Zimbabwe United Methodist Church in Canada

The Zimbabwe United Methodist Church in Canada is a Canadian nonprofit religious organization serving the Zimbabwean diaspora community through worship, cultural preservation, and support programs. It operates under the unique arrangement between The United Methodist Church and The United Church of Canada, focusing primarily on ethnic ministry for Zimbabwean migrants across Canadian cities.

History and Background

The church was founded by Zimbabwean migrants bringing their Methodist faith and worship traditions to Canada. The first congregation was established in Toronto, which remains a central hub for the community. From there, additional congregations and prayer groups have been founded in Edmonton, Calgary, Hamilton, Fort McMurray, and Vancouver, reflecting the migration and settlement patterns of Zimbabweans across the country.

The Zimbabwe United Methodist Church in Canada receives support from both The United Methodist Church of Zimbabwe and The United Church of Canada. The Edmonton Presbytery of The United Church of Canada has played a significant role in supporting the Edmonton congregation, providing an administrative structure and partnership for the mission.

Mission and Programs

The church's mission includes fostering a spiritual home for Zimbabweans living in Canada, maintaining cultural and language ties, and providing community support. Worship services are conducted in Shona, along with traditional Zimbabwean musical instruments such as the hosho (gourd shaker) and drums, helping the community feel connected to their heritage.

Beyond worship, the church organizes ongoing programs such as Bible study groups and men’s and women’s fellowship activities. These programs aim to nurture faith, provide mutual support, and address the challenges faced by Zimbabwean migrants, including political refugee issues and economic hardships.

Leadership and Partnerships

The church is coordinated regionally by a mission coordinator appointed by The United Methodist Church's General Board of Global Ministries. Since 2017, the Rev. Tazvionepi Nyarota has served as the mission coordinator overseeing Zimbabwe United Methodist congregations across Canada, particularly in western provinces. Her role includes pastoral care and fostering connections among the scattered congregations.

The Zimbabwe United Methodist Church in Canada operates as a mission under The United Church of Canada’s Migrant Churches unit, which welcomes members from various Protestant traditions including United Methodist, Presbyterian, and others. The church embraces the motto: “open doors, open minds and open hearts,” signifying its inclusive approach.

Cultural and Community Impact

The church provides a vital cultural link for Zimbabwean Canadians who often face difficulties maintaining connections with their homeland due to political unrest and economic instability in Zimbabwe. Many congregants are political refugees or economic migrants who send financial support back to family in Zimbabwe, sustaining transnational ties despite geographic distance.

The Zimbabwe United Methodist Church in Canada continues to grow as it expands its reach through new congregations and prayer groups, fostering a sense of community and spiritual belonging among Zimbabwean migrants across Canada.

Business Registration Number: 839737863RR0001
This organization is registered as a nonprofit entity in Canada.