Mozambique Centennial Celebrations Begin
For the last 100 years, the Church of the Nazarene in Mozambique has been alive, on the move and experiencing many victories. The church is now set to centrally and communally celebrate its Centennial Celebration on the 28th and 29th of October 2022, in the historically significant area of Thavane (Machulane). Preemptively, several local churches have arranged and done their celebrations in preparation for this great gathering in Thavane.
Officially, the church in Mozambique was registered in 1922, hence the 100-year celebration this year. Unofficially, the church started as early as 1915. Many Nazarenes in Mozambique had to stand firm in their resolve to preach the gospel of holiness and see the church stand. Due to political unrest and a civil war, the first members of the Church of the Nazarene had to stand firm and be willing to suffer for the sake of the gospel. Celebrating 100 years today is a testimony that God surely builds His Church, and the “…gates of hell will not prevail”.
It is important to acknowledge those saints who went before who were a part of the holiness, gospel movement in Mozambique. There were many mountains to climb, valleys to go through and some had to traverse through fire, yet they were not consumed.
Mrs Celeste Macie Chaguala said, “…I had the privilege to participate in the local Centenary Celebration at the Nazarene Church Maputo Central. It was an odd and great learning moment… We learned a lot about church history, and today I felt more encouraged to continue serving God even though I know that the walk is not and will not be easy. Still, our God is faithful just as he has been with our pastors, missionaries and members.”
Mrs Naila Mulate Kanenungo had the following to say: “I am a proud Nazarene. The Church of the Nazarene in Mozambique is 100 years old. Join us as we celebrate a great milestone, a great legacy…my family has a rich history that I always share and cherish. I share with my children very often, and they appreciate God’s love and grace
Maputo Central Church of the Nazarene celebrated the Mozambique Centennial through launching a building project for a conference hall. People will be able to make use of the hall for weddings, conferences, etc.
Maputo City Church of the Nazarene’s local celebration for the centennial started with a 2km march.
Matola District held a revival and celebrated the centennial on the last day.
In Gaza Province in the community of Canganine on the Alto Changane District, a brother by the name of David Simango, built a church with his own money. He was born in this community, and his parents were members of this church. He wanted to do something for the church in this year of centennial celebrations. He currently lives in the capital city and believes the church building will serve for men and women to be blessed. Many people were there for the celebration and because the new church can only hold 150 people, the inauguration service was held in a tent.
