Nazarene journal

I came across a post on the official Facebook page of the Church of the Nazarene Posted on March 16, 2012. The post was about the very first Church of the Nazarene to be constructed in Zambia—a structure built in 1964. The moment I saw it, something stirred in me and I knew I had to go see it for myself.But before I made my trip, I reached out to the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center. I wanted to know: How many churches are there in Zambia today? What is the current membership and Other Statistics and history related to the Chipongwe Church? I’ll share the exact details with you as we go forward In October 2023 I set out on a journey to visit this historic church. I had the humble privilege of Talking to the then (late) presiding pastor, pastor Mwachiyaba before the trip who shared a little of its backstory. He shared that the first pastor of the Chipongwe Church was Rev. Banda who later went on to pastor Chikumbi Church of the Nazarene. He was succeeded by Rev. Kalulu then Rev. Nagoma. Rev. Banda returned once again to pastor the church after retiring in 1986. To help you picture it better here’s where this church stands today within the Africa Southeast Field of the Africa Region, More specifically, it is found in the Zambia South District. Chipongwe Church is Located in Shimabala Area Along Kafue Road Before Shimabala Tall Plaza or Tall Gate The church is located about 36 kilometers from the Central Business District (CBD) of Lusaka. It sits in a beautiful area—peaceful and full of history.As I traveled through the Zambia South District, I took time to gather bit of it’s history. The Church of the Nazarene entered Zambia in 1961 as compiled by Howard Culbertson. During that time Leadership served the entire country the first indigenous District Superintendent was Reverend Nicholas Chirwa who served as pastor for chikumbi church of the Nazarene in 1974 and pastored chilenje church in 1975 before becoming the first Indinginus District superintendent in 1976 He held this position for 10 years serving until 1986. In 1990, Pastored Kalimansenga Church of the Nazarene until his retirement at the end of 2020. History is beautiful isn’t it? There are solder’s of the Cross who have indeed made history Beautiful. other early churches like Woodlands, Matero, Chikubi and many more. Today according to the Global Ministry Center’s response to my inquiry, the Church of the Nazarene in Zambia has 388 churches spread across the country, with a membership of over 67,264. Let me give you a few Churches sorrounding this beautiful old Golden Treasure within Zambia South District. Misisi Church of the Nazarene Mtendere Church of the Nazarene Nampundwe Church of the Nazarene Nangoma Church of the Nazarene New Jim Church of the Nazarene State Lodge Church of the Nazarene Trinity Church of the Nazarene Woodlands Church of the Nazarene Zambia Copperbelt Church of the Nazarene Zambia South Church of the Nazarene Magazine Church of the Nazarene Mapepe Church of the Nazarene Matero Church of the Nazarene Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene John Laing Church of the Nazarene Kabwata Church of the Nazarene Kafue Church of the Nazarene Kalimasenga Church of the Nazarene Kalingalinga Church of the Nazarene Kanyama Central Church of the Nazarene Kanyama South Church of the Nazarene Kanyama West Church of the Nazarene Bauleni Church of the Nazarene Bethel Church of the Nazarene Chatwika Church of the Nazarene Chazanga Church of the Nazarene Chelstone Church of the Nazarene Chikumbi Church of the Nazarene Chilenje Church of the Nazarene Chipata Church of the Nazarene Chipongwe Church of the Nazarene Triumph church of the Nazarene Power of love Church of the Nazarene Power of change church of the Nazarene Power of faith Church of the Nazarene Power of Praise Church of the Nazarene

What is faith without understanding? Every church is built upon certain beliefs—foundations that shape its message, its people, and its purpose. But have you ever paused to ask: What does the Church of the Nazarene truly believe? How do its teachings reflect Scripture, tradition, and Christian living? At the core of the Church of the Nazarene are 16 Articles of Faith— statements that outline its identity, theology, and mission. Understanding these principles can offer clarity, guidance, and inspiration. In this article, we will walk through each of the 16 Articles of Faith—unpacking their meaning, biblical basis, and significance in everyday life. 1. The Triune God Manual ¶1 We believe in one eternally existent, infinite God, Sovereign Creator and Sustainer of the universe; that He only is God, holy in nature, attributes, and purpose. The God who is holy love and light is Triune in essential being, revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 2. Jesus Christ Manual ¶2 We believe in Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Triune Godhead; that He was eternally one with the Father; that He became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and was born of the Virgin Mary, so that two whole and perfect natures, that is to say the Godhead and manhood, are thus united in one Person very God and very man, the God-man. We believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins, and that He truly arose from the dead and took again His body, together with all things appertaining to the perfection of man’s nature, wherewith He ascended into heaven and is there engaged in intercession for us. 3. The Holy Spirit Manual ¶3 We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Triune Godhead, that He is ever present and efficiently active in and with the Church of Christ, convincing the world of sin, regenerating those who repent and believe, sanctifying believers, and guiding into all truth as it is in Jesus. 4. The Holy Scriptures Manual ¶4 We believe in the plenary inspiration of the Holy Scriptures, by which we understand the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, given by divine inspiration, inerrantly revealing the will of God concerning us in all things necessary to our salvation, so that whatever is not contained therein is not to be enjoined as an article of faith. 5. Sin, Original and Personal Manual ¶5 We believe that sin came into the world through the disobedience of our first parents, and death by sin. We believe that original sin differs from actual sin in that it constitutes an inherited propensity to actual sin for which no one is accountable until its divinely provided remedy is neglected or rejected. We believe that actual or personal sin is a voluntary violation of a known law of God by a morally responsible person. It is therefore not to be confused with involuntary and inescapable shortcomings, infirmities, faults, mistakes, failures, or other deviations from a standard of perfect conduct that are the residual effects of the Fall. 6. Atonement Manual ¶6 We believe that Jesus Christ, by His sufferings, by the shedding of His own blood, and by His death on the Cross, made a full atonement for all human sin, and that this Atonement is the only ground of salvation, and that it is sufficient for every individual of Adam’s race. 7. Prevenient Grace Manual ¶7 We believe that the grace of God through Jesus Christ is freely bestowed upon all people, enabling all who will to turn from sin to righteousness, believe on Jesus Christ for pardon and cleansing from sin, and follow good works pleasing and acceptable in His sight. 8. Repentance Manual ¶8 We believe that repentance, which is a sincere and thorough change of the mind in regard to sin, involving a sense of personal guilt and a voluntary turning away from sin, is demanded of all who have by act or purpose become sinners against God. 9. Justification, Regeneration, and Adoption Manual ¶9 We believe that justification is the gracious and judicial act of God by which He grants full pardon of all guilt and complete release from the penalty of sins committed, and acceptance as righteous, to all who believe on Jesus Christ and receive Him as Lord and Savior. We believe that regeneration, or the new birth, is that gracious work of God whereby the moral nature of the repentant believer is spiritually quickened and given a distinctively spiritual life, capable of faith, love, and obedience. We believe that adoption is that gracious act of God by which the justified and regenerated believer is constituted a son of God. 10. Entire Sanctification Manual ¶10 We believe that sanctification is the work of God which transforms believers into the likeness of Christ. It is wrought by God’s grace through the Holy Spirit in initial sanctification, or regeneration (simultaneous with justification), entire sanctification, and the continued perfecting work of the Holy Spirit culminating in glorification. We believe that entire sanctification is that act of God, subsequent to regeneration, by which believers are made free from original sin, or depravity, and brought into a state of entire devotement to God, and the holy obedience of love made perfect. 11. The Church Manual ¶11 We believe in the Church, the community that confesses Jesus Christ as Lord, the covenant people of God made new in Christ, the Body of Christ called together by the Holy Spirit through the Word. God calls the Church to express its life in the unity and fellowship of the Spirit; in worship through the preaching of the Word, observance of the sacraments, and ministry in His name; by obedience to Christ, holy living, and mutual accountability. 12. Baptism Manual ¶12 We believe that Christian baptism, commanded by our Lord, is a sacrament signifying acceptance of the benefits of the atonement and incorporation into the Body of Christ. Baptism is a means of grace proclaiming faith in Jesus Christ as Savior. It is to

Election as Africa Regional Director Dr. Daniel Gomis was elected as the Regional Director for the Africa Region of the Church of the Nazarene in 2017. His leadership focuses on church growth, theological education, and compassionate ministries across the continent. Early Life and Education Born in Senegal, Dr. Gomis grew up as the son of a well-known journalist. He first accepted Christ in 1995 and was mentored by a lay Nazarene pastor from Cape Verde and later by Nazarene missionaries throughout Africa. He has since gone on to mentor many other leaders through his work in West Africa. He was ordained as an elder in 2011 His academic journey includes: Undergraduate studies in African Literature and Civilization at L’Université Gaston Berger, Senegal A teaching certification in Wolof, a widely spoken language in Senegal A Master of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, USA An Honorary Doctorate from Southern Nazarene University (2019) in recognition of his contributions to ministry and leadership Ministry and Leadership Experience Dr. Gomis has served the Church of the Nazarene in a wide variety of roles: Lay Pastor (2003): Led a local congregation while also serving as a French translator for the church President of the Evangelical Youth of Senegal (J.E.S): Focused on youth ministry and leadership development District Superintendent in Senegal: Oversaw church growth and pastoral training Field Strategy Coordinator for West Africa: Strengthened theological education and ministry expansion Africa West Field Literature and Education Coordinator: Developed educational resources for pastors and leaders Member of the French Literature Advisory Committee: Contributed to theological publications in French In addition to his ministry roles, Dr. Gomis has worked with the International Organization for Migration, advocating for humane and orderly migration policies. Vision and Impact Dr. Gomis is passionate about transforming communities through Christlike discipleship. His leadership emphasizes: Healing, reconciliation, and restoration across Africa Expanding theological education to equip pastors and leaders Strengthening local leadership for sustainable church growth Promoting interdependence and collaboration within the global Nazarene community Authorship and Publications In 2021, Dr. Gomis co-authored the book “Color: God’s Intention for Diversity” with General Superintendent Dr. Carla Sunberg. The book explores themes of unity and inclusion within the church. Personal Life Dr. Gomis is married to Anélie, and together they have four daughters. He enjoys reading, listening to music, watching football, and learning about new cultures. Leadership as Africa Regional Director As Africa Regional Director, Dr. Gomis oversees one of the fastest-growing regions in the Church of the Nazarene. Under his leadership, the region has experienced: A surge in prayer movements across African nations The development of creative pastoral training programs to meet leadership demand A renewed focus on theological education and discipleship Conclusion Dr. Daniel Gomis’ leadership in theological education, church planting, and compassionate ministries continues to shape the future of the Church of the Nazarene in Africa. His commitment to authenticity, presence, relevance, and interdependence ensures that the church remains a transformative force across the continent.

Written by: [Paul S. Dayhoff, DACB.org] Early Life and Conversion Reverend George Kaputula was born in Kitwe, Zambia, into a Muslim family. His life took a transformative turn when he converted to Christianity on September 30, 1969, through the influence of missionary Rodger Gastineau. That same year, he joined the Church of the Nazarene. Call to Ministry and Theological Training In 1970, George and his wife, Eunice Kunda, responded to God’s call to ministry. They enrolled at Limbe Bible College in Malawi in 1973, accompanied by their six-month-old son, Roy. After three years of training, they graduated in May 1976 and began their pastoral journey. In the Picture: From left is Eunice Kaputula and Rev George Kaputula. Next to them Rev Yambayamba, Dr Richard Zannar and Rev Steve Doer. Ministry in Chililabombwe (1976–1984) The Kaputulas were assigned to Chililabombwe, a mining town on the Copperbelt. The local Church of the Nazarene had been abandoned for nine years due to political conflict. The church building was vandalized, and the congregation had scattered.For the first six months, only children attended services. Despite ridicule and threats from the community, the couple persevered in prayer and outreach. Eventually, the first adults—Chakopo and his wife—joined the church. This marked the beginning of renewed growth.Soon, the church expanded into neighboring areas including: Chimfunshi Konkola Kawama Fitobaula Kakoso Rev. Kaputula was later ordained by Dr. Coulter. Raising Leaders and Church Planting Many church members were miners, which provided a base of strong lay leaders. Among them were: Moses Livanda, who moved back to Chavuma to plant churches—leading to 10 churches by 2004. Ngosa Maleseli, who returned to Luapula and helped establish 5 churches and 15 preaching points. The Chililabombwe church also reached migrant miners from Tanzania and the DRC, helping to spark cross-border ministry and lay groundwork for Nazarene outreach in those countries. Further Expansion and Leadership Roles After eight years in Chililabombwe, the Kaputulas moved to pastor the Chamboli Church in Kitwe, where the congregation saw remarkable growth. The church further expanded under leaders like: Rev. Musongwa at Nchanga North (Chingola) Pastor John Chiluba at Chiwepala (1985) In 1987, Kaputula was appointed District Superintendent (DS) of Zambia North, serving for five years. Under his leadership: 10 new churches and preaching points were started in places like Kitwe (Bread of Life Church), Ndola, Mufulira, Masaiti, and Ibenga. 18 individuals were trained for ministry. Pioneering the Work in Tanzania Kaputula had a strong burden for reaching Tanzania. At the time, entry was only possible by linking with registered local churches.Key milestones included: Distributing church magazines through a Tanzanian church member’s sister. An initial visit to a group (not fruitful). A second connection in October 1989 with Rev. Andambike Mwakasungula led to a fruitful partnership. In May 1990, a delegation including Dr. Richard Zanner visited and finalized the merger, formally launching Nazarene work in Tanzania. Support came from Shadrack Simbeye, who funded three trips as gratitude for medical help the church provided for his son. This Church is pastored by Rev Joseph Kaputula son to Rev George Kaputula . Mapepe Church of the Nazarene Growth of the Nazarene Church in Zambia When the Kaputulas began ministry in northern Zambia, only two churches existed. By 2000, the region had: 27 organized churches 20 preaching points Approximately 3,000 members Eunice Kaputula’s Role and Innovation Born in Serenje in 1957, Eunice Kunda Kaputula played a crucial role both locally and at district level. As President of the Nazarene Women’s Ministries (NWMS), she introduced the “Coca-Cola can Alabaster offering”—a creative and symbolic giving method still used in Central Africa.Together, the Kaputulas raised four sons and one daughter. Later Ministry and Health Challenges In 1996, Rev. Kaputula became Zambia Literature Coordinator while pastoring the Kafue Church.By 2000, he and Eunice were serving at the Matero Church in Lusaka, Zambia South District.In early 2002, Rev. Kaputula suffered paralysis due to high blood pressure and a brain hemorrhage. He returned home for therapy but continued to work as the Word Evangelism Broadcast (WEB) Coordinator. Final Days and Legacy On July 20, 2004, he was admitted to University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka due to memory loss and lack of appetite. His health declined, and he passed away on August 20, 2004. Timeline Summary References Emmanuel Mwase, “How the Church Began in Zambia”, Africa Nazarene University, 2001. Rev. George Kaputula, biographical sketch and report (2000). NCN News, October 29, 2004. Joanie Doerr, Out of Africa, March 6, 2002. Kyle Lauf, Out of Africa, August 24, 2004. Africa Nazarene Mosaic (2001), Paul S. Dayhoff – Used with permission.

Also known as: Church of the Nazarene / Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene (historically) Meaning and Mission The Church of the Nazarene derives its name from the Persona of Jesus of Nazareth and centers on the pursuit of a transformative relationship with Him. Its mission is: “To make Christlike disciples in the nations.” Core ministry areas include: Evangelism: Actively sharing the gospel and engaging in outreach programs. Worship: Corporate and individual worship through prayer, hymns, and contemporary music. Discipleship: Nurturing spiritual growth through small groups and mentoring. Compassion: Expressing Christ’s love through service, social justice, and humanitarian outreach. Education: Emphasis on Christian education, theology, and intellectual growth. History and Formation The Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant denomination rooted in the 19th-century Holiness Movement. It was officially formed through a series of mergers: 1907: A major merger united the Church of the Nazarene (founded 1895 in California) with the Association of Pentecostal Churches of America (1886–1896, Northeastern U.S.), forming the Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene. 1908: The Holiness Church of Christ (1894–1905, Southwestern U.S.) joined. 1919: The term “Pentecostal” was removed due to its association with glossolalia (speaking in tongues), a practice not embraced by the Church. Founders Phineas F. Bresee – Methodist pastor and founding leader. Joseph P. Widney – Physician and co-founder. Hiram F. Reynolds – Theologian and early missionary leader. Mary Lee Cagle – Evangelist and early advocate for women’s ministry. Beliefs and Values Core Beliefs: Bible: Inspired, authoritative Word of God. Trinity: One God in three persons — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Sin and Salvation: All have sinned; salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ. Christ’s Redemption: Through His death and resurrection. New Birth and Holy Spirit: Believers must be born again and empowered to live holy lives. Call to Holiness: A Christlike life marked by love, purity, and devotion. Key Values: Holiness: Pursuit of personal sanctification and Christlike purity. Missional: Global and local evangelism and service. Education: Theological education and lifelong learning. Unity: Cooperation with the wider Christian body. Traditions and Worship Worship Practices: Congregational Singing: Hymns and contemporary songs. Prayer: Vital in both personal and corporate worship. Preaching: Centered on biblical teaching and practical faith. Sacraments: Baptism – Identification with Christ’s death and resurrection. Lord’s Supper – Commemoration of Jesus’ sacrifice. Spiritual Formation: Small Groups – Fellowship, discipleship, and accountability. Spiritual Disciplines – Fasting, prayer, meditation, Bible study. Global Presence and Membership Headquarters: Global Ministry Center in Lenexa, Kansas, USA. Nazarene Publishing House and Nazarene Theological Seminary are in Kansas City, Missouri. Institutions Operated: Colleges, seminaries, mission schools, and hospitals worldwide. Church Statistics (Statistics may change): Total Membership: 2,783,731 — a 2.2% increase from the previous year and a 21.19% growth over the past decade. New Members Added: 155,183 (up 19.88% from the prior year). New Professions of Faith: 128,736 — a 22.23% increase, marking a record year for conversions. 📊 Clergy and Church Structure Ordained Elders: 19,990 Ordained Deacons: 895 Licensed Ministers: 10,803 Total Churches: 30,747 (23,680 officially organized) Languages of Statistical Reports: Available in Português, Français, and Español. Worldwide Reach: The Church of the Nazarene is present in over 160 world areas, actively making disciples and planting churches across North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Eurasia. The structure includes regional and district teams for global leadership and coordination.

The Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant Christian denomination rooted in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. It was founded in 1908 with a mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations. Today, it is one of the largest Holiness churches, with over 2.7 million members worshipping in more than 30,000 congregations across 165 world areas History and Founding The Church of the Nazarene emerged from the Holiness Movement, which sought to reclaim the teachings of John Wesley on entire sanctification. The denomination was officially formed in 1908 through a merger of several holiness churches, including: The Church of the Nazarene California, 1895 The Association of Pentecostal Churches of America 1886–1896 The Holiness Church of Christ 1894–1905 The term “Pentecostal” was originally part of the church’s name but was removed in 1919 due to its association with speaking in tongues, which was not a Nazarene practice Key founders include: Phineas F. Bresee – A Methodist pastor who emphasized holiness and compassionate ministry. Joseph P. Widney – A physician and church leader. Hiram F. Reynolds – A missionary and administrator. Mary Lee Cagle – A pioneering female preacher Core Beliefs and Values The Church of the Nazarene is guided by three core values: Christian – Affirming the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the historic Trinitarian creeds. Holiness – Believing in entire sanctification, where believers are cleansed from sin and empowered to live a Christlike life. Missional – Committed to evangelism, discipleship, and compassionate outreach The church emphasizes: Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Entire sanctification as a second work of grace. The authority of Scripture. A commitment to social justice and compassionate ministries Church Structure and Leadership The Church of the Nazarene operates under a representative government, similar to Methodism, but with greater local autonomy Leadership includes: General Superintendents – Provide global oversight. District Superintendents – Lead regional church districts. Local Pastors and Congregations – Govern individual churches. The General Assembly, held every four years, is the highest governing body, where leaders discuss church policies, theological matters, and global strategies Global Presence and Membership The Church of the Nazarene has experienced steady growth, particularly in Africa, South America, and Asia-Pacific As of 2024, the denomination reports: 2,783,731 members worldwide (a 21.19% increase over the last decade). 30,747 churches, with 23,680 officially organized. 19,990 ordained elders, 895 ordained deacons, and 10,803 licensed ministers The fastest-growing regions include: South America (10.27% growth) Asia-Pacific (6.09% growth) Africa (57,143 new members in 2024 alone) Outreach and Community Programs The Church of the Nazarene is deeply involved in compassionate ministries, focusing on: Disaster relief and humanitarian aid. Education and leadership development. Health initiatives, including HIV/AIDS prevention. Social justice advocacy During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nazarene churches worldwide provided: Food and hygiene distributions. Mental health support. Child and family assistance programs Theological Education and Leadership Development The Church of the Nazarene operates 54 educational institutions globally, including: Nazarene Theological Seminary (USA) Africa Nazarene University (Kenya) Point Loma Nazarene University (USA) Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (Philippines) These institutions train pastors, missionaries, and church leaders, ensuring strong theological foundations and effective ministry leadership The Church of the Nazarene is a global Wesleyan-Holiness denomination committed to making Christlike disciples through evangelism, education, and compassionate outreach. With a rich history, strong theological foundation, and growing global presence, it continues to impact millions of lives worldwide.

Dr. David A. Busic was elected as the 40th General Superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene on June 25, 2013, during the 28th General Assembly in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. At the time of his election, he was serving as President of Nazarene Theological Seminary. Early Life and Ordination Dr. Busic was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was ordained in 1991 by Dr. John A. Knight. Before assuming senior leadership roles, he served as an associate pastor in Oklahoma and Kansas. His pastoral journey includes serving as senior pastor at: Vineyard Community Church (Livermore, California) Central Church of the Nazarene (Lenexa, Kansas) Bethany First Church of the Nazarene (Bethany, Oklahoma) Education and Academic Background Dr. Busic pursued theological education at prestigious institutions, earning: Bachelor of Arts in Religion (1988) – Southern Nazarene University Master of Divinity (1993) – Nazarene Theological Seminary Doctor of Divinity (2010) – Southern Nazarene University Doctor of Ministry in Theology and Culture – Fuller Theological Seminary He was also co-editor of Preacher’s Magazine from 2000 to 2007, a preaching resource in the Wesleyan tradition. Ministry and Leadership Experience Dr. Busic has bridged the gap between pastoral ministry and academia, often teaching and pastoring simultaneously. His leadership roles include: President of Nazarene Theological Seminary (2011–2013) Member of the General Board of the Church of the Nazarene President of the USA National Board Member of the Board of General Superintendents’ Thought Partners (2005–2013), a think tank for addressing critical issues facing the church. During his tenure at Bethany First Church, Dr. Busic helped initiate and establish the Swaziland Partnership in 2007, which aimed to reduce the HIV/AIDS rate and assist vulnerable children in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Africa. Authorship and Teaching Influence Dr. Busic is a prolific author, having published numerous articles, book chapters, and five major books, including: Perfectly Imperfect: Character Sketches from the Old Testament Perfectly Imperfect: Character Sketches from the New Testament The City: Urban Churches in the Wesleyan Tradition Way, Truth, Life: Discipleship as a Journey of Grace The Praying Pastor: Learning to Lead from Your Knees Global Church Contributions Through his leadership in the Swaziland Partnership, Dr. Busic has contributed significantly to global efforts aimed at health and child welfare in Africa, demonstrating a practical application of Christian mission values. Family and Personal Life Dr. Busic and his wife, Christi, currently reside in Edmond, Oklahoma. They are proud parents of three grown children and grandparents to eight grandchildren.