Faith leaders stand together to confront crime following shooting in Athlone

Religious leaders organized a prayer gathering after a man 30 was shot at Athlone Magistrate’s Court, amid ongoing violence and crime on the Cape Flats.

Reverend Steven-John Bam, moderator of the Calvin Protestant Church of South Africa, said he initiated the vigil on Sunday, September 7, to respond to recent shootings and emphasise the role faith leaders must play in bringing communities together.

“Across the Cape, shootings have become continuous. We need to come together to take a physical and spiritual stand against crime. Through this gathering, we send a strong message that we are praying for our communities, but gangsterism is not a normal part of society,” he said.

Reverend Bam said there’s an importance of networks of presence, partnership, and prayer across all religious backgrounds.

“All faiths desire peace. We encourage people to step out of their places of worship and be present in the communities where the pain is,” he said.

Attendees also heard firsthand accounts from victims affected by gang violence.

“We cannot hide in temples, churches, or mosques. Through networks and partnerships, we can respond effectively as crime and violence spiral out of control,” he said.

Reverend Dr Llewellyn Macmaster, chairperson of the Cape Crime Crisis Coalition, said: “This sends a positive message to communities and faith leaders: we are stronger together.” 

The brazen violence, people entering police stations and courts to commit murder, shows the disrespect for institutions of justice. Our law enforcement and criminal justice systems must do better, he said.

He said interfaith initiatives aim to mobilize communities, rebuild moral fibre, and promote a “whole-of-society approach.” There must be stricter gun control, and the government must play a role in ensuring safety.

Dr Rashied Omar, Imam of Claremont Main Road Masjid and Steering Committee member of the coalition, urged moving beyond vigils toward systemic change. 

“We need accountable policing, prosecution of corruption, dismantling gang networks, and youth-focused prevention programmes. Faith institutions must continue as sanctuaries of hope while holding the state accountable,” he said.

He described the Athlone vigil as a powerful demonstration of interfaith solidarity.

“By standing together at the site of violence, we deepened bonds of trust and gave hope that religious leaders are united in confronting crime while supporting families.”

The initiative continues, with gatherings in Scotsdene, Kraaifontein, and an upcoming vigil on Thursday, September 18, outside Mitchell’s Plain police station, led by Archbishop Thabo Makgoba.

“The crisis on the Cape Flats is more than crime; it is a moral emergency,” said Imam Omar.

“Through compassion, advocacy, and long-term structures of justice, we can secure dignity and safety for future generations."