Kimbangu

Kimbangu refers to two primary subjects: Simon Kimbangu and the Kimbanguist Church he founded. Simon Kimbangu, born in 1887 in the Belgian Congo, was a Congolese spiritual leader who proclaimed himself a prophet of God in 1921. He attracted a large following with his healing and preaching, often interpreting biblical texts in ways that resonated with the local population and challenged colonial authority. His activities led to his arrest by the Belgian colonial administration, and he was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1921, where he died in 1951.

The movement that emerged from Kimbangu's teachings became known as Kimbanguism. Despite Kimbangu's imprisonment, his followers continued to spread his message. The Kimbanguist Church, officially the Church of Jesus Christ on Earth by the Prophet Simon Kimbangu, was formally recognized by the Belgian government in 1959. It is one of the largest independent African indigenous churches, with millions of adherents primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo and surrounding countries. The church emphasizes spiritual renewal, social justice, and education. It operates numerous schools and hospitals, reflecting Kimbangu's influence on his followers' commitment to community development. Kimbanguism is characterized by its distinct liturgy, a strong emphasis on prayer and adherence to Kimbangu's teachings, which are often viewed as a continuation of Christ's work.