OIAC worried at splits of churches

Onalenna Kelebeile | Tuesday August 4, 2015 15:20

Motlhagodi stressed that churches and branches should not be formed out of disgruntlement but rather abide by the policy in place.

Speaking during the Church Leadership Training Workshop organised by OIAC in Selebi-Phikwe recently, Motlhagodi said spiritual churches are prone to splits hence government must seriously consider having such a policy in place.

Motlhagodi also said that they are deeply concerned with the type of prophecies prevalent in these churches, particularly those not in line with the gospel of God.

He argued that as such, the organisation would convene a gathering for all prophets around the country to see how best the issue can be addressed.

The organisation has appointed Bishop Sekai Jakoba of Eloyi Christian Church to oversee the issue of prophecy.

Motlhagodi also expressed concern that spiritual churches disregard the need to have proper record and archives in place. He said churches must submit their histories to the National Archives for storage to benefit the young generation.

“Otherwise there will be gaps in the churches history that would make it difficult to trace the history and origins of our denominations.

Without proper records management and archives we are incomplete as churches,” he said.

Motlhagodi said this course of action would give spiritual churches direction.

He also appealed to President Ian Khama to consider engaging church founders and bishops in  a courtesy call at the state house just to recognise their input in shaping this country even before independence.

Motlhagodi also said that church founders must be recognised by government, in order to better appreciate their input.

He added that leaders must be engaged whenever there are national issues of concern including political unrests.   

The Permanent Secretary to the President, Carter Morupisi, said government is adamant that churches in Botswana have a great role to play in retaining peace and tranquility that this country is known for.

“This is why we at government have found it fit to include the church in a number of entities that contribute to national development,” he said.

Morupisi implored OIAC members to embrace government efforts in developing Batswana’s livelihoods through various programmes that are in existence across various government ministries.

“We assist government in communicating these programmes to benefit church members and the rest of the society. Your members can enroll for programmes such as youth and agricultural programmes.

 I am adamant that OAIC and the church at large can be a catalyst towards ensuring the realisation of the government’s 10 point agenda to facilitate effective delivery at all times,” he said.