By Charles Mkoka
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has called on Tanzanians to live in harmony, respect one another, and embrace love, as taught in the holy scriptures.
Dr. Biteko made these remarks today, September 15, 2024, during the Fifth National Eucharistic Congress held at Uhuru Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
"We have all heard the profound sermons today, urging us to strengthen our unity, practice tolerance, and respect each other as one people. Differences in opinion should not divide us—let this Eucharist bring us closer together," Dr. Biteko emphasized.
He went on to stress, "We must teach our communities to show compassion to all in need, and most importantly, have mercy on our nation of Tanzania."
Commenting on the congress’s theme, "Brotherhood Heals the World: You Are All Brothers," Dr. Biteko noted that it is a powerful reminder that unites people across all divides.
"Let us leave here and teach others. The Eucharist has called on us to live renewed lives," he added.
Additionally, Dr. Biteko urged Tanzanians to actively participate in the upcoming Local Government Elections on November 27, 2024, encouraging voters to select leaders based on merit and their capacity to foster the country’s development.
Delivering a homily during the Holy Mass at the congress, President of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), Bishop Wolfgang Pisa, noted that the day also marked the conclusion of the 50th Jubilee of Small Christian Communities across all dioceses in the country.
"For many years, Small Christian Communities have served as a tool to reach all believers, and the Eucharist remains the ultimate bond for Christians," said Bishop Pisa.
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"This is the sacrament of love, and we must not allow differences in ideology, race, or any other reason to divide us, for we all serve one God. Let us approach this sacrament without sin, asking God to transform us into new beings through it," Bishop Pisa stressed.
The bishop also expressed his gratitude to the Catholic faithful from various dioceses for participating in the Eucharistic Congress, noting that the next congress, which occurs every four years, will be held in the Archdiocese of Arusha.
Delivering the Pope's message, Vatican Ambassador to Tanzania, Archbishop Angelo Accattino, highlighted the significance of the Eucharist as the cornerstone of the Catholic faith.
"The Eucharist unites us with Christ and our brothers and sisters in faith. It strengthens our love for God. I commend the Tanzanian government for allowing such events to be held freely and peacefully," Archbishop Accattino said.
The congress, which captivated the hearts of thousands of Catholic believers from across the nation, was also attended by hundreds of religious leaders, including bishops, priests, and nuns.
Among the notable figures present were the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office for Policy, Parliament, and Coordination, Hon. William Lukuvi; Minister of Works, Hon. Innocent Bashungwa; and the Regional Commissioner of Dar es Salaam, Hon. Albert Chalamila.
Other prominent attendees included former Speaker of the National Assembly, Anne Makinda; Secretary-General of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi; and the Vice-Chairman of the Party for Democracy and Progress (CHADEMA), Hon. Tundu Lissu, alongside CHADEMA’s Secretary-General, John Mnyika.
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The gathering not only reinforced the spiritual devotion of the faithful but also served as a moment of reflection on national unity and the role of faith in promoting peace and development. With the next Eucharistic Congress scheduled for four years from now, in Arusha, today's event has set a lasting tone for Tanzanians to embrace the values of compassion, love, and brotherhood.