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[QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 30070, member: 2262"]
The new leader of Zimbabwe Methodists strongly opposes gay relationships. Rev Dr Gift Machinga arrived at Harare airport yesterday, where he clearly stated his views. He told everyone listening that gay people cannot serve as church leaders or preach from Methodist pulpits across Zimbabwe. The Bible teaches against such practices according to the African church position.

American Methodists changed their rules last year with a big vote that accepted gay relationships as normal Christian life. Zimbabwe church members fought against these changes but lost when most American delegates supported the new rules. Machinga wants all Zimbabwean church members to join together despite these differences with their American partners. He asked both regular members and church staff to help build a stronger church.

The former church leader, Rev Eben Nhiwatiwa, promised to back Machinga completely. He wants everyone to work as a team going forward. Nhiwatiwa said his support goes beyond just claiming he would help - he truly plans to assist the new bishop. Their teamwork matters for the church's success across the country.

Rev Machinga won his position through an election where he earned 41 votes from 60 possible voters. This makes him the fourth person to lead Zimbabwe Methodists since the church started there. His three predecessors were Reverends Abel Muzorewa, Christopher Jokomo, and Eben Nhiwatiwa. The church continues its traditional values under his leadership.
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