Government officials have slammed Bishop Paul Verryn for offering refuge to thousands of Zimbabweans in and around Jo'burg's Central Methodist Church.
"If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered" (Proverbs 21:13). There are many similar texts in the writings of Christianity and the other major religions. They regard it as a virtue to care for the poor and homeless, and there is a noble tradition that a church building is also a place of sanctuary.
Every society has to strike a delicate balance between accommodating the marginalised and protecting the right of other citizens to go about their business. Investors in the renewal of the city centre can be forgiven if they withhold their money.
Not to do so would constitute an invitation to anarchy.
Can this be seen as an open invitation to anyone seeking refuge?
Unashamedly, yes.
Source: Financial Mail
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