National candlelight prayer service launched to mourn learners lost in crash

A national candlelight prayer service was arranged for Thursday night (January 22) in response to the devastating school transport accident near Vanderbijlpark on Monday morning that has claimed the deaths of 14 young learners. 

Organisers told Gateway News that the live prayer event, which aimed to unite communities, faith leaders, and families in a collective moment of mourning, reflection, and remembrance for the 13 young lives lost, was being held from 6pm o 7pm at 30551 Maqhina Street, Daveyton Park, Daveyton, Benoni (behind the Total Garage) and was being livestreamed from the Park and Pray Facebook page.

They said the gathering was more than a tribute — it was a call for solidarity, compassion, and spiritual healing.  Participants would light candles in honour of the learners, offer prayers of comfort for bereaved families, and stand together to affirm the value and dignity of every child’s life.

Apostle Simon Mashigo and Pastor Lindiwe Mashigo of Grace Love Family Church in Daveyton, founders of the Park and Pray initiative in that community, launched the prayer hub after recognising the vital role of community support during times of grief, especially during fatal accidents such as these.  Event coordinator and Park and Pray spokesperson Mpho Tsoari said Thursday’s prayer service represents a united national response to the tragedy.

“This prayer service is an opportunity for all South Africans to come together — to mourn, to pray, and to support the families affected by this devastating loss,” Tsoari said.