Rainbow FM leads Human Rights Day prayer at Alra Park
As part of Human Rights Day commemorations on March 21, Rainbow FM 90.7’s praying at the gates initiative brought communities together in Alra Park to pray against crime, addiction, and violence.
Community members gathered in Alra Park on March 21 for the annual Praying at the Gates initiative, a Rainbow FM 90.7 programme aimed at promoting unity, faith and social change.
The initiative, which takes place across the province each year, was extended to Alra Park in 2025 after engagements with local leaders highlighted the need for collective prayer and community involvement.
Pastor Lauren Hendricks, secretary of the Board at Rainbow FM, said the decision to bring the initiative to the area was rooted in both personal conviction and a desire to strengthen community life.
“In partnership with Rainbow FM 90.7 and as a devout advocate of prayer, the decision was driven by my own convictions, which are deeply embedded in community living. Practical efforts, visibility and earnestly seeking God’s wisdom are required in this dispensation. I witnessed the impact of praying at the gates in other areas and believed Alra Park could benefit from that same covering. After engaging with community leaders, it became clear that there was both a need and a willingness to unite in prayer for the transformation of our community,” she said.
Hendricks said the initiative seeks to address pressing social challenges such as crime, substance abuse and unemployment through spiritual engagement and collective responsibility.
“While government programmes are necessary, prayer ensures healing and deliverance, both in individuals and in communities. When we pray, we enable the hand of God to intervene, and residents become conscious of their responsibility to act righteously, which contributes to real change in society. Community members have shown eagerness and active participation. Many leaders supported the initiative by granting permission and even joining in, despite unfavourable weather conditions and the sacrifice of their early morning time,” she said.
Hendricks added that the long-term vision is to establish a sustained culture of prayer that extends beyond annual events.
“By involving them in prayer walks, their voluntary participation instils discipline and spiritual awareness, while also encouraging them to take ownership of their community.
“We envision stronger collaboration between churches, community leaders and residents, leading to safer environments, restored families, empowered individuals and sustainable economic growth,” she said.
