10 notable Christian ministry leaders, influencers who died in 2023
João Somane Machado – Oct. 25, 2023
Retired United Methodist Church Bishop João Somane Machado, who oversaw congregations in Mozambique and ordained the first female pastors in the country, died at age 77.
A native of Cambine, Inhamabane Province, Machado was elected bishop in 1988 and served as head of the Mozambique Area until his retirement in 2008. During his administration, he promoted education and was part of the effort that helped end the African nation’s civil war in 1992.
Retired Bishop Ntambo Nkulu Ntanda, who oversaw the Congo-based North Katanga and Tanganyika areas, told UM News earlier this year that Machado was a “statesman of integrity” who leaves behind a good example for African churches.
“He was development-minded and he lived his life for the Mozambican people and The United Methodist Church. He had a lot of wisdom and he kept the church united,” said Ntambo.
“Bishop Machado was a true church leader who worked for his church and died serving it. He was a patriot and I loved the way he would collaborate with newly elected bishops and take them under his wing. I thank God for his life.”
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