A century of faith and legacy: Celebrating Isaac Rankuwe Tshepe’s 100th birthday

Community members and municipal bodies gathered at a once-in-a-lifetime event to celebrate veteran preacher Isaac Rankuwe Tshepe’s 100th birthday.

“He has outlived all of the apartheid prime ministers and went on to see the new dispensation. He witnessed the leadership from President Mandela to Ramaphosa,” said Tweza Skosana at Isaac’s 100th birthday celebrations.

The Tshepe family hosted the prestigious celebration at the Bird Sanctuary in Aureus.

“He has even outlived the British Monarchy from King George to Queen Elizabeth,” he added.

“We celebrate the calling of a lifetime. I consider myself privileged to have lived and learned a lot from this man of God,” said Pastor Victor Padime.

“At first it did not sit well with me to see my father preaching in the streets. Up until such time I also had to take up a calling to ministry,” added Pastor Chris Tshepe, a well-known pastor in Mohlakeng and father of Karabo ‘Stich’ Tshepe who is a professional soccer player turned coach.

Rand West City Council Speaker Selina Moumakwe also referred to Tshepe as a stalwart and a holder of the flag of salvation.

“I have been part of this family and he has taught us to live and to uphold the principle of marriage.”

There was a message from Gauteng MEC of Health who could not attend but Josiah Naidoo was sent in his place.

“This is no small opportunity. We are so blessed to celebrate this incredible milestone,” Josiah said.

“I grew up in Leshomo Street. He is the one still standing and he was not compromising in his ministry from corner to corner. We have seen his fruits,” said Mpho Nawa, former mayor of the West Rand District.

“We are quite humbled by all those who stood with us in celebrating and the Speaker Moumakwe for offering the venue,” Chris concluded.