In celebration of the 2010 World Cup, the National Interfaith Leaders’ Council (NILC) is organizing an interfaith day of prayer on Saturday, May 29 at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville, South Arica. The day of prayer will be open to all religious groups in hopes of fostering social cohesion and national unity among South Africa’s religiously diverse population.
Today, Pastor Ray McCauley, leader for the Rhema Church and Chairperson of the NILC, announced the day of prayer. "Nations often come together because of a crisis or a national catastrophe. We are blessed that in our case this has been occasioned by a festive event such as the 2010 World Cup," said McCauley.
Pastor McCauley added that the stadium would be packed to capacity and encouraged people of all faiths groups to attend the day of prayer in support of the country’s successful and safe hosting of the World Cup, South Africa’s national soccer team Bafana Bafana, and for the safety all of players, coaches, personnel, and fans traveling to South Africa for the event.
“It is our wish and belief that the legacy from the World Cup will not be confined to the medals, beautiful infrastructure we've already seen, [but] will show in the vital bridges of tolerance, understanding and social cohesion," said Pastor McCauley.
Top government officials along with various religious leaders are expected to attend the day of prayer. Musicians will also be present to entertain the crowd.
“There has never been a more appropriate time for a nationwide sports renaissance - the effort to come together as a nation,” said Pastor McCauley.
Other South African religious leaders have offered prayers for the 2010 World Cup including the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, Thabo Makgoba. On Monday, Archbishop Makgoba offered the following prayer for the tournament:
“God bless the 2010 World Cup:
Bless those who compete, and those who watch,
Bless those who host, and those who visit,
And help all who love the 'the beautiful game'
Grow in the love you have given us to share. Amen”
“It is a short and simple prayer which is easy to learn, and I hope many people, of many backgrounds, will join me in praying it daily in the coming weeks,” added the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town.
Archbishop Magoba added, “We know from experience that sport is potentially a tremendous catalyst for good. Sport can bring people of different races and religions together, building the confidence of young people and promoting social cohesion, both within this country and across the whole human family.”
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