The congregation at St Peter’s Chitungwiza United Methodist Church in Harare was struck by tragedy on Tuesday night when Evangelist Norest Nyakudanga collapsed and died during a sermon.
The shocking event took place while the 65-year-old evangelist was delivering his message, leaving the audience in disbelief.
Witnesses described the moment as terrifying and surreal.
Evangelist Nyakudanga had been addressing a packed church in Highlands, Harare, sharing a sermon that had moved many of the attendees.
Those who were physically present, as well as viewers following the service on Facebook, were witnesses to the unexpected tragedy.
A Sudden Collapse
According to a church member who attended the service, everything seemed normal at first.
Nyakudanga was reportedly full of energy, even taking time to dance during the service before he began his sermon.
“He came looking fit as usual,” one congregant recalled.
“He was full of energy and even danced before reading the Bible.”
But moments after delivering a powerful message about the importance of focusing on positive and uplifting messages in the church, Nyakudanga suddenly began to lose his balance.
He struggled to remain steady at the pulpit, alarming those watching.
Before anyone could react, the evangelist collapsed, sending shockwaves through the congregation.
According to eyewitnesses, Nyakudanga may have passed away before he hit the ground.
The suddenness of his collapse left many worshippers in a state of disbelief.
Some immediately rushed to his aid, but it became apparent that the evangelist was no longer responsive.
A Life Devoted to Faith
Evangelist Norest Nyakudanga was a well-respected figure in the United Methodist Church.
He was known for his passionate sermons and his unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel.
His enthusiasm and dedication to the church had earned him a loyal following, both in Harare and beyond.
Nyakudanga had been preaching for many years, and his message of faith and unity resonated with many.
He was particularly vocal about the need for the church to remain focused on delivering positive and inspiring messages.
In his final sermon, Nyakudanga had expressed concerns about the growing negativity and division within the church.
He urged the congregation to rise above such influences and instead focus on praising the Lord and uplifting each other.
This message, tragically, became his last.
A Community in Mourning
The death of Evangelist Nyakudanga has left the church and the larger community in mourning.
Many have expressed their shock and sadness at the sudden loss of such a beloved figure.
Messages of condolence have poured in from all over, as members of the United Methodist Church and the public try to come to terms with the tragedy.
