CHURCH RESPONSES TO THE CRISIS IN ZIMBABWE

Abstract

Zimbabwe gained political independence in 1980, but the initial achievements of Robert Mugabe’s government were short‐lived. Zimbabwean Christians have responded to the country’s crisis in various ways, including: avoiding political engagement, moral indifference, aggression and hostility, and prophetic engagement. Christians who pursue prophetic engagement believe that stubborn political authorities must always be confronted and held accountable—but in a manner that does not lose sight of the moral ends being pursued. Zimbabwean churches have a moral duty to contribute to the creation of a social, economic, political, and cultural context that facilitates the growth and fulfillment of every person.