Orthodox delegates meet, share missionary visions
They were in South Africa to attend the World Council of Churches (WCC) annual convention at the Birchwood Hotel.
Benoni’s Greek Orthodox Church of St Athanasios and the local Hellenic community were honoured to host a delegation of Orthodox church representatives from Finland, Switzerland, Lebanon, and Kenya for a divine liturgy on June 22.
These representatives were in South Africa to attend the World Council of Churches (WCC) annual convention at the Birchwood Hotel.
After the Sunday service, the church hosted a reception for the visitors.
Speaking to the Benoni City Times, Father Timoteos Kapsalis of St Athanasios said they were honoured and privileged to host the delegates.
“It is also an honour for the city of Benoni because this transcends the boundaries of churches,” he said.
“It benefitted everyone here in Benoni. The WCC convention took place at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, which is not far from here.”
Giving his summary of the WCC convention, Kapsalis explained that, in addition to theological and academic discussions on the apostolic faith mission, the delegates also explored how missionary activities could improve the lives of Africans.
“We have an extensive network of missions in Africa. One of the main discussions was about what more the mission and missionary churches could do to coordinate their efforts and make their activities more efficient. We also discussed how we can reach people across the continent to spread the gospel and message of Christ.”
“Furthermore, we discussed how we can help them with material resources to improve their lives, particularly the youth, and what we can do to ensure a bright future for people within the church and the boundaries of their faith.”
He added that the discussion was especially significant because delegates from European countries and the US were willing to listen and offer help.
Asked about the relevance of missionaries in Africa today, Kapsalis said, “Our efforts are to build bridges of love, faith, and communication to overcome any boundaries – political, geopolitical, and economic – to reach every remote village on the continent.”
“It will take time to achieve this, but the potential, determination, and desire are there, and we hope God will help us succeed.
“We don’t want to see our people disappointed. We try to work with local governments and communities to spread the word of God and provide any additional support they may need.”
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