Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. FOR years, the Johanne Masoweapostolic sect has been known as a spiritual refuge for the poor, the bereaved, distressed and the meek.
Only the most committed converts dared to join the congregation, ready to endure its demanding rules and austere conditions.
Most of the yesteryear, vapositori were known for dressing shabbily, walking barefooted, eating poor nutrition food and living unsettled life.
It was only in times of crisis that people would pass through the sect’s doors seeking divine intervention.
After a visit to Mutsabvi, a shrine in Chitungwiza, one will feel an immediate magnetic pull.
No persuasion to join is needed.
Be not surprised when you find a fleet of top-of-the-range vehicles and worshippers clad neatly in their garments.
When NewsDay Society, spoke to Madzibaba Tawanda, real name Batsirai Mugove Mutizwa, the church leader at Mutsabvi, he urged people to stop dwelling on old stereotypes.
“Church settings in the 1970s are different from how we operate now,” he said.
“Even the fashion has changed and so does the way we pray and do other things.
“Who said you should live a deplorable and miserable life to be considered devoted Christian?Such notions are rubbish.”
MadzibabaTawanda said a member of the apostolic sect should be judged by devotion, selflessness and benevolence, and not by dressing.
The new generation of vapositori is embracing the technology and has appreciated world dynamics for the betterment of praying.
“While many things have changed and we must adapt to modern dynamics, devotion should remain untouched and will never be compromised,” Madzibaba Tawanda said.
“We live in a global village, you cannot fight technology.
“It help us to make communication easier and highlight the positive sides of attending Masowe to the whole world not just in Zimbabwe.”
Some of the modern and new generation of apostolic churches can boast having popular congregates like benefactor MadzibabaWicknell Chivayo.
“Mupositori lifestyle should be a testament, proving that there is good life and blessings are in abundance as long as you are a follower,” Madzibaba Tawanda said.
“We have people like Madzibaba Wicknell Chivhayo, Madzibaba Moses and Madzibaba Owen. Any sane person can envy their lives.
“Their philanthropic works and generosity is a testimony to this nation.”
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