Who We Are
Welcome to the Reformed Church In Zimbabwe - Hatcliffe. Explore our heritage, meet our leaders, and discover the core truths we stand on.
Established 1891
"Light at Morgenster"
A Legacy of Faith
The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) traces its institutional roots to September 9, 1891, with the establishment of the Morgenster mission station near Great Zimbabwe.
What began as a missionary initiative led by Rev. A.A. Louw and dedicated African evangelists has grown into a vibrant denomination that serves the whole person—spirit, soul, and body—through churches, schools, and hospitals across the nation.
Founding at Morgenster
On September 9, 1891, the mission station at Morgenster was established near Great Zimbabwe by Rev. A.A. Louw and seven Basotho evangelists, marking the birth of the church.
Mission Expansion
Following the withdrawal of the Berlin Missionary Society, the Dutch Reformed mission expanded its footprint in the Victoria district, establishing schools and preaching centers.
Medical Ministry
The medical work was formalized with the establishment of what would become the John Helm Memorial Hospital, pioneering healthcare in the region.
Specialized Education
The Henry Murray School for the Deaf was established, adding to the church's legacy of disability education alongside the Copota School for the Blind (est. 1915).
Church Autonomy
On May 4, 1977, the Deed of Agreement was signed, transferring mission properties and responsibility to the indigenous church structure.
Reformed Church in Zimbabwe
Following national independence, the church consolidated its identity under the new name 'Reformed Church in Zimbabwe' (RCZ).
Higher Education
The Reformed Church University (RCU) opened its doors, expanding the church's contribution to national education.
RCZ Hatcliffe
As a local congregation of this historic denomination, RCZ Hatcliffe continues to carry the torch of the Reformed faith. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, committed to the same Gospel and the same mission of holistic transformation in our own community.