KABWE – UCZ DIAKONIA EXECUTIVE LODGE: 06/06/2026- The 33rd United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Synod Council Meeting has officially opened in Kabwe, bringing together church leaders from across the country and mission partners from around the world in a gathering marked by calls for unity, spiritual renewal, and transformative leadership.
The meeting, being held at the UCZ Diakonia Executive Lodge, has attracted representatives from key international and regional partner organisations, including the Council for World Mission (CWM), CEVAA, the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA), the All Africa Conference of Churches, and the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ). A representative from the Reformed Church in Zambia (RCZ) is also in attendance.
In his Synod Bishop’s Charge during the official opening, the UCZ Synod Bishop Rev. Festus Chulu described the gathering as a “divine appointment” and urged delegates to rise to the occasion.
“The time to change the narrative is now,” he declared, calling on the Church to move from division to unity, from stagnation to growth, and from maintenance to mission.
Bishop Chulu emphasized that the Church must respond to changing societal dynamics by embracing unity, integrity, mission, responsibility, and prayer, adding that the Synod must serve as a platform for discernment and renewal under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Delivering fraternal greetings, Rev. Dr. Banda from the Reformed Church of Zambia (RCZ) representative highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two churches, noting that as RCZ celebrates 127 years of existence, it continues to regard UCZ as a reliable and valued partner.
Meanwhile, Bible Society of Zambia Executive Secretary Dr. Chikasa underscored the historical ties between the two institutions, particularly referencing the role of the late Rev. Paul Bweembya Mushindo in translating the Bible into Bemba. He noted that this shared history remains significant and cannot be overlooked.
And speaking at the same event, General Secretary of the Council of Churches in Zambia, Rev. Phiri, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting member churches. He expressed pride in UCZ’s membership and called for divine guidance as the Synod deliberations commence.
“We pray that as this meeting begins, the Holy Spirit guides you,” Rev. Phiri said, adding that the CCZ remains dedicated to promoting peace, justice, good governance, and the holistic well-being of society.
CEEVA General Secretary Rev. Claudia Schulz, in her remarks, emphasised the interconnectedness of the partnership, stating that CEEVA should not be viewed as an external entity but as an integral part of the UCZ family.
“I have been sent to say we need each other,” she said.
Representing the Council for World Mission, Rev. Damon Mkandawire, who also serves as Secretary for Ecology and Social Justice, described the Synod Council Meeting as both an act of worship and a platform for discernment. He commended the UCZ for its work in Zambia and called for continued commitment to the church’s mission.
“As you deliberate during the Synod, may the Holy Spirit grant you wisdom, courage, and discernment,” Rev. Mkandawire said, assuring the gathering of CWM’s prayers and solidarity.
Meanwhile, fraternal greetings were also delivered by Rev. Masilo Phate, Executive Secretary of the Lesotho Evangelical Church in Southern Africa (LECSA), who reaffirmed the importance of unity and partnership within the global church. He emphasized the shared mission among member churches and encouraged continued collaboration in advancing the work of God across the region.
Guest of Honour Rev. Wellington Mthobisi Sibanda, representing UCCSA General Secretary Rev. Kudzani Ndebele, called for a shift from division to unity within the church. Reflecting on the journey from 1965 to 2026, he urged the Synod to remain Christ-centered and transformational.
“The church Jesus Christ prayed for is one that is united,” he said. “Be contextual, be transformational, the goal is transformed communities that reflect the Kingdom of God.”
The Synod Council Meeting is expected to continue with deliberations aimed at strengthening the church’s mission and impact in Zambia and beyond.