EVATON.- Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) Executive Mayor, Hassan Mako, joined a large gathering at the St Paul AFM International church in Small Farm, Evaton, as it marked a century of existence over the weekend.

Other notable figures present included ANC Youth League President Collen Malatji, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa, and local ANC leaders.

Hundreds of church members attended the milestone event, with some travelling from neighbouring Botswana and Lesotho. The centenary was celebrated under the theme of honouring the past, celebrating the present, and building for the future.

Mako said that the centenary gave the wider community a chance to learn about the church’s historical ties with the liberation movement, noting that the ANC was established 14 years before the church was founded.

He added that the occasion served as a reminder that faith groups have regularly supported those fighting for justice, dignity, and freedom, acting as spiritual homes as well as centres of courage, resilience, and unity.

Reflecting on the celebrations, Mako praised the profound part the church has played in shaping the nation.

“Beyond being a place of worship, it has moulded character, nurtured communities, restored hope, and brought healing to our people through some of the most difficult chapters of our history, including the liberation struggle,” said Mako.