Zambia UCZ students

Psalm 122, contemporary versions — Zambia & UK

The first three contemporary versions of Psalm 122, variations on a theme, were written collaboratively by groups of theology and ministry students at the United Church of Zambia University, Mindolo.  The fourth version arises from the United Kingdom. Psalm 122 is a reading for the First Sunday of Advent, Year A. Psalm 122 — arising […]

Read full text

Call to Worship — Thomas Bwalya, Zambia

Call to worship Be exalted O God above the heavens. Let your glory be over all the earth. All: Come, let us worship our God. I invite you all dear, parents, brothers and sisters to stand with me and sing hymn number _____ as we open our service. Thomas Bwalya is a  ministry student United […]

Read full text

Opening prayer of praise and confession — Ian Kapembwa, Zambia

Almighty and everlasting creator, redeemer and sustainer of our lives, the true and only wise God, we thank you for the marvellous works of your hand. Indeed, they signify how great you are. The morphological design of earth describes the splendour of your beauty. Gracious and merciful God, despite your goodness toward humanity we have […]

Read full text

Opening words, Psalm 128:1-2 — Ian Kapembwa, Zambia

‘Blessed is everyone who fears God, who walks in God’s ways! You shall eat the fruit of the labour of your hands. You shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you.’ Used for Chapel Devotions, Tuesday 27 August, at United Church of Zambia University, by Ministerial Student, Ian Kapembwa.

Read full text

Blessing of a home — Zambia

  Scripture sentences Psalm 127:1 Proverbs 18:10   Word of Blessing God, creator of the universe and giver of all possession, we thank you for the privilege given to this family [insert names].  We dedicate this house to you and declare that your light shines in this house. Our prayer is that nothing evil will […]

Read full text

Blessing of a building site — Zambia

Creating fresh liturgies for Zambia’ today The city of Lusaka is often called a ‘construction site’ by its residents due to the constant building and expansion of the city.  This liturgy for blessing a new office block site has been written cooperatively by a group of Bachelor of Theology students at the United Church of […]

Read full text

Opening Prayers of adoration, thanksgiving & confession – Zambia

A contemporary service in a United Church of Zambia congregation will usually include a ‘Prayer of Adoration, thanksgiving and confession’ following either the Call to Worship or the first hymn. The prayers included on this post are written by students of ministry and theology at the United Church of Zambia University in Mindolo, Kitwe.  They […]

Read full text

Prayers for Illumination — Zambia

These prayers for illumination, variations on a theme, were shared by students of theology and ministry preaching at morning devotions at the United Church of Zambia University, Mindolo. By Thomas Bwalya God, our father and mother, we open our hearts to you this morning.  Speak to us as we interact with the text read. By […]

Read full text

Rainbow of God’s design — Wellingtone Bawalya, Zambia

Inspired by 1 Corinthians 4:3-6 (Eighth Sunday after Epiphany, Year A) This prayer arises from a homily given at Morning Chapel, United Church of Zambia University.  Wellingtone’s words have been adapted as a prayer by Ana Gobledale. My parents, sisters and brothers in Christ, join me in prayer. Creator God, how wonderful it is that […]

Read full text

Psalm 122 — Zambia’s voice

I was filled with great happiness when I was called to go to church. What sweet fellowship we find in you O wonderful house of God built on a solid foundation. You grant to us a sweet time of prayer, despite our different languages and cultures. There is justice in your presence. All people enjoy […]

Read full text

Psalm 46:1-11 – Zambian revision

Psalm 46:1-11 – Zambian revision* God is our shelter and hiding place Always with us to help us. Regardless of hard times, God’s assurance is with us. Even if challenges overwhelm us, Or chaotic things are within us, There is a place of peace where God is in control. Because God is with us, we […]

Read full text

Psalm 121 – rising from Zambia

Psalm 121 – rising from Zambia* When I am in search of a solution, from place to place, It is only found in God The Creator of the Universe. God provides ultimate protection No matter the challenge. For God remains watchful in all times. God who watches over nature will always be with us. God […]

Read full text

Psalm 46:1-11 – voices of Zambia

Our Creator who is our protector and power and ever with us, Even when the economy depreciates and political scandal rises, Will not be shaken. God is the source of happiness. Your word brings joy to us. Your presence will always be with us to render help. At the sound of your voice troubles come […]

Read full text