SAY NO TO DRUGS: PASTOR MATENDE

Praise Masvosva

GOSPEL musician and preacher, Pastor Norest Matende, has challenged young people to desist from drug abuse.

Pr Matende made these remarks over the weekend when he celebrated his 38th birthday in Chitungwiza.

“It pains me a lot to see young people taking drugs and also being involved in social evils like prostitution and robbery.

“We need to continue giving these youngsters guidance and also it’s our duty to keep reminding them about the dangers of drugs.

“I owe the success to God who has given me this opportunity to be in front of you right now. Life is you, if you break it, you will not make it.

“If you allow substances to control your life, you will be losing it.

“As a church leader and a gospel musician, I can only remind and warn you but the choice is yours.

“You should also consider that you are the future of tomorrow and the generation should not end with you.

“It requires us to put maximum effort to do away with this enemy of progress,” he said, addressing congregants.

Pr Matende is also the leader of the International Church of Jesus Christ (ICJC).

In an interview with H-Metro on the sidelines of the birthday celebrations, Pastor Matende hailed fellow musicians for gracing the event.

“My brother, it’s an honour to be supported by fellow musicians.

“They left everything and decided to spend the day with us here. The gesture only gives me zeal to do better.

“I turned 38 today and I am still learning as well as appreciating everything that happens in life.

“It’s not about my wisdom but we are managing through God’s grace.

“My wish is to have a drug free generation and have a prosperous future for our youths,” he said.

Artists, who took turns to entertain congregants on the day, include Vashumiri Vedenga, Followers of Christ, Echoes of Praise, Pastor Caster Vhengere, Minana YaJehovah, Joseph Tivafire and Prosper Nyika.

Tivafire encouraged artists to always support each other.

“We are here to celebrate with a fellow artist not because we don’t have anything to do.

“We have sacrificed our time so that we enjoy the day together. As gospel musicians, we preach the word of God through music so right now we are winning lost souls.”