Matola Cidade Church of the Nazarene in Mozambique honored Ana da Conceição Coelho, a woman who has served in the Church of the Nazarene for over 50 years. She has dedicated her life to teaching the Word of God to the children in the church.

Those at the service shared their gratitude and testimonies of how Coelho, or Avó Ana as she is affectionately known (meaning Grandma Ana), impacted their lives by sharing God’s love and Word with them. 

Senior Pastor Arsénio Manjate shared the joy that characterized Avó Ana’s life by reading Philippians 4:4, which states, “Rejoice in the Lord always; I will say it again: rejoice!”  

“Let us all rejoice for Avó Ana’s life and ministry,” Manjate said. “I am so honored to be a pastor of this great counselor, teacher, and woman of prayer.”

She is the last member of the former European District, which was formed out of necessity due to the segregation laws in both Mozambique and South Africa.

In her speech for the occasion, Avó Ana reiterated how much she loved working with children and sharing with them God’s plan for their lives, according to God’s Word. Several generations have benefitted from the work of Avó Ana, and many individuals were called to ministry after sitting in her Sunday school classes as children. 

Many current church leaders heard about God’s love for them at Avó Ana’s feet, including Vasco Mabote, superintendent of the Matola District, and General Superintendent Fili Chambo.

The Matola Cidade Church of the Nazarene offered thanks to Avó Ana for always proclaiming with joy, “To God be the glory!” 

--Church of the Nazarene Africa Region