further highlighted that while China may promote responsible investment and conduct, Chinese operations in Zimbabwe are governed by Zimbabwean laws, with enforcement resting primarily with the Government of Zimbabwe. Weak enforcement, the meeting noted, creates space for abuse and undermines accountability.

Participants exchanged views on the need to improve benefit-sharing mechanisms, enhance tax compliance, and strengthen transparency within the mining sector. The dialogue stressed the urgent need to improve accountability of mining companies to local communities and to ensure mining contributes more directly to local development.

The meeting resolved to continue regular engagement to address issues related to Chinese operations in communities, strengthen relations between Chinese businesses and Zimbabwean citizens, and deal with concerns on a case-by-case basis. Other agreed areas included exploring mechanisms to boost local development driven by mining activities, ensuring all Chinese companies operating in Zimbabwe are registered with the Embassy, and considering both legal and non-legal measures to improve tax transparency.

The parties also agreed on the importance of enhancing the contribution of mining companies to community development and strengthening multistakeholder dialogue involving Chinese mining companies and other stakeholders.

The meeting concluded with celebrations marking the Chinese New Year and recognition of the long-standing relationship between the people of China and Zimbabwe. Both sides agreed that continued engagement will be anchored in this spirit, with the shared goal of ensuring Chinese investments contribute to peace, social cohesion, and sustainable development in Zimbabwe.

The Helper Defined by God

 CHAPTER 2

The Helper Defined by God


Restoring Power to a Misunderstood Role

Few biblical words have been more misunderstood, weakened, or culturally distorted than the word helper. Over time, it has been reduced to mean assistant, subordinate, or background support. Yet when God first used this word, He did so with great intentionality and authority.

“And the LORD God said, It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.”

— Genesis 2:18

This statement was not made after sin.

It was not spoken in weakness.

It was declared in perfection, before the fall.

Which means the role of the helper is not a response to failure, but a design of divine wisdom.

God Identified a Need Before Man Felt One

Adam was not complaining of loneliness.

He was not failing in assignment.

He was not lacking productivity.

Yet God said, “It is not good.”

This reveals a powerful truth:

Some needs are revealed by God, not felt by man.

The helper was introduced not because Adam was weak, but because the assignment was too weighty to be carried alone.

This applies directly to pastoral ministry.

A pastor may appear strong publicly, yet the calling itself requires a divine helper to preserve:

Longevity

Balance

Discernment

Stability

The Hebrew Meaning of “Helper” (Ezer)

The Hebrew word used for helper is ezer.

This word appears multiple times in Scripture—and most of them do not refer to a woman.

“Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help (ezer) and our shield.”

— Psalm 33:20

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (ezer) in trouble.”

— Psalm 46:1

God Himself is called ezer.

Therefore, helper does not mean:

Lesser

Inferior

Weak

Silent

It means strength supplied where needed.

A Helper Is a Strategic Support, Not a Substitute

The helper was not created to replace Adam’s role.

She was created to support the assignment God gave him.

Likewise, the pastor’s wife is not called to:

Replace pastoral authority

Compete for leadership

Carry responsibility God did not assign

She is called to supply strength, not assume office.

This distinction protects both the marriage and the ministry.

Comparable, Not Contradictory

Genesis says the helper was “comparable to him.”

This means:

Equal in value

Compatible in purpose

Different in function

God did not create two Adams.

He created unity through distinction.

When churches fail to honor this balance, they either:

Diminish the pastor’s wife into invisibility, or

Elevate her into an office she was never called to carry

Both are errors.

The Helper’s Strength Is Often Quiet

The helper’s strength rarely announces itself.

It shows up as:

Discernment in conversation

Wisdom in timing

Prayer in pressure

Stability in seasons of attack

This is why Scripture says:

“The wise woman builds her house.”

— Proverbs 14:1

She does not build with sermons.

She builds with wisdom, restraint, and faithfulness.

Abigail: A Living Picture of Helper Strength

Abigail in 1 Samuel 25 demonstrates the power of a true helper.

Her wisdom:

Prevented bloodshed

Preserved destiny

Redirected a future king

She did not take authority from David.

She did not challenge his calling.

She protected his future through discernment.

This is helper strength at its highest form.

Helping Without Carrying Unassigned Burdens

One of the greatest dangers pastors’ wives face is carrying emotional and spiritual loads they were never meant to bear.

A helper is not a dumping ground.

A helper is not a shock absorber for abuse.

A helper is not required to be everything to everyone.

“Each one shall bear his own load.”

— Galatians 6:5

Helping must operate within boundaries, or it becomes exhaustion instead of empowerment.

When the Helper Is Honored Correctly

When the helper is biblically understood:

Pressure lifts

Grace flows

Joy returns

Ministry lasts

The pastor leads without guilt.

The wife serves without strain.

The church benefits from health instead of tension.

Closing Reflection

God did not design helpers to be hidden in shame.

He designed them to be honored in truth.

The helper’s power is not loud.

It is foundational.

And when the helper is strong,

the assignment stands.

Monday, 2 February 2026

Bishop Madawo Calls for Unity Among AFM Offshoot Churches

 By A Correspondent -


Bishop A.D. Madawo has expressed his heartfelt wish for all churches that separated from the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) to one day come together in a large conference, celebrating their shared faith as one family in Christ.

He shared this vision during his vibrant 57th birthday celebration held yesterday at the AFM IN Zimbabwe Shiloh Word Miracle Centre in Harare.

Speaking to congregants, Bishop Madawo emphasized the importance of unity within the Body of Christ, reminding believers that despite differences, they remain one people who continue to need each other to fulfill God’s purpose.

FOR FULL INTERVIEW, CLICK THE LINK BELOW

https://www.facebook.com/reel/3311426582337858

Donald Trump Prays With Supporter During Iowa Visit

 

By A Correspondent -


President Donald Trump drew mixed reactions on Tuesday after pausing to pray with a supporter during a visit to Iowa, as he sought to highlight his administration’s record ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Trump visited the Machine Shed Restaurant in Urbandale, Iowa, ahead of a speech later in the day focused on the economy. While interacting with supporters at the restaurant, a man asked the president, “Can I pray for you real quick?”

Trump accepted, standing as the supporter offered a brief prayer in full view of other diners and cameras. The moment was widely shared online, drawing both praise and criticism.

Supporters called it a display of faith and humility, while critics accused Trump of blending religion and politics in a move aimed at energising his conservative base ahead of upcoming elections.

The Iowa visit continues Trump’s push to reinforce his administration’s economic achievements while engaging directly with voters in key battleground states.

Saturday, 31 January 2026

Methodist Church Pays Tribute To Rev Ranganai Makuvaza

 


The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe has paid tribute to the late Reverend Ranganai Makuvaza, describing him as a faithful servant of God whose life and ministry left a lasting impact on the church and the wider Christian community.

In a statement released on Thursday, the church expressed deep sorrow over his passing and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and congregants.

“May your soul rest in eternal peace, faithful servant of God, and may the family find comfort in the Lord,” read part of the statement.

The Methodist Church also drew encouragement from Scripture, quoting 2 Corinthians 1:3, which speaks of God as “the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.” The verse, the church said, serves as a reminder of God’s abiding presence and comfort during times of grief.

Reverend Makuvaza was remembered for his dedication to ministry, his pastoral care, and his commitment to spreading the Gospel. Church leaders noted that his legacy would continue to inspire many within the Methodist community and beyond.

As the church mourns his passing, it also called on believers to uphold the Makuvaza family in prayer, trusting in God’s comfort and strength during this difficult period.

Friday, 30 January 2026

Pastor Ngoni Gatsi Laid to Rest in Harare

 


By A Correspondent - Pastor Ngoni Gatsi was laid to rest in Harare on Thursday, with family, friends, fellow ministers, and congregants gathering to bid farewell to a man widely described as humble, loving, and deeply devoted to God and people.


Tributes poured in from across the country, highlighting Pastor Gatsi’s unwavering faith, compassion, and commitment to serving others without discrimination. Among those who paid tribute was Benny Matemba, who described the late pastor as a man who fought the good fight of faith and remained steadfast to the end.

“Wakarwa kurwa kwakana pako wapedza wakachengeta kutenda,” said Matemba. “Pastor Alpha Ngoni Gatsi’s popularity never influenced the way he treated people.


 He did not choose who to associate with — whether a grandmother, grandfather, child, the poor or the rich. He loved everyone selflessly and remained deeply humble.”


He added that one of the greatest lessons Pastor Gatsi left behind was the importance of valuing relationships and walking in genuine love.


“Another lesson he left us is to value relationships. Go well my brother, go well man of God, go well our General,” Matemba said.



Pastor Gatsi will be remembered for his humility, his inclusive spirit, and his dedication to serving God and humanity without prejudice.


 His life and ministry continue to inspire many who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.


ZCC Conducts Monitoring Visit on Resilience and Livelihoods Projects in Bikita



The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) General Secretary, Rev. Dimingu, accompanied by representatives from Local Ecumenical Fellowships (LEF) and ZCC Management, this week concluded a two-day monitoring and support visit to ZCC-supported development programmes in Bikita District.

The visit focused on projects funded separately by Tearfund and jointly by the United Church of Canada (UCC) and the Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB). Its purpose was to assess progress, draw lessons, and strengthen collaboration with project beneficiaries, churches, and government stakeholders.

The delegation visited Ward 18, where they interacted with beneficiaries at Mataga and Kudyaibadza community gardens established under the livelihoods project titled Enhancing Community Resilience through Sustainable Income-Generating Scalable Projects, supported by Tearfund. The project has registered significant achievements, including the establishment of two solar-powered water schemes that support community gardens benefiting 125 households. An additional garden has also been established using fencing materials on an existing borehole system.

Community members in all three gardens received training and starter seed packs, which they have successfully cultivated to improve household food security, nutrition, and income generation. In addition, 300 farmers have been trained in Conservation Agriculture, while nine Internal Savings and Lending (ISAL) groups have been formed to strengthen household resilience against climate-related shocks.

The team also visited a beneficiary farmer under the Scaling Up Resilience Programme in Ward 31, supported by UCC and CFGB. Farmers under this programme are adopting Conservation Agriculture practices, a climate-smart approach that promotes sustainable food production, environmental protection, and increased resilience among smallholder farmers.

Another key highlight of the visit was a learning and reflection session held in Ward 17 at Boora Reformed Church in Zimbabwe under the Church and Community Mobilisation for Transformation (CCMT/CCMP) programme. The initiative, currently being implemented in Bikita, Buhera, and Zvishavane districts, is anchored on biblical principles of holistic ministry and integral mission.

Through the CCMP approach, churches and communities are empowered to identify and utilise God-given resources, promote self-reliance, and work collectively to address poverty and vulnerability. The programme emphasises transformation of the whole person — spiritually, socially, economically, physically, and mentally — while strengthening relationships between God, people, and the environment.

Participants shared experiences, reflected on lessons learned, and reaffirmed their commitment to partnership, collective action, and sustainable, community-led development.


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