President Peter Mutharika has asked churches in the country to impart upon their flock values of patriotism, integrity and respect for leaders as these create a steady platform for faith and spiritual advancement among members.

He was speaking at Kamuzu Palace on Tuesday during an audience with newly-elected leadership of Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Blantyre Synod as well Management board.

In his remarks, the Malawi leader tied the said values on the country’s socio-economic development.

“The new leadership should continue nurturing the faith of their Christians. This is important because with faith everything is possible. And faith is beyond Church. When people have faith in God, they have faith in themselves; they believe in themselves. They believe in their capabilities; and they work hard. They become people of integrity; and they become patriotic. This is what will make Malawi progress,” said President Mutharika who is a communicant member of the Blantyre Synod.

The President called upon all Christians in the country to take their faith responsibilities seriously by letting their acts reflect on what the Bible says about leadership.

“I cannot forget to reiterate that it is the duty of all faithful Christians to be obedient and loyal to the leadership, and remain united so that our leaders can better fulfil their responsibilities as the true servants of God. We must all play our part,” he said.

He assured the Synod of his government’s total support in all areas where the two institutions work overlapping.

“The church’s relationship with government is very vital in finding concrete solutions to the needs of our people regardless of their belief. Together, we provide our people with education, food, health, water and sanitation and empowerment services, among others. We are partners in development. And together, we will do more.”

In his remarks Blantyre Synod General Secretary, Alex Benson Maulana, said the Synod commits to continue playing its prophetic role and advisory role to the Government of the day if given space.

Maulana disclosed to President Mutharika the synod’s plans to establish a University and also a water bottling plant as a way of generating revenue for the church.

During the interface with the President, the Synod introduced its Moderator and Vice Moderator, Reverends Robson Chimkwezule and Edna Navaya respectively and General Secretary, Alex Benson Maulana.

The new office bearers of Blantyre Synod were elected during the 30th Synod Biennial Assembly which took place from August 24 -28, 2015.