Rimuka Baptist Church Celebrates 75th Anniversary
By Lloyd Mwale in Kadoma
On the first day of January 1950, two Baptist Church Reverends from South Africa – Clyde Dotson and John Nyati – arrived in Kadoma and started a church meeting under a tree, along Burahimi Street, and 75 years later from that meeting, Rimuka Baptist Church still stands and last Saturday the church celebrated it 75th anniversary of ministry, mission and community impact.
The Church celebrated their 75th anniversary with singing, dancing and preaching under the theme taken from the book of Nehemiah 6 verse 3, “Why Should The Work Stop”.
Officiating at the church’s 75th anniversary celebrations, Guest of Honour, Kadoma renowned businessman Mr Simon Tivavenge, who was represented by his manager John Mavesere, called on the church to continue the legacy built over the years.
“It is an honour to join you in celebrating 75 incredible years of ministry, mission and community impact.
This milestone is a testimony of the enduring power of faith and dedication of countless individuals who have contributed to this church’s growth and legacy. Today we are reminded of countless lives touched, prayers answered and souls saved through this church’s ministry. Your commitment to worship, discipleship and service is a shinning example of Christ’s love in action.
“To the church’s leadership, past and present, I offer gratitude for your leadership, vision and perseverance and hope that legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” said Mr Tivavenge, better known as Simrac.
Mr Tivavenge donated 25 bags of cement for the church expansion and pledged to support the church in the buying of a church mini bus.
The church’s 75th anniversary coincided with opening of a new toilet which was officially opened by the guest.
Baptist Convention of Zimbabwe President,Rev Zvenyka Chigumbu paid tribute to past and present pastors who made Rimuka Baptist Church to stand the test of time.
“I want to pay a special tribute to all Rimuka Baptist Church past and present pastors and the congregants for making the church to be what it is today from that humble beginning in 1950 and for 75 years of unwavering dedication to Baptist Church faith and tireless service of men and women who have departed from us,” said Rev Chigumbu.
Rev Chigumbu also challenged Rimuka Baptist Church to lead by example in coming to the aid of Sanyati Baptist Church and Sanyati Baptist Mission School, since these two institutions were born from Rimuka Baptist Church.
In attendance at the church’s celebrations was 78 year-old Rimuka Baptist School former student, Ruth Zuze.
Kadoma North Baptist Chairperson Pia Ezekiel thanked all those who mooted the idea of building a church and a school at Rimuka.
“We’re happy to celebrate our church’s 75th anniversary and we want to thank all those departed souls for laying down the foundation stone here at Rimuka, and from this church it has given birth to Sanyati Baptist Mission and other centres dotted around the country,” said Pia Ezekiel, Kadoma North Baptist Church Chairman.
