Times Of Swaziland: CHURCHES SHOULD SOLVE DISPUTES AMICABLY

CHURCHES SHOULD SOLVE DISPUTES AMICABLY
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Editor on 20/11/2024 07:48:00


Sir,
In the Gospel of John, we read a striking account of Jesus Christ entering the
temple and overturning the tables of the money changers, driving them out with
righteous anger. He proclaimed, “Take these things away; do not make my
Father’s house a house of trade” (John 2:16). This powerful image resonates
today as we witness a troubling trend: The commercialisation of churches and the
Gospel of Christ. As disputes within church communities escalate, it is
essential to reflect on the sanctity of our places of worship and the true
purpose they serve. The recent events surrounding the Anglican Diocese of
Eswatini exemplify the growing discord that arises when financial interests
overshadow spiritual ones.
Actions
The church’s legal actions to interdict elected wardens and council members
from managing the financial affairs of the Cathedral Church of All Saints signal
a disconcerting shift towards prioritising monetary control over the church’s
mission of faith and community service. This situation highlights a reality,
where our churches risk becoming battlegrounds for power struggles rather than
havens for spiritual growth and support. The pursuit of financial gain can lead
to a culture that alienates congregants, detracting from the genuine connections
and spiritual nourishment that should be the cornerstone of our faith
communities. When money becomes the primary focus, the church’s mission to
spread love and compassion through the teachings of Christ is compromised.
Faithful
The faithful, seeking solace and guidance, may find themselves disillusioned by
institutions more concerned with their bank balances than their spiritual
well-being. Moreover, the situation in Eswatini raises critical questions about
transparency and accountability among church leaders. Their urgent court
application suggests a fear of losing control rather than a commitment to the
church’s mission. Such behaviour fosters an environment of mistrust and
division, creating barriers between leaders and congregants, who may feel
sidelined in the decision-making processes of their own churches.
This trend is not isolated to Eswatini; it reflects a broader pattern of
increasing disputes within church communities worldwide. Many congregations are
grappling with conflicts over finances, leadership and governance, often
exacerbated by the pressures of a consumer-driven society. In this context, it
is more important than ever for church leaders to remember their primary role:
To serve their congregations and guide them in faith, rather than prioritise the
management of funds. As we reflect on the teachings of Jesus, we must recognise
that the Gospel should not be commodified. The church is meant to be a sanctuary
for those seeking hope and healing, not a marketplace for financial
transactions.
Priorities
I urge church leaders to reconsider their priorities and refocus on the
spiritual health of their communities. When finances overshadow faith, the
essence of the church is lost. In conclusion, I call upon church authorities,
particularly within the Anglican Diocese of Eswatini, to prioritise their
mission of faith over financial concerns. Let us work together to restore the
sanctity of our places of worship, ensuring they remain refuges for all seeking
spiritual solace. The teachings of Christ should inspire unity, hope and love,
steering us away from the commercial interests that threaten to undermine the
very foundation of our faith.
Zanele Dube