Key points:
- United Methodists helped a Zimbabwe school revive its awards ceremony, with gifts donated in memory of a former teacher and church member.
- Esnath Ginnah Kadenge had no children of her own but cared for her underprivileged students.
- Former students, school leaders and church members expressed gratitude for the partnership between the church and the local community.
A United Methodist teacher’s legacy endures through a new partnership between her former workplace and the church in Zimbabwe.
Esnath Ginnah Kadenge, an English teacher at Seke 1 High School, died in October of 2023. In her memory, The United Methodist Church in the Chitungwiza Marondera District donated the money and supplies to revive an awards ceremony at her former school. The last awards ceremony was held in 2018.
Students were overjoyed as they received accolades for exceptional achievements during the ceremony, earning trophies and certificates.
To the church it was a way of evangelizing to the community and bringing more souls to Christ; to the school, it was a way of motivating learners to continuously produce good results.
The Rev. Godknows Risinamhodzi, superintendent for the Chitungwiza Marondera District, said the partnership benefits the whole community.
“The church is not at home unless it takes Jesus from the sanctuary to the community. Pulpits are often theoretical platforms to exercise the Christian faith, while communities in turn, become the practical laboratories.
“We are taking the local proverb that ‘it takes a whole community to raise a child’ seriously and here we are combining efforts from both the spiritual and the academic spheres to produce a well-rounded leader who is grounded in Christian values,” he said.
Lameck Chitongo, the school headmaster, could not hide his joy as he talked about the benefits of the partnership between the school and the church. He said in addition to providing 75 trophies and 215 framed certificates, the church supported the school with tents, decorations, a public address system for the 2023 event and refreshments.
“We are surrounded by many churches, but never thought that one would invest in the future of learners. We have witnessed practical faith from The United Methodist Church. We are so grateful for this partnership,” he said.
He said 184 students and 22 staff members received awards for academics, two received alumni awards and seven received honors for outstanding performances in sports.
“We are so grateful, and my wish is for this partnership to live as long as the legacy of Kadenge lives,” Chitongo said. “Many are asking how we became partners, but we give all the glory to God. We have seen a practical God in action.”
Dr. Elisha Kujeke, Chitungwiza District schools’ inspector, said he is grateful for the partnership.
“Our objective is to prepare citizens who will contribute to the development of the country through good leadership, knowledge and skills and upholding Christian values,” he said. “I would like to thank The United Methodist Church for partnering with us in developing spiritual beings. Continue the good work.”
Collen Tafumaneyi, a local businessman and guest speaker, is an alumni of Seke 1 High School and encouraged learners to utilize their time wisely.
“The time you spend at school is a huge investment into the future. Each one of you is talented in a unique way. The school is where your talents can be discovered, developed and nurtured. Every activity you are required to participate in is designed to mold the best of you,” he said.
Denzel Whata, the junior mayor of Chitungwiza Municipality and a form 6 student, praised the late Kadenge for her support for students.
“As we applaud the exceptional hard work we have done in various fields, I would like to appreciate the gift that keeps on giving, the prize that no money can buy, and that is the life of Esnath Ginnah Kadenge.
“I learnt more than just English in her lessons. The care and ongoing support she demonstrated through extra hours and constant check-ups in her teaching is unforgettable. Always jovial and happy, she taught me to spread joy everywhere I go.
Whata said beyond the classroom, she was a beacon of light for the whole school.
“She was a unifier. Always smiling with a listening ear. She was ready to hear and solve not only our problems, but those of the other staff members as well.”
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He said she left her mark on the entire community, including as a Sunday school teacher at St. James United Methodist Church in the Seke Central Circuit.
“Let us honor her life by continuing to strive for excellence, being kind and supportive to one another and embracing the spirit of learning with the same devotion she exemplified,” he said.
Ruvarashe Dzviti, a form 6 student, said although Kadenge is gone, her impact will never fade.
“Today we gather to celebrate the day, but our hearts are sore for we are still mourning the loss of the late Esnath Kadenge. She touched our lives with a loving hand and helped us grow in this school.
“With a smile so bright and a heart so true, she taught us all to see things differently. Her legacy lives forever in our hearts. A shining star that never departs,” Dzviti said, breaking down as she finished her speech.
The Rev. Ennie Kaseke, a United Methodist pastor and sibling of Kadenge, said her sister was the youngest in their family of six. “She never had children of her own, but always regarded all children as hers,” she said.
“She was so committed to underprivileged children. She would pay school fees and provide stationery and uniforms. Two of her ‘children’ have just completed university studies and another is now a medical doctor.
“What is happening here today confirms her desire to see learners happy and excelling in class. I am happy with the partnership between the church and the schools. Our family donated awards for excelling children as well,” she said.
Sarudzai Chamburuka, the mother of Tanaka Chamburuka, the form 4 overall winner, offered thanks to God and the church. “It was time to thank God and reflect on how faithful our God is,” said Sarudzai Chamburuka. “The beauty about this event was the involvement of the church. We remain grateful to The United Methodist Church. Continue to spread the Gospel through giving.
The Rev. Faith Nyagato, Seke South United Methodist Church pastor in charge, said she donated a trophy and was “uplifted to fulfill my God-given passion.”
“The beneficiary of my trophy was Nyasha, a child being raised by a single parent. This has helped me to know that God is father of all people regardless of your background and there is a purpose for me in the caring ministry, especially to those in need,” she said.
“As a church, we have fulfilled what is written in Matthew 28:19-20: Go therefore and make disciples.”
Chingwe is a UM News communicator in the Zimbabwe East Conference.
News contact: Julie Dwyer, news editor, newsdesk@umcom.org or 615-742-5469. To read more United Methodist News, subscribe to the free UM News Digests.
