BJ Mpofu is a gifted preacher, pastor, and mentor who has shaped many Christian leaders to go out and make disciples in Zimbabwe. Over the past 30 years, he has been a key leader in the Associated Churches of Christ in Zimbabwe, bringing the gospel to rural communities, often travelling by motorbike.
With BJ’s support and guidance, along with other Christian leaders, more than 77 churches have been planted, and over three thousand people have committed their lives to Christ. BJ has also played an integral role in establishing the Showers of Blessing Trust, a development program that provides safe water access in communities by drilling boreholes to access groundwater.
“Our first trip to Australia was in 2000 when I was the President of the Associated Churches of Christ in Zimbabwe, attending the World Convention in Brisbane.” During his second trip in 2003, BJ spoke at the Marion Church of Christ in Adelaide. “I remember speaking passionately about our vision for the church in our country… and the need for three motorbikes [for evangelists]”. BJ also has fond memories of his visit to the Howrah Church of Christ in Hobart, Tasmania. “Their love for mission touched my heart,” he recalls.
From 2003 to 2025, BJ and his wife Chipo have visited Australia 15 times! BJ shares, “We have made many friends in Australia, and the support we have received has been excellent ever since the beginning.” Thanks to this support, BJ reports that there are now 85 active church congregations in the Zvishavane area.
This year marks the end of a chapter for BJ as he retires from his role with the Associated Churches of Christ. “I leave our mission work with great satisfaction in knowing how God has used us [both himself and Chipo].”
BJ extends his appreciation to those who have supported him over the years. “I would like to thank all the people who have diligently supported us throughout our mission work. I am especially grateful to the Executive Officers at Global Mission Partners: Jeff May, Jeff Weston, Peter Overton, and, for a long period, John Gilmore. Additionally, I want to acknowledge the most recent CEO, John Lamerton, who has been an inspiration to me during our time working together. I must also mention Val Zerna, the longest-serving member of Global Mission Partners staff I have worked with, who represented us in a very special way.”
While BJ is retiring, he knows that it might take him a while to “fully retire” as there is still work to be done. Although as he begins to slow down, he extends an invitation to those travelling through Bulawayo: “Our house will remain open for visitors from Australia and those on mission work,” just as many of you have opened your homes to BJ and Chipo during their visits to Australia over the years.
We would like to acknowledge BJ and Chipo for their incredible, faithful, and passionate service to the Kingdom of God. We congratulate them on reaching 30 years in ministry. We pray for God’s richest blessings upon them as they retire and embark on a new journey together in this next season of their lives.