Our Story

About Shepherd's House

An international church rooted in faith, fueled by prayer, and open to all nations.

Our Story

A Church Born of Prayer and Purpose

Shepherd's House Church was founded on a conviction that the local church should be a place of genuine encounter with God โ€” a house of worship, prayer, and the Word where every person, regardless of background or nationality, can find belonging.

Rooted in Durham, North Carolina, Shepherd's House is a United Methodist Church โ€” a vibrant, international congregation with a strong African heritage โ€” particularly Zimbabwean โ€” while remaining a spiritual home for people from every nation and walk of life.

Today, our community extends beyond Sunday morning, with Bible study gatherings in Durham, Raleigh, and Greensboro, and a growing online presence reaching worshippers around the world.

Shepherd's House community
Our Mission

Why We Exist

To make disciples of Jesus Christ from all nations โ€” through worship, the Word, prayer, community, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit โ€” and to send them out as agents of God's Kingdom in Durham, North Carolina, and the world.

Our Vision

Where We're Going

To be a thriving, Spirit-filled, internationally diverse church that is a beacon of God's presence in the Triangle area โ€” a house of prayer for all nations, known for its worship, its Word, and its love.

Our Foundation
Worship
Word
Prayer
Community
Connection
What We Believe
The Holy Bible is the inspired, infallible Word of God
One God eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Jesus Christ is Lord โ€” born of a virgin, crucified, risen, and coming again
Salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone
The baptism and gifts of the Holy Spirit
The Church as the Body of Christ, called to worship, discipleship, and mission
The resurrection of the dead and eternal life
The Great Commission โ€” to go and make disciples of all nations
Our Leadership

Meet Our Pastor

Rev. Dr. Johanes Gumbo and First Lady Queen Violet Gumbo
Senior Pastor

Rev. Dr. Johanes Gumbo

& First Lady Queen Violet Gumbo

Rev. Dr. Johanes Gumbo leads Shepherd's House Church with a passion for the presence of God, expository preaching, and building a community that reflects the Kingdom of Heaven. His ministry is marked by prayer, the Word, and a deep love for people from all nations.

Together with First Lady Queen Violet Gumbo, they shepherd a growing, international congregation in Durham, NC, extending the love of Christ to all who walk through the doors of Shepherd's House.

Connect with the Pastor
Church members in fellowship outside
Youth serving at church event
Church family gathering outside

Ready to Be Part of the Family?

We'd love to meet you. Plan your first visit or connect with us today.