5th January 2022
My Dear Friends
A New Year has begun and it is my privilege to wish you all the best and to say how honoured I am to be able to serve you for another year.
Last year ended with the news of the passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. What an Amazing Humble Christian man who touched my life in so many ways. I first came into contact with him many years ago when I was forced to serve our country in the SANDF. It was a difficult time in my life because for three months I was expected to drive round at the back of a vehicle with a loaded rifle between my legs, in Soweto, intimidating people of colour, who were seen to be the enemy. It was one dark night outside St Pauls Anglican Church in Jabavu where the vehicle I was on was sent for some silly reason. The archbishop arrived in his own car to see what was going on. One of the soldiers who was on the same vehicle as me, got off and ran the barrel of his rifle right down the side of Rev Tutu’s car. I have never felt anger as I did that night. It affected me so badly that the following day I was discharged with mental fatigue. My twins were born soon after.
It was during my training in Jabavu many years later that I was able to return to that same spot where I was able to ask forgiveness on behalf of that silly boy and set my spirit free from that anger. I am sure that the archbishop had forgiven him a long time ago, such was his nature.
To end this part of my blog, let me tell you a more light-hearted story of the Arch. Apparently it was his idea to make ‘Heritage’ day, ‘Braai” day. A lady approached him and ask him what the vegetarians should do on National Braai Day, to which he answered, “watch me eat my steak.” A sense of humour definitely helps in ministry.
Archbishop, you were a living Saint whilst among us, your path home was mapped out a long time ago. We will never forget you and what you have taught us about loving your neighbour and forgiveness. Rest well in the arms of `God who love you so much.
Summer has come at last. I for one was glad to say farewell to 2021, it was a difficult year, but new exciting challenges are on the horizon. This Sunday, the 9th Jan 2022, we begin our second service again at 10h00. Please consider returning, I have missed you so much. Our famous coffee is also making a comeback this Sunday, between services.
We will also begin our Singing Kettle Tea Garden in February as well as our men’s and women’s fellowship breakfasts. We will also be announcing a new Alpha Course shortly in a new format. Please consider joining in. Our Bible study groups will also kick off shortly, please watch our bulletin for details. We will be sending our bulletin out electronically in future. If you are not receiving a copy, please let Pam know, we need to be in contact with each other.
Granny’s Attic had a bumper season, thanks you Slade and Mercene for stepping in and assisting us. We are in desperate need of stock. Summer is a time to declutter and donate. We are so grateful to everyone who has done so in the past, thank you.
Our church veggie garden is in full bloom, come and pick some spinach, herbs ect.
God has been so good to us, keeping us well and healthy. Let us begin our Worship this New Year with grateful and thankful hearts.
Remember that you are all special, one in a million and loved.
Grace and Peace
Rod