Zimbabwe (MNN) ― Zimbabwe's cholera death toll tops 1700 now, and the food shortage is worse than ever.
The waterborne disease has spread to all ten of Zimbabwe's provinces because of the collapse of health and sanitation systems. This week, the Health Minister warned that the epidemic could get worse as the rainy season develops.
The epidemic is adding to the humanitarian crisis in the country, amidst a political crisis that threatens the stability of the country. Travel is being discouraged.
When asked if the situation would hurt upcoming Frontline Shepherd conferences this month, David Shibley with Global Advance said, "From what we're getting in preliminary pre-conference reports, we will actually have record turnouts of pastors at both of our conferences in Zimbabwe because of the acute need that is in the country."
The conferences will go on as scheduled because they are being held in smaller, more out-of-the-way cities.
The desperation has many turning to the church for hope. This is a prime time for the Gospel to be planted. Shibley says that's why training is critical now. "There's an enormous need for someone to lift up the hands and strengthen and encourage these wonderful men. These conferences are led by all Africa teams, and they are men who are associated with us at Global Advance who are leading these teams."
Zimbabwe's situation is not unusual. As economic instability continues globally, people are searching for hope. Pastors can sense the shift in openness and are asking for help as they tackle difficult issues and teach believers how to follow Christ.
This year, Shibley says, they are on track for a record 100 conferences, in spite of the instabilities that threaten. Their mission: to help fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus Christ by empowering national church leaders and business leaders to evangelize and disciple their own and surrounding nations.
