Lutheran church embarks on campaign against human trafficking

The Evangelical Lutheran Church launched its Hagar campaign against human trafficking in the KaNyamazane’s hall on Good Friday April 7.

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Hagar is an international initiative that offers services and assistance to people who have survived human trafficking and is focused on helping victims with recovery.

This well-attended event saw the congregation marching in the streets with posters saying; ‘Take a stand against the abuse of women and children.’
The launch was attended by various Lutheran churches such as the Polokwane, Matibiti and Gauteng branches. The campaign is expected to run until the end of April.

According to Rev Nontuthuzelo Gwala, the aim is to rescue the poor and helpless and deliver them from the grasp of evil people and encourage churches around Lowveld to speak about the issue of human trafficking and abuse.

“A church must be the solution to all the social ills of the community, and we as Lutherans, want to break the silence of abuse within church members. Human beings are not for sale, let’s advocate against human trafficking and in our Christian education we should cover such topics in any gatherings and give support to the community,” Gwala said.

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The church encourages anyone who is facing abuse in their home or any other place, to stop being afraid and visit any near Evangelical Lutheran Church for assistance.

“If they see us as pastors out walking the streets standing against abuse, they will not be ashamed to come and ask for help. Abuse cannot be tolerated, if as a pastor you see it being done to one of your members, speak about it so we can decrease the number of women and children who are being killed by their abusive partners.”

After the march they attended the annual Easter services.