Muslims prepare for Mecca

World Association Friends of Africa (Wafa) last week slaughtered 434 goats worth over K5 million in preparation for Eid-L’Adhuha.

Wafa programme manager Bakali Maulidi described Eid-L’Adhuha as an occasion when Muslims commemorate Abraham’s sacrifice of his son, Isaac, in obedience to God’s command.

He said Eid-L’adhuha is also an occasion for Muslims to prepare for the pilgrimage to Mecca.

“This is an annual event in our Islamic Calendar and this year we are observing 1433 After Hajirah.

“God stopped human sacrifice when He gave Abraham an animal for sacrifice, hence, our annual commemoration of slaughtering animals and share their meat with the less privileged,” said Maulidi.

This year, Muslims donated goat meat to 1 736 widows as part of the commemorations.

According to Wafa executive director, Altaf Gani, four widows will share one goat.

Wafa also runs a project with Muslim Widows Association in which widows acquire skills in tailoring and receive sewing machines as well as sewing materials as starter packs.

Mzokoto CCAP inducts deacons

Wyson Chiputa Gondwe

Staff Writer

Sixteen students of Phwezi Secondary Schools were last Sunday inducted as deacons and deaconesses at Mzokoto CCAP Church in Rumphi.

The group was made up of seven boys and nine girls.

At the service of worship during the induction, church minister Patson Mgala asked the deacons to serve the Lord with diligence in all aspects of their lives.

“God has put you into his office; he has the trust that you will serve him diligently. Don’t let him down.

“The induction is just a fulfillment of his plan for you. Therefore, commit yourselves to the Lord’s service,’ said Mgala.

Zondiwe Nkhata, secretary of the prayer at Phwezi, said deacons are inducted every year to replace those who have completed their studies.