Mokgware condemns church factions

The Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware, has expressed concerns regarding the prevalence of factionalism within various church communities. Mr Mokgware said during the commemoration of Easter at Seven Rainbow Church of God in Selebi-Phikwe that divisions within the church were often driven by greed and the desire to exploit churches for personal gain. He thus condemned the divisive trend, explaining its detrimental impact on the unity and harmony that should characterise religious organisations, and called for collective action among church leaders and congregants to address internal conflicts.

Major General Mokgware called for reconciliation during church conflicts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all members. “Greed-driven factionalism did not only undermine the core values of faith but also crippled the essential purpose of our religious organisations,” Mokgware stressed, adding that churches should be sanctuaries of hope and unity, not battlegrounds for personal ambition. Also, Maj.

Mokgware encouraged the church to develop mentorship programmes to raise and guide young leaders, ensuring they uphold the values of integrity and humility. The church, he stated further, must continuously take proactive steps in addressing social issues, including anger, violence, and gender-based violence that continue to affect communities. Mr Mokgware acknowledged the various challenges that church leaders encountered, particularly welfare issues, which affected the operations of the church.

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He explained the need to address these difficulties by exploring alternative income-generating strategies rather than relying on offerings collected during services. Meanwhile, at the Seven White Angels Church in Zion, the Minister of State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa stated that the church served as a sanctuary for healing and a space where individuals can uplift one another. He shared reflections about his own experiences, explaining how he has come to understand that God was always capable of providing hope and strength, even in the most challenging times.

Mr Mohwasa reassured the congregants that trusting in God’s timing is crucial, particularly when one finds themselves at their lowest. His message resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the power of faith and the comfort that can be found in relying on a higher purpose.END

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