Celestial Chorus Soirée Volume 3 Ushers Zimbabweans into 2026 with Worship and Unity

The Celestial Chorus Soirée, a gospel concert that unites Christians through music and faith, returned for its third edition on New Year’s Eve at the Harare International Conference Centre. Created by multi-award-winning gospel musician Everton Mlalazi, the event drew worshippers and artistes from across the globe, showcasing the power of music to bring diverse communities together.

Focused on Seventh-day Adventist hymns, Celestial Chorus Soirée Volume 3 featured a blend of local and international gospel performers. Guests travelled from the United States, Italy, Australia, Nigeria, Zambia, Eswatini, Uganda, Botswana, Malawi, and South Africa. The audience included government officials, diplomats, celebrities, musicians, and members of various Christian denominations, highlighting the event’s broad appeal.

In a televised address, President Emmerson Mnangagwa praised the SDA Church for its contributions to nation building, including schools, clinics, and community outreach initiatives. He encouraged unity and faith, saying, “As we enter 2026, let us rise in divine partnership. Let us reject division and choose unity that works, faith that serves, and hope that builds.”

Celestial Chorus Soirée patron and chief sponsor, businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, addressed the audience through his Bridging Gaps Foundation, a faith-based humanitarian organisation. Tagwirei encouraged attendees to embody faith, perseverance, and commitment in 2026. “Let it be the year we do not only make promises, but we keep them. Let it be the year we do not only sing faith, but we walk it,” he said, urging everyone to embrace purpose and endurance in the New Year.

The concert featured standout performances from an international roster, including American gospel artist Jason Nelson, who performed with a 100-piece orchestra, and South African luminaries Bishop Mthunzi Namba, Sibusiso “SbuNoah” Mthembu, Khaya Mthethwa, and Fisani Masinga. Zimbabwean gospel artistes also shone, including Janet Manyowa, Petronellah Sengwayo, Canaan Nyathi, Natasha Mlalazi, and Sharon Manyonganise Cherayi.

Everton Mlalazi, director of The Vine Choir and frontman of Worship Therapy, praised the artistes and audience for their contributions. He anchored the evening on Psalms 19:7, noting that “the law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul,” setting the tone for worship, reflection, and thanksgiving.

A captivating drone display concluded the evening, lighting up the night sky with New Year’s messages and marking a memorable end to a night of faith, unity, and musical excellence.