History

St Mary Magdalene Avondale – The Little Church

Avondale was the first Anglican Chapel in the peri-urban areas of Harare (Salisbury). As early as 1906, a need was felt by the small community for a building in which to meet.

It was used as a school and for worship. Avondale was often cut off from Harare during the rainy season as the Rukadora stream, which rises near the University, frequently flooded.

Mr and Mrs Byers

The Pollett family, the Lilfords and Major Everett were strong supporters of the church.

Emerald Hill was still fairly wild. Major Everett once saw a leopard in his garden during breakfast! Many remember walking to Church down King George Road when it was dusty and untarred.

Parish Rectors Through The Years

In September 1946, Canon Gibbon became the first rector of Avondale, which had rapidly grown with an assessment of £600. Evensong was introduced, with Mrs. Stidolph playing the harmonium, though attendance was low.

Construction of the Rectory began in 1948, designed by Mr. Pallett with built-in furniture, though its size was reduced due to post-war material shortages. The building was completed and blessed in September.

Mrs. Gilmour helped establish the Church Women's Society in 1944, initially aiming to raise funds for a church hall.

Rupert Cranswick became rector in December 1952, establishing a worship standard that attracted a growing congregation, quickly outgrowing the chapel.

Plans for a church hall were approved, supported by a loan and generous donations from the Church Women’s Society.

Services included Holy Communion, Matins, Shona Services, and Evensong, reflecting a vibrant parish life.

Peter Hall served from 1961 and was appointed Rector in 1963. His leadership focused on opening the church to the local black community.

He oversaw construction of a new church building to accommodate growth and supported lay teaching initiatives in local schools.

His ministry took place during the challenging era of Land Apportionment legislation.

Michael and Daphne played key roles in establishing the first joint Anglican/Methodist church in Zimbabwe.

Daphne founded Wadzimai (Mothers Union) and introduced initiatives such as Prayer Partners and Healing Services.

Michael later consecrated Chad Gandiya as Bishop of Harare, marking a historic moment.

Leslie and Molly Gilbert arrived in December 1977. A new catechist, Maxwell Madinga, was appointed soon after.

A Lay Witness Mission strengthened parish prayer groups and community engagement.

Farewell celebrations marked decades of faithful service within the parish community.

Hugh introduced structured leadership systems including nurture groups, evangelism training, and expanded parish ministries.

He served on multiple diocesan committees and school boards while acting as Archdeacon for Harare North.

His tenure strengthened lay leadership and parish organisation.

St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Avondale History

St Mary Magdalene Avondale – The Little Church

Mr and Mrs Byers

Parish Rectors Through The Years

Our Exciting Memories!

Man shall not live by bread alone' The parishioners enjoying the feast pepared by the Mothers' Union and the meat on the spit prepared by Monty\ and the Youth. Below, the wealth of delicious food prepared by the Mothers' Union.

Timothy Zengeni, who has worked for the Parish since 1997, chatting to a friend and Monty Tugwete, the Youth Pastor, enjoying a well earned meal. Below, Bishop Chad chatting to Phides, sitting among members of the Mothers' Union.

The Church Wardens, Phideas and Trish, ringing the Chapel bell 100 times

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