Government says it stands ready to work with the church in consolidating efforts aimed at preserving peace and unity in the nation ahead of the 2011 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
Lusaka Province Minister Charles Shawa says the church should take a leading role of preaching peace as it is a prerequisite for national development.
Mr. Shawa, who is also Feira Constituency Member of Parliament, was speaking at the United Church of Zambia’s St James Congregation church building fund raising venture in Luangwa district, yesterday.
He called for enhanced partnerships between government and the church in the provision of social services such as health and education especially in remote areas.
Mr. Shawa also reaffirmed government’s commitment to seeking counsel from the church on national issues that affects the general citizenry.
And speaking at the same function, St James Congregation Reverend-In-Charge, Richard Musonda implored leaders at levels to use their influence to promote peace in the country.
Rev. Musonda advised the church to drop the confrontational stance against government policies by taking up an advisory role in order to accelerate meaningful national development.
He said his congregation embarked on the church building fund raising venture in order to rise over K 150 million towards the construction of the new church building.
Rev. Musonda further said, once the new church building is completed, it will cater for over 300 members who are currently congregating in a makeshift church.
He also announced plans establish a school for underprivileged children aimed at improving literacy standards in the district.
ZANIS
Seems you only need the church in times like these. The country needs peace always. Not only during elections
MODERATOR i agree with you my dear in time like this they want to closer themselves to the churches , and infact they only need those churches who are in support of them even if they are doing nothing,,Fr Frank Bwana and other catholic Bishops are now enemies to the state as you call it for telling the truth…ba MMD guys be real.
MODERATOR i agree with you my dear in time like this they want to closer themselves to the churches , and infact they only need those churches who are in support of them even if they are doing nothing,,Fr Frank Bwana and other catholic Bishops are now enemies to the state as you call it for telling the truth…ba MMD guys be real.