Tinotenda Hove- The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe is in mourning following the sudden death of Mrs Adelaide Sithole, wife of Bishop Reverend Simbarashe Sithole.

Mrs Sithole passed away on Monday shortly after landing at Auckland Airport in New Zealand. She had traveled to the country to take part in the World Federation conference.

Confirming the tragic news, Church General Secretary Reverend Likhai Molife paid tribute to her as a committed servant of God and sent heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, the congregation, and church partners across the world.

“Mrs Sithole was more than a leader. She was our mother in faith,” Rev Molife said.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing on of our devout leader, our mother, Mrs Adelaide Sithole.”

Mrs Sithole held several key positions within the church. She served as National President of Ruwadzano Manyano and also led the Girls Christian Union.

Her death comes at a time when top Methodist leaders and delegates from Zimbabwe are already gathered in New Zealand for the global conference.

Church officials said the exact cause of death has not yet been made public.

Rev Molife urged members across the Methodist community and ecumenical bodies to uphold Bishop Sithole, their children, and relatives in prayer during this painful period.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Rev Sithole, the children, family, friends, and the entire Methodist and ecumenical family,” he said.

The church said information regarding the repatriation of Mrs Sithole’s remains to Zimbabwe and funeral plans will be communicated once arrangements are finalized.