The event, taking place at Grace Bible Church in Soweto, comes as South Africa faces persistent social and economic difficulties.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend the gathering, signalling the importance of this occasion. The organisers have emphasised that his presence is welcomed in his role as the nation’s president, rather than as a political party leader.

Reverend Dr Thembelani Jentile of the Baptist Convention of SA, who serves on the SACC’s National Executive Committee, shared insights on the event’s purpose. He explained that the day aims to foster unity and dialogue among South Africans from diverse backgrounds during a time of hardship marked by high unemployment and rising living costs.

“The day is about coming together in prayer and opening up spaces for conversations,” Jentile said. “The SACC is made up of members from various communities, including Afrikaners, English speakers, and African Initiated Churches and we want everyone to have a seat at the table.”

Jentile also mentioned the importance of hearing from groups who feel left out of national conversations, citing some Afrikaners who have expressed a sense of exclusion.

Regarding President Ramaphosa’s expected attendance, Jentile noted that while opinions varied about how he should participate, welcoming him was agreed upon as essential. “Having the president there, whether he speaks or not, adds weight to our collective call for unity and hope,” he said.

The SACC encourages all South Africans to join the prayer day, hoping to strengthen bonds and inspire resilience across the nation.

--ChannelAfrica--