Government has recognised the efforts of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church towards preaching peace and unity in Muchinga Province.

Provincial Deputy Permanent Secretary, Matthews Chilekwa, says the SDA Church has continued to play a significant role in uniting the nation through evangelism under their various church ministries.

Speaking during the ordination ceremony of Pastor Richard Sichilima of Chinsali Central SDA Church over the weekend, Reverend Chilekwa charged that there is a need to continue embracing the Christian nation status of the country regardless of different congregations.

Rev Chilekwa further encouraged Pastor Sichilima to demonstrate compassion, empathy and wisdom, stressing that these elements will help him to be a good leader in the church.

“I have no doubt that you will strive to do your best by presenting yourself to God as one who is approved by correctly handling the word of faith,” he said.

The Rev Chilekwa also called on the church to render the necessary support to the newly ordained Pastor in order to help him the work of the Lord diligently.

And SDA North Zambia Union Chapter President, Tommy Namitondo, implored the newly ordained clergyman to detach himself from politics by concentrating on preaching the word of God.

Dr Namitondo said politics should be left to politicians, stating that the clergy should, therefore, strive to desist from making any political statements that can compromise their religious work.

“Don’t strive to be politically correct but listen to God because the political stance does not stand in the church,” he said.

Meanwhile, Pastor Richard Sichilima assured that he will serve the people in the church with dignity, obedience and compassion.

Pastor Sichilima said he considers his ordination as a calling from God and not a profession.

“I want to promise you that my work will be balanced, and I will provide with you a spiritually balanced diet of the word of the Lord,” he added.