Debra MatabvuSenior ReporterPRESIDENT Mnangagwa has described national hero Archbishop Paul Ernest Mwazha, founder of the African Apostolic Church and leader, as a man who immensely contributed to the country’s spiritual sovereignty through his unwavering faith, lifelong dedication to uplifting communities and guiding the nation towards moral renewal and unity.In a statement yesterday, the President said Archbishop Mwazha’s teachings before and after independence helped shape the country’s spiritual autonomy through his work, which was rooted in unity and African self-determination.He also said the national hero was a religious pillar for many people, locally and abroad.“I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Archbishop Ernest Paul Mamvura Mwazha, a revered spiritual leader and founder of the African Apostolic Church,” said President Mnangagwa.“Archbishop Mwazha was one of Zimbabwe’s most respected spiritual leaders, who was a religious pillar for many followers within and outside Zimbabwe.“Affectionately known as Mutumwa weAfrica, he was the leader of the African Apostolic Church, shaping its doctrine, growth and identity through teachings anchored in holiness, unity and African self-determination in worship.”President Mnangagwa said Archbishop Mwazha was among the leaders who contributed to the growth of indigenous churches in Zimbabwe.His legacy spans over six decades, inspiring millions with unwavering commitment to faith, peace and unity, explained the President.“Well-regarded for his humility, spiritual discipline and devotion to social and moral upliftment, Archbishop Mwazha was among the most influential religious figures in Zimbabwe.“His evangelical work flourished during and after the colonial era, establishing him as one of the first Zimbabweans to form and lead a Zionist-influenced African church.“He contributed immensely in securing Zimbabwe’s spiritual sovereignty when he, together with other leaders like Johane Marange and Johane Masowe, established autonomous Christian movements that embraced African cultural values and were responsive to indigenous spiritual needs,” he said.President Mnangagwa added that under Archbishop Mwazha’s leadership, the African Apostolic Church became one of the largest indigenous Christian movements in Southern Africa.He also said Archbishop Mwazha was a unifier and a moral compass, who championed discipline and family stability.“His passing on is not only a loss to his family and followers but the nation as whole. We celebrate his life and contributions to our nation’s rich cultural heritage,” President Mnangagwa added.“I have conferred national hero status on Archbishop Mwazha, in recognition of his immense and significant contributions to Zimbabwean society.“His teachings emphasised obedience and good citizenship, a philosophy that has contributed to national development and stability.“On behalf of the Government of Zimbabwe, my family and on my behalf, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the Mwazha family.“May they all be consoled and find comfort in knowing that the works of their father will forever be engraved in the chronicles of our history. Generations to come will know the Mwazha name through the great works that he has left behind,” said the President.Archbishop Mwazha was born on October 25, 1918, at Holy Cross Mission in Chirumanzu.He died on November 20.
He was 107.The conferment of national hero status makes him one of the few spiritual leaders to receive the country’s highest honour, including ZAOGA FIF founder, Professor Ezekiel Handinawangu Guti.Archbishop Mwazha will be buried on Sunday in Chirasuata, Chikomba District, Mashonaland East Province. PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has described national hero Archbishop Paul Ernest Mwazha, founder of the African Apostolic Church and leader, as a man who immensely contributed to the country’s spiritual sovereignty through his unwavering faith, lifelong dedication to uplifting communities and guiding the nation towards moral renewal and unity. In a statement yesterday, the President said Archbishop Mwazha’s teachings before and after independence helped shape the country’s spiritual autonomy through his work, which was rooted in unity and African self-determination.
He also said the national hero was a religious pillar for many people, locally and abroad. “I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Archbishop Ernest Paul Mamvura Mwazha, a revered spiritual leader and founder of the African Apostolic Church,” said President Mnangagwa. “Archbishop Mwazha was one of Zimbabwe’s most respected spiritual leaders, who was a religious pillar for many followers within and outside Zimbabwe.
Read Full Article on The Herald
[paywall]
“Affectionately known as Mutumwa weAfrica, he was the leader of the African Apostolic Church, shaping its doctrine, growth and identity through teachings anchored in holiness, unity and African self-determination in worship.” President Mnangagwa said Archbishop Mwazha was among the leaders who contributed to the growth of indigenous churches in Zimbabwe. His legacy spans over six decades, inspiring millions with unwavering commitment to faith, peace and unity, explained the President. “Well-regarded for his humility, spiritual discipline and devotion to social and moral upliftment, Archbishop Mwazha was among the most influential religious figures in Zimbabwe.
[/paywall]
