RELIGIOUS leaders have emphasised the need for peace, urging believers to repent and forgive in order to make the world a better place to live.
The clerics made this plea during the New Year’s Eve mass in various churches.
In Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, the Chief Priest of Christ the King Parish of the Catholic Diocese, Fr Evans Mavumilio, urged Tanzanians to engage in activities in 2024 that will transform the world and improve its livability.
“God has given us great strength and abilities, but unfortunately, there are some who use that strength to destroy the world in one way or another, causing those with good faith to lose hope in life,” said Fr Mavumilio.
He added: “Some people use their power to destroy the environment and engage in immoral activities such as homosexuality, corruption, and abortion. This does not please God. Let us resolve that in 2024, such acts no longer exist so that the world can continue to be a good place to live.”
Fr Mavumilio continued, “There are individuals who commit evil acts that not only affect their fellow humans but also harm other creatures. For example, some destroy the environment, which serves as the natural habitat for wildlife. This situation even makes animals question what kind of creatures we are.”
Fr Mavumilio also called on the faithful to use the abilities given to them by Almighty God to strengthen their families by teaching their children good ethics, as they are expected to be future family leaders.
Meanwhile, Reverend Eden Geoffrey of the Tanzanian Fellowship of Churches (TFS), based in Arusha, asked Christians to recognise the nation’s need for prayers to maintain peace and stability.
Speaking during an end-of-the-year special prayer for the nation, Rev Geoffrey stated that peace and stability are necessary for the country’s growth and sustainable development, which will benefit its citizens.
“We have organised this vigil to thank God for protecting us throughout the year and to pray for the nation, asking God to continue protecting Tanzanians and maintaining peace and harmony,” he expressed.
He further noted that peace is the foundation of sustainable development in the country, so Tanzanians should use the end-of-year celebrations to pray to God for His blessings and grace.
“We cannot live a peaceful life if we do not call upon God and pray for our nation and government leaders to guide us wisely,” said Rev Geoffrey.
He stated that the special prayer aimed to ask Almighty God to keep the country peaceful and filled with love.
On the other hand, a servant of God urged Tanzanians to repent and confess their sins, as God hears every humble heart that seeks forgiveness.
Pastor Edward Sumari led the prayer, asking for repentance for those who have evil plans for the government. They also prayed for President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, asking God to grant her good health, wisdom and prudence in her leadership.
“Fellow Christians and residents of the Arusha region, let us repent for the sake of our fellow Tanzanians who have rejected the truth of God and our government. Let us also pray for our President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, that God gives her good health, strength, and wisdom,” stated Pastor Sumari.
In Dar es Salaam, Pastor Chediel Lwiza, Assistant Bishop of the Eastern and Coastal Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, reminded believers to repent and live according to God’s guidance.
Pastor Lwiza stressed that end-of-year repentance is about admitting sins and the need for forgiveness after potentially offending God throughout the year.
He urged everyone in their respective roles, whether spiritual, governmental, or societal, to recognise the reasons for repentance.
Quoting Bible verses, he highlighted the significance of repentance in various areas, including work, family, and faith.
“As we enter 2024, let us be reconciled with God. This message applies to religious leaders, families, various institutions, and government officials,” emphasised Lwiza.
“When seeking God’s blessings, it is essential to ask for forgiveness first. God is faithful and forgives us for both intentional and unintentional wrongdoings and I have sought forgiveness.”
Assistant Bishop Henri Mchamungu of the Catholic Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam also urged believers to be people of repentance and gratitude.
He noted that each believer has personal reasons to thank God for the blessings received throughout the year.
He also advised young people to start the new year with prayers instead of engaging in undesirable behaviours.
Parish Priest Father Denis Wigira of St Joseph Parish advised believers to maintain unwavering faith amid worldly influences.
Fr Wigira emphasised the importance of living according to the foundational teachings of the church, recognising marriage as between a husband and wife.
