Rentia celebrates a century of faith, family and ministry
“Gladly pursue God in all you do and He will see to the rest.”
Fanfare and jovial laughter filled the Hall of the House of the Lord, Airfield, on May 9, as 104 family members and friends gathered to celebrate Emmerentia (Rentia) Smook’s 100th birthday.
Born in Strydenburg, in the heart of the Karoo, Rentia witnessed a world where the only constant was change.
As she toiled away at her schoolwork, regimes collapsed, and walls were built; she found solace in God’s eternal grace.
On July 23, 1949, on the steps of the Dutch Reformed Church in Benoni, Rentia and Wilhelmus (Billie) Smook vowed to build a marriage in the faithful service of the Lord, forgoing fear and committing to the service of others.
Throughout their 60-year marriage, Rentia supported her husband as he entered the pastorate and later received his doctorate.
In 1993, at the age of 67, she was ordained as a minister, making them a powerhouse duo in diligently spreading the Word.
Together, they raised five children: Mertia, Pieter, André, Hannelize, and Henry.
Marking a century of devotion, Rentia’s 27 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren were among those who paid tribute to the monarch of the Snook family.
“I have seen a great number of changes in the world,” she said.
“Most of these have been documented at length in history books, but for a girl born in the unrelenting Karoo, the advancement in technology was by far the most mesmerising.”
Listening intently to odes recited in her honour by her brood, Rentia took a moment to take stock of her 10 decades on earth.
“Jesus has been the Lord of my life since I made the decision to serve Him with gladness,” she said.
“Life is unpredictable. Stop worrying about building a life based on the balance in your bank account. God’s unwavering grace is the only currency that can buy you everlasting life, prosperity and love.”
Those privileged to be part of Rentia’s journey celebrated the auspicious occasion in honour of a woman whose character is a testimony to a life built on faith, family, perseverance and joyful service.
ALSO READ: KYK: Tannie Bettie vier ‘n nuwe eeu
ALSO READ: COLUMN: Bert enriched my soul
