Worldwide President of Mothers’ Union, Lynne Tembey Statement on Lake Victoria Ferry Tragedy

Following the disaster, President John Magufuli, of Tanzania, immediately declared four days of mourning. I was terribly moved by this and felt  privileged and deeply humbled to be with fellow members as we prayed together for those who were affected: those who lost their lives, those who lost loved ones, those who were injured, those who might find it difficult to come to terms with what has happened and those who will minister to all.

Throughout the Mothers’ Union Provincial Conference, time was set aside for prayer.

On Sunday (23rd September) in Mbeya Cathedral, members of the Government also attended the service, this included both the District & Regional Commissioners of Southern Highlands. They spoke passionately about what had happened and they thanked members and others present for their commitment to prayer.

Lake Victoria has a great many boats and ferries on it. This disaster, understandably, has affected people badly. I continue, as I know many will continue, to pray for the people who will support and all those affected.

May those who lost their lives “Rest in peace eternal, and rise in glory everlasting”    
  
Apart for the usual offering within the service, there was an extra collection within the service for the victims and their families. As I know generosity is at the heart of a Mothers’ Union member, and certainly this was yet another example of compassion and love for others. I was deeply moved seeing the children queuing to add their offering to the collection for the victims, such compassion in children so young. 

Please keep them all in your prayers. 

Lynne Tembey, Tanzania, 25 September 2018