Have you ever wondered about the origins of a church? St Johns Apostolic Church is much more than just a place of worship, a beacon of faith in the heart of Harare. It stands as a testament to the power of dreams and the unwavering belief of one man, Bishop Sydney Mabhiza.
Imagine a young boy, just nine years old, in the rural village of Mhondoro. Sydney, a child of humble beginnings, had a vision. He heard a voice, clear as day, telling him that he would father a congregation. Time passed, and the voice returned, this time with a name: St John Apostolic Church of the Whole World. This wasn’t just a church; it was a place where all races would worship together, a symbol of unity and faith.
But establishing a church wasn’t easy, especially in a community deeply rooted in tradition. Chiefs and headmen resisted, clinging to the old ways. Bishop Mabhiza faced intense resistance, but faith, however, was stronger. He persevered, proving the power of his anointing. The word spread far and wide, drawing followers from all walks of life.
In 1985, following the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Bishop Mabhiza moved to Harare. The St Johns Apostolic Church in Harare became the mother church, its roots reaching out to touch communities across continents. Today, St John Apostolic Church boasts congregations in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Mozambique, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.
Witnessing the growth of St Johns Apostolic Church is a truly inspiring sight. It stands tall today, a testament to the belief that with faith, even the impossible can become reality. This was not just some generic church. Bishop Mabhiza’s vision transcended religious boundaries, building bridges of understanding and creating a place where everyone could find peace and solace.