SA observes National Day of Prayer
South Africans are observing a National Day of Prayer as the country remains in lockdown amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
South Africans are observing a National Day of Prayer as the country remains in lockdown amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
On Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared 31 May a National Day of Prayer.
"I urge all South Africans to heed the call of the leaders of our various faith communities for a national day of prayer,” Ramaphosa said.
"We will once again come together to pray for the healing of our land and the protection of our people.
"On this day, wherever we may be, I call upon you to turn your thoughts to all who have been affected by this pandemic.”
Places of worship are expected to reopen on Monday under strict conditions.
The president said that government is aware of the impact that the closure of places of worship has had on members of the faith community.
"Churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and other recognised places of worship may resume services, but these will be limited in size to 50 people or less depending on the space available.”
He added: "However, social distancing will have to be observed and all worshippers and participants will have to wear face masks in line with the current regulations.”
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Malema pleads with religious leaders not to resume services
Malema made the remarks at a virtual press conference on Thursday amid the debate over the impact religious gatherings could have on the spread of coronavirus. "We pray in the EFF, we support the church," he said, before adding: "Members of the EFF and supporters of the EFF do not go to church, it's a trap.