Durban: Thousands of members of the Ebuhleni branch of the Nazareth Baptist Church (commonly known as the Shembe Church) have begun their sacred seven-day pilgrimage to the holy mountain of Nhlangakazi in KwaZulu-Natal.

The annual event, steeped in spirituality and tradition, sees congregants walking over 60 kilometres in a journey likened to the biblical story of Moses leading his people to Canaan.

Thokozani Mncwabe, the church spokesperson, highlighted the significance of the pilgrimage and expressed confidence in its success due to meticulous planning.

“We are expecting thousands of people to be part of the journey. The Nazareth Church is very big, and while we cannot provide a specific number, I can assure you that it will be thousands. Roads will be closed to accommodate the pilgrims,” he said.

Mncwabe said the pilgrimage was a time for prayer, reflection, and community unity.

He added that the church would be praying for peace and the protection of women, addressing concerns over the rise in gender-based violence.

“UNyazi does not want men to kill women. Therefore, we call on men to protect women and not kill them. That is part of what we will be praying for at the mountain of Canaan,” he added.

The pilgrimage has been organised with support from local municipalities, law enforcement, and health services.

Ndwedwe Municipality Mayor, Samuel Mfeka outlined the measures in place to ensure a safe and successful event.

“As usual, we had a planning meeting with all stakeholders. There is a plan for traffic and safety along the route. Montebello Hospital will provide health services, and we will ensure proper waste management and sanitation,” Mfeka stated.

He added that safety was a priority, with both SAPS and private security personnel deployed to monitor the route. Ambulances will also be on standby to assist pilgrims in case of emergencies.

Despite weather concerns, Mncwabe reassured congregants of divine protection. “We are not worried about the weather. Shembe walks with the congregants and protects us,” he affirmed.

For the Nazareth Baptist Church, the pilgrimage is a deeply symbolic event that strengthens faith and resilience among its members.

Mncwabe compared the journey to biblical times, saying, “This is a very important journey, one that is like the time of Moses when he led his people to Canaan. We too will see the Canaan with our own eyes.”

The pilgrimage has drawn support from political leaders, including IFP president, Velenkosini Hlabisa, who extended warm wishes to the church and its members.

“On behalf of the Inkatha Freedom Party, I extend warmest wishes to the Nazareth Baptist Church as they embark on their sacred pilgrimage to the holy mountain of Canaan. May this 60km journey be filled with spiritual renewal, reflection, and joy,” said Hlabisa.

He praised the church’s cultural and spiritual significance, adding, “We honour the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Nazareth Baptist Church and appreciate the significant role it plays in the lives of its members and the broader community. UNkulunkulu kaShembe anikhumbule (May the God Shembe remember you).”

THE MERCURY