Kwa-Thema – St Andrew’s Anglican Church in Kwa-Thema celebrated the legacy of St Bernard Mizeki through worship, revival, the admission of new members and a successful blanket drive aimed at bringing relief to vulnerable residents during the cold winter season.

According to the rector of St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Rev Ntshukumo Nzondelelo Zantsi, the weekend’s activities were a demonstration of faith in action and the church’s commitment to serving the community.

“We commemorated St Bernard Mizeki through worship, revival, the admission of new members and a practical outreach programme.

“About 130 blankets were collected, and 50 were donated to an old age home in Kwa-Thema, while five nearby families also received blankets,” said Zantsi.

He added that the remaining blankets are being distributed to needy residents in the area. The initiative was driven by members of the St Bernard Mizeki Men’s Guild, who responded to the harsh winter conditions affecting many residents.

“The intention was to bring warmth, dignity and care to the elderly and vulnerable. Poverty is a deep reality in South Africa, and the need is far greater than one event can satisfy,” he cited.

Beneficiaries were identified by the old-age home and parish cell leaders, who are familiar with the needs in their communities. Importantly, recipients were selected based on need rather than church affiliation.

“This outreach was not about denomination or affiliation. It was about human dignity, compassion and the love of Christ,” added Zantsi.

The celebrations also saw the admission of new members into the Anglican Church following a lengthy catechism process that prepares candidates for confirmation.

Zantsi said membership represents both a gift and a responsibility, calling believers to worship faithfully, grow spiritually and serve others.

He said the St Bernard Mizeki Men’s Guild encourages men to reject destructive behaviour and become loving fathers, faithful husbands and positive role models in society.

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Zantsi, who began his journey towards priesthood in 2002 and was ordained in 2010, described ministry as a sacred calling rooted in service, reconciliation and spiritual guidance.

“The Church cannot preach the Gospel and ignore poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, gender-based violence and hopelessness.

“The Gospel must be lived through compassion, justice and care for the vulnerable,” he said.

Looking ahead, Zantsi said the church plans to continue the blanket drive and other outreach programmes and encouraged the public to support the initiatives through donations, volunteering and partnerships.

“The needs of our society are too great for the church to respond alone. Families, businesses, community organisations and individuals must work together,” he cited.

He thanked parishioners, volunteers and donors for making the celebrations a success and said the weekend was a reminder that the church is called to be prayerful, compassionate and present among God’s people.

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