Christmas has not lost all meaning, says reverend Nemaukhwe

25POLOKWANE – According to the chairperson of the South African Council of Churches in Limpopo, reverend Awedzani Nemaukhwe, Christmas is still a day to celebrate with love.

He said irrespective of people’s beliefs regarding Christmas and its secularisation and commercialisation, the day is still an important day to celebrate with family, friends and loved ones.

Many people argue that despite all the festivities that encompass the day and the aura of excitement prior to the holiday, they still struggle to find its essence. Nemaukhwe said Christmas is the time of reflection for believers as they appreciate and welcome a new beginning. He hopes that during this time, the modern and traditional worlds will both spend time with families and loved ones accompanied with good food and ceremonies.

“It remains important to come together because during Christmas many people celebrate life and welcome hope into a hopeless society like ours. Those who are blessed with abundance have the opportunity to share with the less fortunate who have nothing. This is the time when love conquers and prevails over hatred and bitterness. The time for families to come together and celebrate unity and togetherness.”

He further stated that unfortunately the day lost meaning to those who use it to embrace mammon as the god of the new age. “We have secularised and commercialised the day. This is the time we celebrate that the word became flesh and lived among us. When you give love it will reach even those that are covered with hopelessness. Love is not love until you share it with your neighbour. Christmas is the time when the Christian community celebrates the birth of their Saviour of humanity. This faith teaches the importance of forgiveness and at a time like this we must spread love. This is the season of joy and peace. Christ is the only reason for Christians to celebrate Christmas.”

Nemaukhwe urged motorists to refrain from drinking and driving during the festive season. “This is not the time to drink and drive on our roads. We encourage men not to abuse their partners and instead take up the role of a protector. Let us continue to sanitise, wear our masks and social distance as it saves lives. Let us also remember to love and protect our neighbours and friends by taking a jab against Covid-19.”