By Twink Jones Gadama
In an exclusive interview with this publication, Senior Church Elder Amosi Kuipa of the Bangwe SDA Church shed light on the recent decision by the South Malawi Conference to disband the church. The move, which has sparked controversy within the SDA community, was reportedly due to the church’s refusal to adopt new doctrines and practices introduced by the global SDA church.
According to Elder Kuipa, the issues began in the late 1990s when the SDA global church introduced a new logo and allowed women to preach from the pulpit. The Bangwe SDA Church sought clarification from the South Malawi Conference but ultimately decided to maintain its traditional practices, including the use of the old logo featuring three angels and restricting women from preaching.
“We believe that our stance is rooted in scripture,” Elder Kuipa emphasized. “We cannot simply change our beliefs and practices to conform to new doctrines. Our pioneers founded this church on certain principles, and we must remain true to those principles.”
The South Malawi Conference cited several reasons for the church’s disbandment, including the denial of the Holy Spirit’s existence, the misuse of tithe funds, and the refusal to negotiate. However, Elder Kuipa vehemently denied these allegations, stating that the church fully believes in the Godhead, comprising the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Regarding the tithe funds, Elder Kuipa explained that the church had withheld its tithe reserves after the conference ceased offering pastoral services without explanation. He also denied that the church had refused to negotiate, stating that the conference had never extended a formal invitation to discuss the issues.
The Bangwe SDA Church’s decision to maintain its traditional practices has been met with support from its members, who view the move as a stand for true Adventist values. “We are unified and strong in our faith,” Elder Kuipa said. “We will not be swayed by external pressures to compromise our beliefs.”
The church’s stance has also raised concerns about the suppression of dissenting voices within the SDA community. Elder Kuipa acknowledged these concerns, stating that the conference’s decision was an attempt to silence the true Adventist message.
As the Bangwe SDA Church navigates this challenging period, its members remain resolute in their commitment to their faith. “We urge the global SDA community to hold fast to the truth that we have been preaching,” Elder Kuipa said. “We must remember the three angels’ message and the importance of adhering to our traditional doctrines.”
The dispute between the Bangwe SDA Church and the South Malawi Conference has sparked a wider debate within the SDA community about the importance of tradition and doctrine. As the church continues to stand firm in its beliefs, it remains to be seen how this issue will be resolved.
In the meantime, the Bangwe SDA Church’s members will continue to worship and fellowship together, unwavering in their commitment to their faith. As Elder Kuipa so eloquently put it, “We will remain calm and prayerful, knowing that God will see us through.”
