Harare (New Ziana)- President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday commended the church for complimenting government efforts through funding humanitarian and development projects.

Speaking at the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of a temple for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter -Day Saints, President Mnangagwa said the contribution of the church to national development and social well being of citizens could not be overemphasized.

“The church , as the body of Christ, has been instrumental in the socio-economic, humanitarian and infrastructure development of our country with footprints in the health and education sectors.
“My government is grateful for the various humanitarian assistance and development projects made by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to various communities within our country,” he said.

The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints has been in Zimbabwe since 1930 with more than 35 000 members who worship together in more than 90 congregations.

President Mnangagwa said, like family, the church is an important institution for the promotion of social norms, values and ethics.

“Both institutions are fundamental and have a responsibility to preserve and protect the moral fabric of any society.
“It is in the home and the church where children and members of our society taught lessons of love, respect , forgiveness, compassion, care and service,” said the President.

He said the church remains a vital cog in national development as the country moves to modernize, industrialize and grow the economy towards its Vision 2030.

“As we go into the New Year and the years ahead, my administration will continue facilitating a closer relationship between the state and the church,” he said.

President Mnangagwa urged the church to intercede in prayer for the country to remain peaceful.

“As we approach the end of 2020 and start a new year, I urge this church and other churches in general to continue fasting, interceding and praying for Zimbabwe especially with regards peace , development, the COVID-19 pandemic and other natural phenomenon,” he said.

President Mnangagwa applauded leadership of the the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for constructing a temple in Zimbabwe.

“I applaud your church leadership for its strategic decision to construct this temple here in Zimbabwe, which will reduce distance travelled by the congregants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to access temples hosted in other countries,” he said.

New Ziana