Death of humble peacemaker leaves a void
Rev Abraham Mashiyane was always willing to support peace initiatives and add his name to the greater cause of being a pastor of the people on the ground.
The recent death of Reverend Abraham Mashiyane (68) of Umbango has left a gaping hole in the various communities he served. He pastored Africa Evangelical Church in Murchison, and throughout his life he worked tirelessly for peace, was passionate about sharing the gospel, and loved people.
Rev Danny Chetty, the founder of Practical Ministries SA, said his connections with Rev Mashiyane went all the way back to the early 1980s, when Practical Ministries initially started.
“Violence had erupted in the Murchison and Bhoboyi areas and he risked his life many times, acting as a soldier for peace,” said Rev Chetty. “He was a practical man, quiet and soft spoken, always diplomatic and compassionate. His death leaves a void in the communities he served.”
Together with the likes of Themba Zondi and members of the peace committee, Rev Mashiyane was always willing to support peace initiatives and add his name to the greater cause of being a pastor of the people on the ground. He was always willing to help and together with Rev Chetty, drove the length and breadth of the province in pursuit of peace.
Late last year Rev Mashiyane facilitated a meeting where 20 African peacemakers from South and North Sudan, as well as Nigeria and the Congo, spent a week sharing their experiences on the violent conflicts in their respective countries. At short notice, he volunteered his services and made Rev Chetty’s work in coaching most successful. All delegates were highly impressed with his humility and negotiation skills.
Practical Ministries and the church communities have lost a remarkable leader and pastor with a heart of a shepherd, – Rev Danny Chetty
Sharon Jones, who heads up the Genesis Care Centre, echoed many of these thoughts.”It is with great sadness that we learnt of Rev Mashiyane’s death. He served God faithfully and is now rejoicing in heaven. He will be sorely missed by so many, especially at the care centre.”
She added he had served as the chaplain at the centre for 12 years, having retired last year, and had also been involved with Tree of Life ministry at Norwegian Settlers’ Church.”He was well loved and a real gentleman, someone with a heart to serve and passionate about sharing the gospel.”
Rev Mashiyane is survived by his wife, Ntombizodwa, two sons, two daughters, and two grandchildren.
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