Bishop Gregory Eason urges churches to embrace technology to spread the gospel

By Limukani Ncube, 20th Episcopal District Lay Second Vice President

Bishop Gregory Eason of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church 20th District has called on churches to embrace digital platforms to spread the gospel. Speaking at the 45th South West Zimbabwe Conference in November 2024, Bishop Eason emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to reach a wider audience, particularly the youth.

The conference was held at Young’s Chapel in Makokoba, Bulawayo, a historic church built in 1928—the first AME Church in Central and Southern Africa. Nearly a century later, the church still bears the inscription, “Ebenezer, Kude Kwalapa u Thixo Unathi” / “Hitherto the Lord Hath Been with Us” from 1 Samuel 7:12. The annual gathering brought together hundreds of church members from across the Bulawayo and Matabeleland regions, including Matabeleland East, North, and South. The event commenced on Wednesday and concluded today.

Bishop Eason highlighted the power of modern technology in expanding the church’s reach, urging congregations to live stream services to connect with followers worldwide. 

“We must utilize modern technology to engage with people across the globe. By livestreaming church services, we ensure that even those in America or other distant locations can participate. Young people must take the lead in this effort, working alongside pastors to maximize the church’s presence on social media,” he said. 

He further commended the church’s existing online engagement, noting that Matabeleland East District already maintains a Facebook page. In fact, the closing service of the conference, which was live-streamed by the district’s secretary, Sister Doris Ncube, attracted a lot of followers from across the globe.

Beyond digital expansion, Bishop Eason stressed the importance of education, health awareness, and economic empowerment within the church.

“Education paves the way for a brighter future. Young people must take their studies seriously. Additionally, health awareness is crucial as the world faces an increasing number of infectious diseases. The church must remain vigilant, ensuring members are well-informed and protected,” he stated.

During the conference, Bishop Eason ordained two pastors: Rev. Precious Ncube, who became a full pastor as an Itinerant Elder in the AME Church, and Rev. Tariq Khalima, who received his first ordination as an Itinerant Deacon. Pastors in the AME Church undergo a rigorous five-year process before attaining full pastoral status.

Rev. Eustice Bekithemba Ginya, Presiding Elder for Matabeleland East District and president of the Presiding Elders and Pastors in Zimbabwe, described the annual conference as spiritually enriching and successful.

“As we gather, we give thanks to the Lord for His grace in bringing us this far. It is not by our wisdom or efforts, but by His divine grace that we are alive and able to serve. Some of our brethren from last year’s conference are no longer with us—some have been called to rest, while others are unwell. We are grateful to have Bishop Eason here with us, and we reaffirm our dedication to serving the Lord within the AME Church,” he said.

The host pastor, Rev. Ethel Moyo, and her congregation were praised for their efforts in successfully organizing the conference and enhancing the church’s facilities. Young’s Chapel holds historical significance as the mother of all AME churches in Central and Southern Africa.

The 20th Episcopal District of the AME Church encompasses Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and parts of Mozambique. The church’s global headquarters remains in the United States, where the AME Church was originally founded.