Pray with South Africa, July 26, 2026
Lectionary Selection: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
Prayers for South Africa
Gracious and most loving God, we come before you with our humble hearts, and we just want to say thank you. We thank you, God, for your love, your faithfulness, and your mercies that endure forever. We thank you, God, for your love, your faithfulness, and your mercies that endure forever.
Lord, we pray for South Africa’s political system as we approach elections in November. We pray that you raise leaders who will fear you and be willing to work towards the well-being of the people of South Africa. We pray that there will be no shedding of the blood of innocent people. We pray that there will be no politically related killings.
God of mercy, justice, and hope, we pray for our sisters and brothers who face all forms of injustice. Lord, we pray for peace and stability in our land.
Lord, we pray for the youth of our country during this youth month. Keep them from destructive influences and fill them with vision, purpose, and courage. Open doors of education, employment, and opportunities. We pray that you raise up a generation of ethical leaders who will transform our land.
We remember the many lives shed in the Soweto uprising. We remember the many young people who face unemployment, drug abuse, gender-based violence, and human trafficking. We pray that you comfort those who live in fear and uncertainty. We pray that you protect the vulnerable, the elderly, women, children, and all who suffer injustice. Strengthen struggling families and restore relationships damaged by hardship and division.
Lord, heal our land. Let justice flow down like waters of righteousness, like an ever-flowing stream. May South Africa become a nation marked by peace, compassion, honesty, and shared prosperity.
Mission Moment from South Africa
The month of June remains a historical month in South Africa after the Soweto uprising that claimed the lives of many young people who fought for freedom. Fifty years later, this month remains very significant as the youth of our country continue to suffer various forms of injustices and continue to form part of the statistics of the various social ills (such as gender-based violence and femicide, poverty and unemployment, drug and substance abuse, and teenage pregnancy) in the country.
Therefore, shaping the lives of our young people for a better future remains a priority. The youth of this country make up a large part of the population and obviously the future leaders. The manner in which our young people are nurtured, educated, mentored, and empowered today will determine the future of South Africa.
Inanda Seminary aims to impact a young person holistically – spiritually, mentally, physically, and educationally. Spiritual upliftment is crucial so that they are grounded and have fundamental values. Young people were encouraged in the importance of prayer, personal devotion, and study of the word. In this way, we help them discover their unique spiritual gifts.
Emotionally, a safe environment is created where they can share their views and concerns in a constructive space free of judgment. Students are encouraged to express their emotions in healthy ways. Inanda Seminary provides mentoring and counseling support to help them build self-confidence, resilience, and healthy coping skills. Physically, they are encouraged to lead healthy lifestyles and practice self-care.
Education and skills development remain crucial to equip students to reach their full potential. Many of these young people come from poverty-stricken and rural backgrounds, and we hope to help them build confidence and self-worth.
Written by Reverend Thandi Goodness Mwelase
Mission Partners in South Africa