THE Council of Churches of Namibia (CCN) has expressed "deep concern" over the deteriorating political, security, economic and human rights situation in Zimbabwe, and called on Namibians to pray for that country.

The CCN held its annual general meeting last week under the theme 'Step forth in faith for a better Namibia'.

"We want to make an urgent call to Namibian Christians to pray for a peaceful conclusion of this political process," the CCN said in a statement issued on Monday.

On the local front the CCN wants shebeen owners "to seriously consider alternative ways to generate income."

Member churches were asked to address the mushrooming of shebeens in rural and urban areas.

"This issue should be addressed as a matter of urgency because of the connection between alcohol abuse, HIV-AIDS and moral decay.

"The CCN calls on the Namibian nation to revert to good Christian values and that the churches should play a major role in the restoration of moral values in our country."

The church grouping further called for the reintroduction of Bible study in schools.

"We recommend that Christian education should be an integral part of the training of prospective teachers," the CCN statement said.

The CCN is also worried about the methods used by some religions to lure Namibian youth to their faith, particularly in the North.

"Aspirations of our youth should be acknowledged; and there should be more openness to youth involvement in our churches."

The Council's executive committee was asked to facilitate an appropriate youth forum in an effort to bring young people back to the Christian faith.

The CCN has also welcomed a Government initiative to formulate legislation to formally cement co-operation between Government and willing non-governmental organisations.

A committee has been established by the CCN church leaders' meeting to study the bill and make appropriate recommendations "so that the bill reflects the church vividly".

Bishop Erich Hertel was elected as new president of CCN.

The post was previously held by Bishop Johannes Sindano.

The CCN meeting further expressed concern about the escalating cost of living and appealed to Government and the private sector "to do everything in their power to curb this trend".

The AGM commended the Namibian Government for allowing Grade 10 failures to repeat.

However, it was noted with concern that those 18 years and older were not allowed to repeat.

It was recommended that they also be allowed to repeat Grade 10.