‘A Spiritual Giant Has Slept’: Church Leaders Mourn Archbishop Paul Mwazha

Zimbabwe mourns Archbishop Paul Mwazha, founder of the African Apostolic Church, as leaders honour his legacy of faith, service and spiritual leadership at age 107 (image source)

Nation Mourns a Father of Faith

Church leaders across Zimbabwe have paid moving tributes to Archbishop Ernest Paul Mamvura Mwazha, the revered founder of the African Apostolic Church, who passed away on 20 November at the age of 107. Mourners gathered at the family home in Hatfield, Harare, describing a sombre yet deeply spiritual atmosphere as funeral preparations began. Many referred to him as “a father of faith,” a towering religious figure whose influence extended well beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.

Family spokesperson Dr Masimba Mwazha confirmed the passing and thanked the nation for its prayers, noting the Archbishop’s lifelong commitment to ministry, unity, and service to the poor. Church leaders from multiple denominations visited to offer condolences, reflect on his teachings, and share stories of the guidance and reconciliation he provided across decades of leadership.

A Legacy Rooted in Service and Spiritual Discipline

Born in 1918, Archbishop Mwazha founded the African Apostolic Church and became an enduring voice for moral renewal, family stability, and community upliftment. His ministry built a nationwide network of congregations grounded in discipline, humility, and charitable works. Religious commentators said his legacy includes fostering ecumenical respect and nurturing generations of leaders within and beyond the movement.

As news of his passing spread, messages of condolence arrived from provincial church councils, civic organisations and diaspora communities. Many highlighted his role in anchoring faith practice in local culture while maintaining doctrinal integrity. Social media timelines were filled with testimonies of personal transformation and healing associated with his ministry, reflecting the deep, everyday impact of his spiritual work.

Funeral Preparations and National Support

Funeral arrangements, led by the family and church elders, will be announced after consultations with national and local authorities. Organisers expect large numbers of congregants to travel from across the country and have appealed for orderly participation and adherence to guidance from the church’s security and protocol teams. Leaders emphasised that the services will focus on prayer, thanksgiving, and recommitment to the values the Archbishop espoused.

Preserving His Teachings for Future Generations

In the days ahead, church boards plan memorial services and special sessions to document the Archbishop’s teachings for future generations. Scholars of religion have proposed an archival project to preserve sermons, oral histories and community projects inspired by his leadership, ensuring that the story of his ministry remains accessible to young believers and researchers alike.

The African Apostolic Church has asked members to honour his memory through practical acts of compassion — supporting the vulnerable, visiting the sick, and promoting harmony in families and communities. As the nation mourns, religious leaders say the true measure of his life will be seen in the continued commitment of congregants to live out the faith he taught: steadfast, generous, and anchored in service.