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South Africa: If you want peace work for justice |
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Scritto da IMC South Africa
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 The Religious of Johannesburg Archdiocese aware of the situation in Zimbabwe decided to ask the Archbishop to celebrate the Eucharist on the 31 May to pray for the country and its peoples. Shortly after this plan was made, the xenophobic violence broke out. The Justice & Peace Department of the Archdiocese decided to hold a march calling on the Citizens of South Africa to adopt other means, non-violent, to sort out social concerns.
The march would also call on Local Government to be more effective and efficient in rendering social services. The march was also planned for 31 May.The two events, the Eucharist celebration for the Zimbabwe and the march, were now brought together as a continuum …The march started at the Beyers Naude / Library Gardens with speeches from Fr John Finlayson Vicar General, a Zimbabwean refugee, a member of the Human Rights Commission and Bishop Paul Verryn (Methodist). Also Ms. Qedani Mahlangu, MEC for Gauteng Local Government, was present and she addressed those assembled. A memorandum was handed to the MEC for Local Government and signed.Those present then marched through town showing their banners and posters protesting the violence on people and reminder all that we are all created in the image and likeness of God. The march ended at the Cathedral and the marchers joined those who had come for the Mass. All went into the Cathedral for the celebration of Eucharist. Archbishop Buti Tlhagale gave the homily once again reminding us that all have a right to exist and to exist with dignity. He also pointed out how many South Africans will employ the foreign nationals and not pay them fairly.
He also pointed out that poverty had to be eradicated and social services fairly provided for all.
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