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
Celebrate the 76th Anniversary of the Descent of the Holy Spirit in Africa with us!
Celebrate the 76th Anniversary of the Descent of the Holy Spirit in Africa with us! Come and join the most powerful celebration of the Year. Don’t miss this exciting celebration… 🎶 Enjoy uplifting sacred music and delicious food throughout the celebration! Date: July 26, 2025 Time: 10:30 am Location: 1114 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA Accommodation: If you are not from the DC area and want to attend the event, we’re booking Airbnb to keep costs low. Please confirm your attendance below. We ask that you please complete the form to confirm your presence 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 CLICK TO CONFIRM YOUR PRESENCE
Tocoista Church saddened by the loss of Pope Francis
The Tocoista Church in Washington, D.C., expresses profound sorrow at the passing of Pope Francis, a leader whose commitment to faith and compassion has left an indelible mark on the world. We extend our deepest condolences to the Catholic community and all who were inspired by his message of love and unity. Let us come together in prayer during this time of mourning, honoring his legacy and the values he championed. May his soul rest in peace. For One United and Indivisible Church: ORDER, STRENGTH, AND FAITH COLJCWⒸ0025, YEAR OF CONSOLIDATION OF THE GIFTS RECEIVED AND IN THE STORM GOD WILL PROVIDE – MILLENNIUM OF CHRIST.
Prophet Simao Goncalves Toco Honored with the Medal of Independence
In a momentous occasion marking the 50th anniversary of Angola independence, His Holiness Prophet Simao Goncalves Toco has been awarded the prestigious Medal of Independence. This honor was presented by the President of the Republic, João Lourenço, during a ceremony that celebrated the significant strides made by the nation since its liberation. The event was graced by His Excellency Auxiliary Bishop Simão Fernando Quibeta, who represented the Church and accepted the medal on behalf of Prophet Toco. This recognition not only highlights Prophet Toco’s contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of the nation but also underscores the importance of faith and leadership in the journey toward independence. Who is Simao Goncalves Toco? Simao Goncalves Toco was a prominent religious leader and the founder of the Tocoist Church, a Christian denomination that emerged in Angola in the mid-20th century. Born in 1918, Toco dedicated his life to serving his community and promoting a message of hope, unity, and spiritual awakening. His teachings emphasize the importance of faith, love, and social justice, resonating deeply with the struggles faced by many Angolans during the colonial period and beyond. Prophet Toco’s influence extends beyond the spiritual realm; he has been a pivotal figure in advocating for the rights and dignity of the Angolan people. His commitment to social issues and community development has earned him respect and admiration, making him a symbol of resilience and hope for many. The Medal of Independence is a fitting tribute to a man whose life and work have been intertwined with the aspirations of a nation seeking freedom and self-determination. As Angola continues to celebrate its independence, the recognition of Prophet Toco serves as a reminder of the vital role that faith and leadership play in shaping a brighter future for all.
An Autobiography of Simão Gonçalves Toco, Founder of Tocoism
My father’s name was Ndombele Luvumbu Bitopo, or Tôco, and my mother’s name was Ndundu Nsimba Tôco. At the time of my birth, my mother had twins, namely Adam and Eve. I was the first to be born, and the first part of my body to emerge were my legs, followed by my head—a curious fact about my birth. Eve passed away shortly after, and I survived. Both of my parents died in the same week, on a Monday and a Friday, between 1924 and 1925, during an outbreak of smallpox in the region. Simão Gonçalves Toco is not my birth name; it was given to me by my brother Domingos Kibeta, who entrusted me to the missionaries. My mother named me MAYAMONA, which was later changed to OMA YAMONA and OMA IMONANGA. I am originally from Maquela do Zombo in the district of Portuguese Congo. I was born on February 24, 1918. In 1926, I entered the BMS Mission in Quibocolo, which was mandatory and not by my choice, at the age of 8. On October 2, 1928, I was taken to Leopoldville until 1929, when Reverend Arthur Enock Guest came to get me, but even then, I did not want to return to Quibocolo. In summary (because it’s not worth telling you everything), in 1930, I went to Thysville and began attending the BMS school there. Reverend Jennings wanted me to go to Banza Manteca, Gombe Lutete, or Kimpese to study to become a teacher (nlongi), but I refused because Reverend Guest kept bothering me with successive letters asking me to return to Quibocolo. Reverend Jennings wrote a request letter to Mr. Guest, but he denied the request. There was a call for Maquela, my hometown, and my uncle and I went. When we arrived, Reverend Guest called again, asking me to return to the Mission in August 1931. Soon after arriving, within two or three days, I was baptized. On July 2, 1933, we marched to Luanda to continue my studies, where I stayed for four years. I completed primary school at the Evangelical Mission in Luanda and enrolled in high school, where I reached the second year. I returned to my hometown in Zombo to continue working at the Quibocolo mission. In 1938, I was transferred to the Bembe mission, where I stayed for 4 years. In 1942, I went to Belgian Congo in Leopoldville and continued to serve at the Protestant Mission in Leopoldville for 7 years. Source: Joao Daniel – Tocoistas.net
Pastoral Letter from Father Mayamona
PASTORAL LETTER No. 001/SL/COLJCW/0025 Beloved Auxiliary and Honorary Bishops; • Honorable Members of the Body of Twenty-Four Elders; • Dear Members of the Episcopate; • Distinguished Coordinators of the Central Order of Men; • Beloved Mothers of the Women’s Ministry; • Valiant Young People from the Youth Ministry and the Children’s Ministry; • Dearest Servants of the Central Tabernacle and all Levites;” Greetings in the name of the One who anointed me consecrated me, and sent me on His mission (Matthew 15:24). As we embark on this new year, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all of God’s children for a year filled with great boldness, intelligence, wisdom, and integrity in every moment and event of life. Rest assured that no challenge will arise that your Father in Heaven will not equip you to overcome (John 16:33). With the year just beginning, I encourage each of you to embrace the opportunity for renewal in all aspects of your lives. We are reminded that God the Father has never abandoned us throughout our journey (Isaiah 41:14). However, I am deeply concerned about the lack of love among you. While some strive to fulfill the great commandment, I urge you to reflect on the words of 1 John 1:4-5. I hope that this issue will be wholly eradicated this year, or at the very least, diminished to a point where brotherhood and love can flourish among you. Otherwise, your struggles will have been in vain. It is disheartening that, as we enter this New Year, there are still those among you who harbor old grudges against their neighbors. Letting go of these grievances, even towards those outside your fellowship is essential. Share the best of what you have learned, for they will recognize the source of your wisdom. Remember, those who hold grudges against the chosen people will not prosper in any area of their lives. Embrace change now, and you will witness transformations in every aspect of your existence. The God you worship has spoken: “Do not take revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:18). I understand that the world can be challenging, but it will not be insurmountable for those who hear, keep, and live by His commandments. For such individuals, the Lord grants restful sleep; in other words, God will always provide (Psalm 127:2). My beloved, As we enter the first semester of this significant year, we have two major events to celebrate: First, we acknowledge that God demonstrated His love by sending His Son to the ends of the earth, taking upon Himself the curse for all sinners who dwelt in darkness. Though His brothers regarded Him as a sinner and without beauty (Isaiah 53:2-12), He suffered for their transgressions and continues to do so today (Isaiah 53:4-6). To those who believe, this Stone is precious; however, to those who do not believe, the Stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6-7). Likewise, those who believe are saved, while those who do not believe are condemned (St. John 3:17-18). February 24th marks a historical and spiritual milestone of immeasurable value for all who have received Him as the Son of God and the Cornerstone. I invite all of God’s children to work towards realizing an event that reflects the mission of the One who came to illuminate the path back to paradise. He came into the world, and the world did not receive Him; but to all who did receive Him, He granted the power to be called the sons of God (John 1:11-13), born not of blood, nor the will of the flesh, nor the will of man, but by the will of the Spirit of God. On this date, as your Leader celebrates one hundred and seven years, your expression of gratitude from grateful hearts must surpass any shortcomings in this life. I know you are a chosen people, children who recognize your Shepherd, and you will strive to overcome difficulties and engage in meaningful spiritual, cultural, and religious activities at the highest level. The second significant anniversary we celebrate is the upcoming ninetieth year since God manifested Himself here in the lowest parts of the world, coming to meet the one He had previously chosen. This marks the ninetieth year, with only ten years remaining until the centenary of this grand event. Additionally, the site of His appearance, Icolo e Bengo-Catete, has been elevated from a municipality to the status of a Province. This elevation will undoubtedly bring growth and a requalification of what was once a peaceful village, whose true value was hidden, despite possessing two great spiritual, social, and political symbols that I will not elaborate on, as you are all well aware of them. I am confident that this ascension will compel the authorities to enhance the area and will certainly transform the reality of the Sanctuary, the “Holiest” in the south of the Sahara. Let us prepare to celebrate these two significant and rare events here on Earth. Returning to February 24th, this day should be celebrated by each church in its respective locality. However, the Theophany should bring the entire Church together at the Sanctuary in Catete, now part of the Icolo e Bengo Province. The Commission established for this purpose must present the full program and plans for its implementation. They should collaborate with the Governor of Icolo and Bengo, Dr. Auzílio de Oliveira Jacob, to ensure that we organize an event worthy of such noble and significant occasions. To all Auxiliary Bishops, Honorary Bishops, Reverend Pastors, Deaconesses, Evangelists, Elders, Servants of the Tabernacles, Christians, and Disciples of God in Mayamona, I wish steadfastness in faith and dedication to the work of God the Father. Let love guide all your thoughts and actions. To the youth, I encourage you to complete the work of the ordinance that was initiated so that what was determined can be fulfilled. Soon, we
Tocoístas Honor Rosa Maria Toco in Thanksgiving Service
On December 27th, the Tocoísta community gathered for a heartfelt Thanksgiving worship service to honor and celebrate Her Majesty Rosa Maria Toco, the beloved spouse of His Holiness Prophet Simão Toco. The event took place at [insert location], bringing together members of the congregation to express gratitude and reverence for the contributions of Her Majesty to the church and its mission. The service was marked by uplifting hymns, prayers, and reflections on the teachings of Prophet Simão Toco. Attendees shared testimonies of faith and the positive impact that Her Majesty Rosa Maria Toco has had on their spiritual journeys. The atmosphere was filled with joy and appreciation as the community came together to celebrate the legacy of love and service that she embodies. During the service, special tributes were made to Her Majesty, highlighting her unwavering support for the church and her role in fostering unity among its members. As the service concluded, the congregation was encouraged to continue embodying the values of love, service, and community that Her Majesty represents. The Tocoístas reaffirmed their commitment to building a strong and united church, inspired by the teachings of their leaders. The Thanksgiving worship service not only celebrated Her Majesty Rosa Maria Toco but also served as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and community within the Tocoísta faith.
Tocoísta Church Officially Established in the USA
The Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the World is officially recognized and authorized to conduct its liturgical and religious activities in the United States of America. The authorization certificate was presented to the Spiritual Leader, His Holiness Bishop Dom Mayamona, and was shared with the church community during the Sunday service on the 28th, which celebrated the conclusion of the International Youth Days festivities. His Holiness received the certificate from the hands of His Reverence Auxiliary Bishop Antônio Vemba, accompanied by the faithful of the church in the USA, including two pastors who were consecrated on the same day.