The following article was written by the Revd Blessing Shambare, of Harare Diocese, in Zimbabwe. Blessing is studying for an MA in Applied Theology at the USPG/Methodist-supported Selly Oak College for Mission Studies (SOCMS), in Birmingham.

Anglicanism in the Diocese of Harare is an exuberant experience of Christian identity, despite persecution and alienation. For three years, Anglican Christians in Harare have been treated as aliens and denied regular access to places of worship by a discredited former bishop, with the assistance of police, judiciary and government.

Despite these hardships, the church continues to grow in number and in spirit, with congregations exuding joy, hope and oneness. It is a reincarnation of the apostolic church as presented in the book of Acts. The singing and dancing during worship shows how people view God in face of persecution – and demonstrates how proud people are to be called Anglicans.

My experience in the Diocese of Harare has impacted on my vocation as I am studying at SOCMS. My studies have challenged some of my traditional thinking of mission, as have the lives and ideas of my fellow students. My studies have led me to see anew my situation in Zimbabwe and the ugly challenges therein.

Through my experience at SOCMS, I am now encouraged to see these hard, ugly difficulties as opportunities for mission, calling me to develop alternative mission models.

I am grateful to USPG and others for the financial support that has enabled me to further my studies. I am now looking forward to the next stage: putting it into practice.

Gracious Lord and Saviour Christ,
Lead us from Untruth to Truth,
Lead us from Darkness to Light,
Lead us from Death to Life.
Amen

This week's prayers

Sunday 25

Eighth Sunday after Trinity This week we pray for Selly Oak Centre for Mission Studies, in Birmingham, as it prepares and trains Christians for engagement with mission throughout the world. Pray for God’s blessing on staff and students.

Monday 26

James the Apostle Give thanks for the impact that studying at SOCMS has had on the Revd Blessing Shambare. Pray that he will be able to put his new learning into practice when he returns to Harare Diocese, in Zimbabwe.

Tuesday 27

Pray for Dr Evie Vernon, the director of SOCMS. Pray that she will know God’s guidance as she oversees the work of the centre.

Wednesday 28

Pray for theological and mission training – at SOCMS and other colleges. Pray that they will prepare church leaders who address global challenges, including climate change, HIV and AIDS, poverty and women’s rights.

Thursday 29

Pray for students at SOCMS as they face the challenge of a rigorous twelve months of study. Thank God for the love and spirit he has bestowed on them to remain committed and focused despite being a long distance from families and loved ones.

Friday 30

Pray for the development and discussion of new initiatives in doing mission, and for all those engaged in exploring new concepts in inter faith and multicultural encounter.

Saturday 31

SOCMS is part of the Queen’s Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education. Pray for the Revd Canon Dr David Hewlett, Principal of the Queen’s Foundation, and all Foundation staff.