By Neliswa Mafatshe*
Sept. 24, 2023 I KAT-KOP, Eastern Cape (SAAC News)
Key points:
- This marked the ceremonious event signifying the consecration of the physical space designating it as a place of divine worship and spiritual sanctuary for the faithful.
- “We started to build this church hall some years back.” “It was a dream, a vision that the Lord placed in our hearts and we knew we had to follow his path,”
- A committee was set up to head the fundraising project for the church building and this committee had to start with no available budget.
Honorable Bishop Joaquina Filipe Nhanala, South Africa Annual Conference Bishop officially dedicated the Katkop Charge on 24 September 2023. This marked the ceremonious event signifying the consecration of the physical space designating it as a place of divine worship and spiritual sanctuary for the faithful.
Beyond the physical structure, this occasion establishes a profound spiritual link among the congregation and embodies the collective commitment of the local faith community to come together, seeking solace and communion within these hallowed walls.
Mr Gojo, Katkop Circuit Elder said, “We started to build this church hall some years back.” “It was a dream, a vision that the Lord placed in our hearts and we knew we had to follow his path,” Gojo continued.
A committee was set up to head the fundraising project for the church building and this committee had to start with no available budget. “It was our responsibility as clergy to lead the congregation in their mission to build a house of worship that would serve generations to come,” said DS Rev Mills Maliwa, Admin Assistant to the Bishop who had was appointed at Katkop Circuit during that time.
DS Maliwa proceeded by saying, “We began this journey with just 24 rands, a humble sum collected during a church leader meeting and this was a symbol of faith and determination.”
Bishop J. F. Nhanala officially opened the church structure in heavy pouring rains symbolizing blessings from God accompanying the new church. “We are opening it as a sign that this house is open for everyone, being United Methodist, non-United Methodist, even people that do not worship the Lord if they want to come face to face with the Lord, this is the right place to be.”
Katkop Charge has added to a total of four permanent structures under the Katkop Circuit, in Khayalethu District.
*Mafatshe is a communicator for the South Africa Conference of The United Methodist Church.