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Lectionary
NEW YEAR: 1 – 6 JANUARY 2008
THEME: A HAPPY &
BLESSED NEW YEAR! READING:
Joshua 1: 7 – 9
Another
year presents us with renewed hope for our continent and
provides us with new energy for the tasks before us. Let me
wish all of you a blessed, prosperous and fulfilling 2008. As
we begin this our Ninth Assembly year, we invite you to
reflect on the theme: “Africa, step forth in faith.” The
member Churches of the AACC have contributed reflections to
focus our thoughts on the theme of the Assembly and on the
power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to heal and transform our
continent. It is my hope that these reflections will inspire
us to vigorous action for the manifestation of the reign of
God in Africa.
This lectionary is aimed at mobilizing
prayers for the continent of Africa in the year 2008. It is
not meant for use only by African Christians. Rather it is
meant for use by Christians everywhere, so that they can focus
their prayers for Africa more intensely. Africa needs the
entire family of Christ to join hands with the churches of
Africa in prayer and action. Our prayer is that this
lectionary will give guidance to us all as we seek to
strengthen Christian ministry for Africa. We believe that the
prayers of the faithful provide the courage to struggle on and
the call to join in the struggle for the dignity and freedom
of our continent. Religious faith continues to be the source
of meaning and strength of people in the troubled Africa. It
is faith that keeps people alive. Our capacity to believe
gives us hope and our faith provides courage to confront daily
challenges. God says to us again, as he said to Joshua: "Be
strong and courageous... I will be with you wherever you go."
The year 2008 will culminate in the 9th General
Assembly of the AACC in Maputo, Mozambique in December 6-13,
2008. This assembly will once again provide an opportunity for
the churches in Africa to come together, joined by our friends
from other parts of the world who care for Africa, to
deliberate on the work of God in our continent. It is my
prayer that this endeavor will help us to find unity of spirit
in Christ Jesus as the Holy Spirit empowers us in our
intercessions to the Almighty God for our beloved land. Once
again, I wish you all a blessed and fulfilling 2008. Your
Brother in Christ, Rev. Dr. H. Mvume Dandala GENERAL
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