13/09/2026
Today’s Sunday service at Belfast Preaching Point (BPP) was led by our liturgist, Mrs Tariro Gurure, Lay Leader, who encouraged us from 2 Timothy 3:16–17: all Scripture is inspired by God and equips us for every good work.
Our preacher, Mai Mufundisi H. Budiyo, who attended supported by Mufundisi Dumisani Budiyo and family, shared from Jeremiah 17:7–8, Isaiah 40:31, and Psalm 1:1–3.
The service was also filled with joyful praise! The Junior Sunday School (JSS) joyously sang about doing everything for God, whether singing, jumping or dancing. The Youth ministered vibrantly, led by the Spirit as they sang a hymn and a chorus reminding us to rise again whenever we are knocked down.
Jeremiah wrote words of hope during the difficult season of exile. In the same way, our growing Belfast congregation was reminded that we are like trees planted beside the never-ending spring of living water, Jesus Christ. We need not fear the heat, the changing seasons, or attacks from the enemy. When our roots remain deep in Christ, our leaves stay green and we continue to bear fruit in due season.
As BPP journeys towards becoming a local church, many among us will step into leadership. The call is to bloom wherever God has planted us, in the church, our families, our workplaces, and our communities. In this Year of Renewal, we believe God is doing a new thing in Belfast. Let us shine, use our gifts, remain open to continuous learning, and never be afraid to ask when we are unsure. Each of us has a God-given purpose, we are not here by mistake. Preparation often takes longer than service, so as we set our objectives for the year ahead, may we first prepare our hearts through the Word of God.
The Preacher also testified about facing discouraging challenges from people she respected. Yet she found renewed courage through Hymn 207, Nganditungamirwe Mwari, a prayer asking God to remove all fear and help us trust His strength to reach the other side of the river. Let us stay rooted in Christ, grounded in His Word, and connected to the Source. As we wait upon the Lord, He will renew our strength, and we will soar like eagles!
We also joyfully welcomed two new MUMC members today, and both boldly declared, “vauya zvachose!”, (they have come for good!) We praise God for the growth of His church and warmly welcome them into the UMC family.
