The City of Johannesburg has called for an Interfaith Prayer Day in Diepsloot on Monday, 11 November 2013 at Diepsloot Methodist Church.
In the past few months, violent crime has been stalking Diepsloot, north of the City. Various organisations have expressed outrage at the killing and raping of women and children in the area which was followed by police arresting suspects. The community applauded the arrests and called for the courts to impose long jail terms to those convicted for these crimes after the court process.
As part of easing tensions and heal the community with an object of promoting a peaceful environment among residents, people from all religious background will engage in prayer and meditation in groups as well as individuals.
Next Monday’s (November 11) Prayer Day will be hosted by the City of Joburg as a build-up to activities forming part of the international 16 Days of Activism Campaign, from 15 November to 10 December 2013.
During this event, a prayer march will be led by Premier of Gauteng, Ms Nomvula Mokonyane and Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Clr Parks Tau, who will be supported by Pastor Ray McCauley and leadership of various churches. The march takes place within the area where the bodies of the toddlers were found, and proceed to the Methodist Church.
The community will be addressed on various issues about crime, substance abuse, domestic violence and gender-based violence, to heighten their sense of morality, but also to acknowledge the existence of violence and understanding of these unlawful activities within the community.
The prayer session will take place as follows:
Date: Monday, 11 November 2013
Time: 11h00-13h00
Venue: Diepsloot Methodist Church, Extension 10
The City of Johannesburg is committed to fight the scourge of violence against women and children in its communities as means to fulfil its role in supporting communities to deal with the tragedy and loss against the background of several challenges which include poverty, social discrimination, inequality and unemployment.