During that time they met with both Committees of the IMM and outlined the spiritual needs of the many thousands of miners working in the area around Bulawayo. Some evangelistic work had already been started due to the generous financial support of a Christian farmer, who paid the salaries of the first evangelists. This work has developed over the years, so that today a strong spiritual ministry is being undertaken amongst miners and their dependants in various areas including: three mines around Gwanda, the Bindura and Shamva Mines (gold), Globe Phoenix Mine and Ivine Mine near Mbizo, mines around Rutendo and Torwood, and several others. This is ably organised by the United Baptist Church of Zimbabwe. A coordinator supervises the work of several pastors and evangelists, who salaries are funded by IMM Switzerland working amongst miners. Several motorbikes have been provided along with containers with second-hand clothing and other essential items. Further assistance is given to self-help projects such as helping women to come out of prostitution.
There is a very important ministry to HIV/AIDS patients in hospitals in the area. Also funds are provided for the support of several orphaned children, so that they can attend school. Large numbers of Bibles in local languages have been distributed. More Bibles are desperately needed.
Further information about Zimbabwe from:
Internationale Bergmanns-Mission
Postfach 469, 3000 Bern 14 Switzerland
Tel: 0041 31 372 81 94
Email:
Chairman- Kurt Feurer