"I Was Ready to Die Single": The Extraordinary Love Story of Archbishop Ezekiel Guti
In 1979, the late ZAOGA founder Archbishop Ezekiel Guti and his wife Eunor tied the knot in a special marriage that would become an exemplary symbol of true love and commitment. Their unique love story began with a wedding on their first date, a day after the lobola was paid.
The Search for a Helper
After the death of his first wife, Archbishop Guti lived as a bachelor for 15 years, his mind engrossed in God's work. "I was ready to die single," he recalled in 2019. Despite admiration from many, including a bevy of young nurses at Harare Hospital, he remained disciplined and focused on his calling.
With ZAOGA growing to about 80 churches by 1979, the church elders thought it wise for their leader to find a wife. After three days of prayer and fasting, and after several other names failed to qualify, one elder suggested Eunor, a dedicated youth leader known for her commitment to the church. The elders unanimously agreed.
A Divine Confirmation
At the time, the young Eunor had dedicated her life to serving the Lord, vowing that "Jesus was my husband." During a prayer session, she heard a voice asking, "Are you willing to do my will?" She agreed, believing it was a confirmation of her vow not to marry.
The very next day, she received a phone call from Mrs. Nkomo, the church emissary. "Baba is back and he has been allowed to marry. You are the chosen one," was the message. Amai Guti recalled, "I dropped the phone and cried." The Holy Spirit reminded her of His words from the previous day. Despite her shock, she replied, "If it is God’s will, let it be done."
A Lasting Union and Legacy
The couple never wasted time. Lobola negotiations began a month later, and they were married on their very first date, the day after the payment was made. They were blessed with seven children and numerous grandchildren, in addition to great-grandchildren from the Archbishop's first marriage.
Archbishop Guti attributed their lasting union to their shared faith. "We are a God-fearing couple; God and His will come first before our self-interests," he said. "The church belongs to God. We should be guided by the Word which is why we are still together." He passed away on July 5, 2023, at the age of 100, leaving behind a global ministry and an enduring legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
He lived for 15 years as a bachelor after the death of his first wife, dedicating himself entirely to his ministry.
The elders of the ZAOGA church, after three days of prayer, felt that Eunor was the ideal partner for the Archbishop due to her dedication. A church emissary was then sent to her with the proposal.
Their wedding was unique because they got married on their very first date, just one day after the lobola negotiations were completed.
Archbishop Ezekiel Guti passed away on July 5, 2023, at the age of 100, having celebrated his centenary birthday just two months prior.
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