UDACIZA PASTORAL LETTER ON THE 63RD AFRICA DAY COMMEMORATIONS

UDACIZA PASTORAL LETTER ON THE 63RD AFRICA DAY COMMEMORATIONS

Introduction

The Union for the Development of Apostolic Churches in Zimbabwe-Africa (UDACIZA) stands as a leading and reputable faith network, representing a coalition of around 600 African Independent churches comprising Apostolic and Zionist Churches. UDACIZA is dedicated and committed to championing spiritual and socio-economic development of its member churches.

The Union for the Development of Apostolic and Zionist Churches in Zimbabwe-Africa (UDACIZA) joins the rest of the continent in celebrating 63 years of pan Africanism. The Apostolic churches join hands with the rest of the African Continent in commemorating Africa Day, a day that reminds us of our shared identity, history and destiny as people of Africa. The African teachings of Ubuntu align with UDACIZA’s call for justice, unity across nations, a call for liberating theological teachings as well as our gospel foundations for empowerment, resisting oppression, moral integrity and promoting love within our communities. The church plays a significant role in Zimbabwe’s history that contributes to social cohesion and nation building following the principles of Pan Africanism. UDACIZA joins the continent in celebrating this year’s commemorations as well as submitting its prayers for sustainable peace and development (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Celebrations

The Apostolic church in Zimbabwe gives praise and thanks to the Almighty for our continental governance architecture, the African Union (A.U) framework for democratic governance. The A.U provides guidelines for constitutional reforms through the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG). This framework has inspired peaceful electoral transitions in Ghana or Rwanda’s service reforms.
UDACIZA celebrates commitment by some African countries that have adopted and localized the Women Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. The notable achievements include Africa reaffirming commitments through high level milestones such as the Windhoek+25, which underscores women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in Peace and security decision making processes. Such work has also inspired UDACIZA through the SASA! Faith model to leverage on the church being a safe space for influencing positive theology and advocating for social norms that contribute to ending Gender Based violence and strengthen Women empowerment and Gender Justice (Galatians 3:28.)

We acknowledge on going continental dialogue on reparations and transitional justice for all forms of acts that undermined African people and countries of their valuable natural resources or economic development such as slavery and colonialism. We also appreciate the localized structured dialogue on national debt in Zimbabwe aimed at aiding the economy recuperate.

We are thankful for Africa's endowed natural resources that help to create an opportunity for wealth in the continent. Africa is blessed with forests, rivers, mineral resources and tourism wonders that can transform communities if managed well(Psalms 24:1).

Prayer

It is with humble hearts that we submit ourselves and pray for sustainable peace in our communities, where everyone lives in harmony in any environment that promotes growth and unity. UDACIZA prays for protection of families displaced and affected by acts of violence, God may you bring healing to broken hearts. Dear God, please bring reconciliation to brothers and sisters in arms, to communities, families and individuals in conflicts. May your love reign and open our eyes so that we value the sanctity of human life and have our ubuntu values. Dear Lord, make us develop empathy that goes beyond ethnic, geographical boundaries, religion, gender or any other barriers (Psalms 133:1-3).

We pray for God inspired leadership and governance frameworks that are democratic and promote inclusive participatory frameworks for holistic development. As our nation and communities remain humble before your throne, may national values embedded in our national constitutions remain sanctified and facilitate a conducive environment for inclusive social, economic, ecological development (Proverbs 31:8-9). Lord, may you assist our continent to develop transformational leaders who inspire young people to fulfill their potential, leaders who facilitate smooth leadership transition through democratic means and as a church we pray for an end of conflict filled transitions and coups in our continent.
We continue to pray for a safe environment in churches, communities, political spheres that promote empowerment of women as leaders, protect and safeguard women from all forms of gender-based violence and inclusive societies. It is a multi-sectoral and multi-factor responsibility to ensure we have sound policies, practices and financial commitment towards development that nurture gender justice and upholding of all human rights especially for women, youths and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) (Psalms 82:3-4).

Heavenly Father, we pray for healing and protection across Africa amid Ebola and other diseases (Deuteronomy 7:15). Strengthen every patient, family and health worker with hope and courage. Lord empower governments, medical institutions and health systems with wisdom, resources, and the will to respond effectively and save lives .
UDACIZA prays for restorative justice for Africa deeply rooted in ubuntu focusing on repairing relationships, community healing and accountability for historical injustices (Isiah 58:12.

Conclusion
As UDACIZA we continue to pray for a shared African vision, unity, and strong institution for justice and peace for a prosperous continent. The church will continue to provide all the support at local up to continent level for a holistic and sustainable development for Africans and by Africans. God bless Africa, Ishe Komborerai Africa,UNkulunkulu abusise i-Afrika!!!.