As ZAOGA FIF (Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa) commemorates its 65th anniversary, Professor Eunor Guti’s heartfelt narration brings to life the humble, Spirit-led beginnings and enduring legacy of the ministry’s founding father, Archbishop Ezekiel Guti. Her moving account, both spiritual and historical, paints a compelling portrait of a man called by God, shaped by divine encounters, and unwavering in his mission despite overwhelming odds.
The story begins with the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which marked a turning point in young Archbishop Ezekiel Guti’s life. Professor Eunor recounts that he began to see visions, including an angel raising its hands, confirming his divine calling. Despite mockery from others, he remained steadfast, even sneaking away from his peers to be baptized in water—a secret that was only revealed when he hung his wet clothes to dry.
Archbishop Ezekiel Guti’s early journey was riddled with trials and sacrifices. When he attempted to fit in socially by attending a tea party, he received a divine vision of falling stars and a voice that told him, “This is not your place.” He fled, never to return to those youthful circles again. This marked his victory over worldly temptations, setting him apart for a higher calling.
God began waking Archbishop Ezekiel Guti up at 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. to speak with him. By 1953, the Lord had told him, “I have taken your hand to heal the sick.” Archbishop Ezekiel Guti’s healing ministry began to flourish, but not without resistance. Churches that initially welcomed him soon turned against him. But in his despair, God instructed him to go to a primitive, obscure place—under a gum tree—where nobody would follow him, promising that His work would begin there. And indeed, miracles, signs, and salvations followed.
He spent his days in a cave by the river, praying, and returned in the evenings to preach. As the ministry grew, God directed Archbishop Ezekiel Guti back to Harare—then called Salisbury—where he faced fierce persecution. Some accused him of preaching politics under Ian Smith’s regime, leading to multiple interrogations by police. Despite this, he preached fearlessly, even when hungry, and continued to expand the ministry.
ZAOGA was officially registered under the same gum tree in Highfield during a Christmas convention. When police inquired about the gathering, they took his explanation to the authorities and helped formalize the church’s recognition.
Professor Eunor emphasized Archbishop Ezekiel Guti’s selflessness. He refused to buy a car when given money, choosing instead to care for others. During the liberation war, he started an orphanage, initially feeding 19 children from their own home. His love for people inspired him to teach a gospel that uplifted the poor, helping them escape poverty by embracing the Kingdom of God and using their hands through talents and entrepreneurship.
In 1971, during a trip to the United States, Archbishop Ezekiel Guti faced a financial crisis. A wealthy white businessman offered to support him, but through prayer, God warned him: “If you go under this man, I will remove my hand from you.” He rejected the offer in faith and began to sing songs inspired by the word of the Lord, igniting a faith that carried him forward. Upon his return, he encouraged women and church members to work with their hands while teaching about tithing. People who had nothing—who sat on tins and slept on mats—began to rise up through hard work and spiritual obedience.
Professor Eunor Guti’s testimony offers more than a history lesson—it is a powerful reminder of how faith, vision, perseverance, and sacrifice laid the foundation for a church that today spans continents. ZAOGA’s 65 years are not just a celebration of time passed, but of a divine journey walked by a servant who obeyed the voice of God—beginning under a gum tree and growing into a global ministry that continues to transform lives.
As the church marks this milestone, the legacy of Archbishop Ezekiel Guti, as narrated by Professor Eunor Guti, stands as a beacon of what it means to live a life wholly surrendered to the will of God.
