INTRODUCTION
Men were given the floor to lead the Sunday prayer meetings for the whole month of November. This was done to encourage men to fully participate in the prayer meeting. Usually men prefer to sit at the back and interact with only a few people after the meeting. New male members are sometimes left alone, with no male counterparts to help them understand the proceedings of the prayer meeting.
This really worked out so well because each and everyone tried hard to participate throughout the prayer meeting. Some members, who have never participated, were motivated to participate.
LEADING
The following members led the sessions throughout the month, Richard Vheremu, Nomore Mahovo, Derek Nyakupinda (2 sessions), and Sekuru Chiwaura. It was first time for Derek to lead any prayer session, but people were blessed on both occasions. Nomore, Richard, and Sekuru Chiwaura were also known preachers. One person was leading every week though he was free to nominate anyone to assist him, for example, greeting visitors. Team attendance also improved from average of 3 people to about 6, with men dominating the attendance. The above indicated that individuals can be multi–talented, meaning one person can sing, preach and lead, though people had a tendency of concentrating on one gift only.
PREACHING
Regarding preaching, the people who usually preach, preached, these are the likes of Alois Mahovo, Nomore Mahovo, and one week we had to accommodate a visitor as a way of welcoming him – Baba Bwanaisa. The following week Charles Mahovo preached. It was his first time to preach but again people were blessed.
Men could however not give testimonies. This has been a standing problem for sometime. They only give testimonies once in a while and average one person over a long period like a month. The other reason could be that most of them do not attend supportive group (cell group) prayers due to various commitments which range form work to study, unlike most women who are not employed who try to spend as much time as possible meeting and praying. Men are generally shy to stand before a congregation.
SINGING
Singing was another area which lacked something, though they tried. I would say this “awakened” them as they felt the responsibility was in their court. At least those who could not sing would agree by clapping hands etc.
ATTENDANCE
Attendance in number did not change but intercession improved. People have a tendency of coming to intercede when they have been given something to do. This motivated them as they also felt that they are equally recognized in the group.
CONCLUSION
As much as possible men should be given the floor to participate. They have the gifts but lack motivation. There is room for the group to grow if men continue participating fully in the group. New members who may be men would feel encouraged to come to the sessions, currently the perception is that the group is female dominated and somehow, they think it “a women’s group”, but if they see men being active they are bound to be convinced that it is for everyone.
Men tend to be more gifted in preaching and teaching above everything else.
Notes:
1. This report has been compiled by one individual.
2. It is purely based on personal observations.
3. I did not manage to comment fully on week 23.11.07, as I was attending a conference in Chitungwiza.
4. By men I referred to both men and boys.
5. Verses preached were not included due to time limitations but may however be given in due course.
6. The practice did not end on men; December has been given to girls only, women excluded.
7. The whole aim it to try and make every member recognize their potential and ministry should grow to the fullest.
By Evelyn Mahovo
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