Members of the Johane Masowe Chishanu Apostles religious movement have gained much interest having been spotted around the island in their full white robes.
The apostolic church was founded in Zimbabwe nearly 100 years ago and has spread throughout Africa and among African people living in the UK.
Stephen Zingwe, leader of the trip to Guernsey, said that each year the church gathered its younger members – who are all studying at various UK universities – for a community bonding trip abroad. This is the second time they have come to Guernsey, bringing a group of 22 young apostles.
‘The Holy Spirit said “I want you to go to Guernsey,’ said Mr Zingwe.
‘We’ve been to Egypt to see the pyramids, Israel, Rome to the Vatican City and now we are back here. It’s important to travel to these places, because when you grew up in Africa, you only read about these places. You didn’t have the chance, the opportunity to step foot in them.
‘It is not a surprise that we were sent back here. Guernsey is a place which is calm. You get access to the beaches without any restrictions, you go there, you relax. And we want our young people to relax after a half year of schooling. When they are relaxed, they are able to learn more. We’ve been to the castle, the museums, the church and it’s been very calming.’
The apostles say that they are led by the Holy Spirit Johane and seek to abide by the Ten Commandments.
Mr Zingwe said education and pursuing professions for financial independence is a key part of their religion. Members include social workers, nurses, construction workers and company directors – all working across England.
Tanaka Gudo, 22, part of the island visit, is currently studying civil engineering at Bristol University.
‘It’s so nice to be here all together,’ he said.
‘We’re not just learning, we’re bonding.We’re all around similar ages and this is something that we all believe in.
‘Yesterday we went for a meal at JB Parkers, and it was so nice to go out together as a community. Being around like-minded people while exploring these different places is so good for us. We learn and grow together.
‘We’ve really enjoyed it here in Guernsey. We all have busy lives, with school and whatever it may be. So to come here, where everyone has been so kind to us, so welcoming and friendly has been great. The island is so chilled – it’s been great to have this time to decompress.’
The group arrived last Tuesday, and stayed at The Duke Hotel before they left for home on Saturday.