Ever wonder how a church finds its roots? Faith Ministries Borrowdale Communitcy Church began with a challenge. In December 1999 Pastor N Mnkandla from Mbare Community Church challenged the Mount Pleasant Home group to establish a congregation in Harare’s northern suburbs.
The aim was clear. They would spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to everyone in the area. The inaugural service took place on a chilly July morning in 2000. Pastor Mnkandla led the service. He is now Bishop Mnkandla. His message centered on Matthew 4:18-19. It emphasized following Jesus to become fishers of men.
Pastor Mnkandla said that Borrowdale Community Church was an adventure. But he reminded everyone that the caller is faithful. He noted that the disciples were diligent. They had relationships and were hardworking businessmen. All were called to serve and emulate Jesus.
The message included a prophetic word. “I will make you fishers of men. He who began a good work in you will complete it.” The church believed God takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary. He transforms the natural into the supernatural. A banner declared. “At the foot of the cross the ground is level.” It symbolized unity in Christ. Tea and eats followed the service.
Initially the congregation met at the GG restaurant. Around December 2000 the church relocated. It moved to the Reps Theatre on Second Street extension in Avondale. Borrowdale Community Church became the first church to worship there in seventy years. All glory to God. On Sundays when the theatre was in use services took place at Belgravia Sports Club.
These disruptions prompted a move. In 2003 the church moved to 492 Harare Drive. The building and car park were not yet ready. But this situation proved beneficial. The congregation saved money on rentals.
Two stands on Harare Drive in Borrowdale were secured in 2000 and 2001. They were paid for in cash. These stands were consolidated into Stand 492 in 2002. This became the permanent place of assembly. Under the foundation of the building the Senior Pastor planted a Bible.
A small core group funded most of the work. The construction was completed without any borrowings. When Senior Pastor Doc S A Munyeza and his wife moved in August 2008 efforts increased. The congregation worked hard to complete the car park and the building. This was in preparation for the Nyakuzivas arrival.
Once the car park was finished the downstairs area quickly filled. It is now the Youth Hall. Husbands and wives came with their children. Pressure mounted to complete the main auditorium. Dedicated individuals and families made sacrifices. The main auditorium with its stage and chairs was completed. The rest is history.
Today Faith Ministries Borrowdale Communitcy Church stands as a testament to faith and community. It offers two Sunday services. The first is from 8 AM to 9:30 AM. The second is from 10 AM to 11:30 AM. A primary school operates here too. It provides education from toddlers to Grade 2.