A new missionary impetus in KwaNdebele
In KwaNdebele, there is a renewed sense of enthusiasm for the future of the churches and their missionary calling. And this is despite the fact that the Reformed Churches there are facing concerns that we often recognise all too well: young people are moving away and the congregations are ageing.
A task for the whole local authority
This renewed missionary zeal has been fuelled in large part by the training courses run by Rev. Silas Nefefe. These courses cover topics such as financial responsibility within the congregation, faith-based education and evangelism. One component of these courses is an evangelism campaign. In December, such a campaign was held, together with young people from the churches in Venda. The campaign made a deep impression on the congregation members. They realised that evangelism is not just the task of ministers or evangelists, but of the whole congregation. Although negative reactions can sometimes be difficult to deal with, the fruitful conversations that ensued encouraged the participants to continue with these campaigns.
Plans for the future
Several parishes are simultaneously making very practical preparations for the future. Rev. Modisha will be retiring before too long. The parishes of Moloto, KwaMhlanga and Kameelpoortnek therefore wish to jointly call a new minister. Leeuwfontein also hopes to be able to appoint its own minister. However, a vicarage still needs to be built and a means of transport must be provided for the future minister. Leeuwfontein is one of the churches asking CGK Mission for support, in the form of a loan, for the construction of a vicarage.
We are grateful for these positive developments. Now, in particular, that local authorities are once again daring to make plans and are keen to see further growth, it is important to provide them with careful guidance in this regard.
Independent churches in Venda
The churches in Venda are at a different stage from those in KwaNdebele. They are independent and very consciously take responsibility for their own work. It is striking that congregations founded in Gauteng by the Venda churches are now, in turn, supporting the mother churches in Venda. This creates a wonderful form of reciprocity.
A deep bond with the Netherlands
The Iyani-Heidelberg theological college has reported that the phasing out of financial support from the Netherlands is beginning to be felt. At the same time, it was emphatically stated that the relationship with the CGK is much more than just a financial one. It is hoped that mutual contacts, visits and joint discussions will continue in the future. In the churches of Venda, prayers are regularly offered for the CGK and the challenges facing the churches in the Netherlands.
Iyani-Heidelberg and Mukhanyo Theological College see opportunities to strengthen one another and work more closely together, although there are also questions regarding the churches’ autonomy and their own responsibilities. Discussions have taken place and it is expected that these will continue.
Reaching new generations
Just as elsewhere in South Africa, the churches in Venda are also facing an ageing congregation and a shortage of ministers. Yet there is confidence for the future. Congregations continue to seek ways to spread the Gospel and reach new generations. The warm bond with the churches in the Netherlands is emphasised time and again in their exchanges.
