New building for church

KABOKWENI – After so many years of fund-raising, members of the local Methodist church are proud to be owners of the new building that was officially opened last Sunday.

The new church replaced the old one that was built in 1971, and due to the rapid influx of people and the increase in the number of memberships, the capacity of the old structure could not accommodate everyone.

Money was raised through gala dinners and donations from local businessmen and the members of the church, who supported the building project from the beginning. The Women’s Manyano also played a vital role.

“This new church will be a symbol of new beginnings for a lot of people, where many will find hope. It will also serve as a place of hope for the whole community,” said Bishop Themba Mntambo. The event was attended by dignitaries, the MEC for economic development Ms Pinky Phosa and spokesman for legislature, Mr William Lubisi.

“We had a vision that one day we would have a beautiful place of worship, where everyone could come and serve the Lord.” said Mntambo.

The church serves as reminder of the 42 years since they have laid a foundation. “Since then we have rejoiced in this place, and we have wept, families have brought their children to be baptised and young people have learnt about their Lord and Saviour. So many friendships have been built here,” he said.

He added that as for other churches’ people who always have spaces reserved, in this church no one will be reserved a space. “It is important that it is built in the community. It will be a new home to the homeless and we will praise and worship God.”

Ms Gertrude Mkhonza, who is the circuit steward, also expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed, “As a church, we would like to thank everyone who contributed financially and made sure we arrived where we are today. With the help of local businessmen and the members of the church who have done a splendid job in supporting the building project from scratch; we would like to thank them all”.