By Abigail Visagie

The Bloemfontein City Hall was filled to capacity yesterday for a day of prayer for reconciliation under the theme “Seeking God’s Face for the Healing of the Land”.

Led by Mayor of Mangaung Metro Municipality (MMM) Gregory Nthatisi, alongside Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, the day was graced by various interfaith church leaders.

The Data and Information Officer for MMM, Themba Vryman, confirmed that the theme carried a profound message for attendees, and the large turnout reflected the city's diverse demographics, encompassing different classes, genders, races, youth, women, and persons living with disabilities.

He says recognising the church is a strategic partnership for community development and social upliftment- combating crime, substance abuse, gender based violence and Femicide (GBVF) and so many other socio-economic issues, together as one voice.

“These challenges cannot be resolved by the government alone. They require collective moral leadership and shared responsibility,” he said.

Nthatisi during his keynote address said,  “I made a commitment that this Reconciliation Day of Prayer must outlive all of us and must receive the necessary support which will allow for this event to be sustainable, to grow and endure.

“I once again extend my sincere gratitude to all who attended, commend the organisers under the leadership of our church leaders, and call upon our community to make the 2026 Reconciliation Day of Prayer an even greater event, hosted at a larger venue,” concluded Nthatisi.