By Phenyo Selinda
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Limpopo have welcomed the decision to reopen the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) for its annual pilgrimage, which will take place this coming weekend. This marks the first time the pilgrimage will occur since it was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The reopening of the ZCC pilgrimage is not only a spiritual revival for many but also a critical event that impacts the social and economic fabric of the Limpopo province and beyond. The ZCC, recognized as the largest church in Africa, draws millions of congregants from across South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region to its headquarters in Moria, outside Polokwane, every September. The pilgrimage is a central aspect of the ZCC’s religious calendar, offering followers an opportunity to reconnect spiritually and participate in communal worship.
EFF’s Statement and Call for Safety
In an official statement released on 30 August 2024, the EFF Limpopo expressed their elation at the news, urging all motorists traveling to Moria to exercise caution and adhere to road safety regulations. The statement, issued by the provincial chairperson Commissar Lawrence Mapoulo, emphasized the importance of ensuring that this sacred event proceeds without incident.
“The EFF is over the moon upon receiving the news that the biggest church in Africa, Zion Christian Church, will be reconvening this coming weekend for the annual September pilgrimage,” the statement read. “We wish all motorists who will be traveling to the church a safe journey. We furthermore call upon citizens of Polokwane to comply with all the church protocols and accordingly receive all the visitors from all the nine provinces and the SADC region with a warm welcome.”
The EFF Limpopo also called on law enforcement agencies to be vigilant during this period, ensuring that the safety and security of pilgrims are maintained throughout the duration of the pilgrimage. “The state must avail law enforcement officers throughout the period of the church service and beyond the conclusion of the church service,” the statement continued.
A Return to Normalcy
The resumption of the ZCC pilgrimage is a symbol of resilience and a return to normalcy after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The suspension of the pilgrimage over the past three years was a significant disruption, not only to the ZCC community but also to the local economy, which benefits from the influx of visitors during this period. The pilgrimage typically boosts local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transport services, contributing significantly to the province’s economy.
Commissar Mapoulo’s statement also highlighted the broader significance of the pilgrimage in fostering unity and addressing social issues. “We ask for the church to pray for the rain, unity of Africa, and a corrupt-free government. We ask for prayers against Gender-Based Violence, lack of service delivery, and other social ills,” he said.
The Role of ZCC in South Africa
The ZCC, founded in 1924 by Engenas Lekganyane, has grown to become one of the most influential religious institutions in South Africa. The church’s teachings, which blend Christian doctrines with African traditions, have attracted a vast following, with estimates of the congregation ranging from six to ten million members. The church’s headquarters in Moria has become a pilgrimage site of immense importance, drawing believers from all walks of life.
The pilgrimage’s return is expected to see large numbers of congregants converging on Moria, with the EFF urging all participants to follow church protocols designed to manage the large crowds safely. These protocols, which include crowd control measures and health regulations, are crucial in ensuring that the event runs smoothly and that the health and safety of all attendees are prioritized.
A Message of Encouragement and Faith
In his closing remarks, Commissar Mapoulo offered words of encouragement to the ZCC members and all believers, quoting from the Bible: “Lastly, the EFF wishes to encourage all members of ZCC and all believers with the following words from the holy book.” He then cited Hebrews 10:23-25 NIV: “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
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