The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe witnessed a significant and historic moment on 30 November 2025 as congregants, clergy, and invited ecumenical partners gathered at Mabelreign Society for the joint inauguration of the incoming Presiding Bishop Reverend S. Sithole and the farewell service of the outgoing Presiding Bishop G.T Mawire. The atmosphere was filled with reverence, celebration, and deep gratitude as the church witnessed a transition of leadership grounded in faith and continuity.
In delivering his farewell message, the outgoing Presiding Bishop was met with warm applause and heartfelt tributes. Speaker after speaker highlighted Revd. G.T. Mawire’s years of dedicated service, emphasizing his pastoral leadership, commitment to church growth, and his unwavering guidance through social and economic challenges faced by communities across Zimbabwe. In his speech, Revd. Mawire thanked the church for the trust and cooperation extended to him throughout his tenure, urging congregants to remain steadfast in mission work, discipleship, and prayer.
The moment of inauguration was marked by solemn liturgy as the incoming Presiding Bishop knelt to receive prayers, blessings, and the symbolic instruments of office. The church’s senior leadership laid hands upon him, invoking God’s wisdom, strength, and courage for the journey ahead. As he rose, the congregation erupted into song — an expression of joy and expectation for the new era beginning within the church.
In his inaugural address, the new Presiding Bishop, Revd. S. Sithole, expressed deep humility and gratitude. He outlined a vision centered on spiritual renewal, strengthened discipleship, increased community outreach, and the empowerment of young people within the church. He called upon members to walk together in unity, declaring that the mission of the church thrives when every believer takes their place in the work of God.
Messages of solidarity from ecumenical partners celebrated the peaceful and orderly transition of leadership, reflecting the Methodist Church’s longstanding heritage of disciplined governance and servant leadership.
As the service concluded, congregants joined in a powerful closing hymn, symbolizing both an ending and a beginning — honoring the legacy of the outgoing bishop while embracing the hope and promise embodied by the new leadership.
The 30 November gathering at Mabelreign Society will be remembered as a defining moment in the life of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, a testament to God’s faithfulness and the church’s commitment to purposeful, Spirit-led leadership.
By Revd A. Mpaso
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