Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
UNITED Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) President Reverend Coenraad Williams has commended the Government, the Church and the wider community for their collective response to the needs of returnees housed at the UCCSA reception centre in Njube, Bulawayo.
Speaking during a donation handover ceremony attended by the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Judith Ncube, Rev Williams said the response demonstrated the true essence of the Church, which is to reach out to those in need and work together despite differences.
“The most beautiful thing about the Church is when we can reach out, extend ourselves and work together, putting aside our differences for the greater good of the Kingdom of God,” he said.
Rev Williams said he was encouraged by the humanitarian efforts taking place at the centre, noting that compassion and service were taking precedence over personal interests and ambitions.
“In a humanitarian crisis such as this, it is pleasing to see the face of God being put first and not personal desire or ambition. The ecumenical Church, the universal Church, is saying we belong to one another and therefore we need to care for one another,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from the Biblical account of Jesus feeding the 5 000, Rev Williams said Christians should not be deterred by a lack of resources when confronted with human suffering.
He recalled how the disciples suggested sending the hungry crowd away, but Jesus instructed them to feed the people instead.
”You feed them,’ Jesus told His disciples. In other words, take care of them. It was after that act of faith and responsibility that the miracle of the loaves and fish took place,” he said.
Rev Williams urged faith-based organisations and communities to act first in helping vulnerable people rather than waiting for resources to become available.
“In any humanitarian crisis, you cannot wait for resources to come. You reach out in faith, knowing that God will provide. We should not spend too much time debating where resources will come from. We should answer the call to feed and care for those in need,” he said.
He praised the Church’s response to the plight of returnees, saying congregations and well-wishers had demonstrated generosity and compassion through their donations and support.
Rev Williams encouraged stakeholders to continue working together in caring for vulnerable members of society, saying acts of kindness and generosity ultimately benefit both the giver and the recipient.
“What you invest today in another person will eventually come back and enrich and bless you. May the Church continue to be a united witness, working together with Government structures, communities and one another in caring for the people of God,” he said.
