The Sunday Mail
Veronica Gwaze
SEVERAL Apostolic sect members have been caught on the wrong side of the law including serious crimes such as rape and violence.
This has prompted the Apostolic Christian Council of Zimbabwe (ACCZ) to push for regulations to force mapostori leaders to enrol for theology qualifications.
The resolution was passed at a meeting last week.
ACCZ president Bishop Johannes Ndanga urged the church leaders to attain theology degrees.
He said, “Apostolic sect leaders have been viewed negatively because of breaking the law willy-nilly.
“We have apostolic leaders with degrees and PhDs; this shows that we can surely go to theological colleges and learn new things and be equipped. It’s time to go to college and acquire new knowledge.
“However, it’s not just about the apostolic leader but the entire church leadership has to go for training. We need to engage the entire Christian community; all untrained church leaders need to enrol.”
Bishop Ndanga said theological qualifications may help reduce the rate at which churches are sprouting.
Chosen Generation Faith Apostolic sect leader Madzibaba Marimo said there was need for apostolic leaders to go back to school.
“Yes, we are anchored on prophetic guidance. We believe that prophecy directs our conduct but that’s not enough. Pastors need enlightenment which can be attained from theological colleges. Sect leaders need serious training,” he said.
However, some sect leader believe that theological training is unnecessary.
Madzibaba Persuage Muradzi said college fees were prohibitive.
“We only get a token of appreciation from congregants which can’t even sustain us. What more pay college fees?” he said.
Lutheran Church’s pastor Neverson Lunga said: “Something is wrong and action needs to be taken to restore church integrity.”
