`Church a valuable partner`

COPPERBELT Minister Japhen Mwakalombe says the country needs active Church leaders and members to complement Government efforts in promoting good morals.

Mr Mwakalombe said the church deserved commendation because it had continued to advocate good morals in society.

The Minister was speaking during an induction ceremony of Reverend Edward Kapembwa of the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Chifubu congregation in Ndola at the weekend.

He said without the intervention of the Church in many issues, Zambia would not have developed.

“Government is always happy to be associated with the Church because the Church is a clear reflection of high moral values.,” he said.

Mr Mwakalombe said the induction was a symbol of the incoming Reverend`s dedication and consistency which other Church leaders should emulate.

“I also want to reiterate Presidents Edgar Lungu’s message that we must continue to love one another as Zambians and should not speak negative against ourselves,” he said.

Mr Mwakalombe said the UCZ did not only minister the word of God but also demonstrated service to communities such as running schools and health institutions in various parts of the country.

Meanwhile, UCZ Kabushi congregation Reverend Damson Kunda in his sermon said the Church would continue to preach unity and harmony.

Rev Kunda said the Church specifically the UCZ had people from different tribes who were all children of God and that was why there was need to uphold togetherness.

Rev Kunda further called for the enhancement of the `One Zambia One Nation` concept to ensure unity as espoused by First President Kenneth Kaunda and his fellow leaders during his time.

And Rev. Kapembwa said it would be of great reward if all Church members and other citizens put their vast knowledge together to build a great church.