For the 60th anniversary of the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) this year, the United Reformed Church (URC) wishes to congratulate the church collection for the warm congratulations. This serves as a great change to review the contributions of the UCZ company and the strong faith with which it is held alongside Christians all over the world as well as all the other churches in partnership with UCZ, including the URC.
A Significant Milestone in The Relationship Of The Churches
As a result of the joining of three Christian Missions working in Zambia namely Paris Evangelical Missionary Society (PEMS), London Missionary Society (LMS), University of Zambia: Methodists and Church of Scotland in 16th January 1965, saw the birth of United Church Of Zambia (UCZ). With the formation of UCZ came the amalgamation of many diverse Christian traditions and cultures, all united in a common vision which Jesus Christ inspires and is both religious and political in scope.
The date 1964 marks a crucial turning point in the history of Zambia, as the country gained independence under the leadership of the country’s first president, Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda. In a way, Dr. Kaunda’s motto – “One Zambia, One Nation” -captured the spirit of the nation’s diverse peoples and sought to unite them as one. This vision UCZ was created with is similar to what Dr. Kaunda stood for, which is to build on Zambia’s rich heritage and promote nation building in Christ. The aim of the church was not just to establish a new Christian faith, but to strengthen the social bonds of the newly liberated nation.
Zambia’s development is marked with a direct correlation of religion and politics thanks to Dr. Kaunda’s father who was a Scottish missionary. This significantly explains the personal tie that Dr. Kaunda formed with the Church of Scotland. The establishment of UCZ wasn’t about just building another religious building, but was an effort towards constructing a united, peaceful Zambia.
A Message of Congratulations from Dr. John P. Bradbury
During the 60th Anniversary Celebration of UCZ, Dr. John P. Bradbury a Reverend from the United Reformed Church in the United Kingdom was among those who sent their warm regards and heartfelt congratulations. Dr. Bradbury applauded the efforts at UCZ and its reach, not only in Zambia, but the church’s positive and sustainable impact all over the world. In doing this, he reiterated the positive impact that the church has had on the Zambian people.
Dr. John P. Bradbury praised the United Church of Zambia for its creation and support of intergenerational fellowship community, especially its outreach in the country’s United States of America. In his view, the church embodies hope and peace to the rest of the Zambians. Besides, Dr. Bradbury asserted the significant influence that the church has upon the moral and social development of the nation.
In his address, Dr. Bradbury reflits what UCZ seeks to accomplish which is incorporating individuals from varying backgrounds regardless of the languages that they speak, their ethnicities, or cultures. In his words- “ The focus of UCZ’s mission is to bring together people from different backgrounds, united by love, respect, and a deep commitment to the Gospel.’”
Constructing a Future Based on Unity
Dr. Bradbury’s thoughts are a reminder that just like Zambia, the church UCZ is on a journey of inclusivity and unity. The purpose of the church is not only for expression of faith , but also the daily interactions of its members fosters respect and love towards each other while bridging gaps of nationalities, culture and language. Looking into the future, UCZ would like to remain focused on their mission of shaping a more compassionate society which is united by the teachings of Christ.
As we mark sixty years of UCZ’s existence, we are thankful for the church’s transformation and legacy of faith and hope. We look forward to the continued work that will further unite people of all backgrounds under the banner of Christ’s love.
Anniversary Celebrations in Kitwe
The United Church of Zambia’s 60th anniversary was characterized by colorful celebrations that took place in Kitwe at UCZ’s Mindolo Congregation. The activity was on January 16th, 2025 and it brought together different members of UCZ all the way from the ordinary church members, to clergy members, to representatives. This was not just celebrating a festivity, this served as a window to the development of the church as well as its missions and the ongoing task of serving in an everchanging society.
Many important people attended the event, among them is the Honorable Mulenga Chipoka, the Minister of Commerce, Trade, and Industry in the government of Zambia. The presence of other government officials indicated the view of the church as a partner in the development of the nation in addition to serving the spiritual needs of the people. The government for a long time has appreciated the work of the UCZ in the area of peace building, reconciliation, and moral and ethical development of the people of Zambia.
While honoring the achievements of the church, Hon. Mulenga Chipoka expressed the gratitude of the government of Zambia towards the United Church of Zambia for their tremendous efforts in national development. He also lauded the church for the efforts put towards education, health care, social justice, and other public works. The UCZ has established outreach programs which include schools, hospitals, and social services that cater primarily to underserved regions such as rural areas.
UCZ’s anniversary celebrations were also attended by officials of the UCZ Synod and mission partners from the different parts of the world. This event brought together the members of the UCZ to give thanks for their shared past, refocus their goals, and foster ties with the rest of the world to the Christian community. The Jubilee Celebrations were also attended by clergy from others faiths, which attests the ecumenical approach to ministry which the UCZ has endeavored from its inception.
Analyzing the Contribution of the Church
It is a milestone for the UCZ and the Zambians at large, and after sixty years of existence, it is worth remembering where the church is coming from, the journey it has undertaken, and what it has contributed to the Zambian society. Step by step, throughout the years, the UCZ has progressed from being a community of Christians to a nation church with projects in every region of Zambia. It has remained a voice for the voiceless, a defender of the oppressed, and a beacon of hope for the people of the nation.
The church is at the helm of pushing for peace building and reconciliation in the country during a national crisis. Their campaign for the respect of human rights, efforts to integrate all the ethnic groups in Zambia, as well as working towards social justice has led to stability and progress in the country. Furthermore, the UCZ has been instrumental in the development and provision of social services by offering assistance to those in need and consultations with different parties to address the issues facing the country.
In the coming years, the UCZ will still play an important role. The goals set for the next stage of the church and its journey are quite high considering the complete expansion of the outreach programs, deepening the commitment to justice, and other social endeavors as well as acquiring additional ecumenical and international partners. The aspirations are to continue fostering growth along with unifying under the service of God and the people of Zambia.
Conclusion
The 60th anniversary of the United Church of Zambia is a special time for the church and the people of Zambia. It is a time for the church to review its journey, reflect on its successes, and optimistically hope for the future. The message from the AU’s anniversary celebrations serves as a unifying call to Christians of all nations and as an encouragement to embrace and practice unity, service and love as members of the body of Christ.
The UCZ like all other institutions will continue to change and develop with the times, but its hallmark of faith, service and unity will always shine as a lamp to all who desire to emulate the love and justice of Christ. It is now a wish of faith for another 60 years of living, service and change.
If you are interested for more: Maha Kumbh Mela: 5 Unforgettable Elements of Faith, Unity, and Spiritual Transformation The United Church of Zambia (UCZ): URC’s 60 Powerful Years of Impact
