Church, State: A partnership for peace, social progress

Gibson Mhaka
Zimpapers Politics Hub

THE relationship between the Church and the State has been a topic of profound significance throughout history, shaping the political, social and religious landscapes of societies worldwide.

The matter is so important that it has also been widely discussed in the academic sphere.

There is a general understanding that the church’s role should be confined to theological matters. However, others argue that the Church should not limit itself to theological issues but should actively engage with concrete social and political concerns.

Throughout history, the Church has often played a significant role in shaping political and social landscapes.

In the medieval period, the Catholic Church wielded immense power, influencing kings and emperors.

In the modern era, the relationship between Church and State has varied widely across different countries and cultures. In some cases, the Church has been closely aligned with the State, while in others, a strict separation has been maintained.

Meanwhile, in Zimbabwe, the Second Republic, under the stewardship of President Mnangagwa has demonstrated a harmonious relationship with religious institutions in pursuit of Vision 2030.

The Government recognises the crucial role played by churches in fostering peace, promoting social cohesion, and contributing to national development.

By allocating land to various churches across the country, the Government empowers religious institutions to undertake projects that uplift the lives of their congregants and surrounding communities.

This collaboration highlights the positive impact that can arise when religious institutions and the State work together to address societal challenges.

Speaking at a recent Council for Churches in Africa (CCA) Ecumenical Religious Clergy Conference in Bulawayo, Zanu PF Director for Research, Strategy, and Liaison in the Commissariat Department, Dr Davison Gomo, emphasised the importance of strengthening relations between the Church and the State to improve livelihoods.

The event also saw the CCA posthumously honouring indigenous churches’ forefathers and others for their role in national affairs of their respective countries, particularly during the liberation struggle.

They played various roles, including providing secret meeting venues in churches and supporting freedom fighters in rural missions.

“We work with the church because it is a critically important institution in our society.

“Many people question why church and politics must work together, but the bottom line is that Zimbabwe is made up of communities of people, including those who believe in the Christian religion and other religions, perhaps the traditional religion.

“There is nothing wrong with that. What is important is to coexist and live together peacefully, and each of these groups, in terms of their religious dispositions, must be given space and be respected for what they have.

“The Church has always had a very close relationship with the State. The emergence of indigenous churches has given the Church and State an opportunity to find common ground and work together because our goal is the same: to ensure peace in this country,” said Dr Gomo.

He said the Church and the State need to work together to ensure people are living in safe conditions.

“We must share ideas on how to make Zimbabwe a better country and a better place for everyone. It’s important to recognise that there must be a strong symbiotic relationship between the Church and the State because most of the people who go on to become bishops are drawn from society and live with ordinary people.

“As such, we are trying to create an environment where we can work very closely with the church to achieve political stability, economic development, social cohesion, cultural sensitivity, and ensure that families are strong so that young people can be brought up in a safe environment,” said Dr Gomo.

Retired Zimbabwe Republic Police Chaplain General, Reverend Dr Jeremiah Doyce, said the collaboration between the Church and Government holds immense significance, fostering a cohesive and supportive environment that benefits society on various fronts.

“First, all people should understand that when we talk of peace, it must start within the church because the world is looking to the Church for answers. Whenever there is disunity within the church, society has nowhere to turn.

“That is why peace is essential. Peace must begin within the church and with church leaders. The Church and the State must work together to ensure peace and stability, as they have a shared responsibility to create a harmonious society,” said Rev Doyce.

CCA founder President Archbishop Dr Rocky Moyo also emphasised that harmonious collaboration between the Church and the State is crucial for effectively addressing social issues adding that this partnership can lead to significant positive impacts on society.

“By working in harmony, we create a synergy that amplifies our impact in addressing the multifaceted challenges that Zimbabwe faces.

“The church, as a moral authority and a community-centred institution, possesses a unique ability to mobilise and engage individuals at grassroots levels.

“This partnership between the Church and the State is crucial for the development and well-being of our nation. Together, we can address issues such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice, and build a brighter future for Zimbabwe,” said Dr Moyo.