Our loss of a preacher of huge talent

I write this as a simple letter of commendation. In my career, such as it was, I moved from town to town to serve my employers (who shall remain unnamed) and with whom I served some 40 years plus. We lived in country towns, villages and ultimately ended up in the city.

Whilst I was brought up as an Anglican churchgoer (despite my dear mother being a faithful Roman Catholic – but that is a long and another lovely story!) – I have always made a point of attending the church of my faith in the various towns and villages where I had been stationed.

In so doing, over the many years – whilst not an “active” church member, I merely attended the weekly and other special annual services – but have, over time, observed and listened to many of the local ministers/preachers from Johannesburg to Matatiele and many places in between.

Now, having finally taken the plunge to downsize etc, we moved to the Ballito/Umhlali area and I have had the pleasure of listening to Peter Houston of the All Souls Anglican church in Umhlali. As my luck would have it he is about to leave the area and move on to his next “flock” up at Kloof.

As a preacher, this man takes the proverbial cake and I have been immensely impressed at his style, his ability to preach without notes or iPad, or the like. Furthermore, he talks to the congregation like he has been your ‘buddy’ for years.

Above all, he is able to get you to relate to what has been coming out of the gospel/Bible and makes down to earth comments and remarks that one can truly understand and apply, to modern day standards!

He is truly a preacher/minister of huge talent, and Umhlali’s loss is certainly Kloof’s gain!

(Note to the Bishop: Sir, Why send this man to Kloof? There is far more growth in the communities of Umhlali than at Kloof, a place that has long ago filled its potential. With respect Sir, not a ‘cool’ move – but we understand.)

Well done Peter Houston, may you and your family go from strength to strength, and who knows, one day, the top job of Bishop could be yours – the ability and charisma is already evident!

Go in Peace and God Bless!

IAN MACK

Ballito