A Community Sunday at St. Edward Church, Lindi
Sunday morning at St. Edward Anglican Church in Lindi, Tanzania, was an eventful and heartfelt gathering of community and faith.
Umoja Choir, visiting from St. Michael Anglican Church in Mtwara
The service began with a vibrant musical prelude by the Umoja Choir from St. Michael Anglican Church in Mtwara. Invited specially for the day, their singing was a hit, filling the room with energy as people clapped along, their harmonies adding a sense of celebration to the morning. It was a performance that seemed to set the tone, creating an atmosphere of unity among those gathered.
The sermon, delivered by Rev. Fr. Vicent, was centered on “Manifesting the Presence of Jesus,” a message drawn from John 14:21: “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me…”
Fr Vincent Masimosya giving his sermon on Manifesting the Presence of Jesus
Rev. Vincent stressed that faith is something shown through action and true dedication to Jesus’ teachings. His words were simple but powerful, calling each member of the congregation to bring their faith into their daily lives.
Following the sermon, the newly appointed District Commissioner, Hon. Victoria Mwanziva, stepped forward to introduce herself to the congregation.
The church was pleased to receive the newly-appointed District Commissioner, Hon. Victoria Mwanziva
She requested their support and cooperation as she began her work in the district, and the members responded warmly. In a touching moment, the Sunday School Choir sang a song in her honour, which visibly moved Hon. Mwanziva. Touched by their enthusiasm, she promised to buy new uniforms for the choir before December, a pledge met with applause from parents and children alike.
After the sermon, the congregation formed a line to give their monthly tithe of 1,000 Tanzanian shillings (roughly US$0.35). This is part of a new Stewardship initiative instigated by the diocese of Masasi with the aim of ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the diocese through contributions of the congregations.
Congregants queue to give their monthly tithes.
A congregant gives her monthly tithe.
Outside the church building, a moment of shared gratitude unfolded as Mr. Oliver Katobasho led a prayer, thanking God for the recovery of his son, Liam, following a hernia surgery. With heads bowed, the congregation joined Mr. Katobasho in prayer, listening as he expressed his deep gratitude for Liam’s health and for the community’s prayers throughout the ordeal. This brief yet profound moment highlighted the close bonds within the St. Edward congregation, where one family’s joy is shared by all.
Mr Oliver Katobasho thanking God for the healing of his son, Liam, after hernia surgical operation
The service concluded with reminders of the church’s ongoing project, the completion of their new building, a vision that Rev. Canon Marcus Carlos continues to bring to life through his dedication and motivation. Each parishioner’s contribution is valued, each prayer for the building’s completion is shared, and each Sunday gathering brings them closer to their goal.
As people made their way home, they carried with them the day’s messages — love in action, gratitude, and community spirit. This Sunday at St. Edward was more than a service; it was a reminder of the strength that comes from faith shared and celebrated together.
