Churches induct deputies to fight drug abuse in communities
IOTT meets at the Methodist church in Mashemong section to pray against crime and drug abuse.
The Independent Order of True Templars (IOTT) inducted seven new area special deputies on April 13 at the Mashemong Methodist Church.
The event was coordinated by Siyanda Makhubo and a panel of leaders was invited, including guest speaker Gabisile Khoza, who said she is passionate about changing lives.
Strategy and communications secretary of IOTT Siyanda Makhubo said the IOTT is a combination of different churches – Presbyterian, Methodist, Anglican, Reformed, Zion, AME and charismatic churches – and is affiliated to the International Order of Good Templars.
“Their aim is to fight drug and alcohol abuse in the different communities (Tembisa, Benoni, Katlehong, Vosloorus, Tsakane, Springs and Duduza). In December they held a conference where these members who were inducted were elected,” said Makhubo.
The Grand True Templar of the entire jurisdiction, Bishop Timothy Tshabangu, said the community is invited to counselling sessions every Saturday at the church for people facing any difficult situations.
“The special deputies are expected to start their duties immediately. They will be visiting schools, churches and call public meetings to reach as many people as possible in their campaigns to fight against drug and alcohol abuse,” said Tshabangu.
IOTT meets at Mashemong Methodist Church every Sunday at 2pm. For more information contact Siyanda Makhubo on 081 548 9078 or at siyandamakhubo@yahoo.com
