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
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