Church of the Nazarene Africa Region Newsletter | August 2017
Table of contents:
Called to Serve: Dr. Filimao Chambo
Letter from Dr. Filimao Chambo
ANU Appoints New Vice Chancellor
First-time General Assembly Attendees Reflect
Madagascar Street Kids Center Celebrates 20 Years
Prayer requests
Called to Serve: Dr. Filimao Chambo
Filimao Chambo, Africa regional director, was elected the 42nd general superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene on 26 June 2017. He was elected on the 7th ballot at the 29th General Assembly in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
After being escorted to the stage by General Secretary David Wilson and a host of African delegates, he was embraced by General Superintendent Eugénio R. Duarte - the first African general superintendent (Cabo Verde).
Chambo, who is from Mozambique and lives in South Africa, addressed the assembly.
"As a child, I sensed in one of my conversations with the Lord that he was calling me into full-time ministry," he said. "My response to the Lord was, 'No, this will not happen ... if you really need to call someone, call my brothers or my sister'."
Chambo, born in a Nazarene hospital to parents who were both Nazarene pastors, shared that he attended a youth camp where a missionary couple prayed God would call young people into the ministry. It was at that camp Chambo again heard God's call to be a minister.
"I said, 'Lord, I really thought that we settled this many years ago.' But I'm glad that in that youth camp, I said yes to the Lord," he said.
In college, Chambo said he sensed God was calling him to a ministry beyond just one location.
"It was clear that God was calling me to be available to serve His people around the world," he said. "One thing that I know is that when God calls, it's not just a one moment call. He continuously calls us every day, every moment, for whatever He wants us to be a part of.
"As I stand here before you today, I stand as a servant of God who has been equipped by the church, transformed by God, willing to continuously surrender his life to be a servant.
"My prayer was if it is of God, it will give me peace," he continued. "So, I stand before you and say, 'Yes, I accept to serve you'."
Dr. Chambo and Samantha, and Dr. Carla Sunberg and husband, Chuck, being prayed over during installation service on 29 June 2017.
Chambo completed a diploma in theology at Seminario Nazareno em Mozambique, in Maputo, Mozambique, a Bachelor of Theology at Nazarene Theological College in Johannesburg, South Africa, a master's in Biblical Studies at the University of Johannesburg, and his Ph.D. in Biblical Studies at the same university. He was ordained on January 16, 2000. Chambo speaks several African languages in addition to English and Portuguese. He has served in many leadership roles, including pastor, teacher, and principal.
Samantha Chambo is also an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene with her master's in Theology from Nazarene Theological College in Manchester, England, and is working toward finishing her PhD from the same institution.
Filimao and Samantha Chambo have a daughter, Tsakani, and a son, Emanuel.
On Thursday evening, 29 June 2017, Dr. Chambo and Dr. Carla D. Sunberg were installed as the 42nd and 43rd General Superintendents in the Church of the Nazarene. Dr. Sunberg was elected the 43rd GS on Tuesday, 26 June 2017. [NCN News]
A Letter from Dr. Filimao Chambo
It has taken me a long time to find the right words to pen down on this note. Many of you have been a part of my family and of our ministry. Together we learned new ways to serve a diverse Church across the Region.
When I was elected as Regional Director, we had a membership of 410,816. Today we have 674,414 members on the Africa Region. As far as we know, 82 different languages are used in worship services on the Region. We serve a continent with many contrasts: We are ministering to the poor, to the middle class and to the wealthy, to the literate and illiterate. We all had to learn new ways and languages to respond to the need to develop a diverse Church. We have seen the structures and the systems of the Church support and facilitate ministry. You have been a part of making it possible for the Church to continue to grow and to make an impact in communities on the continent of Africa.
Friends, I thank God for each one of you and for your ministry. We all represent diverse gifts and graces, we have different assignments and skills, but we are one team and we are participating in one mission - the Mission of our Lord Jesus Christ. We all are called by God and are equipped by the Church. We are transformed and being transformed by God for His purposes. I pray that you will continue to present your lives to Christ and allow him to guide and direct your life and ministry.
The recent General Assembly brought changes that led to the need for this note. The month of June was one of the most difficult months for me. As I prayed about how I should respond to my name appearing on the ballot to serve as General Superintendent, I began to sense that God did not want me to remove my name as I did in 2013. I committed to the Lord that I would respond in the way that He would direct, and, at the same time, I prayed that I would not be elected. Yet, when the voting began and I was elected, I had inner peace that cannot be described in words. It was the unique and overwhelming presence of the Lord and His voice directing me. I have no doubt that I am at the center of God's will as I begin to serve in my new role. As you can imagine these have been days of mixed emotions and lots of details, but I have not, and will not, stop praying for the Africa Region.
I would therefore like to encourage you to fix your eyes on Jesus and to trust Him throughout the election process for a Regional Director. I know that the Lord already has someone prepared whom He will call to serve as your team leader and Regional Director. I commit to join you in helping the new Regional Director to adjust to his or her ministry.
I pray that you will continue to excel in gifts that would build up the Church (1 Cor. 14:12). Be strong and courageous in the Lord and do not be afraid for the Lord is with you. He is the head of the Church.
With love and appreciation.
Your brother,
Filimao M. Chambo
Regional Director Church of the Nazarene
Africa Region
ANU Selects New Vice Chancellor
The Chairman of the Board and University Council, Dr. Filimao Chambo, announced the election of Africa Nazarene University's incoming Vice Chancellor - Dr. Stanley Makhosi Bhebhe. The election follows the conclusion of Professor Leah T. Marangu's 21 years of dedicated service as ANU's Vice-Chancellor. Dr. Bhebhe remains Vice Chancellor - elect until he officially assumes office on the 1st of November this year after Prof. Marangu's end of tenure.
Dr. Bhebe at ANU
Dr. Bhebhe's election is the culmination of an extensive search that began last August by ANU's Board and Vice Chancellor Committee.Dr. Bhebhe comes to ANU with a wealth of executive experience in government, non-profit, and the education sector. Dr. Bhebhe is the Chief Executive Officer for Independent Development Trust, South Africa. Previously , he has served as; Chief Executive Officer World Vision- South Africa, Program Director and Senior Lecturer at the School of Community Development and Adult Learning at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban - South Africa, External examiner for the Community Development Program in both the University of Pretoria and the University of Cape Town, Lecturer in Religion, Ethics and Culture Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg - South Africa, and as Vice Rector for Academic Affairs and Professor of Contextual Theology at Nazarene Theological College in Muldersdrift, South Africa.
Dr. Bhebhe holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Religion and Society (with a focus on Cultural Anthropology) from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, USA; a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) with majors in Anthropology of Religion and Social Ethics from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, USA; a Master of Arts (M. A.) in African Religions with a minor in the History of Christianity in Africa from the University of Zimbabwe in Harare, Zimbabwe; a Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) from the Reformed Theological College of Australia and New Zealand in Geelong, Victoria, Australia; a Licentiate in Theology (B.A. Theology equivalent) from the Evangelical Seminary of Southern Africa in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa; and a Diploma in Mass Communication from the Christian College of Southern Africa in Harare, Zimbabwe. He has also completed other Postgraduate studies, several Certificate and professional development courses in Management, Change Management, Labor Relations, Leadership, Project Management, Urban Infrastructure Design and Management and Corporate Governance.
Praying for Dr's Bhebe and Marangu during this transition.
Dr. Bhebhe is a long-time active leader in the Church of the Nazarene, including the local church, district, and Africa Region. He also served as a lay member of the 2006 - 2009 Church of the Nazarene General Board.
Dr. Chambo and Vice Chancellor's search committee are delighted that Dr. Bhebhe has accepted the position and are looking forward to working alongside him and his wife Busi. Having served in ANU's Council previously, they are confident that he will provide outstanding leadership to Africa Nazarene University. The Chairman referred to Dr. Bhebhe as highly enthusiastic and committed to the ministry of Christian Higher Education in the Church of the Nazarene and his willingness to serve the Church in the Educational arm for many years.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Bhebhe emphasized his intention to serve the institution to the best of his ability, dependent on God's grace, with prayers and guidance from the Church. He said, "Busi and I are humbled to be called upon by the Church to make our small contribution to the advancement of our Church's commitment to making Christ-like disciples in Africa by assuming the leadership of this historic University. We accept the assignment with both excitement and fear but with great belief in God's provision and anointing for this very special assignment".
Dr. Daniel Copp, Education Commissioner for the Church of the Nazarene International Board of Education (IBOE), congratulated ANU on the election of its Vice Chancellor. He noted that the ANU community has been blessed by yet another transformational leader following Professor Marangu's transformational era. He is confident that Dr. Bhebhe, a highly regarded leader, will continue to advance the great mission of Africa Nazarene University.
Professor Marangu commended Dr. Bhebhe for being appointed ANU's Vice Chancellor. She said, " I take this opportunity to thank God for guiding this process that has given us a God fearing Servant Leader who I believe will carry the vision and mission of ANU to develop God led individuals of Character and integrity who will build His Kingdom in Africa and beyond." [ANU Website]
First-Time Attendees Reflect on General Assembly
General Assembly is an exciting time of experiencing the Global Church. Here are the impressions of a few who went to General Assembly for the very first time.
Rev. Esperance Chirezi Chishibanji (DRC South Katanga District):
Rev. Chishibani is the first female from the D.R. Congo to attend the General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene. It was a great experience that will last forever in her memory. It was a learning experience and also a way of seeing how we belong to the global, worldwide, wonderful church. Blessed be the name of the Lord our God to save us and use us in the Nazarene Church. From the NMI convention to the General Assembly everything was a new. The organization of the conference and the time focus orientation is an example to imitate in different meetings at the other levels of the Church. This was also a time to meet beloved brothers and sisters around the world. To God be glory and honor for ever and evermore.Rosaline Asia Scholtz (RSA Western Cape District):
It was my first time attending the General Assembly. From the time I was young, it
was my fathers dream to attend the GA, but he passed away in 1977 and was never able to go. I had to honor his wish, so this year I was able to attend the General Assembly for the first time as a visitor. I am in awe to know our church is so big. A highlight for me was seeing all of the different flags of the different countries all over the world where there is a church of the Nazarene was awesome. Seeing our churches in different parts of the world brought tears to my eyes. And it was awesome to see another General Superintendent elected from Africa.
I, too, share this same vision to win souls for Christ and to make Christ-like disciples in the nations. My perceptions have changed, and I look forward to General Assembly 2021.
Rev. Gift Mtukwe (Kenya Central District, ANU):
I had the opportunity to attend the 29th General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene as a visitor. I saw for the first time what it means to truly be a global church. Many people from different world areas under one roof, worshipping together was extraordinary. In a way, it helps you see what worship will look like at the end of time as described in the book of Revelation, when people from different languages will come and worship the king. As Nazarenes, we get a glimpse of this every four years.
I met many people with whom I had met in other contexts. For me, General Assembly was a big family reunion. It was impossible to get to meetings on time because on the way I met many people I knew and had to greet. The second day I became wiser and left the hotel room earlier in order to get to the meetings on time.
What was most surprising for me was how the resolutions were debated. The parliamentary procedures were followed fully. The delegates had to familiarize themselves with Robert's book of order. I appreciate this because it brings order to the assembly. The Chairs (our GS's) chaired with grace and a lot of humor, which made the assembly very interesting. I enjoyed the debates and the speeches for and against the resolutions. The [use of electronic devices] helped to ensure the validity of the election process.
My overall impression of the GA was that it was an interesting event. It is something which every Nazarene should attend when resources allow. I am sure they will not regret buying a ticket. The highlight for me was to witness the election of Dr. Filimao Chambo and Dr. Carla Sunberg as General Superintendents. The unity of the church in selecting her leaders is extraordinary. Our leaders in this sense are truly global leaders. We in Africa will miss Dr. Chambo, at the same time, we are happy that he will serve the global church.
Madagascar Street Kids Center Celebrates 20 Years
Celebrating God's almighty work was the aim of the celebration of the 20th
The staff of the Street Kids Center
anniversary of the Madagascar Street Kids Center in Antananarivo, Madagascar. From June 1997 until June 2017, the journey has been long with many experiences and thousand kids who have come through the doors of the center to receive holistic development: physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual. The celebration of 20 years was a great and important event for the Church of Nazarene in Madagascar and the world, as well as for the kids at the center where they are becoming Christ-like disciples in Madagascar and beyond.
When the Street Kids Center first began, they had 2 choices: first choice was to feed 500
What was most surprising for me was how the resolutions were debated. The parliamentary procedures were followed fully. The delegates had to familiarize themselves with Robert's book of order. I appreciate this because it brings order to the assembly. The Chairs (our GS's) chaired with grace and a lot of humor, which made the assembly very interesting. I enjoyed the debates and the speeches for and against the resolutions. The [use of electronic devices] helped to ensure the validity of the election process.
My overall impression of the GA was that it was an interesting event. It is something which every Nazarene should attend when resources allow. I am sure they will not regret buying a ticket. The highlight for me was to witness the election of Dr. Filimao Chambo and Dr. Carla Sunberg as General Superintendents. The unity of the church in selecting her leaders is extraordinary. Our leaders in this sense are truly global leaders. We in Africa will miss Dr. Chambo, at the same time, we are happy that he will serve the global church.
Madagascar Street Kids Center Celebrates 20 Years
Celebrating God's almighty work was the aim of the celebration of the 20th
The staff of the Street Kids Center
anniversary of the Madagascar Street Kids Center in Antananarivo, Madagascar. From June 1997 until June 2017, the journey has been long with many experiences and thousand kids who have come through the doors of the center to receive holistic development: physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual. The celebration of 20 years was a great and important event for the Church of Nazarene in Madagascar and the world, as well as for the kids at the center where they are becoming Christ-like disciples in Madagascar and beyond.
When the Street Kids Center first began, they had 2 choices: first choice was to feed 500
street children for three months and that's all, or to feed 100 street children with literacy, Bible study and health care through the support of Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) for one year. The long-term choice was made, and now, looking back, God's mighty hand and His work can be seen!The main mission of SKC is "sharing". It started like that--by sharing food and care for the kids who were on the streets. Just as it did in June 1997, today kids from SKC do the same--they share God's love with the kids who are still begging in the streets. Because they have received the love of God, they want to share it with others.
In November 2016, the staff had a meeting to begin to plan and think about what to do to celebrate this milestone. First and most importantly, they put everything in God's hand. As it says in Proverbs 16: 3, "Trust your work to the Lord, and your plans will work out well." The staff put everything in God's hands--everything that was even thought of--and trusted in Him with everything.
The 27th of January 2017, was the kick off the 6 months of the celebration. It began by giving glory to God for what He has done at and for the Center. The celebration opened up with singing, dancing, hymns, the unveiling of the logo and a poetry contest. The aim and spirit was always about giving God the glory and thanking Him.
The main celebration of the 20th anniversary was on July 18 until July 23, 2017. We did an open house for parents, children and neighbors to learn more about the work we do at the SKC. We also had different workshops to use this opportunity to further train and educate our people. There were also talent shows, crafts on display and games for
people to play--all with the help of our youth volunteers. On Sunday, June 23, all of the hard work culminated in a celebration with the church congregation with 850 people coming together to celebrate God's mighty work. Besides the praise led by the youth and the preaching, we could share a lunch together and spend a wonderful time fellowshipping together.What a great and amazing celebration. Jesus was and is and always will be with us. Greater work is still waiting us here with the kids, but we thank God for what has been doing for 20 years, and what He will continue to do. [Rev. Therese Ravelomanantsoa, SKC Director]
PRAYER REQUESTS
- Pray for our Global Leaders as they work toward appointing a new Regional Director for the Africa Region. Pray they will be led to the correct individual.
- Pray for the Chambo family as they transition to their new position and this new chapter in their lives.
- Please pray for the extended families of Philip and Katy Rhodebush who have experienced acute losses in their families in the last two months.
- Please remember to pray for the millions of people in the Horn of Africa and East Africa who have been effected by the recent drought and extreme famine. If you would like to give toward famine relief, please click here.
- Pray for the millions of people worldwide who are currently finding themselves in the position of being a refugee--more than 3 million in Africa alone. (To give toward the Syrian refugee crisis, go here.)
- Remember the believers who are serving in Creative Access Areas whose lives and families are in danger on a daily basis.
ABOUT THE REGION
The Nazarene Church is in 42 countries in Africa, with more than 600,000 members in six fields.
What would you like to see in Out of Africa?
Email us at news@africanazarene.org.
Mrs. Shelly Miller, editor
Africa Region Church of the Nazarene
17 Botes Street
Johannesburg, Gauteng South Africa
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