MBANGWENI - His Majesty King Mswati III has expressed pride in the work of realism by emaSwati, which has attracted the attention of the entire world.
Speaking through Prince Mguciso at the occasion of Ascension Day, the King stated that the support from emaSwati has led many people from different nations to travel to the country to enquire about his visionary work. The prince mentioned that some individuals have approached the King during his trips abroad to seek his source of wisdom.
He said the support to the King has been evident through the support of his vision aimed at placing the country in the First World.
The prince also noted the number of emaSwati starting from the main Incwala Ceremony up to the 40/58 double celebrations. He assured those who have visited the country to engage with the King that their visits will be of great benefit. The prince also affirmed that the King has maintained his stance that the nation should live by the truth. Worth noting is that the King once said this during the beginning of the year prayer, where he warned that those who live a falsehood life will be exposed. On another note, the prince expressed admiration for Sabelo Matse’s talent, noting that it is evident that God provides good voices. He stated that Matse sang as if he had backup singers, despite performing alone. Matse, who has become a frequent performer at Ascension Day, uplifted the spirits of the attendees with his song ‘Nokuphathwa Ezakhe Izandla’.
The attendees struggled to contain themselves as they marched slowly to the beat of the band and made offerings for the betterment of Matse’s life. Notably, the attendees were so eager to make offerings that they requested Matse to perform another song to continue the offerings.
In his brief comment, Professor Dr Archbishop Samson Hlatjwako, President of the League of African Churches, stated that the church has adopted a culture of supporting Matse. He addressed concerns about why priority is given to Matse over other individuals with disabilities, explaining that disabilities are different, as once stated by King Sobhuza II. Hlatjwako also warned that Matse should not be followed simply because of the money that would be deposited into his bank account.
The most significant event in the Christian calendar was attended by members of the royalty, church leaders and congregants from various parts of the country.
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Peace, prosperity vigil at Mbangweni Royal Residence
MBANGWENI – Hundreds of believers gathered at Mbangweni Royal Residence on Wednesday evening to offer prayers for the monarchy and the future of the nation in anticipation of Ascension Day.
The atmosphere was one of deep spiritual reflection, as the usual festive nature of such gatherings was replaced by a focused session of intercession that extended well into the early hours of yesterday morning.
The service was stewarded by Bishop Herbso Mfanasibili Hlophe, acting as secretary and master of ceremonies, who ensured the transition from the evening vigil to the dawn prayers remained seamless.
Opening the service, the Chairman of the League of Churches in the Shiselweni Region, Archbishop Simon Sikhondze, extended a warm welcome to the gathering. Addressing the congregation, Sikhondze emphasised the primary purpose of the gathering.
“We have come here to pray, not to sing,” he stated. “We are here to ask God to help our country. Whatever our King and we ask for in prayer, let us also ask that we receive it exactly as it is.”
The theological heart of the night was rooted in Psalm 23, focusing on the concept of the Shepherd. Speakers throughout the night explored the importance of a believer being led, drawing parallels to the biblical David, who began his journey looking after sheep before being called to shepherd the Israelites. The clergy warned that a lack of spiritual guidance often results in internal conflicts and the splintering of the faith into independent churches.
Among the featured preachers was Bishop Mpumelelo Shongwe, a councillor at the Hlatikhulu Town Board, who delivered a sermon on the necessity of scrutinising the scriptures.
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