Turning Away From Tradition

Chief Zakaria was influential in his Malawian community.

The words he spoke always carried extra weight, and throughout his life he had built a strong standing in his community.

Much of his stature came from his leadership of a local practice known as Gule Wamkulu—a traditional cult dance of the Chewa people in Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique.

The Great Dance as it’s translated, was used as a cultural way of connecting with ancestors, celebrating major milestones, and welcoming adolescent boys into manhood.

In his case, participation in the ritual stopped him from coming out to church.

Zakaria had always been interested in the church, but he worried about the impact it would have on his social standing. Giving his life to Christ meant forsaking his traditions and no longer participating in Gule Wamkulu. It meant losing his influence.

So, he kept his distance.

But that all changed when local church partners held a Gospel Outreach event in his village.

As Zakaria heard the true gospel, and the testimonies of the believers in the Fountain of Life Church, his heart completely changed. At that very event he publicly declared he was giving his life to Jesus and made the decision to be baptized—despite the fears he had about what it would mean for his status in the community.

Then, another amazing thing happened.

Rather than being cast out by his community for his decision, he was followed. Thirteen other chiefs in surrounding villages became intrigued by his story and now they are all attending the church with Zakaria.

It is truly amazing to see what God can do when someone is willing to step out in faith!