BY STYLE CORRESPONDENT

Giving to the needy is what defines a true Christian, especially in challenging times, a visiting South Africa-based Zimbabwean cleric has said.

Speaking at the handover of goods to the elderly at the Restoration of All Nations Church in Dzivaresekwa 2, Harare recently, the founder and Bishop of Greater Life Ministries Luckie Bepete said giving was more imperative now given the prevalence of the Covid-19 pandemic which has been ravaging all countries of the world, placing the poor in desperate situations.

Restoration of All Nations Church is headed by Bepete’s spiritual son Ueahiloe Maseko.

“The poor and other vulnerable groups like the aged, those living with disability, orphans and child-headed families, who struggle when the situation is normal are more exposed because of the obtaining lockdowns imposed to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic,” Bepete said.

“Today, most countries are bracing for the fourth wave of Covid-19 and as Zimbabweans, we must never be complacent, but continue to observe guidelines and protocols put in place from time to time.

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“In Cape Town, I introduced soup kitchens for street children who had no one to turn to. I’m bringing this concept home and took it to Chiweshe and Mufakose, Harare, giving to the needy.

“Things were worse during the very first wave but now at least we can prepare how we can fight challenges associated with the prevalence of the virus.

“So, we are in Dzivaresekwa today with the same programme.”

The clergyman said he is only playing his own small part and encouraged others to spare a thought for the needy during these tough times.

Greater Life Ministries was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Cape Town and in Zimbabwe the church has branches in Mabvuku, Dzivaresekwa, Mufakose, Chiweshe and Bulawayo.

Bepete has preached in several countries which include the United States, Italy, Ghana and Mozambique, among others.

The cleric was born in Harare and attended school where his mother taught.

He has diplomas in accounting and business studies, theology and is now full-time in ministry.

The cleric is married to Maria Sibongile and they have two children, who are now both married.