As the festive season brought joy to many, the Victorious Apostolic Church, led by Bishop Stanleck Chariga and Mhamha Chariga, demonstrated that the true spirit of Christmas lies in giving and compassion.
In a heart-warming initiative, the church reached out to people living with disabilities with early Christmas gifts, bringing smiles and relief to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
The event, which took place last Sunday at the church site, underscored the church’s commitment to community service and its desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of disadvantaged individuals and families.
Founded in 2019 in the Pingo area of Kadoma as a prayer group by three couples, Victorious Apostolic Church has since grown steadily.
The Christmas outreach initiative reflects the church’s core values of love, kindness and generosity.
According to church founder Bishop Stanleck Chariga, the outreach programme was designed to uplift vulnerable groups by providing essential items while also fostering a sense of belonging.
“Our aim is to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and families,” said Bishop Chariga.
“We want them to know that they are valued and remembered.”
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The Christmas groceries distribution, held at the church building, targeted elderly people and children living with disabilities.
Food hampers were distributed to beneficiaries, bringing joy and relief to those who needed support the most.
Church members and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the initiative, describing it as a privilege to give back to the community.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Bishop Chariga expressed gratitude to God and to church members who contributed to the initiative.
“We thank God for giving us the opportunity to collect groceries and share them with the needy,” he said.
“It is a privilege to serve the community, and we are grateful for the support of our members and volunteers.
“We hope this brings joy and cheer to those who are less fortunate.”
He added that the church would continue serving the community in any way possible.
Pastor Hamunyari (Maware) Kasere said the church’s support for people living with disabilities was part of an annual outreach programme.
“Every year, we make it a point to reach out to those in need, especially our brothers and sisters living with disabilities,” she said.
She noted that the church has previously visited areas such as Murombedzi, Pixiecombie, Nherera Centre and Rimuka, where in 2024 it donated wheelchairs, crutches and groceries.
“This year, we are happy to bring hampers to our friends with disabilities, bringing joy and hope into their lives,” Pastor Kasere said.
“We believe in serving the community and making a difference, and we remain committed to this outreach programme, trusting that God will bless our efforts.”
Beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to the church for the assistance.
“Thank God for these groceries; we were really struggling. The church has shown us love and kindness. May God bless them,” said Maria, one of the beneficiaries.
Elizabeth Phiri (63), a widow, said the donation came at a critical time. “It is hard to make ends meet, but the church has helped me in my time of need. Thank you for the groceries, and may God bless the church and its members,” she said.
Beatrice Custome, the mother of 10-year-old Dorcas Mamhere who has a disability, also expressed appreciation.
“It is not easy raising a physically disabled child, but the church has shown us love and kindness. I am truly grateful, and may God bless them,” she said.
By remembering the underprivileged, Victorious Apostolic Church has reaffirmed the message that everyone deserves to feel valued and loved, especially during the festive season. The initiative has left a lasting impact on the community and has inspired others to follow suit.
As the festive season continues, the church’s message of love, compassion and generosity is expected to resonate widely, with plans already in place to expand its outreach programmes and make an even greater impact in the coming year.
