The Apostolic Faith Mission Germany group was privileged to host an official visit from the Western Europe District Superintendent, Mark Mfandarahwa, accompanied by his wife, Sister Marble, and their daughters, Naomi and Ruth on 26-27 October 2024. The visit, which was much anticipated following indications of Brother Mark’s missionary activities in Mainland Europe, was a momentous occasion for the group. The Mfandarahwas arrived on Saturday, 26 October at Zurich Airport at 10:00 AM and were cordially received by Brother Dare Abioye, who accompanied them to their hotel accommodation in Konstanz, Germany.

The Special Weekend Revival, with the theme “Let your loins be girded about”, started with a special prayer meeting at 6:00 pm.  This spiritually uplifting session was attended by 19 people. 

 

On Sunday, 27 October, Brother Mark and his family joined the brethren for the prayer room service at 9:30 am. Sunday school began at 10:00 with a violin Solo by Jessica Abioye. Thereafter, a congregational song led by Brother Dare, united voices in harmony. Sister Abena Abioye who is coordinating the Germany group led the opening prayer, invoking blessings and setting a reverent tone for the day’s proceedings. The event then transitioned to a short yet heartwarming presentation by our children, who welcomed the Mfandarahwas with enthusiasm and joy. The Elementary lesson titled “A Perfect Place” was taught by Sister Ijeoma Nwosu while Brother Dare taught a combined Answer and Search classes on the topic “Israel’s First Priest”.  The lesson centered on the purpose and necessity of the Old Testament priesthood, the selection of Israel’s first high priest by God, the consequences of assuming the priesthood without God’s approval, and drawing comparisons between the priesthood of Christ and Aaron. The lesson ended with God’s promise in Hebrews 4:16.

After the Sunday school lesson, Brother Titus Oyedokun sang “Jesus Use Me” by Jack and Billy Campbell while Sister Abena gave a short review of the lesson, which was followed by a congregational prayer session.

The Morning Devotional Service began with the orchestra playing ‘Ode to Joy’, arranged by Brandon James and Sister Naomi Mfandarahwa playing a violin solo. The choir then sang, “Master, the Tempest is Raging” by H. R. Palmer and “Loyalty to Christ” by Flora Cassel.

Sister Abena led the congregational songs, followed by a congregation prayer by Brother Jonathan Nwosu. 

Sister Eunice’s Ogunrinde solo performance of “Sweet Holy Spirit” by Doris Akers set a reverent tone for the testimony service session. During the session, members of the congregation shared powerful testimonies about God’s redeeming grace to save, to heal, and to answer prayers and His guidance through life’s challenges. 

Prior to the devotional sermon, the choir’s moving rendition of “Make Me a Channel of Blessing” by Harper G. Smyth deeply resonated with the attendees. Brother Mark chose his text from Luke 12:35, emphasizing the theme of the special weekend programme “Let your loins be girded” thereby encouraging readiness and spiritual preparedness for the soon return of our Lord Jesus Christ. His sermon emphasized the need to prioritize our spiritual well-being over our physical needs. The importance of living a life without sin and making daily consecrations in our preparation towards the second coming of Christ was highlighted. The devotional service ended with the song “I am thine O lord, I have heard thy voice” and sister Marble gave the closing prayer. A total of 32 people were in attendance including those who joined the services online.

Brother Mark held a brief meeting with the congregation, followed by a session with the workers after the day’s service. We had a group luncheon, after which attendees departed to their respective destinations. 

Nevertheless, we had the privilege to enjoy the continued presence of Brother Mark and his family in Konstanz until their departure for London at 8 PM on Tuesday, 29 October.

The special weekend event was marked by profound moments of connection, reflection, and communal spirit, underscoring the importance of togetherness in our work and mission such that it was a profound blend of worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. We thank God for a great time of spiritual uplift and solicit your prayers for the growth of the gospel work in Germany.