Map to be focus of prayer for Zimbabwe at Southwark Cathedral

The Diocese of Southwark has a long-established partnership link with the Anglican church in Manicaland, Central Zimbabwe and Matabeleland.

"As the mother church of the Diocese of Southwark, it is good to have such a beautiful and visible sign of our partnership link with Zimbabwe," says the Very Revd Colin Slee, Dean of Southwark.

"We want it to be used as a focus for prayer for Zimbabwe and her people at this difficult time, and we want the people of Zimbabwe to know they are in our prayers."

The dedication by the Bishop of Woolwich, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, took place during Southwark Cathedral's annual service to celebrate Bernard Mizeki, Zimbabwe's first Anglican martyr.

Designed and made by two artists from Southern Africa, Mbuyisa and Moji Maphalala and English artist Edith Slee, the map incorporates traditional Zimbabwean fabric and beadwork, with colours mixed from red Zimbabwean soil.