Power & prayer: The place of faith in the lives of our politicians

Every Easter, there is reason to reflect on the dissonance between a message of salvation and the wars and rights abuses marring the world.

- Emsie Ferreira & Mandisa Nyathi

This year is no exception as Ukraine buries those killed by Russian missiles during a Palm Sunday procession and Sudanese and Palestinian refugees starve in wars with no end, while the US unlawfully renders immigrants to foreign prisons.

Last Easter, Deputy President Paul Mashatile wrote in these pages of the central role liberation theology played in the struggle against apartheid and colonialism and the transition to a democracy.

"I cherish the opportunity of fellowship with other believers, and will always acknowledge the role that the church has and continues to play in building our society through prayer and taking care of the vulnerable," he added.

This year, we asked politicians what role faith plays in their lives. Some, including the leaders of the country's two biggest political parties, found the question too personal. Others readily spoke of the convictions that sustain and guide them.

Ronald Lamola, minister of international relations and cooperation

I'm a Christian. Christian values drive my family and my personal belief and faith.

Ashor Sarupen, deputy minister of finance

Faith is a quiet compass for many South Africans. The diverse religious beliefs remind me that public service is ultimately about humility, justice and compassion, particularly for people I may never meet, in places I may never see. That sense of purpose sustains me in the work we do at the treasury and in the decisions that shape the lives of all South Africans.

David Masondo, deputy minister of finance

This holiday arrives at a moment when our resilience and unity are significantly challenged, and the ground beneath our feet feels less certain.