Chaos At Methodist Church As Police Stop Rival Bishops’ Services
Chaos erupted at a Methodist Revival Church (MRC) service in Rusape last Sunday, as rival factions clashed over control of the pulpit, forcing police to intervene and halt proceedings to prevent violence.
The dramatic standoff unfolded on April 20, 2026, when two opposing groups attempted to hold simultaneous services inside the same church building. The confrontation brought long-standing divisions within the church into full public view.
Rival Factions Clash During Service
The conflict involves two groups. One remains loyal to MRC founder Bishop Phillip Mupindu. The other is a breakaway faction led by Bishop Philemon Munyaradzi Chamburuka.
The split dates back several years, following Bishop Mupindu’s stroke. Although he later recovered and resumed duties, tensions within the church deepened.
Last Sunday, both factions gathered at the Rusape church. Each attempted to conduct its own service.
Police officers from Rusape Urban station stepped in as tensions escalated.
Sergeant Major Ngangu addressed congregants, calling for calm.
“I think we have worshipped enough, and we cannot continue like this. We have spoken to the leaders from both sides and agreed that this cannot continue, because it might end in chaos.”
“We know there was a split, and legal processes are under way, but a church should not operate this way. We expect peace and co-existence in the church, not rivalry and competition as you are doing.”
“You may leave now, while we continue engaging your leadership to determine who has the legitimacy to conduct services at this church.”
The service was abruptly stopped following these remarks.
Court Battle Fuels Church Dispute
The dispute has already moved through the courts.
A High Court ruling delivered on October 23, 2024, reportedly affirmed Bishop Mupindu’s authority and ordered the Chamburuka-led faction to surrender church assets, documents, and the Rusape building.
The ruling also barred the breakaway group from using the MRC name and symbols, and nullified Bishop Chamburuka’s appointment as bishop.
In November 2024, the Chamburuka faction attempted to challenge the ruling under Case Number HCH 5373/24. The application was later struck off the roll.
Despite this, the faction is accused of continuing to occupy church properties and using the MRC identity.
MRC Board of Trustees coordinator Mr Itai Zvenyika Munyoro said the church is pursuing legal enforcement.
“Following a favourable High Court ruling affirming Bishop Mupindu’s authority and legitimacy, MRC has moved to enforce the judgment through the courts.”
“This includes engaging the Sheriff’s office to execute asset recovery and initiating contempt of court proceedings against individuals refusing to comply.”
“You cannot have people continuing to disrupt MRC services while pledging allegiance to Bishop Chamburuka, who has been barred from interfering with our operations, assets and name.”
He also raised concerns about law enforcement.
“We have all the documents for the police to enforce the law and protect us from these people, but they are clearly biased.”
Silence From Breakaway Leaders
Some members aligned to the Chamburuka faction declined to comment in detail.
Mr Never Mukanda acknowledged the divisions but said he could not speak freely.
“Yes, this is the church I fellowship under, and this is what things are. Unfortunately, I cannot comment about the divisions because protocol does not allow me to.”
The absence of senior leaders from the breakaway faction during the service has also raised questions.
The incident highlights a deepening crisis within the church, with both legal and leadership battles still unresolved.
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