Sithembinkosi L. Jiyane
Multitudes of Bulawayo residents and members of the Unshakable Pentecostal Church gathered at Lady Stanley Cemetery for the memorial service and tombstone unveiling of Apostle Professor Dr. Haney Resten Sawasawa, the revered founder and leader of the Unshakable Pentecostal Church in Old Magwegwe.
Before proceeding to Lady Stanley Cemetery, the congregation first assembled at the church in Old Magwegwe, where a special memorial service was held.
Members shared fond memories of the late Apostle, reflecting on his humility, powerful preaching, and the deep impact he had on their spiritual lives and the growth of the church.
Apostle Sawasawa, who passed away in October last year, was among the pioneering leaders of black-led Pentecostal movements in Zimbabwe. Having been ordained in 1964, he established the United Pentecostal Church movement in 1967.
What began as small services held under a tree in Mpopoma grew into a far-reaching ministry with over 300 churches across Southern Africa, including branches in Binga, Kezi, Harare, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and many other regions.
During the memorial service, Pastor Godfrey Nyoni, who represented the church board, paid tribute to Apostle Sawasawa, describing him as a devoted man of God who lived a life marked by humility, honesty, and steadfast commitment to his calling.
“Apostle Sawasawa was a true servant of God, humble in spirit, firm in faith, and dedicated to the work of the ministry,” he said.
At the graveside, attended by mourners who arrived in ten buses and numerous private cars, Pastor Calvin Sawasawa, one of the late Apostle’s sons, delivered an emotional sermon centered on love, goodness, and faithfulness.
“This headstone will stand as a visible reminder of a life that touched ours and served God, who holds all life in His hands. Though we feel the absence of a father, pastor, and bishop, we have the presence of the Lord, and that is our greatest comfort,” he said.
He also took a moment to comfort their mother, Mrs. Catherine Sawasawa, reminding her that even though her children may not always be physically present, she is never alone, for God’s presence is constant in her life.
“We may not always be here with you, Mom, but the Holy Spirit will always be by your side, comforting you, strengthening you, and guiding you every step of the way,” he said.
Another son, Pastor James Sawasawa, encouraged congregants to uphold his father’s legacy by remaining steadfast in faith and service.
The commemoration continued into Sunday, as the congregation held a second day of celebration to honour the life of Professor, Dr., Apostle, Reverend Haney Resten Sawasawa.
Members shared heartfelt testimonies of how his ministry transformed their lives, watched recordings of his teachings, and sang his favourite songs. Even the Sunday School children participated, joyfully mimicking his preaching style and performing the songs he loved most.
The memorial and tombstone unveiling of Apostle Sawasawa was more than a ceremony of remembrance, it was a celebration of a powerful legacy built on faith, love, and service.
Through touching tributes, songs, and sermons, the Unshakable Pentecostal Church reaffirmed its dedication to continue his vision of spreading the gospel far and wide, ensuring that his spiritual influence lives on across generations and nations.
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