By Nkhensani Mthombeni
- The Zion Christian Church has warned drivers on the R71 between Tzaneen and Polokwane to expect heavy traffic during the week-long conference.
- Congregants say the event brings blessings and sets the tone for the year, while locals recall the long history of crowds on the busy route.
The Zion Christian Church (ZCC) says it is ready to host its New Year Consecration Conference in Moria City, outside Polokwane.
The annual event will take place from 3 to 10 September, drawing hundreds of thousands of members from across the country and beyond.
Church spokesman Moatshe Ngoepe described the gathering as a sacred and deeply important part of the ZCC calendar. He also urged drivers to be careful and patient on the R71 between Polokwane and Tzaneen, as traffic is expected to be very heavy.
“For reasons of public safety, during the conference period, all forms of informal trading or vending and parking of motor vehicles will be strictly prohibited along the R71 road between Polokwane and Tzaneen in front of the Zion Christian Church Headquarters in Moria City, starting from Matshelapata in Mentz to Mphogodiba,” Ngoepe said.
Locals say the huge crowds and long traffic jams are a familiar sight every year.
Kgomotso Ledwaba, who lives in Malesa Village near Moria, said: “Ever since my young days during this season we always see high volumes of traffic, especially buses on the R71 heading to the church.
“From Boyne to Paledi Mall and towards Polokwane there is always traffic. In the past there were many vendors selling snacks and ZCC regalia, but after Covid-19 the numbers went down.”
For congregants, the event is more than just a gathering. Themba Mtileni from Giyani said he will not be able to attend this year because of schoolwork, but added: “One of the great things about visiting Moria is that you receive more blessings as you enter a new year.
“Another highlight is celebrating the new year with our spiritual father, which sets a positive tone for the year ahead.”
On the first Sunday of the new year, the Bishop delivers a sermon and gives his best wishes to the congregation.
Pictured above: The ZCC in Moria.
Image source: Flickr
