Support Our Sister in Ministry: Pastor Ruth from Zimbabwe
McPherson First UMC has a special opportunity to support Pastor Ruth, who serves rural congregations in Zimbabwe while pursuing theological studies at Africa University. Despite facing significant personal challenges—including the loss of both parents and daily struggles with transportation and internet access—Ruth continues to lead worship each weekend by traveling from campus to her three rural churches, often on foot due to limited resources. Her circuit includes churches located 4.5 and 6 kilometers from the parsonage, requiring substantial travel time in challenging conditions.
The Usahwira program, meaning "a beautiful friendship" in the Shona language, allows our congregation to directly support Ruth's theological education and ministry development. Your contributions will help cover her tuition, living expenses, and practical ministry needs as she serves congregations in Marange District, Nyarurwe Circuit. These communities are particularly vulnerable to climate change, with members relying on rain-fed agriculture in a hot climate that has become increasingly unpredictable, affecting both church resources and community well-being.
Ruth, now in her third year at Africa University and consistently on the Dean's List, shares that despite challenges with her left leg that sometimes requires crutches, she remains committed to evangelism and pastoral care. "God is so faithful," Ruth reminds us, demonstrating remarkable resilience while caring for her two children as a widow. Though a church family recently donated a used car to assist with her ministry, the congregation struggles to afford fuel and maintenance, leaving Ruth to often fund these expenses from her limited personal resources.
To participate in this meaningful partnership, mark your offering "Africa University Student" during this Sunday's service on March 9. By investing in Ruth's education, we strengthen church leadership in Zimbabwe and participate in God's transformative work across Africa. Ruth has shared prayer requests including support for building a retirement home, continuing her education through Master's and PhD levels, and obtaining reliable transportation to reduce physical strain during her ministry work. For additional information about this partnership opportunity or ways to provide ongoing support, please contact the church office.