Wentworth pledges peace
We need to break the chains of violence that has captured this community for many generations
THE new year heralds new beginnings, peace and prosperity.
This was the message sent throughout Wentworth when conflicting communities were called by community leader and pastors to come together and sign a peace pledge on Friday, 23 December.
Following a year of gang-based violence, tragic deaths and constant conflict, the community is now saying enough is enough as hundreds who were once divided, gathered to finally welcome peace into their homes.
Councillor Aubrey Snyman, one of the co-ordinators of the event, said it was an emotional moment for everyone.
“We had residents from Weist and Alabama Road meeting halfway as well as Reiger and Retreat Road to sign the peace pledge. We are doing this for the future of our youth because we are tired of seeing parents burying their children, killed in the prime of their lives,” said Cllr Snyman.
With the help of pastors, community leaders, NGOs and the co-operation of all community members, history was made as one by one, a signature was added to seal the deal of peace in a troubled community. The religious community took as showers of blessings the rain which followed the historic pledge signing. “It’s a clear sign from heaven, this is a spiritual approval of what has happened today,” said a bystander.
“I appeal to other areas in Wentworth to conform to the peace pledge and set an example for the younger generation. My wish for 2017 is to ensure there is peace and harmony in ward 68. I want this area to prosper. More jobs need to be created, more houses need to be made available. We need to pull ourselves out of this rut that Wentworth has been stuck in for many years. Now is the time for change,” exclaimed Cllr Snyman.
Romany Roberts, member of the worldwide group Mothers Prayer ,was present at the signing to show her support and pray. “This is what we have been praying for because we hear the cry of a mother. We want to see peace among families and that must spill over into a peaceful community. Education is the key to job opportunities. We need to break the chains of violence that has captured this community for many generations. Parents need to take up their role as parents and be good rolemodels to their children,” she said.
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