It’s been five years since Father Madoda Khumalo relocated to Estcourt and took on the title as Parish Priest at St Matthew’s Anglican Church.

So, what have those five years in a small town like Estcourt taught the man who grew up in Vryheid and ministered in Harding?

“Estcourt is a bigger parish than the others,” said Father Khumalo while preparing for the celebration on Sunday, which would mark his fifth anniversary. I’m lucky that I did not suffer any burn-out,” laughs Father Khumalo before assuming his serious stance as he explains that the congregation at St Matthew’s is a close knit one, that has a giving spirit and connects with community life.

As the church celebrated Father Khumalo‘s milestone, he hopes that the Estcourt community remember his message: “People must receive the Holy Spirit, not only through prayer but also through interaction. I have found that at times, instead of me ministering to people, they are ministering to me.”

If he is still around for the next five years, Father Khumalo hopes to see the Christian community take the next step in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

“Often we stop at forgiveness but we need to take the message of the Holy Spirit into our homes, offices, families and everyday life and see the fullness of it,” he said.