Politics
Ankaramalaza: Thousands of Pilgrims Gather for Week of Faith and Celebration
Exceptional spiritual fervor has gripped the great Tobilehibe camp. Approximately 30,000 pilgrims from across Madagascar, along with international delegations, notably from the Lutheran Church (FLM) of Canada and Europe, gathered to celebrate the 85th anniversary of this major site of the Lutheran Revival. Throughout the week, the Revival city has been alive with a particularly dense program. Sermons, conferences, thematic workshops, historical exhibitions and spiritual song galas have succeeded one another. No fewer than thirty speakers have taken the podium to nourish the faith of the faithful and recount the inspiring history of the center. A theme at the heart of the Revival's identity. To mark this 85-year jubilee, organizers selected a powerful biblical verse from the Book of Isaiah (49:26): "I am the Lord, your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob." According to Jaona Andrianasolo, general secretary of Tobilehibe Ankaramalaza, this choice is not insignificant. This verse resonates as a solemn reminder of the original message entrusted by Jesus Christ to the Church through the ministry of the founder, Mama Volahavana Germaine. "This comes to remind us firmly that only God is the basis and ultimate foundation of salvation," emphasized the general secretary in an interview. The "Fanokanana Mpiandry," the highlight of Sunday. While the week was rich in teachings and moments of sharing, the climax of this historic gathering will take place this Sunday. The pinnacle of the event will be the solemn ceremony of ordination and consecration of shepherds, the "fanokanana mpiandry." The ceremony will be presided over by pastors Dr Denis Rakotozafy and James Andrianiaina. The laying on of hands and blessing of the new shepherds will be ensured jointly by these two, as well as by the Raiamandreny, wise men and spiritual leaders from the great historic sister camps, notably those of Soatanana, Manolotrony and Farihimena, members of the Tobilehibe Ankaramalaza headquarters committee, and several pastors from different regions. This consecration will close a week of jubilee that testifies, once again, to the spiritual radiance and unity of the Revival movement in Madagascar and throughout the world.
Source: Midi Madagasikara