As a team of mostly white European Christian’s we rely on our money, tablets, bottled water, lotions, potions, phones, wifi, we don't rely on God. We rely on our intellect to win the game of politics of church power and control. We rely on safe foods, hand sanitizer, ability to bride, insurance, contacts in high places ... who is our God?
Ministry
A Quiet Day
We learn that 55% percent of the country now has no internet, meaning that there is no way for the demonstrators to communicate with Whatsapp or similar are easy rally masses of people. It also means we are without much communication to the outside world and don’t know what is happening. Without access to social media, no TV and a broken DVD player it seems like this is going to be a long and quiet day.
College, Road Blocks and High Emotions
It was insightful, honest, challenging, gripping and inspiring. Rev. Gondongwe articulated the theology, thoughts and practices I have had as meandering ideas but he expressed them with clarity and in a succinct manner. Rarely do I hear Christians speak about the faults and mistakes of the church as well as its successes and positive contributions. It was excellent.
Church in Society (Lecture Notes)
You must have a framework of justice! Be guided by the principal of justice!
Buildings and People (Part 2)
The singing is great, only this time we are required to dance when our name is called. It is a somewhat embarrassing experience, though fun, I am pleased that none of us are famous enough to warrant TV crews who will share footage far and wide. It is enough to say, white folk can't dance!
Buildings and People (Part 1)
Whilst I am interested in buildings, it was not the most enthralling visit. The new offices will be substantial in size and I suspect and very nice place in which to work and meet. I was however, most interested in the construction process and the almost sculpture like wooden scaffolding winding around the building and providing a wooden ramp from the ground to the roof.
The Old Mutare Mission
I wonder about the history before Rhodes, but this is a history almost destroyed by the era of colonisation and post-inpendence. I'm concerned that only looking back to the days when Zimbabwe was apparently known as the breadbasket of Africa will not bring the answers Zimbabwe needs.
Bulawayo Church
It is great to hear the music, the sound of a few simple instruments and the beauty of the singing.
Lessons in Being a Tourist in Africa (Part 1)
Lesson 1: Don't be an arse! Lesson 2: Respect and honour. Lesson 3: Wear Sunscreen! Lesson 4: Don't frighten the wildlife. Lesson 5: Be prepared for rain. Lesson 6: Observe the sky. Lesson 7: Expect surprises.
Mapfupa Angu Achapfuka
Zimbabwe has a rich and complicated history, but as Chigumadzi writes, there is an opportunity to listen to the ancestors, that these bones will rise again. There is hope for Zimbabwe, it nearly died, it has been close to death, but my hope and prayer is that a day is coming when its health will return and a resurrected Zimbabwe will emerge.