Thousands of people gathered at Seshego stadium last Sunday to attend a provincial prayer day.

During the event, which was organised by Pastor Irene Mushathama-Hlanyana, different church members and believers came together for the first time in the province and they were urged to reconcile and be united so that they could pray for the world.

Pastor Mushathama-Hlanyana said: “Today’s churches are not playing their roles in society, government and our leaders. Although churches are supposed to give answers to many social problems, we cannot help to solve social ills, HIV/Aids, poverty, crime and wars if we are also fighting against each other as churches. Our churches are putting God’s name to shame by fighting for members and hating each other. Many also do not mind boasting about wealth they accumulate from offerings. Some churches are busy criticizing the government for supplying condoms to the people while the churches themselves are busy committing all types of evils like adultery without using preventative measures,” said Pastor Mushathama-Hlanyana.

Dr Elijah Maswanganyi said: “Spiritual things must not be mixed with material and material must not mix with spiritual needs. Let the church be the church.” He also said that many families were crumbling because of the churches that are not playing their roles in society correctly. He also said men must stop undermining women. “Most men see women as a factory to make babies, breakfast and lunch,” said Dr Mashwanganyi.

Premier Sello Moloto, who attended the function together with his MECs Joe Mashwanganyi and Joyce Mashamba, said he was happy that the churches realized their stand to help the government.

Different pastors prayed for unity amongst the churches and the government. They also prayed for Moloto.

Moloto also said people must respect their leaders as it is prescribed in the Bible.

Pastor Mushathama-Hlanyana said the event will be held on a yearly basis from now on and it will also go to other provincves.