Covid 19 Establishes Azitona Branch Launched in Nkhotakota
On November 21, 2020, Pastor Patrick Gazamwala of Nkhotakota district of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church declared Azitona as an independent branch of Nkhotakota at a colourful event that took place at the new church site.
Situated West of Nkhotakota Boma about two kilometres from Nkhotakota trading centre in Vinjenje village in the area of Traditional Authority (TA) Malengachanzi, Azitona accommodates over 150 members.
The branch is a good fruit of COVID-19 prevention measures as it came into existence after the Central Malawi Conference (CMC) declaration of "Jesus Way" convergence due to the Corona virus pandemic.
The event which saw all surrounding Nkhotakota Boma SDA members meet, was blessed with non SDA members and among others was Pastor Chaponga of Apostolic Faith church and Pastor Mwase of Lords Favour Ministry.
Adding to the day's happiness of the congregants, the church welcomed two new members from other faiths who joined the church.
Before the launching of Azitona branch the church organised a week long evangelism by Pastor Patrick Gazamwala under " Akapanda Yehova kuyenda nafe oyendawo ayenda bwanji?" title which extended to be the day's title from Psalm 127:1 and Exodus 25: 8
During the day's divine service pastor Patrick Gazamwala before declaring Azitona as a branch read Psalm 127:1 where it says: " If the Lord doesn't build a house,the builders build in vain''.
Gazamwala emphasized the need of putting God first in everything. He said, the growth of Azitona branch depends on members evangelism.
He said: " Go out and preach the gospel. Let people see the light because of your existence here in Vinjenje village. Its time for us all to get involved in God's work. However, this is possible if we put God first."
Elder Fedrick Chunga took the congregants into the historical background of Azitona branch.
He said, the idea of having Azitona branch ignited on May 5, 2020. This according to Chunga followed the increasing members attending 'Jesus Way' in the area.
he further added that the members decided to share the idea with elders council at Central church and positively the elders council responded and the project started.
The project has so far used 1.8 million kwacha to come up with a temporary shelter but plans to have a permanent church is underway and expected to start early next year.
Reported by Williams Kajoloweka Kaponda
