Chairman of the Council of Churches in Arusha Region and Bishop of the Anglican Church of Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro Diocese, Stanley Hotay, has called on Tanzanians to embrace forgiveness as a way of healing political, social and economic divisions within the country.
Speaking during the Good Friday service organised by the Council of Churches in Arusha Region on April 3, 2026, Bishop Hotay said the country needs a spirit of forgiveness to address wounds caused by differences and conflicts among citizens.
The service was held at the grounds of St Theresa Catholic Church in Arusha and brought together believers from different denominations to mark the Christian commemoration of Good Friday.
Bishop Hotay said the day should serve as a moment for Tanzanians to reflect and choose what is right by letting go of pride, hostility and resentment that often deepen divisions in society.
“On this important day of Good Friday, we are called to choose what is good. Tanzania, as a nation where we live together, needs forgiveness every day. Being forgiven brings freedom; it is not shameful or embarrassing,” he said.
He added that many people carry wounds caused by political disagreements, business conflicts and social misunderstandings, noting that forgiveness can help restore relationships and strengthen national unity.
According to the bishop, the Bible clearly warns that failing to forgive can lead to bitterness that deprives a person of God’s grace.
He emphasised that the cross of Jesus Christ symbolises not only suffering but also the power of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Bishop Hotay further noted that the Good Friday message extends beyond individuals and speaks to families and the nation as a whole.
He urged Tanzanians to recognise the value of the sacrifice made on the cross and to adopt forgiveness as a guiding principle in building peaceful communities.
“Forgiveness is not shameful or a sign of weakness. It is the path that allows people and nations to heal from wounds caused by disagreements and divisions,” he said.
The bishop also encouraged citizens to use the Good Friday message to repair broken relationships, strengthen family bonds and promote harmony across the country.
