LUSAKA - The Archdiocese of Lusaka has confirmed that its planned Candlelight Prayers for Peace will go ahead on August 12, despite concerns raised by the United Party for National Development (UPND) ahead of the August 13 General Elections.
The prayers will be held across Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese as part of the ongoing Novena of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Archdiocese said the candlelight prayers are purely spiritual and are intended to pray for peace throughout the electoral period, insisting that they are not meant to support or oppose any political party or candidate.
The Church said the prayers form part of the Novena, which began on August 6 and will conclude on August 14, with the daily observance also being broadcast on Radio Maria Zambia.
The Archdiocese said it was unfortunate to attach political motives to the candlelight prayers, arguing that praying for peace is a spiritual responsibility and should not be treated as a partisan activity.
It explained that candles have long been part of Catholic worship and symbolise Christ as the "Light of the World". Candlelight services are also used by Christian communities when praying for people affected by various national and global challenges.
The Church maintained that the August 12 prayers are intended to seek God's peace, wisdom and protection for Zambia as the country approaches the elections.
The Archdiocese has encouraged Catholics to participate in the prayers and donate the candles used during the service to their respective parishes for continued use in church activities.
It has also appealed to political stakeholders and members of the public to avoid politicising acts of worship and instead join in praying for peaceful elections, national unity, reconciliation and mutual respect.
The statement follows a letter dated August 6 from the UPND Secretary General concerning the planned prayers.
The Archdiocese said it remains committed to promoting peace, dialogue and national unity through prayer as Zambia heads into the August 13 elections.