04 Apr 2024

St Engenas Zion Christian Church (ZCC) South Africa has sent a message of condolences to Botswana government and the nation following the demise of 45 congregants on their way to Moria, South Africa, the church headquarters for Easter holidays.

A representative from the church in South Africa, Mr Hilton Rampedi, who delivered the message at a national memorial service in Gaborone, said Bishop Dr Engenas Lekganyane pronounced peace on Batswana as he conveyed condolences and sympathy.

In the message, Dr Lekganyane said during these times of grief and sorrow, nations should come together as a united front and support one another.

“Losing loved ones is a sorrowful and heart-breaking experience. However, to us Christians it is not the end, but the incident symbolises the beginning of a journey that leads to God,” read message from the Bishop.

Dr Lekganyane’s message further said only God knows why and how the incident happened and only an eight-year-old child’s life was spared. That alone spoke volumes, he said, adding that kind words, love and support should be given to those who felt lost due to the tragedy.

He also thanked the governments of Botswana and South Africa as well as their leadership in Presidents Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi and Mr Cyril Ramaphosa for their diligent cooperation during this trying time.

He urged strengthened relations between the two nations and that God further intensified them.

He also urged Batswana, members of the St Engenas ZCC in Botswana and across the region as well the international community to find strength and peace in the Lord.  ENDS