A spirit of deep conviction and heartfelt intercession filled Damaseko Church of Christ last Sunday as bazalwane gathered for a powerful special service addressing violence against children in Eswatini. The service, held during the church’s regular 11am worship session, was presided over by Reverend Siboniso Mamba, who delivered a sobering but urgent call to the body of Christ to rise up in unity and fight the growing scourge of child abuse and killings in the nation.
Reverend Mamba did not mince words. He boldly declared that the church must command the power of God to confront this evil head-on.
“This is not just a social issue, it is spiritual warfare. The body of Christ must unite to break this darkness. We cannot be silent. We must speak, pray, and protect,” he urged.
Reading from the book of Matthew 19:14, Proverbs 31:8-9, and Ecclesiastes 12:14, Mamba reminded the congregation that children are not only blessings but also the future of the Church, saying in Siswati: “Bangumliba loya embili”, meaning “They are the well that leads us forward.”
The man of God also delivered a strong warning to individuals who engage in child killings for ritualistic or financial gain: “Anyone who believes that the blood of innocent children can buy them wealth or success is gravely mistaken. The wrath of God awaits such people. No evil act goes unnoticed — and judgment will come.
His words struck a chord with many, echoing the verse in Ecclesiastes 12:14: “For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.”
The service was not just spiritual, it was visual and emotional. Custom-made T-shirts and awareness boards with bold anti-violence messages decorated the church, reinforcing the urgent call for change.
A moving poem by the youth touched many hearts, with themes of love, protection, and the cries of children pleading to be heard. The atmosphere was described as sombre yet powerful, and many congregants were moved to tears during the closing prayer.
The most resounding call came in the form of a shared responsibility. Reverend Mamba stressed that
It was not just the role of parents. It is the responsibility of every believer, every leader, and every community member to guard the innocence of our children. We must be vigilant, speak up, and act.
The service didn’t end at the benediction. Congregants remained behind for informal discussions, with several proposing the formation of a child protection committee within the church.
Many described the service as the most impactful of the year, not only raising awareness but stirring hearts toward practical and spiritual action.
As Eswatini faces a painful rise in violence against its youngest citizens, Damaseko Church of Christ stands as a beacon, urging the entire Church, across denominations to wake up, speak out, and pray with power. For the sake of the children, the Church must not be silent.
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