December proved to be a historic month for a Greenspark-based church after it officially dedicated land for the construction of a permanent place of worship and community development centre.

On December 6, Bride in Christ Prophetic Ministries marked a significant milestone by dedicating the land it purchased in October 2024. According to Lead Pastor Elvis Groenewald, the achievement represents a major breakthrough, particularly in an area where many churches have struggled for decades to secure land due to limited availability.

The land dedication service was officiated by Bishop Dr L.S. Raas, Bishop P. Sedumedi, Pastor Richard-Dean Pheiffer and Pastor Groenewald. The event was open to the public and allowed church leaders to share their vision and long-term plans for the property.

Church has big plans

Church leadership confirmed that the land will be developed into more than just a church building. Plans include a community development centre aimed at uplifting residents through social upliftment programmes, skills development initiatives, and feeding schemes to assist those in need.

The landmark occasion attracted church delegations and visitors from Fochville, Douglas, Kimberley, Klerksdorp and Johannesburg, underscoring the wider support for the ministry and the significance of the event.

Construction of the new facility is planned to begin in 2026. The church has extended an open invitation to individuals, businesses and partners who wish to contribute towards the building project and its broader community development vision.

Bride in Christ Prophetic Ministries, formerly known as Jesus Celebration Church, was founded on November 27, 2016, in Greenspark, Fochville, by Pastor Elvis Groenewald and Pastor Richard-Dean Pheiffer. The ministry adopted its current name in 2022 after joining a broader church network.

Several relocations over the years

The church’s journey has included several relocations over the years:

• 2016: Services began under a tent at Greenspark Stadium

• 2017: Moved to a site next to Reënboog Preschool

• The tent was later destroyed by strong winds

• 2019: Relocated to a house at 16 Hawk Street

• Early 2020: A temporary structure was erected at Duif Street

• January 2024: The church moved into rented premises at 10 Flap Street at a monthly rental of R7,000

Since moving to its current location, the church has experienced significant growth and acquired resources to strengthen its ministry.

Various challenges

For many years, churches in Greenspark have faced challenges in obtaining land for permanent buildings, with some congregations waiting more than 30 years without success.

• On October 21, 2021, Erf 418 Greenspark was advertised by the municipality and purchased by Mr Tshabalala

• On October 22, 2024, the land was purchased by Bride in Christ Prophetic Ministries

• On October 23, 2025, the property was officially registered in the name of the church

The church’s vision includes the construction of a modern facility seating more than 500 people, as well as a youth centre focused on empowerment, skills development and mentorship, and a feeding scheme to serve vulnerable members of the community.

Bride in Christ Prophetic Ministries is a charismatic, Christ-centred church that believes in the power of Jesus Christ to save, heal, deliver and transform lives. From humble beginnings, the ministry has grown to more than 100 committed members and continues to expand through its prophetic and community-focused mission.