Reverend Rodrick Shoko of the Mufakose Circuit last Sunday hailed President Mnangagwa’s leadership saying it had ended hate speech and violence in the country.
Addressing members of the Methodist Church’s Mufakose Circuit during the Palm Sunday commemorations, the clergyman said:
“We were now fed up with hate language on television and rallies, but the new leadership is preaching the gospel of peace. During the old days, we could only hear words like “Stop It” or “Unopenga” all the time, but it is now gone.’
Rev. Shoko went on to say that the new dispensation has also offered the church community a valuable opportunity to take place in matters of great importance.
“For the first time, as churches, we have been consulted by the Presidium as important stakeholders in the running of the country and maintenance of peace,” he said.
Rev Shoko urged the President to continue leading Zimbabwe in peace.
“We pray that you lead us in peace. We do not want fights. Bullet factories must change into bread factories,” said Rev Shoko.
Speaking at the same event, First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa urged churches to pray for peace ahead of this year’s harmonised elections, saying the church plays a significant role in promoting peace in the country.
The First Lady and President Mnangagwa are members of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe. Although she attended the service just like any other congregant, fellow worshippers asked her to address them.
Speaking, she said:
“We are members of this church and we grew up in this church. When I am here, I cease to be the First Lady and assume the position of a child. I am your child and I have simply come home today.”
She said Zimbabwe is preparing for the harmonised elections, adding that it is the church’s role to preach and pray for peace.
“Elections are coming this year and Methodists must pray for peace in this country. We want peaceful elections. As Methodists, we must be at the forefront of praying for peace in Zimbabwe,” she said.
The First Lady thanked the church for its prayers during her family’s difficult times last year.
“You have been with us in your prayers during those difficult times and you continue praying for us. I would like to thank you for such love and care,” she said.
The First Lady last year contributed towards the construction of the church building in Mufakose. On Sunday she pledged to assist in renovating the pastor’s house at the church’s Mufakose Circuit.
She also donated five bags of maize, cartons of cooking oil and other foodstuffs to support the church during the Easter camp that starts this week.
Source: Herald
Hallelujah Magazine is committed to publishing reliable, trusted, quality and independent Christian journalism. Our journalism is free from commercial bias and is not influenced by wealthy people, politicians, clerics or shareholders. We value our readers’ feedback, suggestions and opinions. Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.
