By Rev. Douglas Maundukuse, ZCC Economic Justice Champion – Mathew 17: KJV- Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. The concept of creation care, invites everyone to reflect on the role of people as stewards of the earth. Genesis 1:26[1], underscores humanity’s unique position as bearers of God’s image and custodians of his creation. This theological foundation highlights people’s responsibility to nurture and to safeguard the natural resources entrusted to them by God. In Zimbabwe, the biblical principle of being in a covenant with the stones of the field, as mentioned in Job 5:23[2], holds contemporary significance in the context of the country’s abundant mineral resources. The scripture must be understood as a call to recognize and honor the covenant relationship between humanity and the natural resources found in the land. Zimbabwe, known for its rich mineral deposits, including gold, platinum, and diamonds, is called to steward these resources responsibly and ethically. Just as Job was encouraged to be in a league or covenant with the stones of the field, so too are the people of Zimbabwe called to uphold a sacred pact with their mineral wealth, ensuring that it is managed sustainably for the benefit of present and future generations. This is a challenge to the people of Zimbabwe to view their relationship with the land and its resources through the lens of covenantal responsibility and stewardship. In Matthew 17:27, Jesus instructs Peter to go fishing and find a coin in the fish’s mouth to pay the temple tax for both of them. This passage highlights the importance of fulfilling one’s financial obligations, including paying taxes. The Church, drawing from this biblical teaching, has the mandate to instruct and remind mining companies and individuals in the mining value chain of their moral duty to pay taxes on their mineral proceeds. The Church’s moral authority stems from its role as a spiritual guide and moral compass in society. The Church has the mandate to advocate for transparency and accountability in financial matters, including tax payments. All individuals have to fulfill their tax obligations ethically and responsibly. Ultimately, by invoking Matthew 17:27 and emphasizing the moral imperative of paying taxes, the Church has to play a vital role in promoting ethical behavior and financial accountability among investors and mining companies involved in natural resource extraction. This advocacy contributes to a more just and equitable distribution of resources, ensuring that the community benefits from the sustainable management of its mineral wealth. The duty of the Church to advocate for equal opportunities in mining is deeply rooted in the biblical call for justice and equity. In God’s eyes, all people are equal and deserving of fair treatment and access to resources. The Church, as a moral compass in society, has a responsibility to speak out against injustices and advocate for policies that ensure that marginalized communities have equal opportunities in the mining sector. This advocacy is not just about economic fairness but also about upholding the dignity and rights of all individuals, as they are all created in the image of God. Similarly, the duty of the Church to educate people to take care of the ecosystem stems from the biblical mandate of stewardship. From the creation narrative in Genesis to the Psalms that declare the earth belongs to the Lord, Scripture consistently emphasizes humanity’s role as caretakers of God’s creation. By educating people on the importance of caring for the ecosystem, the Church is fulfilling its duty to uphold responsible stewardship and protect the environment for future generations. This education can empower individuals to make informed choices that prioritize sustainability and conservation, reflecting their reverence for God’s creation. Furthermore, the duty of the Church to give awareness to people to stay in harmony with natural resources is a reflection of the call to live in harmony with all of God’s creation. When humans are in harmony with nature, they are honoring the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living beings. By promoting this awareness, the Church inspire individuals to live in harmony with nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for God’s creation and a commitment to preserving it for future generations. In a nutshell, the theological reflection on the role of the Church in natural resource governance highlights the urgent need for responsible stewardship of God’s creation, particularly in regions like Mutasa District in Zimbabwe where challenges persist despite the abundance of gold deposits. The call for the Church to reclaim its position as a trusted convener is crucial in engaging all stakeholders within the mining industry to ensure that the minerals found in the region are translated into real value for the Mutasa community. By upholding the principles of covenantal responsibility and stewardship, the Church can play a vital role in advocating for ethical and sustainable practices in natural resource governance, ultimately promoting justice, equity, and a society where everyone enjoys holistic salvation. [1] 26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” [2] “For you will have a covenant with the stones of the field, and the wild animals will be at peace with you.”

STORY OF CHANGE – Chipo Kuvarega, a 32-year-old widowed woman from Mubaiwa village in Dorowa, Manicaland, once felt hopeless about the state of her community and church. Plagued by divisiveness, donor dependency, greed, and a lack of collaboration, her local church of 200 members struggled to meet its financial obligations to the Diocese, with only 14 active supporters. However, Chipo’s life would soon take a transformative turn when her local church, St Michaels Mambo Anglican Diocese of Masvingo, was introduced to the Church Community Mobilisation Processes (CCMP) initiative. This program aimed to strengthen and empower the local church to lead the charge in addressing the pressing concerns of their community. As Chipo attended the CCMP training, she experienced a profound shift in her perspective. “I’m realising that everyone has something to give. If you eat daily, you can give. Everyone is responsible to their local church and community. The Church must rise and be the light it is meant to be in the community” she stated with newfound confidence. The training had awakened her to the idea that the church and the community were intrinsically linked, and that it was their collective responsibility to bring about positive change. Ironically, the training came at a time when the community had refused to unload a truck full of bricks to renovate the local clinic. Chipo chuckled at the irony, saying, “Little did we know that it was my (as the Church) responsibility to lead in the processes that bring development to my community and the people within it.” With this newfound understanding, Chipo envisioned a transformed Mubaiwa village – one that was united, peaceful, and thriving, with the church at the forefront as the light and salt of the land. She recognized that communities in Zimbabwe were often trapped in a cycle of poverty, conflict, and marginalization, and that the CCMP initiative offered a way to break free. Through the CCMP program, Chipo and her church community were empowered to organize, mobilize, and take action to address the pressing issues they faced. The once-divided community began to come together, recognizing their collective power to bring about positive change. Chipo’s story is a testament to the transformative power of community-led initiatives that empower local churches to be the agents of change. The CCMP initiative aims to thoroughly strengthen and capacitate the local Church for self-organization and community mobilization in response to pressing community concerns by utilizing the local Church, local opportunities, and capacities. It aims to create a peaceful community in which the Church leads Holistic Salvation and keeps people like Chipo happy.

By Leona Mahachi – In a bold move to safeguard the nation’s democratic freedoms, a coalition of fifty leaders from Church and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) across Zimbabwe convened a high-level dialogue in  Harare on May 21, 2024 to develop a united response to the contentious Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Bill, a piece of legislation that has sparked widespread concern among Zimbabweans. The urgency of the meeting was amplified by recent public hearings on the PVO Bill, which were marred by disruptions, preventing fair participation in at least half of the sessions. These reports of violence and partisan interference, particularly in Masvingo, Gweru and Chinhoyi, showed the fragile state in which the country showing the deep rooted crevices that are threatening national cohesion. “The PVO Bill is seen as a threat to our democratic freedoms, humanitarian efforts, and national unity. While it claims to prevent financial abuses, its provisions exceed international recommendations and could unnecessarily restrict the operations of civil society organizations, said one Civil Society organisation leader.” The Church and CSOs proposed a holistic strategy to address the challenges posed by the Bill. The Immediate interventions proffered during the discussions include engaging the Parliament to call for a reconsideration of the Bill and convening a closed-door meeting with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee to discuss the disrupted hearings and present unified positions. The Church and the CSOs have agreed to strengthen coordination among CSOs and create a unified front, raise public awareness, and engage in strategic litigation and regional lobbying. The meeting also recognised the need to initiate a national dialogue to foster social cohesion and conflict transformation. “We are united in our commitment to resist the PVO Bill and promote a democratic and inclusive Zimbabwe. Through continuous dialogue and collective action, we will ensure a thriving civil society and safeguard the democratic freedoms of all Zimbabweans.” The Church CSO meeting presented a platform for constant engagements between the Church and CSOs to constantly engage and discuss issues that deal with national cohesion and good governance.

By Shamiso Saburi Dima – The Zimbabwe Council of Churches in collaboration with Crisis Coalition Zimbabwe convened a dialogue in which the integrity of the country’s 2023’s constitution was questioned amid numerous amendments that have effected to it 11 years after its adoption. As Zimbabwe’s 2013 constitution celebrated its 11th anniversary, a concerning reality emerged – the once-celebrated document has been repeatedly amended, undermining the very principles of democracy it was meant to uphold. The signing of the 2013 constitution was a significant milestone for the country, ushering in a new era of democratic progress. However, over the past 11 years, these amendments, often driven by political interests, have raised alarm bells among Zimbabwean citizens. Dr. Tinashe Gumbo, speaking on the role of the Church in the constitutional-making process, highlighted the Church’s involvement since 1964. He referenced the 2006 ‘Zimbabwe We Want’ document, which informed the current constitution and advocated for a shared national vision, political tolerance, and a homegrown constitution. Despite these efforts, Dr Gumbo expressed disappointment in the lack of progress. “The Church played a significant role in the development of the constitution. Documents like “The Zimbabwe We Want” informed some sections of the constitution in the hope of attaining a peaceful democratic society. Unfortunately, it has been a journey of so many promises yet little has been achieved, said Dr Gumbo. The ZCC General Secretary, Rev. Wilfred Dimingu, affirmed the Church’s continued involvement, stating that it has mobilized the public and remains the voice of the voiceless. He called for other civic organizations to join the effort to defend the constitution. “The Church has continued to play its role through mobilizing the public to attend hearings. The Church will continue to be the voice of the voiceless and continue to influence the law-making process. We need other civic organizations to come on board,” he said. Citizens acknowledged the capacity of the Church and civil society organizations to mobilize grassroots communities and promote constitutionalism and democratic principles. However, they also cited the deterioration of socio-economic rights and the shrinking of the democratic space, which they attributed to a lack of political will to implement the constitution. The continuous amendment of the constitution before the implementation of other clauses is seen as reducing the value of the document that was approved by citizens in 2013. Concerns were also raised about the centralization of power in the hands of the President, leading to an authoritarian style of government, and the failure to uphold the constitutional provision for the devolution of governmental powers, contributing to the collapse of social service delivery.   As Zimbabwe’s constitution faces a critical juncture, the nation’s citizens call for a renewed commitment to the principles of democracy, transparency, and the rule of law.  

By Promise Mupfigo – On May 25, 2024, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) commemorated Africa Day in style at the United Methodist Church (UMC) in St. Peters, Mutare with a sermon by by Captain Muzamba, who emphasized on the need for the participants to reflect on the story of the Ethiopian man in Acts 8:30. The congregation had the opportunity to hear a testimony from a survivor of drug abuse. The survivor shared their journey of overcoming addiction, providing firsthand information on the challenges and recovery. He indicated that he had become a social outcast, selling his belongings to buy drugs. The event also featured a diverse modelling showcase that included participants of all ages proudly flaunting their African attires. The inclusive nature of the modelling segment delivered excitement and joy to the congregation. This highlight depicted the beauty of cultural diversity within the community. During the Africa Day celebrations, the ZCC Board Treasurer, Mrs. Daphine Mudarikwa, delivered her speech highlighting the significance of the day. “Africa Day is an annual celebration that honours the rich diversity of African cultures and commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity. Today, we have come together to celebrate this important day with prayers, music, dance, preaching, and the showcasing of traditional foods and clothing as Women Ecumenical Fellowship,” Mrs. Mudarikwa remarked. She went on to express her gratitude to various individuals and groups who contributed to the success of the event. “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the ZCC, our Secretariat, as well as our Patron, Rev. Machipisa, and all the Reverends present. I also want to acknowledge the dedication of all Clergy wives, the WEF Executive, every woman in attendance, and all the youths who participated in today’s celebrations,” Mrs. Mudarikwa stated. Speaking after the event, Greater Mutare WEF Chair Mrs. Judith Muringa opined that she was impressed by the biggest turnout of people for the event and the support the Clergy is rendering to the WEF in planning their event. The Secretary, Mrs. Tafadzwa Chitiyo, concurred and laid out their next course of action, including spearheading the fight against drugs and substance abuse in schools, the community, and the church, influencing LEF-centered activities, and advocating for key emerging issues within the province.   The event was organized by the Women Ecumenical Fellowship (WEF) Greater Mutare and ran under the theme, Do you understand what you are reading?.  Over 250 participants attended from various areas within Manicaland Province, including Mutare Urban, Mutasa, and Zimunya. The congregation was comprised of men, women, and youth. The commemorations provided an opportunity for women to fellowship and share lessons on key emerging issues within the province. These included drug and substance abuse, a mental health brief, the showcasing of traditional foods, and modelling.

By Nyasha J. Matandi, Church of Christ Nhowe In the realm of religious teachings, having a sound mind is not only about thinking rationally and making disciplined decisions but also about exercising self-control and acting by God’s will. It entails being reasonable in our thoughts and actions and resisting the temptations of fear and irrationality. As stewards of the universe, we are tasked with nurturing and caring for God’s creation, despite the challenges presented in a world fraught with pain and disorder. While God is seen as the ultimate redeemer, humans are called to actively participate in the development, restoration, and improvement of the created world. To cultivate a sound mindset in environmental matters and safeguard God’s creation, the Church can play a pivotal role. Churches and Church-Based Organizations can offer practical knowledge on sustainable practices through faith-based workshops and lectureships. Promoting concepts such as water conservation, waste management, and environmental stewardship, can instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Educating individuals on the importance of conservation and building a sustainable foundation for all is crucial in raising awareness about the impact of human actions on the environment. Environmental degradation and climatic hazards affect not only the world at large but also the Church. Droughts, dry spells, cyclones, and loss of lives present significant challenges to religious communities. In southern Zimbabwe, severe droughts have plagued the region for the past three years, worsening conditions each year. In response to these challenges, the Church can contribute to the protection of wetlands and other important sites designated under the RAMSAR Convention. These areas play a vital role in local ecosystems and water quality, making their preservation essential for sustainable living. Promoting sustainable practices and securing the earth’s resources for present and future generations, faith-based organizations and religious groups can enhance climate resilience within communities. Encouraging a more responsible approach to environmental conservation and sustainability is key to ensuring a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. Individuals and communities must reflect on how their actions impact the environment and strive towards a more sustainable future. Let us pause, reflect, and remember that every action we take has a lasting impact on Mother Nature.