A Living Witness of Faith and Service
The Orthodox Church in Zimbabwe is a vibrant expression of Christian witness, rooted in the apostolic mission of the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa. From its origins as a spiritual home for Greek and Cypriot immigrants, it has grown into a mission that embraces the wider Zimbabwean community through worship, education, healthcare, and charitable service.
Zimbabwe: A Nation of Promise and Challenge
Zimbabwe, located just north of South Africa, is a land of remarkable natural beauty and rich resources. It is home to the world-famous Victoria Falls, fertile agricultural lands, and a diversified mining sector. Since gaining independence in 1980, the country has faced both progress and difficulties. In recent decades, economic pressures and political challenges have deepened the need for humanitarian outreach and spiritual guidance — areas in which the Church has increasingly stepped forward.
The Growth of Orthodoxy in Zimbabwe
Orthodox Christianity first reached Zimbabwe in the early 20th century, initially serving the Greek and Cypriot diaspora. For decades, parish life focused on preserving faith and traditions within these communities. In the last generation, however, the mission has expanded significantly, opening its doors to local Zimbabweans and offering the treasures of the Orthodox faith to all who seek it.
Missionary Centres and Parish Life
- St. Nektarios Missionary Centre (Harare) – The beating heart of Orthodox mission in Zimbabwe. It includes a daily clinic providing free medical care, a secondary school serving over 200 students, and vibrant youth and catechetical programs every weekend. The parish gathers for the Divine Liturgy and fellowship, fostering a strong sense of community.
- St. Augustine Mission (Bulawayo) – A growing centre in the country’s second-largest city, offering worship, catechesis, and pastoral support.
- Emerging Communities – New churches are being established in Marondera (St. George), Karoi (Theotokos of Jerusalem), and Chinhoyi (The Fountain of Life). A new church dedicated to the Theotokos of Golden Myrrh is also under construction within the grounds of the Hellenic Academy and School in Harare.
Through these centres, the Church not only nourishes the faithful spiritually but also provides scholarships, food, and medical assistance for those in need, ensuring its mission addresses both body and soul.
Challenges and Determination
In some areas, Orthodox believers still gather in private homes or open courtyards due to the absence of a permanent church. These gatherings highlight both the material challenges faced by the community and the unshakable commitment of the faithful to preserve their worship and identity.
Looking to the Future
The Orthodox Church in Zimbabwe continues to grow with hope and vision. With the support of Orthodox Christians worldwide, it aims to expand healthcare services, strengthen education, and build new churches, ensuring a lasting contribution to the life of Zimbabwe and its people.