Lent Reflections
No masks. No display. Just a heart open before God saying, "Here I am."
#returnwithallyourheart #lentperiod #ashreflection #FaithJourney #HeartCheck #GraceAndMercy #zccinzim #week1 #day3
The Church News Online
Friday, 27 February 2026
Christian Leaders Urged to Turn Faith into Action at PAMOJA Mining Strategy Workshop in Harare
The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has called for a stronger Christian voice grounded in evidence and action during the PAMOJA Critical Minerals Alliance – Africa Continental Strategy Planning Workshop held in Harare.
Representing the ZCC on a panel discussion themed “Faith in Action: Strengthening Community Voice in Mining and Energy Transitions,” Mr. Admire Mutizwa, Head of Programmes for Church Peace and Just Societies work, challenged believers to bridge the gap between Sunday worship and weekday responsibility.
Speaking before delegates from across the continent, Mutizwa highlighted what he described as a troubling disconnect between professed faith and practical engagement in justice issues surrounding mining and energy transitions.
He stressed that responsibility for justice in the mining sector does not rest solely on bishops and clergy, but extends to congregants, investors, mining executives, civil servants, and policymakers — all of whom he described as faith actors.
“Faith must move beyond the pulpit into policy spaces,” Mutizwa said, emphasizing that Christian stewardship demands active participation in shaping ethical mining practices and protecting affected communities.
He warned that moral authority alone is insufficient in addressing the complex challenges linked to critical minerals extraction. Instead, he called for faith-based institutions to strengthen their advocacy through credible research, legal grounding, and practical, implementable policy proposals.
“Making noise is not enough. We must offer solutions that are evidence-based and actionable,” he said.
Mutizwa further underscored the importance of coordination between churches and civil society organizations to ensure that community voices are not only heard but translated into sustainable impact. He noted that as Africa positions itself within the global energy transition agenda, faith communities have a crucial role in safeguarding justice, environmental stewardship, and human dignity.
The engagement brought together church bodies and advocacy partners including Brot für die Welt, Christian Aid, the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa, All Africa Conference of Churches, the Anglican Council of Zimbabwe, the World Council of Churches, and the United Theological College Zimbabwe.
As conversations continue under the PAMOJA framework, the ZCC says it remains committed to ensuring that faith is not confined to sermons but actively shapes policies that affect communities living near mining operations.
The Council has promised to share further updates from the workshop as deliberations progress.
Thursday, 26 February 2026
Dorcas Moyo Announces Baba Harare’s Return to Gospel Music ?
By A Correspondent -
Renowned Zimbabwean gospel musician Dorcas Moyo has revealed that fellow artist Baba Harare is set to make a return to gospel music.
In a statement shared on Wednesday, Moyo expressed excitement over the development, saying: “Tawirirana nehanzvadzi yangu Baba Harare kuti vadzoke kuGospel....Zvaitaaaa💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾.”
Her message, written in Shona, suggests that the two artists have reached an understanding for Baba Harare to rejoin the gospel music space — news that is likely to excite many fans who have followed his musical journey over the years.
While further details about upcoming projects or timelines were not immediately provided, the announcement has already sparked celebration among gospel music supporters.
Baba Harare, known for his versatility across genres, previously built a strong following within gospel circles before venturing into other styles of music. His anticipated return could mark a significant moment for Zimbabwe’s gospel music industry.
Zimbabwe Council of Churches Cleric Urges Deep Self-Examination During Lent
A senior cleric from the Anglican Church of the Province of Central Africa, Rev Dr D. Mundenda, has delivered a stirring Lenten reflection challenging Christians to embrace honesty, repentance, and compassion during the sacred season.
Speaking as a member of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC), Rev Dr Mundenda emphasized that Lent is more than a date on the church calendar — it is a spiritual journey of self-examination and renewal.
He urged believers to confront their own shortcomings rather than focusing on the faults of others. “Lent is not just a season, it is a time of honesty before God,” he said. “A moment to examine our conscience, see ourselves clearly, and choose mercy over judgment.”
Drawing from Gospel of Luke 8:1–11, he called on Christians to reflect deeply on their attitudes and actions. According to Rev Dr Mundenda, the passage serves as a reminder that faith must take root in transformed hearts.
He challenged congregants to let go of condemnation and embrace compassion. “Lent calls us to confront the ways we judge, the stones we hold, and the walls we build around ourselves,” he said. “It is an invitation to choose mercy over judgment, compassion over condemnation, and love over indifference.”
In his closing message, he left believers with a direct appeal: “Throw down your stones. Walk in mercy. Begin a new life. For this is what God truly calls us to do.”
The full reflection is available online.
Wednesday, 25 February 2026
Prophet Passion Java Announces Divorce from Wife Lily
Zimbabwean preacher Passion Java, born Panganai Java, has announced that he has divorced his wife, Lily, bringing their marriage to an official end.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Java confirmed the separation and said the decision was reached amicably.
"This moment serves to inform our partners, spiritual children, and all well-meaning Christians around the world that Lily and I have officially dissolved our marriage," he said.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered.
"This decision was not made lightly, but with maturity, understanding, and peace. Though our marriage has come to an end, we remain friends and committed partners in raising our three beautiful children."
Java assured followers that both parents would remain actively involved in their children’s lives.
"We are both fully involved in their lives and will continue to co-parent with love, respect, and unity. Family remains a priority to me. Divorce does not change my responsibility or dedication as a father," he said.
He added that their children would continue to receive full support from both parents.
"Our children will continue to receive the presence, support, and guidance they deserve from both parents."
The preacher also noted that both he and Lily remain committed to their individual spiritual callings.
"We are also deeply committed to our separate callings God has placed upon our lives. This new season allows us to walk in those callings separately with clarity and purpose, while maintaining peace and mutual respect."
Java concluded by appealing for understanding and prayers during this transition.
"I ask for your understanding and prayers as we move forward in grace, faith, and friendship."
— P Java
Intercession That Stabilizes the Shepherd
CHAPTER 5
Intercession That Stabilizes the Shepherd
The Spiritual Covering Behind Every Public Victory
Every great ministry is undergirded by prayer. Every shepherd who faithfully feeds the flock relies on spiritual covering—even if he does not always see it. The pastor’s wife is often God’s chosen instrument for this work.
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.”
— Ephesians 6:18
Her prayers do not merely touch events; they shape outcomes.
Why Intercession Matters
Intercession is the spiritual foundation that stabilizes ministry. Consider these realities:
Spiritual Attack Is Real
Satan aims to disrupt ministry, marriages, and families. Intercession acts as a shield:
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
— 1 Peter 5:8
The Pastor Bears Public Pressure
A pastor is constantly exposed to scrutiny, decisions, and spiritual responsibility. Intercession lightens that burden in the unseen realm.
Decisions Require Wisdom Beyond Human Insight
Critical moments in ministry—sermons, counseling, governance—require God-given discernment. Persistent prayer positions the pastor to hear from Heaven clearly.
The Pastor’s Wife as Watchman and Intercessor
In Scripture, women often act as God’s intercessors for key leaders:
Hannah prayed for Samuel’s destiny (1 Samuel 1)
Esther fasted to protect her people and the king (Esther 4:16)
Priscilla provided counsel and spiritual guidance to ministers (Acts 18:26)
Similarly, the pastor’s wife lifts up the shepherd through prayer, insight, and counsel—sometimes in silence, often in isolation.
Spiritual Tactics of Intercession
Consistency
Daily prayer creates a protective hedge around ministry and family.
“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Specificity
Intercession is most effective when targeted:
Protection from spiritual attacks
Wisdom in decisions
Strength to endure criticism
Alignment with God’s Will
Prayer must be submitted to God’s purpose, not personal agendas.
“Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” — Matthew 6:10
Spiritual Discernment
God often grants insight into areas of vulnerability the pastor may not see. This allows timely intervention through prayer or counsel.
The Power of Unseen Influence
Much of the pastor’s influence comes directly from the strength his wife intercedes for him. Her hidden prayers:
Guard his heart from discouragement
Preserve his marriage and family life
Ensure his ministry remains aligned with God’s purpose
Without this intercession, even gifted leaders can falter under pressure. The pastor’s wife is often the quiet reason a ministry continues faithfully.
Avoiding Burnout in Intercession
Persistent spiritual labor carries a cost if not balanced:
Rest in God: Prayer must flow from relationship, not obligation.
Boundaries: She cannot carry every spiritual or emotional burden of the pastor alone.
Community Support: Trusted sisters in Christ can share burdens in confidential prayer.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
Intercession becomes sustainable when it flows from grace and support rather than guilt or fear.
Recognition Is Not the Goal
Intercession is rarely visible. She may never know the full impact of her prayers.
“Your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” — Matthew 6:6
The pastor may never express full understanding of the spiritual battles she fights on his behalf. Heaven, however, never misses a prayer or sacrifice.
Closing Reflection
Intercession is more than prayer—it is spiritual strategy. It stabilizes the shepherd, protects the ministry, and advances God’s purposes.
The pastor’s wife is not a replacement for pastoral authority; she is a spiritual covering, positioned by God to strengthen, shield, and sustain.
Her labor may be unseen, but it is essential.
Tuesday, 24 February 2026
Lent Reflections
Lent isn’t about fear, it’s about mercy.
Start your journey with open hearts, not judgment.
#ReturnToGod #lentperiod #GraceFirst #zccinzim #week1
Monday, 23 February 2026
Advance Groups Strengthen South Sudanese Church Growth
Advance Groups are showing strong potential to energize fast-growing churches, foster sustainable transformation, and support the broader mission of expanding the church’s reach.
In South Sudan, a strategic entry point into the Arabic-speaking region, African Enterprise South Sudan partnered with the Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS) to conduct network training and establish Advance Groups. Leaders report encouraging results as pastors have actively adopted the program, using it to strengthen their congregations and deepen community engagement.
“Pray for the South Sudanese church leaders,” organizers said, “that they may remain encouraged and witness continued spiritual growth.”
The initiative highlights the value of training and collaboration in supporting emerging church networks across the region.
