Worshiping and Singing Praises to God!

Sept. 20, 2014

In my visits to various churches here in Zimbabwe, I am overwhelmed by the number of men in the congregations.  In some churches the men sit on one side and the women on another!  Several churches I visited were built in the shape of a cross, and the two sides of the crossbar were men on one side and women on the other.   Hilltop UMC (below) the largest UMC church in the Mutare area has about 2,000 members. 

During the serving of communion there were often people four rows deep on their knees waiting to be served.  As folks left, others would move up to receive the elements.  It was hard on my old knees, but I made it back to my seat!

This is one of the side entrances ~~ note the women in blue dresses with red trim and white hats ~~ they are members of United Methodist Women and wear their uniforms proudly!!  Gentlemen who were in the choir or serving as ushers all wore blue banners with the UMC symbol on them across their chest.

Some years back an addition was built on the back of the church as you can see in this picture, and still,  there is not enough space for everyone to sit down. My camera is not good enough for a picture that would show the filled sanctuary!!

When I inquired about why they didn't schedule multiple services, they said the congregation wouldn't stand for it!  They love the feeling of community, and the opportunity to visit with everyone!!

 Most churches have both a Men's and Women's Choir, and each year they compete with choirs across several Districts.  When I was here in 2011 we heard one of the Women's Choirs which had won top honors in a recent competition!

The Men's Choir competition was held this year at the church on the Old Mutare Mission on Sept. 20.. There were 39 choirs ranging in size from 12 to 35 members.  Each choir sang two anthems ~~ one that they selected, and one that every choir sang.  Awards were presented after all had performed!!  The program began around 8:30 am and finished at about 4:30 pm, and the sanctuary remained full during the entire day!!  I hope the above video is available for you to hear.  At the end of the afternoon I felt like I almost knew the anthem that every choir sang!!!  What a wonderful way to praise God with beautiful voices!!  Just wonder what a difference it would make if our churches had good Men's Choirs??????

Through their music they certainly provide many blessings!!!