Pastoring Big Districts but Small Churches

The mission is clear but the execution is not easy.

Chayedza has been working with her husband in the ministry for nine years. They have three children. Patience is eight, Daniel is six and Hope is two. Chayedza's hobbies include cooking vegetarian dishes, gardening and sewing.

'"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Ghost . . . observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you."— Matthew 28:19, 20.

The mission is clear but the execution is not easy. We are pastoring a big area that includes several districts. Most of the people have never heard of the Gospel. They do not even know who Jesus is and have never knelt down to pray. Sabbath is just another day to them. Clearly, our Lord Jesus has sent us here to do great things.

One day I asked one of the local boys if he was educated. He was about 14 years old. He replied, "I have never been to school." The young man had no birth certificate or national identity card. I asked him about his religion. He said he was not interested in religion, nor was his father or grandfather. This young man is typical of the people in our district.

My husband spends a great deal of time traveling. We have young children and it is difficult to transport them and our belongings and travel with him every Friday. Many times we stay home and wait for his return. Of course, church members like to see a husband and wife team so I try to travel with him at least once a quarter. At each church, the members expect me to remember their names. Sometimes the task seems impossible. Though we are responsible for a big district, it is full of small churches.

Our local church meets in a school for we have no church building. The church members look to me to lead out in singing, Women's Ministries and visitation. If I am unable to lead out, no one takes my place. Programs come to a halt.

Big districts, small churches . sometimes the responsibilities are overwhelming. Yet the Lord gives me strength. I find joy in knowing that I can help my husband in ministry. I experience satisfaction in knowing that the Lord is on my side. I feel excitement as I watch our small churches grow. Thank you, dear Jesus, for the privilege of pastoring big districts, but small churches. 

Chayedza has been working with her husband in the ministry for nine years. They have three children. Patience is eight, Daniel is six and Hope is two. Chayedza's hobbies include cooking vegetarian dishes, gardening and sewing.