Church leaders warned against drug abuse during night prayers

Arron NyamayaroSEVERAL church leaders, including members of various praise and worship teams, have been cautioned about the dangers of drug and substance abuse during all-night prayers.Speaking at the Drugs and Substance Abuse Awareness Campaign held in Harare South District, Father Thulani Makuwa of the Anglican Charismatic Church highlighted the alarming trend of addiction among worshippers.He noted that some individuals had become reliant on energy drinks and illicit drugs to stay awake during night vigils.“The issue of drug and substance abuse is becoming a significant threat affecting not just teachers, youth, prison and police officers, but students and worshippers alike,” Father Makuwa stated.“We’ve received reports that some members of praise and worship teams are exhibiting unusual behaviours while under the influence of these substances.“It’s troubling to see some pastors resorting to casting out demons from those trapped in addiction.”He urged the church to unite with the government in combating this pressing issue, emphasizing that it affects everyone in society.Superintendent Peter Zhanero, representing the District Officer and the local police force, echoed these sentiments. Addressing the gathered audience, he said, “Many lives are being ravaged by the grip of addiction, with countless others at risk.“While drugs may promise an escape, they ultimately lead to enslavement.”He continued, “It is truly heartening to witness this collaboration between the ZRP Glen Norah and our community, tackling the critical issue of drug abuse that threatens our nation. “Together, we can gain a deeper understanding of our duty as guardians of the law.”Zhanero reinforced the message to the youth: “Your future is bright—don’t let drugs dim it.

You are the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. Invest in your dreams, not destructive habits.”He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, stressing that open communication and guidance are essential in shielding loved ones from addiction.“To those struggling with addiction, know that recovery is possible,” he said. “Seek help, and let us stand by you in this journey.”“Let us work together to ensure our community is free from drugs and crime.

United, we can break the chains of addiction and build a brighter future.“Let’s choose life, let’s choose health, and let’s choose Zimbabwe.”A local pastor and chairwoman for Ebenezer Transformation Centre, Pastor Lina Madzinga called upon church leaders to go for counselling trainings in an effort to deal with mental health among church members and the community.“We have opened a centre with a view to train church leaders on mental health.“We want to thank God for the response we are getting from various church leaders.“Our aim is to engage a number of various church leaders so that they get knowledge in dealing with mental health and victims of drug and substance abuse,” said Pastor Madzinga. SEVERAL church leaders, including members of various praise and worship teams, have been cautioned about the dangers of drug and substance abuse during all-night prayers. Speaking at the Drugs and Substance Abuse Awareness Campaign held in Harare South District, Father Thulani Makuwa of the Anglican Charismatic Church highlighted the alarming trend of addiction among worshippers.

[paywall]

He noted that some individuals had become reliant on energy drinks and illicit drugs to stay awake during night vigils. “The issue of drug and substance abuse is becoming a significant threat affecting not just teachers, youth, prison and police officers, but students and worshippers alike,” Father Makuwa stated. “We’ve received reports that some members of praise and worship teams are exhibiting unusual behaviours while under the influence of these substances.

“It’s troubling to see some pastors resorting to casting out demons from those trapped in addiction.” He urged the church to unite with the government in combating this pressing issue, emphasizing that it affects everyone in society. Superintendent Peter Zhanero, representing the District Officer and the local police force, echoed these sentiments. Addressing the gathered audience, he said, “Many lives are being ravaged by the grip of addiction, with countless others at risk.

“While drugs may promise an escape, they ultimately lead to enslavement.” He continued, “It is truly heartening to witness this collaboration between the ZRP Glen Norah and our community, tackling the critical issue of drug abuse that threatens our nation. Invest in your dreams, not destructive habits.” He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, stressing that open communication and guidance are essential in shielding loved ones from addiction. “To those struggling with addiction, know that recovery is possible,” he said.

[/paywall]