January 31, 1974 – 2026: Celebrating 52 Years of the Tocoist Youth Ministry
History is often written in the quiet moments of sacrifice. In January 1974, while the Spiritual Leader of our church, Simão Gonçalves Toco (Father Mayamona), was in exile in Ponta Delgada, the Azores, his heart remained with the faithful in Luanda, Angola. Despite the distance, his focus was on the future: the youth. In a landmark letter sent from the Azores, he reached out to his “beloved brothers, sisters, nephews, and nieces” to establish a new order of leadership. He didn’t just see children or “minors”; he saw the “seeds” of a global movement. The Pioneers: A Legacy in Action Pictured above: To the right of Father Mayamona: The first seed and 1st General Representative of the Youth, Brother Luzaísso António Lutango, who serves today as an Auxiliary Bishop. To the right of Lutango: An “Angel in person,” Sister Rosalina Cumbelembe Xavier, the first female General Representative (In Memoriam), who returned early to the Glory of the Father. To the left of Father Mayamona: The 1st Representative of Luanda, Brother Tuassolo Victor, currently an Auxiliary Bishop. To the left of Tuassolo Victor: Sister Elvira Mateus Sebastiāo, the first female Representative of Luanda and current Elder Advisor of the Central DPJ. The 1974 Decree: A Transcript of the Original Extract Below is the translated transcript of the original decree issued on January 30, 1974, which officially appointed these first representatives: From: Simão Gonçalves Toco Location: Ponta Delgada, St. Michael – Azores «Extract» 3rd. Your youth named António Lutango, brother of Quiala Lutango, is appointed as General Representative of all Tocoist boys in Angola, North and South. Respect him, just as the girl Rosalina Cumbelembe Xavier is very young—respect her. The elders of both sexes must instruct these two minors in respect and in the word of Jehovah God. 4th. The girl Elvira Mateus Sebastião is appointed as General Representative of the Tocoist girls residing in the neighborhoods of Luanda. Respect and instruct her, for Jehovah God will work His will in her. 5th. The youth Tuassolo Victor is appointed as the representative of all Tocoist boys in Luanda. The elders must instruct him in obedience and respect for the word of the Lord. 6th. Every neighborhood of Luanda, and all neighborhoods and villages throughout the North and South, shall appoint boys and girls as representatives of their respective communities. — Simão Gonçalves Toco
The Descent of His Holiness’s Sacred Body to the Earth
CHURCH OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE WORLD THE TOCOISTS Remembered on July 25, 1949, By His Holiness Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco EPISCOPATE HISTORICAL SUMMARY OF THE EXPULSION OF THE HOLY PROPHET SIMÃO GONÇALVES TOCO AND HIS FIRST FOLLOWERS FROM THE FORMER BELGIAN CONGO, AND OF HIS PHYSICAL DISAPPEARANCE AND THE DESCENT TO THE EARTH OF HIS SACRED BODY. His Holiness Father Mayamona; Beloved Deaconess Mother Feliciana Fernando Nunes; Honorable members of the body of the twenty-four Elders; Esteemed members of the Episcopate; Distinguished leaders of the Central Coordination of Men’s Ministry; Beloved Mothers of Women’s Ministry; Valiant youth of the Pastoral Youth Ministry; As always, we first address OUR GOD—Creator of Heaven and Earth; His Beloved Son, OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST—Savior of the world and of humanity; and the HOLY SPIRIT—our Guide and Consoling Strength. We thank them for allowing us to be here together to remember January 9, 1950, December 31, 1983, and January 10, 1984. These are historical dates that mark, respectively: the expulsion of the Holy Prophet and his first followers from the former Belgian Congo; the physical disappearance; and the descent into the heart of the earth of the Sacred Body of the Holy Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco in Ntaya – Maquela do Zombo, Uíge province. To our distinguished guests and to all those who left their duties to come here and share in the remembrance of these three dates with us, we offer our heartfelt thanks. Beloved Brothers and Sisters; January 9, 1950 – The Expulsion of the Holy Prophet and his First Followers from the Former Belgian Congo January 9, 1950 – January 9, 2026: 76 years have passed since the government of the former Belgian Congo finalized the process of expelling the Holy Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco and his first followers to Angola by train to Matadi—the border region with Angola (via Nóqui). This decision was carried out in two distinct moments: on January 9 and April 6, 1950, under the Decree of the Belgian colonial authorities dated December 8, 1949. The group expelled on January 9, 1950, initially composed of eighty-two (82) people, was destined for the Loge Valley Settlement in the municipality of Bembe. Their names are listed in the book Tocoist Encyclopedia – Genesis and Doctrinal Identity, page 112. This was followed by the expulsion of three other groups whose members can be found in the book Simão Toco: The African Prophet in Angola, pages 88, 89, and 90. These followers were sent to the city of Luanda, where they were divided into two subgroups; one remained in the nation’s capital, and the other was transferred to the city of Benguela. During these events, while still in the territory of the former Belgian Congo, a Belgian administrative official named Pirote dared to raise his hand against our Leader’s face. As a consequence, God took his life, and he died. With these expulsions, beloved brothers and sisters, the troubled life of the Holy Prophet and all Tocoists began across the entire national territory, marked by imprisonments, deportations, the shedding of much blood, and deaths (with some bodies thrown into mass graves), and so on. December 31, 1983 – The Physical Disappearance of the Holy Prophet Throughout the year 1983, His Holiness Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco withdrew to his bed for spiritual reasons. Concurrently, his physical health began to decline sharply, and on December 21 of that year, he suffered a stroke (CVA). Consequently, and lamentably, on December 31, 1983, the worst and most unimaginable scenario occurred. At 3:00 PM, he took his last breath, preceded by a mighty wind and a strong whirlwind that struck and enveloped the walls of the house where he lived, causing the shaking and breaking of a perfume bottle that sat upon his nightstand. The news, which was shockingly unpleasant for all of us, spread as fast as the wind. No one believed it. We suddenly felt as if we were trapped in a dream whose nightmare would vanish upon waking. But as time passed and spirits calmed, what we sincerely wished was a dream slowly gave way to the harsh and repulsive reality: Uncle Simão, Father Mayamona, Our Leader, the Old Man, the One who called us and showed us the Path of Salvation found in Our Lord Jesus Christ, had just left us physically. The realization of this harsh reality left us with various scars and disturbances. In those first hours, we became unrecognizable to ourselves and recognized nothing. We felt like shadows of ourselves, and everything around us seemed like a shadow. Our consciousness and judgment vanished. No one felt like anyone. We were like a balloon without air. We were completely emptied. Slowly, like a phoenix reborn from the ashes, we began to stand up and lift our heads. After all, it was necessary to tend to the funeral rites and create conditions for a dignified burial. To that end, the Tocoist children, who had appeared divided, united their ideas and combined their efforts. This allowed for the essential conditions to implement the program for the wake and funeral. In Luanda, some defended the idea of His Holiness’s body being buried in the Sant’Ana or Alto das Cruzes cemeteries. However, God intervened through the Elder Domingos Quibeta, who had previously spoken with family members and First Pastor Cutendana João; it was decided that the Sacred Body of His Holiness would be buried in Sadi Zulumongo. This eventually took place in Ntaya, Maquela do Zombo, because the physical territory of Sadi Zulumongo was uninhabited. Subsequently, the then-young men Simão Fernando Quibeta, Francisco Domingos, and João Fernando were chosen to draft the funeral eulogy, based on the written history read by young Simão Fernando Quibeta during the 64th birthday celebration of the Holy Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco, Father Mayamona. The reading of the eulogy was conducted by João Fernando in Luanda and Francisco Domingos in Ntaya. The funeral procession, which received the support of the Angolan government and was
New Year’s Message from the Spiritual Leader
CHURCH OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE WORLD THE TOCOISTS Revived on July 25, 1949, By His Holiness Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco OFFICE OF THE SPIRITUAL LEADER DEPARTMENT OF DOCUMENTATION AND PUBLICATION LITERARY PRODUCTION NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE “SPECIAL” PRONOUNCEMENTS OF THE SON OF MAN – THE CHRIST OF THE LIVING GOD, HIS HOLINESS THE PROPHET SIMÃO GONÇALVES TOCO “FATHER MAYAMONA” TO THE CHURCH, THE ANGOLAN NATION, AFRICA, AND THE WORLD Greetings and Reflections on the Past Year Beloved members of the Body of the 24 Elders, Esteemed members of the Episcopate, Your Most Reverend Auxiliary Bishops, Distinguished members of the Women’s Central Council, Distinguished members of the Youth and Children’s Central Council, Illustrious Guests, Daughters and sons of God! I want, on behalf of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the World and in my own personal name, to thank from the bottom of my spirit God and Father of glory, for the way He knew how to protect us, during the 365 days, against the various challenges that the contemporary world placed before us day after day. It would be ungrateful on my part and, at the same time, imprudent, if I did not recognize His power and glory that made the one who was insignificant in the eyes of the world, transforming him into the brightest star and the foremost man that humanity has ever known by making him sit on the throne, placing him among the great and in the midst of the kings of this world, I Samuel 2:8. The year 0010 of the Millennium of Christ was marked by memorable events that elevated the Church’s good name and prestige. Many noteworthy facts took place in the period of reference, standing out among the many, the pilgrimage to the Holy City of “Ntaya” Maquela do Zombo, on the occasion of the celebrations of the ninety-second birthday of the Founder of Tocoism, on February 24, 0010, in which the world observed the commotion of the one who was, is, and will forever be the Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco, dead in the flesh, but living in spirit, working and guiding his Church, so that triumphantly it can proceed with its mission. God, in His mission to save the world, to rescue man from sin, and guide him back to paradise, has been using men who interpret and make His designs known to the world. Thus, it has been since the time of the Prophets and Patriarchs, passing through our Lord Jesus Christ, his Disciples and Apostles, up to the present day, thus giving substance to what is written in the book of the great preacher where one can read: “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.” I was citing Ecclesiastes 1:9. Beloved members of the Body of the 24 Elders, Esteemed members of the Episcopate, Your Most Reverend Auxiliary Bishops, Distinguished members of the Women’s Central Council, Distinguished members of the Youth and Children’s Central Council, Illustrious Guests, Daughters and sons of God! I made this brief foray so that the spiritual phenomena that surround us and that we live in today can be easily understood. God is indeed the same God as always. He is the one who took the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt through Moses, He is the same who spoke to the Prophets, He is the one who protected Daniel in the lions’ den, and the same who spoke to Abraham, He is the one who gave His only Son to save humanity and He is the same who speaks with us today. In an analogy to the biblical world and making a parallel to the mission of the Prophet Moses, we affirm with propriety and conviction that, just as Aaron had Moses for God and Moses had Aaron for a mouth, so it is today that Simão Toco has Afonso Nunes for a mouth and the latter has Simão Gonçalves Toco for God who transmits to him what comes from God, and it is through him that until today he has received instructions from God the Creator of Heaven and Earth. This may seem like madness, but it is a pure reality. If we admit and believe that the God who spoke with Moses in the burning bush is the same God of our days, and He IS immutable, just as He spoke in Aaron, through Moses, using Aaron’s mouth to speak to the people, we must admit the event that I am describing to you, Exodus 4:15-16. Today, I spoke a little about the relationship between Bishop Afonso Nunes and Master Simão Gonçalves Toco. Next time, it is important that I speak much more about the matter, although I recognize its complexity in human and perhaps scientific vision, but which, however, encourages me with the certainty that it will be good for those who believe in the immutability of God and His Saints. Beloved members of the Body of the 24 Elders, Esteemed members of the Episcopate, Your Most Reverend Auxiliary Bishops, Distinguished members of the Women’s Central Council, Distinguished members of the Youth and Children’s Central Council, Illustrious Guests, Daughters and sons of God! Achievements and Administrative Advancements As for the year that has ended, as I said before, it was very fruitful for us, although Satan did not stop trying to create constant disturbances. But our God always knew how to guarantee His Church resounding victories. We successfully held the III Congress, which laid the foundations for the development of the Church in the five years 0010/0015; we trained 200 Pastors from various Parishes in Angola and abroad; we created favorable spiritual and moral conditions so that the Leadership emerging from the III Congress could fit into the new work philosophy. We managed to rescue and grant the Church and its Founding Leader the respect and dignity that had long been lost. For the first time in the
Commemorating the Birth of Mama Maria Rosa Toco (1932–2004)
Mama Maria Rosa Toco, affectionately known as Mama Rosa, was the wife of Simão Gonçalves Toco. She was the daughter of Alvaro Makengo and Isabel Massanga, born in the former District of Portuguese Congo, centered in Maquela do Zombo—now the Municipality of Maquela do Zombo in the Province of Uíge, Angola. Early Life and Heritage Mama Rosa was born on December 27, 1932, in the village of Mbanza Mbata (Kimankondo). She was a descendant of the Na Nzinga Uzinga Kongo Mponda, Mbangala Nzundu Tadi clan of the Bakongo tribe. She received her education at the French School of the Baptist Evangelical Mission in the former Belgian Congo (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Her Journey in Tocoism Her spiritual journey was deeply intertwined with the history of our faith. She was admitted into Tocoism in 1949 and was a witness to the historic Descent of the Holy Spirit. On August 22, 1949, Mama Rosa united in marriage with Simão Gonçalves Toco, the Founder of Tocoism. The ceremony was officiated by the elder and cousin of the groom, Tumissungu Pedro Cardoso, with the ritual guided by Mpululu Josefo. The union took place at the Tabernacle, located at No. 159 Mayenge Street. The marriage was witnessed by the elders Ambrósio Kinavuidi Mvanga, Mavembo Sebastião, Pedro Nzila, André Mancota, and Lutocamo Timoteo Menakuluse. Life in Exile and Family While in exile in the Azores, His Holiness Simão Toco wrote of their life together: “In Leopoldville, I married a young woman who was a student at the French School. She was also Angolan, and together we had three children—two daughters and a son. Sadly, our son passed away while I was in Ponta Albina, 25 km from Porto Alexandre. Due to the heartbreak of his passing, my wife fell ill and is currently hospitalized in the city of Ponta Delgada, here in the Azores.” Her Passing Mama Rosa passed away on June 13, 2004, following an illness. She was laid to rest on June 22, 2004, in the city of Ntaya, Municipality of Maquela do Zombo, Uíge Province. We honor her memory, her resilience, and her devotion to the Church. FOR THE GOOD OF THE CHURCH Source: COLJCW Archives
CIRCULAR PASTORAL LETTER
CHURCH OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE WORLD THE TOCOISTS Remembered on July 25, 1949, By His Holiness Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco SPIRITUAL LEADER TO THE CHURCH OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE WORLD, THE TOCOISTAS. SUBJECT: CIRCULAR PASTORAL LETTER No. 002/LE/0025. Greetings in the name of the One who anointed, consecrated, and sent me for His mission in search of the lost sheep, because of the fresh grass and the enjoyment of this world. Matthew 15:24. Most Reverend Auxiliary Bishops; Honorable members of the body of the twenty-four Elders; Esteemed members of the Episcopate; Distinguished leaders of the Central Coordination of Men’s Ministry; Beloved Mothers of Women’s Ministry; Valiant youth of the Pastoral Youth Ministry; Esteemed representatives of our Church in the Tocoista universe and all pastoral Directorates! I come through this, to share with the Church and all the faithful, within the framework of the celebrations of the 51st Anniversary of the Pastor’s Day, some situations that have afflicted and still afflict the Pastoral ministry, and at the same time, take the opportunity to pass on teaching and clarification to everyone about the importance of the Pastor’s Day and the figure of the Pastor in the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the World, “The TOCOISTAS.” The Divine Mandate of the Pastor The existence of pastors for the care of the sheep was a determination of our Creator Himself, being Himself the PASTOR par excellence. We hear the Psalmist say: “The LORD is my shepherd: I shall not want.” Psalms 23:1. It is He who promised to send pastors according to His own heart, to feed His sheep with knowledge and understanding. Jeremiah 3:15. The Bible is clear: the Pastor is not a human intuition, nor an earthly initiative, but rather an office, a work ordained by God. Let us quickly understand the context of Jeremiah’s prophecy. As we know, the chosen people faced several hardships during the reign of many kings of Israel. Idolatry, the decline of spirituality, the increase in injustice, and unprecedented immorality were the dominant picture when Jeremiah was called. Jeremiah was called by God to call the chosen people to repentance, to see if they could escape His wrath. He acted in the 7th century B.C., during the reign of the last kings of Judah. It was a tumultuous time in the history of Israel, marked by apostasy, idolatry, and moral and spiritual corruption among the chosen people. In this chapter, Jeremiah presents a promise from God to raise spiritual leaders who would care for His people according to His heart. These Pastors, according to God’s announcement through Jeremiah, would be different from the corrupt and selfish leaders who had failed to lead God’s people with integrity and fidelity. God promised pastors who would feed His people with spiritual knowledge, guiding them on the path of truth and righteousness. Dearest ones! The Pastor received the mission to care for and protect the flock from false teachings, from attacks against the established and approved doctrine, and to feed them, according to God’s purpose, leading them to pure and refreshing waters, and moreover, to defend them against the beasts of the field. This is the reason why the Psalmist brings the rod and the staff in Psalm 23:4. Let’s continue, beloved! The Role of the Pastor The figure of the Pastor must command respect, who transmits peace and security to the sheep, one who is concerned with the spiritual health of his sheep, but who is also concerned with the social life of his flock. As we celebrate another Pastors’ Day, it is important to talk a little about this figure called the Pastor, to better understand, even briefly, what this function or position represents. In our Church, we have the habit of the pastor feeling carnal and the vate (prophet/seer) as the only spiritual entity that commands and directs the Pastor! This form of guidance is wrong, failed, and outside of God’s guidance, which chose Pastors for His flock. The Pastor is a spiritual Guide, someone equipped with spiritual discernment, which is why he was chosen and anointed with the eye and with the laying on of the hands of the Presbyters. 1 Timothy 4:14. The Pastor must be adept at reading, at studying the word of God, at praying, at interceding, at giving thanks, at teaching, at defending the doctrine and the music of the Church. The Pastor must have a minimum knowledge of how to manage people, manage assets, and manage and multiply the Church’s finances. We heard the context in which the prophet Jeremiah acted, and what the reason was, and who had commissioned him! Handing over the Church to multiple agents to impose an order that can only come from the Pastor is to kill the Church of Christ and manifest the carnality on the part of those who were called to the Pastoral position. No organization should move forward under the command of several people or directorates. The Command of the Church is one and unique, inseparable, and unshared. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one Lord, one faith, one baptism. And one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Ephesians 4:4-5. Here, the problem also lies in the choice the church makes for those who will tomorrow begin to exercise this pastoral office. Not understanding the term: Pastor according to God’s heart has caused tragedy to the church in this journey. The term found in Jeremiah 3:15 implies that the person has divinely ordained and directed leadership from God. These people called pastors are those who possess a heart aligned with love, compassion, and integrity. I spoke a lot about the Pastor in this pastoral letter because there is a great lack of understanding about the position of “Pastor.” Our Church suffers greatly from this lack of knowledge; where there is a Pastor, there cannot exist another
Historic Thanksgiving Service in D.C. Commemorates Angola’s Golden Jubilee
Washington, D.C. – November 1, 2025 – The Christian Churches Community of Washington, D.C., hosted a powerful Thanksgiving Service on Saturday, November 1st, dedicated to celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Angola’s National Independence (1975–2025). The event successfully brought together the local Angolan community, U.S. friends of Angola, and faith leaders to honor five decades of freedom, peace, and national restoration. The service was significantly enriched by the musical ministry of the Inspiration Choir, whose powerful performance filled the sanctuary with joy and praise. Messages from various community leaders also underscored the enduring spirit of collaboration and solidarity between the Angolan diaspora and its D.C. community partners. A Message of Gratitude and Renewal from the Ambassador The service featured special remarks from Ambassador Agostinho Vandunem, who extended profound gratitude to the Christian Community Church for hosting the celebration and providing a warm welcome. “This celebration truly gives us an awareness of receiving the blessings and guidance for the lives that have been restored once again,” the Ambassador stated. He highlighted the long-sought peace achieved after periods of war and suffering, and emphasized the renewed focus on the national values that unite Angola: faith, solidarity, respect, and love. Ambassador Vandunem called upon the new generation to remain firm in courage and dedication, concluding with a fervent blessing: “May God continue to bless Angola and Angolans.” ▶️ Watch Ambassador Vandunem’s Remarks: Click here The Divine Call to “Set the Captives Free” Delivering the sermon, Rev. Massah El connected Angola’s journey to the divine message of liberation found in Scripture. Reading from Luke 4:16-19—where Jesus announces his ministry to “preach deliverance to the captives” and “set at liberty them that are oppressed”—Rev. Massah El titled his message: “Setting the Captives Free.” The Reverend explained that this freedom is not just physical, but a “cosmic freedom”—a spiritual law that seeks to restore unity and awaken the soul from the illusions of the material world. “Angola’s independence, like the soul’s liberation, is a manifestation of spiritual law… The spirit of the Lord descended in 1975 in a way that nobody can really explain. And the people collectively said, you know, this is enough.” He concluded by celebrating the Golden Jubilee as a moment of jubilation over the freedom of brothers and sisters in Angola, urging all to unify and seek the light of the living Christ. ▶️ Watch Rev. Massah El’s Sermon: Click here Bishop Vemba Honors the Legacy of Faith The service culminated in a heartfelt closing message and benediction from Bishop Vemba, who stressed that the 50-year journey is a remarkable milestone rarely achieved. Bishop Vemba affirmed that the nation of Angola is fundamentally “based on the Christian” faith, referencing the foundational inspiration drawn from the prophet Simon in the house of Angola’s first president. “The liberation not only of Angola but of the African continent is the inspiration to the man with the divine message.” He asked the community to rise for a final prayer, giving thanks for the ability to manifest this happiness and praying that God continues to bless the bright future of Angola, the continent of Africa, and the world in general. ▶️ Watch Bishop Vemba’s Benediction: Click here Scriptural Foundation for the Service: 📖 Psalm 33:12 📖 Leviticus 25:10
The Tocoists’ First Arrest and Congo-Angola Deportation
On January 9, 1950, the Government of the Province of Léopoldville, which is now the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), expelled Simão Gonçalves Toco and some of his Tocoist followers, a group totaling eighty-two (82) people. Simão Gonçalves Toco was first arrested on October 22, 1949, along with the elders he was speaking with, and they were taken to the Ndolo and Filtra prisons. He was tried on December 8 and finally expelled from the former Belgian Congo to Angola on January 9, 1950. On the afternoon of October 22, 1949, while I was at home catching a breath of fresh air, dressed only in my undershirt, the police arrived under orders from the government of the former Belgian Congo with the intent to arrest me. At that moment, they didn’t even give me time to go inside and put on a shirt. What a shame! … The Missionaries were aware of what had been discussed at the International Missionary Conference held in 1946. But when they realized the descent of the Holy Spirit, they washed their hands of it as if they knew nothing about it, much less what that phenomenon meant, for two reasons: They feared the wonders of the Holy Spirit, its growing fame, and the end of their own power in Africa. They played two fundamental roles: on one hand, they protected the colonialists from being arrested, thus facilitating their mission. On the other hand, they evangelized fearfully because they constantly had problems with the authorities, especially in São Salvador, where the Missions continually received orders to: close, open, close, open. After the night from Friday to Saturday, the day of the Holy Spirit’s descent, the Missionaries began to notice a considerable influx of members into the temple on Sunday. There was no longer enough room to accommodate so many people. So, they called me and asked: “Simão, what are you teaching these people? We have been here in Léopoldville for almost 70 years, but we have never seen so many people in the temple.” I replied, “I am teaching them the Word of God, based on some Books that came from the United States and Canada.” They then asked me to show them the Books. After I showed them, they said: “Simão, you must not teach these Books anymore, because if the Belgian authorities hear about it, we will have problems.” I asked again, “Why will we have problems? The books discuss the Bible and contain chapters from the Books of Daniel, Ezekiel, Jeremiah, and other Prophets.” In response, they told me the following: “If that’s how you understand it, read them yourself. Don’t teach them to the people anymore, because these books speak of politics and the liberation of the people of Israel, and you could be accused by the authorities.” But I did not keep silent; I continued to teach. The Spirit even reached those who were not present on July 25, the day the Holy Spirit descended. It was for this reason that on September 9, 1949, the Missionaries publicly expelled us from the Protestant Church. Our desire was to continue praying within the Church, in Spirit and in truth, as Christ narrates in the book of St. John 4:22-24. After being expelled from the Protestant Church, we did not stop praying. Tocoism emerged from that date forward. As if our expulsion from the Protestant Church were not enough, the envious—due to the fame of the Holy Spirit’s descent and its great wonders—went to complain about us to the Belgian authorities, because their own temples were now empty. Following the complaint, we were arrested and put in Ndolo prison on October 22, 1949. However, God had already revealed everything to me three days before the arrest. Jehovah God had told me the following: “Simão, you will be arrested and subsequently sent to your homeland (Angola), because it is not here in Kinshasa where the true Spirit will work. Whatever suffering you have, even if everyone abandons the Word, you must not abandon it.” I kept these Words and always remembered what Jehovah had told me on April 17, 1935, in Catete: “I WILL PUT A THING IN YOU, AND NEITHER YOU NOR THE WORLD WILL KNOW IT.” Everything was coming true; as a result, here I am today with the people he gave me, to show them the path of salvation, Hebrews 2:13. In summary, we were deported, killed, tortured, burned alive, and exiled to the Azores and São Tomé and Príncipe. Thanks to the One who sent me, the Word of God was not imprisoned or burned. On the contrary, they facilitated its expansion, because I did not have the money to send Tocoist Missionaries to every corner of the country. They were the facilitators, ALLELUIA TO MY GOD. Nominal List of the First Group of Tocoists Expelled The following is the transcribed nominal list of the Tocoists in the first group expelled by the Belgian authorities: Simão Gonçalves Toco Kinavuidi Ambrósio Mvanga Mvuama Garcia Dilunguangu Matias Figueredo Ntony Pululu Joseph Luyeye Ferdinand Cade Carlos Makoka João (The first Tocoist dissident who joined the Jehovah’s Witnesses; he was part of the first group that arrived in Luanda) Kalemba António Makangu Norberto Armando Jorge Nkosi Bunga Malinga (son of João Bunga) Vondo Leon ilesivel— Mpungi Filemon Lumingo Alphonse Kidimbu Jorge Mbala António Dilu Simon Makaya joão Mfinda Josefo João Lumpini Sungi Miguel Makundi Sebastião Nteka Simão Veto Dominique Panda Afonso Mfinda David Kama Gabriel Pulu Thomas Kiala João Kiyalama Miguel Mfuka Thomas Kinzisi Luavualu Feta Manuel Masaki Nicolas Lubaki Miguel Vemba Samuel Silumeso Bonifácio Mbengi Ambrósio Kalemba Kuma Binga Sebastião Mosilongwa António Dombele André Sezala Garcia Mbasi Pedro Dituvuila Miguel Masumu Pedro Dandanda Pedro Jackson Lufwakende Nicolas Lumpini Samuel Mambauka Miguel Telemeno Luvualu Panzo Simão Zandi André Domingos Pedro Zingi Sebastiao Masanga Simão (Mother of Mama Rosa Toco) Panda Vasco Pedro Destino Dondão Paul Dombasi Sebastião Bunga Ferdinand Miguel Makongo Kete Luisa (Walosa) Maria Rosa Toco Zemba Antónia Masamba
The Renewal of Toco: Celebrating 60 Years of Faith with His Holiness Bishop Dom Afonso Nunes
CHURCH OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE WORLD THE TOCOISTS Remembered on July 25, 1949, By His Holiness Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco EPISCOPATE DECLARATION OF THE EPISCOPATE ON THE OCCASION OF THE 60TH BIRTHDAY OF HIS HOLINESS BISHOP DOM AFONSO NUNES – THE RENEWAL OF TOCO HIS HOLINESS FATHER MAYAMONA, Spiritual Leader of the COLJCM Dear Mother Deaconess FELICIANA FERNANDO NUNES Your Reverend Auxiliary and Honorary Bishops, Honorable Members of the Body of the 24 Elders, Esteemed Members of the Episcopate, Blessed Members of the Central Women’s Ministry, Valiant Youth Ministry and the Central Children’s Ministry, Distinguished Members of the Central Men’s Order Sisters and Brothers, Life is a precious and sacred gift, granted by GOD for the fulfillment of an eternal purpose. When a man is called, anointed, and set apart to serve the Lord and guide His children, his existence ceases to be merely personal; it becomes a living testament to divine faithfulness and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. It is in this spirit of reverence, love, and gratitude that the Leadership of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the World «THE TOCOISTS» and all the sons and daughters of God, celebrate the 60th birthday of His Holiness Bishop Dom Afonso Nunes, Spiritual Leader of the Church, Faithful Servant, and Continuator of the Work of the Holy Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco. “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” (Daniel 12:3) Throughout his pastoral journey, His Holiness Dom Afonso Nunes has been a prudent Worker, a compassionate Father and Pastor, who guides the Church with wisdom, humility, and unwavering faith. Under his leadership, Tocoism has known a phase of profound revitalization, expansion, and recognition, extending to various continents and consolidating itself as an authentic expression of contemporary African Christianity. His spiritual and institutional vision has enabled, since 2000, a harmonious relaunching of relations between the Church and the Governments of the Countries where it is established, based on mutual respect, cooperation, and a commitment to the common good. With equal zeal, His Holiness has promoted ecumenical dialogue and the strengthening of unity among religious confessions, advocating for peace, tolerance, and fraternity as pillars of human coexistence. As an emanation of the Holy Prophet Simão Toco, His Holiness Bishop Dom Afonso Nunes has also promoted the social intervention of the Church, advancing education, solidarity, and social justice. Under his guidance, the Church has been actively engaged in humanitarian causes, supporting the most vulnerable, aiding the needy, and demonstrating solidarity with oppressed and afflicted peoples, in fidelity to Christ’s commandment of love. “In that day will I raise up the tabernacle of David that is fallen…” (Amos 9:110) His leadership is not merely administrative or institutional— it is, above all, prophetic and inspiring. In times of adversity, particularly at the present moment when humanity faces challenges of various kinds, His Holiness continues to show courage, faith, resilience, and serenity, demonstrating to all the children of God that the strength of the divine calling is not measured by the absence of trials, but by the firmness with which one remains Faithful to the mission received. His Holiness Bishop Dom Afonso Nunes, In this context, the Church Leadership and the Tocoist Universe raise to the Almighty prayers of intercession and encouragement, asking that our God may continue to renew Your strength and grant You long life and peace, so that You may continue to guide the Church with the same zeal, vision, and spiritual love that have always characterized You. “And the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” (1 Peter 5:10) On this jubilee date, it is also just and worthy to recognize the support and dedication of Deaconess Mother Feliciana Fernando Nunes, the Wife of His Holiness, a virtuous woman, a tireless companion in mission and counselor, who has shared with selflessness and faith the joys and challenges of the spiritual and family journey. May the Lord reward you with abundant blessings, wisdom, and health, and may you continue to be an example of steadfastness, love, and service in the Holy Work. In the name of all the Men, Women, Young People, and Children of the Tocoist Universe, we express our spiritual joy and reaffirm our commitment to the prophetic vision of the Holy Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco and the leadership of His Holiness Dom Afonso Nunes. We celebrate, therefore, not just another year of life, but sixty years of faith, spirituality, service, and inspiration, which continue to bear fruit for the glory of God and the aggrandizement of the Church. May the grace of the Lord continue to shine upon His Holiness and upon all his family, granting them prosperity, health, and lasting peace. Long Live His Holiness Bishop Dom Afonso Nunes! Long Live the Renewal of Toco! Long Live the Church of Christ! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! FOR A UNITED, UNIQUE, AND INDIVISIBLE CHURCH: ORDER, FIRMNESS, AND FAITH! EPISCOPATE OF THE CHURCH OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE WORLD «THE TOCOISTS» in Luanda, on October 12, 0025. “Year of the Consolidation of Received Gifts and in the Storm GOD Will Provide” – Millennium of Christ. FOR THE GOOD OF THE CHURCH, THE ELDERS AND COUNSELORS CENTRAL EXECUTIVE SECRETARY Auxiliary Bishop JOÃO JORGE DAVID
The Triumphal Return of Simão Toco (1963 – 1974)
August 31, 1974 – The Return from the Azores (Portugal) to Luanda, with stop in Lobito A Brief Summary of the Stay in the Azores and the Return to Angola After 11 Years in Exile On July 17, 1963, Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco was deported to the Portuguese island of the Azores. The colonial authorities considered his presence a threat because of the way he awakened the consciences of the local people through the Word of God and the principles of freedom that would later lead to Angola’s independence. As far back as the 1940s, his concern was already to see Africa freed from the darkness of oppression and from the great empires that colonized the continent. Departure from Luanda to Lisbon Before leaving, he said farewell to the church leadership and the people, giving them instructions to remain united. He asked that upon his return, he would not find the church divided. For administrative matters, he appointed trusted brothers to guide the church and encouraged everyone to remain strong in faith during his absence. He traveled with his wife, Maria Rosa Tôco, his daughters Ilda and Esperança, his nephew João Sivi Tôco, and his sister Maria de Fátima (who later returned to Angola). Arrival in Lisbon and Transfer to the Azores In Lisbon, Prophet Toco was received by the Portuguese Prime Minister at the time, António de Oliveira Salazar. Their meeting included strong disagreements over the church, the preaching of the Word of God, and the war in Angola. On the way to the Azores, something extraordinary happened. According to Prophet Toco himself, the pilots had been ordered to throw him into the ocean. When they tried, the plane suddenly stopped in midair and would not move. Shocked, the pilots and a priest on board began to pray, but the plane remained suspended. Only after Prophet Toco prayed to God did the engines start again, and the plane continued safely to the Azores. Life in the Azores Upon arrival, he was told he would no longer be considered Angolan. He responded firmly:“My homeland will never change. I was born in Angola, and I will always be Angolan.” He also foretold that one day, when two people (one Black and one White) would come looking for him in the Azores, it would mark the end of his exile and the time of his return. He lived on the island for 11 long years. During that time, he supported and guided the church through thousands of letters. These letters strengthened the people spiritually, reformed the church at every level, and kept alive the connection between the Prophet and his followers in Angola. On August 31, 1974, the prophecy was fulfilled. After years of sacrifice, exile, and faith, Prophet Simão Gonçalves Toco returned triumphantly to Luanda, Angola. Source: Vida e Obra, by Simão Fernando Kibeta
Tocoista Church Marks 76 Years of the Holy Spirit Descent with Historic Worship Service in D.C.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Saturday, July 26th, 2025, the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in The World – The Tocoistas marked a significant milestone in its history by celebrating the 76th anniversary of the descent of the Holy Spirit in Africa, an event that first took place in 1949 in Kinshasa, Congo. This year’s celebration was particularly special as it was the first time the Tocoista Church commemorated this momentous occasion in Washington, DC, since its establishment in the United States. The worship service was held at the Galbraith AME Zion Church, where a vibrant atmosphere of faith and fellowship filled the air. Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Angola to the United States, Agostinho Van-Dúnem, along with his esteemed delegation. Ambassador Van-Dúnem expressed his gratitude for the invitation and commended the congregation for this historic milestone. He highlighted the essential role of the Tocoista Church in promoting peace, national reconciliation, and spiritual elevation in Angola. His remarks resonated with the audience, reinforcing the church’s mission to foster unity and faith. The presence of Rev. Pharaad B. Massah from Galbraith African Methodist Episcopal Zion added to the significance of the event, as did attendees from various states, including Texas, Louisiana, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and New York. The service was a beautiful blend of worship and celebration, featuring uplifting performances by the Creative Voices of Faith Choir, whose melodies resonated with the spirit of joy and unity. Rev. Pharaad B. Massah delivered a powerful sermon, emphasizing the importance of welcoming the Holy Spirit into our lives. He passionately proclaimed: “The glory filled the house. Jesus, you are welcome. Let your glory fill the house. Let your presence fill the house. Let your love fill the house. Jesus, you are welcome.” The congregation was deeply moved by the messages of hope and renewal shared throughout the service, reflecting on the profound impact of the Holy Spirit in their lives and communities. As a significant announcement, it was shared that starting August 3, 2025, the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in The World – The Tocoistas will begin holding its worship services at the Galbraith AME Zion Church facilities, courtesy of Rev. Pharaad B. Massah and his congregation. Auxiliary Bishop António Vemba concluded the service with a heartfelt benediction, thanking all the guests and participants and highlighting the courtesy extended by Rev. Pharaad B. Massah. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in the church’s mission. This historic celebration not only honored the legacy of the Holy Spirit’s descent in Africa but also marked a new chapter for the Tocoista Church in the United States, as it continues to grow and inspire believers across the nation. The Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the World – The Tocoistas looks forward to many more years of worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth in the years to come. Watch the full worship service video on YouTube: 76th Church Anniversary Worship Service | 07 / 26 /2025