Anglican Church, Govt to strengthen cooperation for public welfare

MOROGORO: THE Anglican Church of Tanzania, Diocese of Morogoro has pledged a continuous support and cooperation with the government in delivering social and economic development to the community.

The pledge was made by Bishop Godfrey Sehaba during a thanksgiving service held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Morogoro.

The service marked the 60th Jubilee since the Cathedral was declared and began operating as the diocesan headquarters. The event was attended by various religious and government leaders, including Kilombero District Commissioner Mr Dunstan Kyobya, who represented Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Malima.

“This service was held to thank God for the great works He has accomplished in our Diocese throughout the past 60 years,” Bishop Sehaba said.

He noted that over the six decades, the Diocese has played a major role in advancing development in Morogoro by working closely with the government in various social and economic initiatives.

“As a result of this cooperation, our Diocese is widely recognised for its contributions to community development.

I express my profound gratitude for the support we have received and for the partnership that has enabled us to bring progress to the people of Morogoro Region over the past 60 years.” He explained.

Bishop Sehaba said that the Diocese has made remarkable strides in fulfilling both its spiritual and social mission.

He noted that the Diocese began with only 14 parishes and as it celebrates its 60th anniversary, it now comprises of 185 parishes. Similarly, it started with just a few community service institutions, which have since grown significantly.

“Today, our Diocese operates numerous major institutions serving the community including schools, colleges and various development projects. We gather now to give thanks to the God for these achievements,” he stressed.

The bishop also highlighted the central role of the Cathedral in many spiritual and social initiatives. He revealed that the Diocese has launched a major project to construct a new, modern church building valued at more than 2bn/-.

The new structure is intended to meet current needs, as the existing cathedral has served worshippers for six decades.

Addressing the role of social media, Bishop Sehaba described it as both a blessing and a potential danger. He said social media can help the church spread the Gospel, deliver teachings and promote positive values but warned that misuse can cause significant harm.

“As a religious leader, I urge everyone to use social media responsibly so it becomes a force for positive change in our lives as Tanzanians,” he said.

During the Jubilee sermon, Reverend Canon Isaac Mgege, who also serves as Director of Berega Hospital, emphasised the importance of safeguarding the nation’s peace.

He also offered prayers for national leaders including President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, VicePresident Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, ministers and other government authorities such as regional and district commissioners, asking that they lead the nation with justice and truth.