Soweto church groups unite in prayer against GBV and killings
The church took a stand against GBV by bringing community members together in prayer, reflection and words of encouragement.
The Methodist Church of Southern Africa Central District Young Men’s Guild held a prayer service against gender-based violence (GBV) and killings at Maponya Mall in Soweto on September 20.
The service was conducted under the theme ‘Enough is Enough’, calling for action to end the brutal killings of women nationwide. Various church groups, branches and community members joined the service.
Siphiwe Hlongwane, a member of the Young Men’s Guild, said: “We decided to be at the forefront as male figures in the community to show our support to the women. It is unfortunate that men are now seen in a bad light, but this is just an act to show the women and community at large that there is a group of men who are against these gruesome acts, and we are here for them.”
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The service included praise, worship and a moment of reflection, with pastors and leaders sharing words of encouragement from the Bible.
Ward 20 Clr Cambridge Kwapeng showed his appreciation and gratitude for the service, saying that while physical police work needs to happen in arresting the perpetrators, prayer and support are also needed.
Colonel Sithebe, visible policing commander at the Kliptown Police Station, was among the crowd and said: “We are very grateful to have backup from church groups because we need as much support in putting an end to this illness that has befallen our nation and communities.
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“We also would like to urge women to keep safe and leave a trace of their steps, such as sharing locations and Uber ride details, so that we know what we are looking for.”
Nonhlanhla Molamu and Jaquline Nel, who are members of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa Central District, told the publication that as women, they live in constant fear for themselves and young men who cannot live freely.
They said while growing up, they knew men as protectors and people they could run to for safety, but those same men are now the people they fear.
They closed by saying they appreciate the action taken by the men in the church and hope the service will play a role in combating the GBV scourge.
