Soweto - Sowetans have heeded the call by President Jacob Zuma to use today as a National Day of Prayer and Reflection on the life of former President Nelson Mandela.
President Jacob Zuma declared Sunday, 8 December as a national prayer day in honour of Mandela, who passed away at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, on Thursday.
Mandela himself was very mindful of the role of churches and multi-faith organisations in uniting the country.
Both young and old turned up in their numbers at Grace Bible Church in Pimville this morning for a prayer service, which will also be attended by Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe.
Scores of Sowetans also went to Regina Mundi Church in Soweto. The iconic church is the largest in Soweto and served as a refuge for anti-apartheid activists for decades.
Bullet holes in the ceiling and the broken marble altar have been preserved and serve as reminders of the apartheid era.
Several international media houses are broadcasting live from the church, where Mandela attended a service to celebrate his 92nd birthday in 2010.
South Africans are urged to participate in the day of prayer in any way they can. - SAnews.gov.za
