Schism in Pentecostal churches: a case study of Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe 2018 great schism

Abstract

This dissertation has been an analysis of the causes of schism in Pentecostalism with special focus on the great schism of 2018 in the AFM in Zimbabwe. Qualitative research methodology has been used in this research through unstructured interviews. The dissertation explored schism in the Early Church with special focus on the Johannine community which is evidence to the fact that schism were experienced since the early history of Christianity. AFM in Zimbabwe is regarded as the mother of Pentecostalism in Zimbabwe. Since its existence in Zimbabwe, there were a number of individuals who broke away and formed their ministries. However, a great schism was witnessed in the year 2018 where apart from other individuals who started their own ministries, two major groups emerged, both claiming the same name and assets as they regard themselves the authentic AFM in Zimbabwe. One group supports the AFM in Zimbabwe constitutional reforms while the other condemns the constitutional reforms. The study investigated on the causes and impact of this great schism in AFM in Zimbabwe. The dissertation concluded that the impact of the schism has both positive and negative effects. It was discovered that the AFM in Zimbabwe is continuously facing schisms since the 1930s. Apart from other causes, doctrinal differences are the major causes of splits throughout the phases of schisms in the AFM in Zimbabwe.