The Cranborne Circuit under the United Methodist Church took a unique approach to their Harvest Thanksgiving celebration last month, intertwining the world’s most beautiful game, football, with the spirit of giving and gratitude.
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The event, guided by the scriptures from 1 Timothy 6 verse 6, was themed “Be a participant: What something would I give to Jehovha,” setting the tone for a distinctive and spirited celebration.
Breaking away from traditional practices, participants showcased their allegiances to some of the world’s most popular football teams, weaving the essence of the beautiful game into their expressions of gratitude to the Lord.
The English Premier League teams, including Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea Football Club, and Liverpool FC, garnered significant representation, reflecting the global appeal of the sport.
Amidst cheers and chants echoing the names of their beloved teams, supporters united in thanksgiving, acknowledging the blessings bestowed upon them.
Mrs. Maria Zvomuya, a member of Ruwadzano, delivered a keynote sermon, clad in the iconic blue colours of Zimbabwean football powerhouse, Dynamos.
In her address, she highlighted the challenges faced during the season, particularly the irregular distribution of rain, emphasising the importance of expressing gratitude for the harvest despite the adversities.
“She said, this season wasn’t okay in terms of rain distribution, but let us come and thank God with our harvests.
Avoid the behaviour of coming to the Lord empty-handed; bring something. Be a participant, not a spectator.”
Mrs. Zvomuya passionately urged the congregation to eschew the notion of coming to the Lord empty-handed, emphasising active participation over passive observation.
Drawing parallels to the world of sports, she likened the varying categories of supporters to the diverse roles assumed by individuals in their faith community.
From the ordinary supporters to the VIP and VVIP categories, she emphasised the significance of wholehearted engagement and timely participation, urging congregants to avoid the complacency of arriving late to the spiritual “match.”
“In sports, we have supporters in various categories; some are just ordinary, there are VIPs and VVIPs, but all come to support their teams.
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There is also a group called officials; these people even come late when the match is going towards the end.
In church, avoid just coming when other people are finishing giving to the Lord,” she said.
