From the Superintendent's DESK

Onias Gumbo, District Superintendent for Southern and Eastern Africa, led a delegation to Tanzania August 27-30 for the purpose of strengthening the work there through unity.

The team included South Africa District Superintendent Confidence Nemaungani and Zambia District Superintendent Boniface Banda. They arrived late Sunday evening, August 27, and were met at the airport by Tanzania District Superintendent Enock Simfukwe and his wife. In addition, many brethren from Mbeya were there to welcome them with songs of praise and thanksgiving. In return, Brother Onias greeted everyone, expressing gratitude for the love of the saints. He said experiencing the sacrificial love of God enables people everywhere to be united.   

The next morning, the team went to the headquarters church in Mbeya for a service and encountered more saints of God waiting to greet them. Among those attending were brethren from Rukwa, which is nearly three hundred miles away. Following congregational singing and an introduction of the travelers, Brother Onias gave an exhortation from 1 John 1:1-3 and 5-7. He said when individuals reconcile themselves to God, they will come into fellowship with each other regardless of nationality. He also spoke of righteousness being the key to unlocking the benefits of God’s resources necessary for the Christian walk. The service closed with many seeking God’s righteousness and His perfect fellowship at the altars of prayer.

On Tuesday, everyone gathered at the church for a Bible teaching. Brother Confidence gave the message from Hebrews 11:1 and 6. He said faith is necessary for salvation, daily living, and worship. It is freely given by God, but maintaining it takes determination, conviction, and the understanding that God is able to do all things. At the close, many prayed for increased faith.

In the afternoon, a meeting was held to take the next step forward in registering the Tanzania work with the government. The team from Southern and Eastern Africa met with candidates who had been recommended to make up the Tanzania Board of Trustees. 

On Wednesday, the team had a very productive meeting with attorneys who will assist with the church registration. In addition, the Tanzania board was formed. The members include Enock Simfukwe, Fabiani Magadsoni, Christina Ndalanda, Restuta Mtepa, Alex Hoka, and David Katumbi. A Tanzania Country Director was also named: Knox Twenda.

We thank the Lord for His leading in registering the Tanzania work with the government, strengthening the work in that country, and bringing brethren everywhere together in unity. We are also thankful for the Tanzania saints, and pray for God’s blessing on their lives and efforts in spreading the Gospel.