In an effort to build safer, stronger communities, reverend chaplain Stanton Jogannah has been leading monthly prayer sessions that bring together residents, local first responders, and security companies to seek divine intervention in the fight against crime.

“The purpose of gathering for prayer is to ask God to bless our communities and our country as a whole. With so many challenges facing South Africa, and so little good news to report, our focus is on seeking God’s help to bring positive change to our land.”

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The initiative, held once a month, invites both the public and local first responders to join in prayer. Over the years, the response from the community has been phenomenal.

Jogannah shared the inspiration behind the initiative: “I hold a prayer meeting at Fairland Police Station, every Wednesday morning. From this initiative came the thought of taking prayer beyond the station walls, and into the wider community.

Initially, it was myself, Captain Martin Mekoa, and Warrant Officers Maggie Mushasha, Dawid Malan, Nischal Koobair, and Michael Khatla, who started the initiative.

“As the meetings grew, we realised it would be wonderful to include our local security companies, and members of the public. We extended the invitation, and they responded with enthusiasm.

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Over time, this partnership has grown into a true friendship. Thank you to Beagle Watch, SCP Security, and ADT for their partnership.”

He emphasised the role of prayer in crime prevention: “As a Christian, I believe that prayer is the work. Everything we have established – from the police station prayer meeting, to the community gatherings – has started because of prayer.

While our first responders provide physical protection, we also pray for God’s protection over them, our families, our women, and our children.

We not only pray against crime, but also for those involved in criminal activities, that they might experience a change of heart and turn away from wrongdoing.”

Jogannah concluded by citing Psalm 127:1: “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

He believes this divine support is what has helped make the community one of the safest in the region.

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