By Farai Makopa
KWEKWE — United Family International Church founder Emmanuel Makandiwa has urged Christians to move beyond simply receiving spiritual guidance and become mentors capable of raising others in the faith.
Speaking at the Apostolic Summit 2026 in Kwekwe, Makandiwa told thousands of congregants that spiritual fatherhood was defined by the ability to nurture and develop others rather than one’s own origins.
“You don’t become a father by being birthed, but by birthing,” he said.
Makandiwa and his wife, Ruth, are attending the four-day conference hosted by New Creation Life Ministries International, founded by Joy and Mary Museba.
The annual summit, held for more than a decade, is running from October 22-25 under the theme “Walking in Dominion” at the newly built Life Centre in Mbizo 10.
Makandiwa said his visit was more than a guest appearance, describing his relationship with the ministry as one of spiritual fatherhood.
“I’ve been here before — both physically and spiritually,” he said.
Drawing from Hebrews 12:9-10, Makandiwa contrasted earthly fathers, who sometimes discipline their children for their own pleasure, with God, whom the Bible describes as the “Father of spirits.”
He said God’s discipline was intended to benefit believers and help them grow in holiness.
Makandiwa argued that Christians could only exercise true dominion by bringing their physical and spiritual lives into harmony.
He said the fivefold ministry described in Ephesians was intended to equip believers for spiritual service, transforming ordinary church members into ministers capable of guiding others.
He challenged congregants to become producers rather than consumers of spiritual guidance.
“We must be known for results as God’s kids,” Makandiwa said, criticizing what he described as a tendency among believers to speak about faith without demonstrating its practical effects.
He also drew on the biblical account of creation in Genesis, arguing that believers must abandon their own understanding of identity to embrace God’s likeness.
Referring to Proverbs 17:22, he contrasted the destructive effects of a broken spirit with the sustaining power of a cheerful heart.
Makandiwa said spiritual maturity should be measured by the ability to produce meaningful results and help others develop in their faith.
The gathering also featured gospel musician Mathias Mhere, Minister Prince and Lady Gamaliel, who led worship sessions before Makandiwa’s address.
The summit is being held at the newly constructed 2,400-seat Life Centre auditorium, which has two additional overflow venues, including a junior auditorium accommodating hundreds of worshippers.
The main facility was constructed in 125 days.
The conference, which began Thursday, is scheduled to conclude Sunday, with further worship and teaching sessions planned throughout the weekend.
