CAPE OF GOOD HOPE (01)
BISHOP MICHEL W HANSROD
1.
INTRODUCTION
Straddling the two Oceans which cradle Southern Africa, the Cape District continues to seek through
its local churches to be centers of Healing and Transformation in alignment to the Connexional
Vision and Mission, of A Christ Healed Africa for the Healing of Nations. During the year under
review the District sought earnestly to discover the meaning of being “Together in Christ – A Healing
Community” we continued the Conference 2012 platform of work.
2.
DISTRICT OVERVIEW
Geographically covering approximately 3000 square kilometres, covering two South African
Provinces and including two Countries namely South Africa and Namibia, our District is served
through 23 Circuits and 175 Societies with a membership of 46 124, by 76 Ministers, 3 Deacons, and
7 Ministers in Secondment/Chaplaincy, 35 Members of the Evangelism Order and 15 Fulltime Youth
Pastors. This District is also home to 60 Supernumerary Ministers and Deacons some of whom
continue to minister regularly.
3.
DISTRICT VISIONING AND PLANNING
Our Annual District and Visioning Indaba, attended by all Circuits, Units and Organisations convened
at the end of 2012 spent a meaningful time in reflection, evaluation, monitoring and listening to
enable us to discover God’s direction for 2013.The following objectives were set for the year:
3.1
Ministerial Accountability and Review:
Circuits were grouped into regions for purposes of greater accountability and mission. These regions
are to serve as conduits for ministers to hold each other accountable for their call, vocation and
common values as held in the District. They are further to work towards developing a Ministerial
Review Mechanism which would serve as a ‘means of grace’ in serving God through the Church.
3.2
Convocation of Presbyters:
A one day Convocation of Presbyters dovetailed to Synod will seek to allow Presbyters to prepare
more adequately for their responses to the Questions of Vocation and Discipline.
3.3
Organisational Alignment and Accountability:
All District Organisations are to align their platform of work and mission to that of the District and
seek deeper ways of being held accountable in the first instance to the District.
3.4
District Mission:
Giving expression to our unity and togetherness a Week Long multi thronged Mission Week,
supported by ALL Circuits, Units and Organisations is to be held in the Central Karoo Circuit.
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3.5
Training and Capacity Building:
In seeking to build on the meaningful training of Circuit Stewards and Superintendents, Society
Steward and Treasurer Training is be accelerated in addition to the Annual Lay Training Days. Further
training is also to be offered for those Leading Worship and Lay Pastoral Staff.
3.6
Spirituality and Healing:
Prayer and support is to be strengthened through the production of a District Prayer Diary for use in
ALL services as well as the appointment of a District Intercessory Team.
3.7
Future Missional Planning and Resourcing:
The District Boundaries Team is to develop a District wide Staffing and Resourcing Plan to enable
more effective Missional endeavours.
3.8
Affirmation and Support:
To continue affirming and supporting the work and ministry within our District and Connexion.
4.
SYNOD 2013
Held in the historic home of the “Belhar Confession” at the United Reformed Church Synodic Centre,
Synod convened under the Theme: “Together in Christ a Healing Community”. Apart from
completing the Administrative business of Synod, we experienced many Holy Moments in the vein of
Mr Wesley’s Holy Conferencing. Amongst these were the inspirational Bible Studies led by Rev Dr
Kennedy Gondongwe of the Zimbabwean Conference, Missional challenges of Drugs and
Gangsterism by a Drug Victims Mother who is also a Abuse Survivor and a former Gang Leader
turned Local Preacher, A Synod dressed in Black in support of the Thursdays in Black Campaign and
the Celebration and Recognition of 11 Supernumerary Ministers who have celebrated the 50th or
more anniversary of their Ordination.
5.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
Holding our Covenant to live in community and guided by our District Values, we celebrate our
togetherness through our Bi- Yearly Retreats, Monthly Communion fellowships, Spouses and Family
events. Circuit Stewards and Society Stewards Consultations, Organisational and Unit leaders Forums
as well as Training forums continue to give expression to our Togetherness as a healing community.
6.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS
In Thanksgiving to God and Celebration of God’s abundant blessings despite a seriously challenging
year filled with serious conflict and strife in some Circuits, the economic meltdown and political
turmoil we celebrate the following:




The Opening of a New Place of Worship at Veldrift kindly donated by a local businessman.
The Centenary Celebrations of the YMG
The 80th and 130th Anniversary Celebrations of our Ministry and Work at Langa and Salt River
respectively.
The hosting of a successful Children’s Ministry Indaba
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




7.
The dedication of and official opening of the Extensions at Ottery Road Methodist including
the Isaac Dearham Resource Centre and Thomas Achilles Foyer.
The dedication of the Renovations and Completion of the Administrative Centre at St Mark’s,
Edgemead
The hosting of a number of HIV/AIDS Training the trainer Workshops.
The Commissioning of our New District Lay Leader – Mr Derek Ronnie.
The continuous leadership Development of Clergy and Laity.
AS A DISTRICT WE LOOK ARE ENGAGED IN THE FOLLOWING PLANNING:
 The Bi-Centenary of the Namaqualand Mission in 2016
 Seeking creative ways to utilise our valuable asset at Wesley Training College in Salt River
8.
MATTERS REFERRED BY CONFERENCE
Through the Quarterly Meetings synod appropriately responded to the Structure’s Proposals and
Laws and Discipline changes referred by Conference.
9.
CONCLUSION
As a District we continue in all our endeavours to uphold through its mission and ministry the
Connexional Vision of a “Christ Healed Africa for the Healing of Nations” and committing ourselves
afresh to being agents and centres of Healing and Transformation.
To the age old question of Jeremiah in Chapter 8:22 “Is there no balm in Gilead?” our resounding
answer remains:
“There is a Balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole
There is a Balm in Gilead to heal the sin sick soul”
That Balm is Jesus, who is the Lord and the centre of our togetherness.
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GRAHAMSTOWN DISTRICT (02)
BISHOP MUSI S.J. LOSABA
1.
INTRODUCTION
“We are often troubled but not crushed, sometimes in doubt, but never in despair.” 2Corinthians 4:8.
This year, once more, we have witnessed and experienced the presence of God’s Spirit in our lives
and that of the church. The Orders of Laity and Presbyters have once more given of their selves to
the work in which we have been called to do. This is seen in the many ways, units, circuits, societies
and organizations have performed in the past 12 months.
2.
CLERGY MATTERS: DISTRICT MINISTERS' RETREATS
During the Connexional Indaba that was held in Grahamstown in October 2011, ministers from
Grahamstown District resolved that spiritual renewal & development is indispensable, it was then
decided that clergy spiritual revitalization is going to be one of the main focuses. Subsequent to this
critical and essential proposal, the District, through the bishop’s office, implemented the proposal.
The book written by Brian McLaren, ‘Finding our way again: The return of the ancient practices’ was
recommended as the resource for spiritual revitalization. All ministers in the District were
requested to read the book as part of their daily devotions and spiritual discipline. Distinctively, this
spiritual exercise was preparing ministers and deacons, for their annual retreats and robust
engagement during Circuit’s staff meetings and District events like Synod. For the year 2013 the
group is reading together Conversations with my Sons and Daughters, Mamphela Ramphele.
3.
MINISTERS' ROUND TABLE
We have established a forum presently called the Ministers’ Roundtable for the purpose of
consultation and sharing. We hope that through this we will be able to build and strengthen
relationships through fellowship and accountability to one another.
4.
PRE-SYNOD MEETING
District Ministers from our District met a day before Synod, to reflect on matters affecting the
ordained ministry. A continuous conversation is in place on the following:
a) The process of candidature for the ordained ministry and post ordination training, hurdles
and opportunities, assessments and the length thereof. The challenges of cross-cultural
response to the call to ministry.
b) The process of affirmation and accountability of the clergy through the Synod order of
business on accountability of the clergy. We engaged on the meaning and relevance and all
on how can we make these meaningful for us and our lay people.
5.
DISTRICT INITIATIVES
5.1
Education Indaba
As a District we have heeded to the Presiding Bishop’s call of getting involved in education related
matters as these affect the future of our children and nation. We as the District agreed to prioritize
this vision. We resolved to focus not necessarily on education as the term declares but on schooling
and learning related issues. We are convinced that as the MCSA Grahamstown District and the
Eastern Cape Province we need to work hard in reviving the culture of schooling and learning. We
believe that the culture of schooling doesn’t necessarily find its root in the corridors of government,
department of education and the likes, but in our living rooms, kitchens and the society we live in.
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We are convinced that the church, every disciple, every household must work hard to help our
children understand the importance of schooling. We as the church have a responsibility to walk
alongside and encourage those who make the schooling of our children possible.
Statistics tells us that for every school in the country there are two churches. A Church intervention
to schooling and learning of our children can bring healing and transformation of lives. We have
requested that every Circuit and/or local society to forge partnerships with neighbouring schools
together with religious bodies and NGOs per area. We call on all residents to dedicate one hour a
month to a school in the form of sport, subjects, life skills etc.
We encouraged all residents to empower children through knowledge sharing rather than only
focusing on giving e.g. uniform, books, and food.
Post the event: An implementation committee, in the Port Elizabeth area, has been established in
partnership with Transformation Christian Network’s wing, the Nehemiah Project; chaired by Dr J
McFarlane.
We call on every Methodist across the District to give an hour a month of his or her life towards
healing of our communities. An hour a month invested by 40 000 Methodists can and will bring
healing to a broken and bleeding society.
We called on all our organizations, the call is also extended to all our Circuits, business people and
individuals, to establish an Education Fund that will assist those who are in need of such funding.
5.2
Connexional Young Women’s Manyano Triennial
As the district we celebrate the commitment of our young women’s manyano for organizing an
event of that magnitude, noting that young women are forming a huge percentage of the
unemployed in our country, especially in the Eastern Cape. They owned the process, displaying great
commitment and support to the General President who is part of the Grahamstown District.
The event also raised issues for us to ponder upon of Church and State relations. We need to begin
to engage critically on how we understand the relationship we now have with the State and its
organs, and what are the control measures of such relations.
5.3
Synod 2013
The Grahamstown District met in Cradock Fish River Circuit 223 in Cradock for their 189 th Synod,
guided by the theme: “Together in Christ, a Healing Community” Kingswood College blessed the
Synod with a wonderful music as the people of God joined together in worship. Over a period of
three days, Spirit filled & thought provoking Bible study was led by Rev Phumzile Zondi-Mabizela
using contextual theology principles to guide the Synod.
The election process was smooth; members of Synod elected Bishop ZD Siwa for Presiding Bishop,
Mr Sikhumbuzo Nofemele for District Lay leader, and nominated Rev Msokoli Leleki for the office of
the bishop in the District for Conference to elect.
5.4
Healdtown Institution
Our Synod has called on the members of the District to rally around Healdtown Circuit in the
initiative of Restoring the Healdtown Institution. We thank the Connexional Women’s Manyano for
making available R500 000, 00 towards the renovations. Our District Women’s Manyano at their
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2012 Convention resolved to adopt an Economics class at the Healdtown Institution. The Manyano
will provide all necessary furniture and equipment for the classroom.
The Women’s Manyano gave new furniture to two schools in the Port Elizabeth area. Our
appreciation also goes to the Young Women’s Mayano, at Connexion level, for supporting Phillip
Nikiwe Primary School, a school in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. In 2007 we started a partnership
with this school, the YWM committed to starting a library for the school. Together in Christ we can!
Our Kingswood College has embarked on cleaning and painting of crèches, Day Care Centres. All
departments at the college reach out to the community through imparting skills and resources to the
needy.
We are humbled by the work done by Wesley Guild in Perksdale Circuit each bringing a brick to build
a house for a family. Annshaw Circuit together with District Women’s Manyano renovated a house.
The Walmer Methodist Church is in partnership with John Masiza School. Our fellow Methodists,
young and old, give their time, skills and resources to help heal the poverty stricken families of
Walmer Township through education. Uitenhage Kabah Circuit is in partnership with the Nelson
Mandela Bay Municipality in trying to give shelter and food to homeless and destitute people in
KwaNobuhle Township.
The Synod heeded to the call to open our churches, our buildings to be centres of hope and healing
to a broken society. Our buildings become homework, skills development, and role modeling
centres.
5.4
District Prayer for Leaders, Moral Regeneration and Thanksgiving service
The prayer for leaders and thanksgiving service was a success. In partnership with Nelson Mandela
Bay Municipality we hosted a service with the aim of reminding communities of the effort we must
all make to ensure that our children and members become beacons of hope within the church and
communities they live in. This partnership is in its second year and is envisaged to continue. We
have, however, realized that it a partnership that is not reflective of who we are as communities
within the district. Conversations are to happen across the District with those (ecumenical family
and local municipalities) keen to have a time of prayer and thanksgiving to God for our leaders both
in church and society. We thank God for this vision.
5.5
Mission Unit Campaign
This is an annual event facilitated by our District Mission Unit. The Bible women and Evangelist, our
ministers on probation are indeed following in the footsteps of John Wesley; they are spreading the
good news in Plettenberg Bay area through home visits and spreading the gospel through open air
evangelism and tent-ministry. The campaign also involves visiting hospices, police stations,
orphanages and schools. At the schools, uniforms are distributed to those in need. We also have
trainings of leaders and followers, and are running discipleship courses.
5.6
Heritage Indaba
As we draw this year to a close we ought to look back! We value our roots and seek to understand
where we come from in order to define an informed future for our District. On the 16th – 17th August
in Port Alfred, were Methodism holds its roots in this area, we will be hosting a two day session
telling stories, discussing and crafting a way forward for our District with regards the history of our
District.
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Ms. Vanessa Peters from the Heritage Preservation Committee (in the office of the Presiding Bishop)
will be sharing with us what the vision the committee has with regards to Methodist Heritage. We
are also hoping to embark on the Cape of Good Hope and Grahamstown Districts Methodist
Heritage Tour late next year starting in the Alice area to the Namaqualand.
6.
CONCLUSION
As we move forward we are always inspired and cautioned by the words of Father John Wesley
when he says: “I am not afraid that people called Methodists should ever cease to exist. But I am
afraid lest that they should exist only as a dead sect having the form of religion without its power.
And this will be the case unless they hold fast to the doctrine, the spirit and discipline with which
they first set out.” May God put fire in us as we together, in Christ, become a healing community.
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QUEENSTOWN DISTRICT REPORT (03)
BISHOP MONGAMELI PRESIDENT NOQAYI
1.
INTRODUCTION
The year under review has been an excellent one regarding mission of the Church in the
Queenstown District. We acknowledge the selfless service of the ministers, Evangelists and Bible
women, Pastors, Stewards and all members of the District, many of whom serve in the midst of high
levels of unemployment and poverty. 2012 was a fruitful year in terms of growth and mission.
2.
DISTRICT OVERVIEW
The District has a total number of 60 850 members as against 45 897 last year, a growth of
approximately 75%. The District has 30 circuits served by 56 ministers, 5 pastors, 1 712 local
preachers, 577 local societies, 40 Bible women and 24 Evangelists. These servants of God seek to
remain faithful to the Church’s mission statement that God calls the Methodist people to proclaim
the gospel of Jesus Christ for healing and transformation.
3.
DISTRICT VISIONING AND PLANNING
The District, as an oasis in this part of the Eastern Cape, has kept the rules of an oasis – not to fence
an oasis and not to fight in an oasis. As always to be a beacon of hope, fertility and a cause of
pleasantness to all, yet not failing in healing the brokenness of its people.
In its visioning the district planned to empower the clergy and the laity. The empowerment of the
clergy has been realised by a retreat led by Dr. John Borman. He emphasized on the following
important aspects:



A Minister as a shepherd
A Minister as a healer
A Minister as a transformer
The training of Superintendents has been one other avenue used to empower the clergy. This
training was based on: The Superintendent as a Mission Leader in the circuit.
Circuit stewards and circuit treasurers were trained on good governance and good financial
management.
3.1
Celebrations, highlights and achievements:
The District hosted three Connexional events successfully – The Connexional Youth Conference, the
Connexional Women’s Association and the Connexional Women’s Auxilliary in the same year. A word
of gratitude goes to the District Choirs for the manner in which they represented the District in those
events.
3.2
Education:
The District has played a meaningful role in education. It participated in the “Ilima” Project, and the
results produced were exciting and encouraging. The matric pass rate increased in many schools
which participated. Ilima is intervention by the church and other stakeholders where grade 12
learners have exam camps – they stay at the schools from the first day of the exams and leave after
writing the last exam papers. Methodists helped in cooking meals, donating food to the exam
camps, motivating the learners and supervising study-time in the evenings. Our ministers became
chaplains to the schools.
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The District Bursary Fund has sent 21 students to tertiary institutions this year. Organisations, units,
departments and circuits contribute tremendously towards the bursary fund. Individuals outside the
District, like Mr. Z. Jakavula and Dr. John Borman have contributed to the District Bursary Fund.
Thanks to them.
The District Women’s Manyano has adopted the Mount Arthur High School for Girls. They
renovated the school, started the ablution block from scratch, furnished the hostel kitchen. The
Connexional Women’s Manyano invested in a prayer garden named after Susanna Wesley. More
importantly, the ethos of the school has been taught and revived at the school.
Mount Coke Circuit has erected three church buildings during the past year. Mdantsane 314 Circuit
has erected a R2,8 million structure as a first phase of the plan. Kamastone Circuit has erected a R1,8
million Church Building. Praise be to God for the strength He has given to these circuits and many
others.
It is commendable that projects in the District are sustained. Projects like “Umtha welanga”,
“Masincedane”, sewing projects and garden projects are still operational and have an impact on
society.
The choirs launched their first CD as a District Choir. The District Communication Desk has launched
a District Magazine showcasing mission work done by the District, it is called: “The Oasis”.
An overview of the district activities would suggest that spirituality remains the major focus. Most of
what is done is devotional in nature. Circuit and organisational retreats, conventions and revivals are
a source of inspiration in this District. Emmaus Walk prayer meeting and Alpha classes are happening
throughout the District.
3.3
Evangelism & Church Growth:
District organisations remain an important vehicle for evangelism and church growth in the District.
The Evangelists and Bible women have their outreach and house-to-house evangelism. There has
been a numerical growth in terms of membership.
3.4
Justice & Service:
Anti-corruption programmes and campaigns against children and women abuse are programmes in
which the District participates and form partnerships in such forums. Workshops and trainings are
done on substance abuse.
3.5
Economic Empowerment & Development:
A District workshop on financial management, project sustainability and entrepreneurship was held
this year. Projects are well managed. Circuits have improved in giving.
3.6
District Leadership:
The District has elected new leadership. Rev. M.E. Matyumza as a new bishop; Rev. Ian Horwarth as
Secretary of Synod; Mr. Lunga Panya as treasurer. The District has pledged to support and pray for
them. We pray that they have a blessed period in office.
The District is healthy, sound and in good state. I extend a word of gratitude to all who supported
the vision and the mission of the District.
May God bless you.
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KIMBERLEY, NAMIBIA AND BLOEMFONTEIN (05)
BISHOP LITABA ISAIAH MOTHIBI
1.
INTRODUCTION
The year under review has been a good and exciting one for the District, as most of the planned
projects were realised. The strategic document that was accepted in 2011 has kept the District
focused. Organizations continue to use mission imperatives and play significant roles in the lives of
the respective societies in the District. I hope the fifth imperative will be reported on later. In the
midst of financial challenges experienced by most Circuits, the District remains stable. Following are
higlights of the work done in the District in the year under review:
2.
SPIRITUALITY
Spiritual formation continues to be an area of priority in most of our Circuits, where
teaching, revivals, class meetings and cell groups enhance our witness to the community. We also
continue to address the needs of the sick, the aged and the needy through various programmes
The District’s Pastoral work comprises of interventions such as counselling, sick and hospital visits,
after care, bereavement ministry, and trauma debriefing and pastoral visits to families of members
deployed away from home.
Satanism is rife in the schools and amongst youth in the District. Young people are being tormented
by demonic spirits. Resources like the devotional Upper room Prayer booklets are given to schools in
an effort not only to concientise the young people about the concequences of Satanism, but also to
equip them with spiritual tools to resist joining these cults. The church leadership has also been
involved in morning devotions and prayer meetings at the schools which are affected by Satanism.
Our people are hurting, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Support and Equipping Programmes
such as a Biblical Portrait of Marriage, Effective Parenting in a Defective World, Ethics and AntiCorruption were done in collaboration with other Professionals in our district to uplift the spirit and
give moral guidance.
3.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH
Through Ecumenism, Unity among MCSA and different Christian churches has improved. There is
greater cooperation and understanding amongst churches.
During the service delivery protest in Kuruman, a team led by the Bishop and the Kuruman Circuit
Superintendent met with leaders of the protest and Northern Cape Department of Education to
mediate in the hostile situation that compromised the education of the learners in that area.
The Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein District together with the Northern Free State and
Lesotho District hosted a very successful crusade in Bloemfontein. The participants in the
programme uplifted the spirit of those in attendance many people were healed.
4.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE
Initiative of programmes that enable individuals in alleviating poverty in our communities, the St
Mary’s Methodist Church in Bloemfontein through ISISWENYE AGRICULTURAL PROJECT continues to
grow and help identified needy families with vegetables and eggs on weekly basis.
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Good work has also been done by the Organisations providing clothes to the needy in our
communities. Uniforms, school bags, planting of Trees, and Computers were provided to schools
such as HTT BIDI Primary School, Asmandia both in Postmasburg circuit, and a school in Thaba-Nchu
(Mokoto Village). A Wheel chair donation to one of the Young Women’s Manyano members was
made also.
The District Local Preachers Association established a project in honour of the late Reverend Gosani
Mqomo, who was the President. This project was his dream in trying to help needy families. It is
called Gosani Mqomo Education project. The Circuit that host annual Convention will identify a
school with needy children and the Convention would then donate a full uniform to somebody who
is needy. Secondly the District will identify needy child and assist with registration fee at an
institution of higher learning. This will continue until the student complete the registered course.
Each year, the Christian Council of Namibia through the involvement of the MCSA in the district, in
conjunction with Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, mobilise communities against
gender based violence during the 16 days of activism of no violence against women and children.
The educational programmes and training for the empowerment of women clergy are taking place
and conducted under the Christian Council of Namibia. All local churches are involved.
Circuits such as Bloemfontein, Diamond Fields and Taung contributed and donated some food
parcels, blankets and clothes to the Foreigners who were displaced in various Community
Centres/Halls after the Xenophobic attacks in their businesses in Botshabelo and Thaba-Nchu. The
District as well as the Connexion Mission Unit also assisted with blankets, food parcels and some
clothes.
5.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT
The District has acquired the Aldersgate Conference Centre property, as a District project. The
centre has conference and accommodation facilities to generate funds for the District. It is hoped
that it will help to alleviate costs and expenses incurred more especially in terms of our gatherings.
The centre is up and running.
Fundraising committee has been established to raise funds so that we can extend the property by
building more rooms and camp facilities. The aim is to use it for future Synods, meetings of District
Organizations, and Circuit activities.
The District Women’s Manyano has pledged to donate a sum of R30 000.00 every year towards the
District Project.
A leader must lead by example, be a person of common wisdom, sound judgement, and be driven by
a desire to do God’s will. Leaders must strive to be accountable, exemplary, and inspirational. That
is why the District Training Team, led by the Mission Unit Coordinator and the Lay leader have held
workshops whereby laity and clergy were fully participating.
There were three workshops held in various regions of the District, i.e. Central Northern Cape and
Trans Orangia . Namibia will follow.
●
●
Central Region:
Very successful Leadership workshops were held in Brandfort Circuit at Bultfontein Society,
and the other one was held in Seth Mokitimi Circuit, while the third one was held in Thaba
Nchu Circuit at Selosesha.
Northern Cape Region:
Leadership workshop at Kuruman and Postmasburg Circuits
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These leadership workshops dealt mainly with issues such as
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
Spirituality of Giving,
Effective committees and role of Office bearers
Leadership by Grace
Pastoral Leadership
Being Church and the spirituality of leadership
Critical skills of leadership
Leadership lessons from emperor Shaka the Great
Relationship among leaders and with the local ministers in the Society and Circuit
Other workshops touch the following areas: Giving, Management & Leadership, Handling of Finances
and the Five Mission Imperatives
The leadership training in the District continues to make a great difference and strong impact in the
way our people are handling Church and property
A District Trust Property workshop was held at Aldersgate Conference Centre for the Central Circuit
Region. The workshop focused on:



District Trust Property Application Form
Insured Properties in District
Insurance Booklet
Title Deeds
6.
HIGHLIGHTS
Synod 2012 took a bold decision to purchase a vehicle for Rundu area. Laity and ministers
contributed but that was not enough. Our British partners donated a sum of R19 000 through the
effort of Mission Unit. Mrs Charity Mampa from Postmasburg contributed the R20 000.00. 2007
Mazda Premacy was then bought and presented to Kavango Mission Circuit in May 2013.
The District Website is up and running, and circuits and organisations are able to send their updates
such as profiles, pictures of what they are doing in their various corners, messages of aspirations and
motivations, as well as their gatherings such as conventions and conferences.
The district continues to have a paperless synod. Technology is effectively used in the Synod. All
presentations and reports are projected.
A new Lay Leader was elected during the 2013 Synod by the name of Mrs Ethel Tshangela. We
would like to thank Mrs Palesa Thulo, the outgoing Lay Leader for the tremendous work she has
done in this district during her two terms. Her commitment and skills will always be remembered.
Mr Reuben Thibinyane took over from Mr Kago Marumo as District Treasurer. A word of gratitude
goes to Kago for the work well done.
Reverend Louis Williams who is the new supervisor of studies after Reverend Khotso Lesia is tasked
to establish the school of vocation as a matter of urgency. Rev. Lesia did a sterling job during his time
of office and we thank him dearly.
District Childcare desk has been established with Mrs Phirime co-ordinating.
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7.
CHALLENGES
The vastness of the district continues to be a challenge, whereby it is difficult for the Bishop to
effectively serve other circuits in Namibia.
The district continues to struggle to get and retain ministers in rural areas. Most white congregations
in small towns have closed down. The relationship between Namibia home affairs and MCSA has
improved to some degree.
Unfortunately, because of stationing limitations, there are still ministers who live without their
spouses.
Because of dire financial times we live in, Circuits are struggling to meet their financial obligations
toward the District and MCO.
8.
CONCLUSION
The theme for the 2013 Synod was “Witnessing for Christ in the 21st Century”. This followed the
Bishop’s address in 2012, where he challenged the Synod to be prophets who are not confined to
the four walls of Church buildings.
Ministers were once again reminded of their calling and duty to shepherd the flock of Christ.
In 2013 the challenge was the kind of Witness you are in the 21st century. A true witness for a 21st
century world is one that comes from a perspective, not from superiority of speech or wisdom, but the
personal testimony of the experience with God; from a presentation of a Person, of knowing nothing
except Jesus Christ and Him crucified; from a posture of humility that exhibits itself in witness and fear
and in much trembling, in a power that is not based on persuasive words of wisdom, but a
demonstration of the Holy Spirit; and for the purpose that people will not place their faith in human
wisdom but in the power of God.
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NORTHERN FREE STATION AND LESOTHO DISTRICT (06)
BISHOP ANDREW MOTSWENYANE
1.
INTRODUCTION
The Northern Free State & Lesotho District is still seeking to align itself with our Connexional Vision;
“A Christ-healed Africa for the healing of Nations”,
In the words of Martin Luther King Jnr:
“Anybody can serve. You do not have to have a College degree to serve.
You do not have to make your subject and verb agree to serve.
You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love”.
In the year 2012 we were faced with many challenges where conflicts were experienced. God is
good all the time. I still maintain that even in the midst of all the storms of life, God still rules. Yes
indeed, He carried us through the year because He is in control!
Our theme last year was; The Wondrous Restoration of Dignity. After the Conflicts, hurt and pain,
God alone restores us and gives us dignity as the District.
2.
DISTRICT SYNOPSIS


Our statistics have not given balanced and realistic figures as should be reflected. All
in all we are trying our best to have the correct statistics from different Circuits.
Our District is plagued with unemployment where mining companies are closing
down. This means one thing – poverty! No wonder many Circuits are found to be in
arrears, but through God’s grace those arrears are being reduced.
3.
SPECIAL EVENTS
3.1
Women’s Manyano:
The focus of the NFS & L District Women’s Manyano comes out of the Connexional Focus of 20112014:
i)
ii)
Educate women for value added life.
Educate children for value added life.
Then the NFS & L District Operational plan 2011-2013:
i)
Educate children for value added life.
The Women’s Manyano donated school uniforms to 65 learners, school teaching aids for foundation
phase, blankets to old age homes. They also donated blankets to the House of Hope where
abandoned children are cared for. A young girl has received a bursary from the Connexional
Women’s Manyano; she is studying at Potchefstroom University.
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3.2
Youth Unit:
The Youth Unit realizing that our District is plagued by poverty due to the high rate of
unemployment in the Northern Free State & Lesotho, are constantly involved in trying to combat the
situation through providing assistance to the homes of the needy as part of the Youth Unit
programme.
The Youth Unit identified a family in Bethlehem where there are 5 children, one who has disabilities.
They provided a wheelchair for this child named Kagiso, the family was provided with blankets and
groceries and the house was painted.
Again in Bethlehem the Youth Unit identified another family where the house was in a bad state.
The owner could not do much for himself. The doors and windows were damaged, which the Youth
Unit replaced. They also painted the house and bought groceries and blankets. The sanitary system
was also repaired by the young people who are skilled in that area.
I still maintain, if young people are given the chance, we will achieve great things through God who
strengthens us. Well done Young people!
3.3
Young Women’s Manyano:
The Young Women’s Manyano took up the challenge at their Convention in Wesselsbron
and they bought a kitchen unit, fridge, table and chairs and blankets for a family that is very
poor. They went a step further by intervening with a family where a granny is left with the
grandchildren who do not have school uniforms. They bought uniforms for all the children;
the face of the granny blossomed, she was so happy to receive these gifts.
3.4
Spirituality:
The people in this District participate in prayer meetings. Worship services are continuing in all
circuits. They are strong intercessory prayer ministries. Healing ministries are conducted at District
level, we went to Senekal Circuit in July together with two ministers who are known to have gifts in
healing ministry. Celebration of Covenant, Easter, Pentecost, Ascension and Christmas services are
observed by the circuits in the District. Organised cell groups are established and Bible Study classes
continue.
3.5
Evangelism And Church Growth:
As I have indicated above, we had a wonderful time at Senekal. I had the opportunity of going from
house to house in Senekal, praying with the people and sharing with them the Word of God. In the
evening we had a healing service, the church was packed. We stayed at the Circuit for three days.
Evangelism outreach and missions were undertaken by members of the church to India, Russia and
Madagascar. YMG, Women’s Manyano and other organizations continue to hold revivals even at
taxi ranks.
3.6
Justice and Service:
Our main ministry in this area is still the St. Luke’s Clinic in Welkom which continues its ministry to
the people who live in the dungeon and on the streets. The Clinic offers primary health care,
HIV/AIDS Counseling and the services of a Social Worker. Women’s Manyano took to the streets and
marched to raise their prophetic voice to the State on issues of abuse and rape in the society.
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Prisons and hospitals are being visited. At Clarens, Bana ba hlokang are placed at Tshepong – Place
of Hope Centre where needy and poor children are taught computer and fed daily. This support is
especially for child headed households.
3.7
Economic Empowerment and Development:
At Tshepong Centre we have the services of Social workers, two people employed as manager and
matron, other people are being trained in counseling. The Women’s Manyano are going forward
with a sewing project, to the extent of starting a factory. Watch this space – the women in this
District really look forward to empowering themselves.
3.8
Education:
Things are happening as far as education is concerned. When the women celebrated Women’s
World Day of Prayer, it was celebrated together with a particular school – St. Dominic’s, in Welkom.
A church also adopted a school called Leboneng Special School for impaired children. This school
was always being vandalized because it did not have any fencing, the church in the Welkom Circuit
took it upon themselves and wrote letters to the MEC and the Education Minister. Today as we read
this the school is fenced with palisade. They also bought groceries, a stove and a deep freeze for this
school. The church is still negotiating for the hostels because the school caters for the children in
the Lejweleputsoa district.
3.9
Lesotho:
The circuits in Lesotho are trying their level best. We are still having a problem with lack of
accommodation for the Maseru minister. We had a joint service where all Lesotho circuits met at
one circuit for a service, this was a once-off event.
3.10
Challenges:
We still have problems with Ficksburg and Ladybrand Circuit where a disciplined minister refuses to
vacate the manse. We still wait on the judge to render her judgment. Also in Maseru.
4.
CONCLUSION:
In his book, Common Acts of Significant Employees Heal the Marikana in Your Workplace, Dr Leon
Klein says:
“You are God’s workmanship. You are a product of God’s best,
most valued and most significant work – Be and believe that”.
Pg 25
Yes indeed you are the best in the eyes of God! After God created you He said: “ it is good!”
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NATAL COASTAL DISTRICT (07)
BISHOP MIKE FORSTER
“TOGETHER A WILLING COMMUNITY”
Reflections on Luke 5: 12 to 16.
SANIBONANI BAZALWANE,
GRACE AND PEACE BE UPON US ALL.
1.
GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AND RAPE:
All our Circuits, Local Societies and Organisations are addressing this issue. EVERY 8 HOURS A
WOMEN IS KILLED BY SOMEONE SHE KNOWS, IN OUR COUNTRY. 5000 women are raped daily? Who
is next? Your daughter? Your wife? One of your family members?
On Human Rights Day 21 March 2013 a 7 km walk was organised by Ndwedwe 714 Circuit Wesley
Guild to raise awareness to Stop Violence against Women. At this event we heard of several types of
abuse against women, emotional; verbal; psychological; physical etc. I heard some terrible stories of
rape & abuse in this area.
Most of our people Support the Thursday’s in Black Campaign – contact Diakonia Council of
Churches 0313103500, as a starting point to get involved.
The YMG at their annual convention held in Groutville, the Bishop together with our men signed a
pledge committing themselves to overcoming the scourge of violence against women. Thank you for
this initiative. Also together with the District Bishop the men at Durban North Methodist Church,
Umngeni Circuit pledged themselves to regard women as equal and together as partners to work for
justice for all women, during the Good Friday service where the theme was "Women at the foot of
the Cross" - John 19: 25 to 27. A similar pledge was made during the Easter Convention in Durban
712.
2.
CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS IN MARRIAGE:
Our District Wellness Task team has designed a Creative Conversations in Marriage workshop
continues of offer this specifically for Methodist Clergy couples. We are in process of doing
something similar for our single ministers.
3.
METHODISTS CHALLENGE BY AIDS (MCA):
It is encouraging to see that activism pays off. In the Mail & Guardian Newspaper (22 to 28
February 2013) article that there is a drop in infections following ARV’s success. Reporter Mia Malan
writes: “The adult life expectancy of the general population in rural KwaZulu-Natal has increased by
more than 11 years – from 49 to 60 – as result of the widespread availability of antiretroviral
treatment. This is according a study conducted by the Africa Centre for Health and Population
Studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, which was published in Science journal. We give thanks
to God for the many faithful activists and community caregivers who work tirelessly to overcome the
HIV and aids pandemic. Thanks to Mam Phewa and our District Lay Leader, Sanele Mbhele, who
have trained someone from every Circuit through our District’s Methodist Challenge By Aids mission
task group. We continue to pray for those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS.
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4.
PALESTINE/ISRAEL:
Rev Dr. Jenny Sprong, who spent three months as a peace monitor in Palestine/Israel, and has
briefed many of our members of her first-hand experience of the current challenges in that part of
the world.
5.
NATAL COASTAL DISTRICT SCHOOL FOR EVANGELISATION AND DISCIPLESHIP:
The pilot course was launched on 16 February 2013. THE CORE PURPOSE OF A SCHOOL FOR
EVANGELISATION AND DISCIPLESHIP: Noting that there are many varied ways of bringing the Good
News to a broken and bruised world and people, the Natal Coastal District seeks to provide space
where we can sharpen our tools and develop new ones for the purposes of Evangelisation and
Discipleship in: Townships; Informal Settlements; Suburbs; Rural Inner-City places. The start of
Module One is a practical with the Order of Evangelists in Upper South Coast Circuit on Saturday 16
March 2013. We had folk from Phoenix, Organisations and Trinity La Lucia participating. For more
information contact the District Office.
‘BECOMING THE AROMA OF CHRIST’ PERMEATING THE AROMA OF CHRIST TO AT LEAST ONE
MILLION PEOPLE IN OUR DISTRICT. There are ninety-three images of the early church community in
the Gospels and Epistles. One such image is found in 2 Corinthians 2vv14 to 17: “But thanks be to
God, who in Christ spreads in every place the fragrance that comes from knowing him... For we are
the aroma of Christ to God among those are being healed and among those who are perishing. To
one fragrance from death to death to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for
these things? ”John 12:3“....and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.”
Our ‘house’ is the MCSA Natal Coastal District covers KZN about 7 million of 10.6 million in KwaZuluNatal.
We are the aroma of Christ whose fragrance must fill every corner of our beloved part of KZN house.
In ‘our house’ are: the unsuspecting stranger; the unemployed; those infected and affected by HIV
and AIDS; the abused women; the mentally and physically challenged; the child who is abused... the
corrupt business person; the hungry; those in prison...every person we come into contact with on a
daily basis... at work; at school; at tertiary places; at sports stadiums .... Let the aroma of Christ fill
every space that has been assigned to our care. Let us together be willing to reach at least One
million and quantify this for our own encouragement to spur us on to do more. May this be part of
our contribution in tangible ways to be together a healing community for the healing our corner of
Africa. It is our hope to reach 1 million or more in the next three years. The Bishop will be leading
this and will visit each Circuit staff meeting to enthuse staff
6.
ORGANISATIONAL CONVENTIONS AND DISTRICT MEETINGS:
It is always a joy for me to participate in these events. Thanks to the YMG for your support,
affirmation and many certificates of appreciation.
7.
YOUTH:
Encouraging work has been one by our District Youth Unit Executive who have worked tirelessly to
establish Circuit Youth Units. Our Youth are the ones who need to pave our way to a lasting unity
within our Church and communities.
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8.
ENGAGEMENT WITH THE WIDER SOCIETY:
Through the office of the District Bishop we engaged with the following:




KZN Public Peace Programme
The tragic death of Traffic Inspectorate recruits
Gender Commission on Equality regarding the vulnerability of Widows.
With the Premier
9.
ECUMENICAL ENGAGEMENTS:





Chair the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council (KZNCC)
Member of the KZN Inter-religious Council (KZNIRC)
Member of the World Conference on Religion’s for Peace (WCRP)
Member of Diakonia Council of Churches Council
We are represented on the eShowe based KwaZulu Regional Christian Council
10.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE METHODIST CHURCH IN ZIMBABWE, MARONDERA
DISTRICT, MUTARI 22 TO 26 AUGUST 2012:
Both Bishop Mongemeli Noqayi and I had a wonderful time with the people called Methodists in
Zimbabwe during their annual conference. We were both impressed by the resilience of our
Zimbabwean neighbours and wish them well as they move into a new future. It was a special
blessing and privilege to be part of the moving Ordination service on Sunday 26 August.
11.
TWINNING NATAL COASTAL DISTRCIT WITH BULAWAYO EAST DISTRICT, METHODIST
CHURCH IN ZIMBABWE:
After a visit by Bishop Mike Vorster and Rev Carol Walsh to Bulawayo East District in April 2013 and a
reciprocal visit by Bishop Cleopas Sibanda, District Lay President Soneni Matiwaza and District
President of the Women’s Manyano, Mrs. Susan Sibanda in May 2013, the NCD Synod formally
adopted the proposal that we explore links and partnerships with the Bulawayo East District, MCZ.
12
LAITY TRAINING:
The District Lay Leader, Sanele Mbhele and District Treasurer Lindiwe Mazibuko, continue to offer
training for lay leaders in our church.
13.
VISITS TO CIRCUITS SOME HIGHLIGHTS: Bishop’s Pastoral Visit to Ingwavuma;
Kwangwanase and Mozambique 13 To 17 March 2013:
We visited the elderly in remote mountainous and bush areas, in Ingwavuma. Rev Lucky Mgomezulu
knows everyone, having grown up in this area – so rural visiting is drive –stop- chat- give some a liftdrive –stop- chat- give some a lift - drive –stop- chat- give some a lift –stop and chat – we visited the
elderly and two mothers whose daughters were murdered by their boyfriends. May their souls rest
in peace and may the families be comforted in their grief. (Thursday 14/03/2013)
Visiting the elderly in sandy and bush areas, Kwangwanase. I admire the work done by Rev Jabu
Mhlope and the team of dedicated lay leaders, who needs to travel long distances on thick sandy
roads – the only adequate vehicle is a 4x4. One really needs to know where you are going or one
could get lost in the maze of sand tracks. The best is to go to a homestead and ask someone to
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accompany one – then take them back afterward. The hospitality is amazing – we were served pap
and free-range chicken after celebrating our Lord’s Supper under a tree, surrounded by indigenous
bush and the sounds of nature – a wondrous moment. (Friday 15/03/2013)
Rev. Lucky Mgomezulu, Mr. Madonsela and 2 Evangelical Church pastors travelled with me to
Maputo to be in solidarity with our Mozambique District Bishop, Rev. Denis Matsolo, at the loss of
his beloved mother Mam Motsolo who lived until she was 90 years old. After attending a Local
Preachers workshop led by the Bishop we traveled to Bishop Denis homestead in Salamanga where
we shared a word and prayers of comfort and encouragement to the family. The journey to Manguzi
Border gate was quite an ‘adventure’, thank God for the excellent driving skills of Mr. Madonsela, (I
learnt a trick or two about negotiating thick thick sand.) (15&16/03/2013)
In addition to these Circuits I have also visited and had meetings with: Empangeni Circuit; Upper
South Coast; Clerpine; CCMyT; Umngeni; Ndwedwe; Durban 712; Nongoma; Ubombo; Kearsney;
Lower Tugela; Ndulinde
14.
COMMUNICATION:
Our District continues to have a featured article in every New Dimension, thanks to our District
Media officer, Lihle Pewa. I would encourage all societies and Circuits to send articles to ND. The
District Facebook:” Natal Coastal Methodists”, established 2 years ago by the late Roland Vernon,
continues to portray our District (albeit in the main through the ‘eyes’ of the District Bishop) to the
wider world. We have an estimated reach so far of over 200000 globally. Rev. Michael Bishop is in
the process of setting up our own NCD website; in the meantime we keep regular posts on the MCSA
webpage. I have kept the District updated through our District Communique. Good use has been
made of public newsprint media i.e. Isolezwe, Illanga, uMAfrika; by many societies, sections and
Circuits, to report to the wider community of Methodists events.
15.
CONNEXIONAL COMMITMENTS:

We hosted the Connexional Heritage Indaba in August 2012. (Thanks to Rev Emmanuel
Gabriel)
Chair of the Child Care Desk advisory committee.
Chair of the Ecumenical Affairs advisory committee (Director of Ecumenical Affairs: Rev.
Purity Malinga)
Member of the Mission Unit Board (Chair: Bishop Temba Mntambo)
Member of the task team to set up a Connexional Justice and Service Desk (by decree of
Conference)
Bishop’s meetings
CE and Conference






We thank God for the Missional, Pastoral and administrative work done by the Ministers, Circuit
Stewards, Superintendents, Organisation Leaders, Mission Group Leaders and the District Executive.
I must thank the District Executive in particular, for their support and continued interest not only in
the well-being of the district but in that of the District Bishop as well. Peace and Blessings
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NATAL WEST (08)
BISHOP SANDY DICKIE
1.
INTRODUCTION
The District office, located in Pietermaritzburg had been the traditional seat of District
administration for the past 42 years. Since my induction service in Newcastle in November 2012
I have made the Newcastle manse the District office. The office in Pietermaritzburg has been closed,
though the local societies have all made meeting rooms available when needed. This move is
influencing the management style of the District, has reduced costs, but has increased my travelling
as I attempt to meet pastoral needs throughout the far flung District. Our District area is home to
about one third of the total population of Kwa Zulu Natal, is predominantly Zulu speaking, and has
three main centres, namely Pietermaritzburg, Port Shepstone and Newcastle.
Theme for 2013: Growing together in Christ: Ephesians 4: 11-16.
Synod
The annual Synod was held at the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary. The venue proved ideal for
worship services, catering, conferencing and work shopping . A decision was taken to hold future
Synods at this venue. It is hoped that future Synods at a centralised venue will lead to improved
efficiency and spiritual renewal. Four workshops were conducted on Evangelism, Youth and
Education, Structures and the ongoing Same Sex Discussion.
There is no doubt that the District Executive one day retreat held in January, as well as the Regional
Meetings for Ministers, Deacons and Lay workers, and the Superintendents meeting, all contributed
to the sense of joy and excitement about what the Holy Spirit was leading us into.
2.
CIRCUITS
There were 14 stationing moves in the District in December 2012. It is hoped that these moves will
lead to stability in the circuits. Only four proposed moves will take place this year, two from
retirements, one from the death of Rev Cynthia Xaba, and one probationer appointment. The
circuits have been urged to keep their ministers for at least the initial five year invitation period, and
to work at achievable vision and mission goals. The District Executive will be taking the lead in
initiating discussions on increasing the number of stations for ministers. The lower south coast
especially, where there are large concentrations of pensioners, is struggling to raise the finances to
enable the stationing of full time ministers.
With regard to the situation of ‘one minister circuits’ there will be ongoing discussions, as urged by
the Presiding Bishop and Conference. Circuits will engage in research and negotiations as to how to
grow the work of the Kingdom of God through co-operation with neighbouring circuits, and changing
of circuit boundaries.
3.
FINANCES
It is with joy that I can report that only one circuit is reflected by the MCO as being behind in
payment assessments. It is hoped that this situation will also soon be remedied. The downturn in the
Economy has seriously affected church funding, as was reflected in the lower amounts collected for
Mission and Ministerial Training at Synod. Nevertheless several church buildings were erected and
renovations completed. I firmly believe that the Lord is calling us to be bold in faith and, despite the
economy, to grow through being relevant to people’s needs. When preachers focus on improving
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the way they communicate the Good News, then congregations grow. There are examples of this
growth in our District.
4.
MISSION WORK
The Metro Circuit in Pietermaritzburg has been working on new and effective models of ministry for
lay workers and ordained ministers in city mission. Week day services are conducted in businesses,
factories, hospitals and institutions. The Sunday services in all societies reflect a cultural mix and
variety of worship styles. Soup kitchens and food parcels for the needy form a part of the ministry of
presence.
Deacon Kathy Marsden is doing invaluable work amongst the rural poor in Circuit 808 Pt Shepstone.
She manages to raise funds from all over to continue the work, and has helped many by delivering
food parcels and helping some to start up small businesses, and others to develop vegetable
gardens.
The Vryheid Wesley Guild members raised some R 30 000 and built a two roomed house for a
pensioner whose mud house had been destroyed by the rains. The dedication service in February, in
a nearby tent in the open veld, was a joyful occasion that showed the generosity of the local
Methodists towards this as yet unchurched, grandmother and her dependents.
In most areas there are crèches, child care centres, preschools and feeding schemes. Some have
been supported by the Pula Fund, some by grants from the Mission and Extension Fund, but most
are funded by local Methodists. The needs are everywhere, but we have to decide what is real
mission work that flows from the needs of the local communities and can be owned by the locals.
There are too many who merely receive until funds run out, and then go elsewhere for handouts.
The Thembelihle Child Care Centre in Newcastle has been helped by the Childrens Desk to receive a
volunteer from Germany to work with the 45 boys for 6 months. This is truly cross cultural mission
work.
5.
HISTORICAL PROPERTY
The influence of the early missionaries is evident in the worship and liturgies of our Zulu speaking
congregations. Two institutions in our District have emotional ties for many Methodists, but today
are cause for much soul searching in the challenges of the C21st.
Boshoff Street Church has been sold to a local business. It was built in 1880, but high maintenance
costs and the downtown inner city locality, its proximity to Metro church along with the demise of
the congregation led to a decision to sell. It was later found that Methodists from Circuit 802 were
growing in numbers and reaching a community of people who were moving in from outlying areas.
An appeal against the sale was lodged, but a commission set up by the Presiding Bishop found that
the sale had to go ahead. This unpleasant episode raised the issue of the ownership of Church
property, and the need for neighbouring circuits to communicate better. A recommendation from
the commission was that all worshippers in properties stewarded/maintained by a circuit should
become members of that circuit, and not have dual membership.
Indaleni Institution has three schools on the property, all subsidised by Government, and Methodists
have very little say on the boards. The School for the Deaf is doing amazing work and is staffed by
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dedicated teachers. More than 20 hectares of land is lying fallow. Squatters and property developers
are all coveting the land, and we are challenged as to how to best use the land for mission.
6.
MINISTERS
The deaths of Rev Cynthia Xaba (Mission Secretary and Music Society co coordinator) at
Escort/Wembezi, Mrs Fundie Tshangela and Rev Elphas Miya hit hard. The funeral services held at
Port Shepstone and Edendale were amazing occasions of revival and spiritual upliftment. We thank
God for their faithful ministries.
7.
DISTRICT CONVENTIONS
These continue to fulfill a need for fellowship amongst members of organisations, and are the events
that when properly planned and organised can spread the overall theme of togetherness in Christ.
We are blessed with strong leaders who are holding together organisations that do much good in
their local churches and communities.
8.
FUTURE PLANS
We will continue to build relationships within the ministry and laity, to improve the sense of
belonging together as fellow Methodists and Christians. We want to be obedient to the call of our
Lord on our lives. “when each part is working properly, (it)makes the body grow so that it builds
itself up in love.” Eph 4:16
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CENTRAL (09)
BISHOP PETER M. WITBOOI
1.
INTRODUCTION
Pausing to remember, recapture, reflect and review is always a birds-eye view into the wide-ranging
work that God has graciously enabled the District to dare, dream and in humble vigilant service,
commitment and faithfulness, achieve. Together, as church and society, ministerial and lay, young
and old, men and women, rich and poor, urban and rural, we have sought to go beyond dialogue
about the complex issues of destitution, inequality and vulnerability from the inner city, suburbs,
locations, informal settlements and rural, to the extents of our District. Visiting, conversing and
reading the reports on our work expose the diverse socio-economic factors, continuing journey
towards healing and transformation and also testify to the love of God that creates all things,
connects all things, calls all things together and redeems all things.
2.
DISTRICT STRATEGIC DIRECTION
As a District we have over the last year begun bottom-up conversation about the things God is
calling us to preach, teach and do as part of our prophetic calling in this part of the world. A
discernment process that began as a ministerial conversation highlighted the changing nature of our
world. Whilst God has availed both ministerial and lay gifts there is a need for becoming more
intentional about how we direct these gifts to our new world of ministry. Our new world is marked
by unprecedented degrees of social ills ranging from divisions, neglect and abuse of ‘others’,
corruption and greed as well as violence. There is a need for the church to minister in a relevant and
creative way as we seek to heal and transform the world and people of the world through the
Gospel.
In working towards relevant, vibrant and practical mission strategies that would bring about healing
and transformation, we together asked as a District, circuits, organisations and formations:



What do we celebrate? What is it we are already doing? How effective is it in bringing about
healing and transformation?
What do we preach and teach?
How can we improve our mission? As a corporate (i.e. together as a District) and as
individual (i.e. as circuits/societies)
Due to the nature of our District some of the emerging themes include a renewed District focus on:
Christian formation; Women and Children; Education; Church Growth; Healing and Conflict; Ministry
to the Mining sector; Diversity Management; poverty focused stewardship; and Rural Ministry
Development. Specific challenges relating to understaffing and limited resources in the western part
of our District indicate the continuing challenges about use and distribution of our human and
financial resources.
3.
MISSION WORK
The scope of our mission entails the whole spectrum of our District work in response to the
Connexional call to become a healing community. In particular circuit, societies, organisations,
youth and children’s conceptualisation of our mission pillars/imperatives. Evident in our reports
from circuits and entities is the constant desire to hold in dynamic tension our Wesleyan ethos of
personal and social holiness with a heart set on seeing the dawn of Godly justice and improving the
lives of our people.
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4.
SPIRITUALITY
Most of our circuit work testifies to the vibrancy, diversity and rich texture of the spirituality of our
District. Most of our congregations continue to pastorally offer care and support to individuals,
families, communities and most especially the vulnerable and bereaved of our society. This care is
often accompanied with prayer and relevant teaching to enrich encouragement and enrich the
journey of meaningful discipleship. Encouraging initiatives in those circuits with bible studies and
fellowship groups that balance personal enrichment and practical service such HIV/AIDS call groups,
healing services, courses on Forgiveness, Family enrichment courses like Marriage Alpha, care for
immigrant people and foreigners, Discipleship courses that encourage social engagement.
This form of practical spirituality is noticeable in our District conventions and meetings where
organisations and formations have become more intentional about reaching out with a warm heart
and a helping hand to social institutions such as schools, police stations, vulnerable communities and
hospitals within the surrounds of the host circuit. Whilst there is such a widespread of spiritual
resource material that circuits and societies are using, the District would benefit from an increased
networking and sharing of these valuable resources.
5.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH
When our statistical secretary presented his report at synod, it was intriguing to note how he linked
the socio-economic demographics of our District with the gospel imperatives. In this emerging
mission field, evangelism needs to adaptively focus on the ‘whole person/people’ and the ‘whole
society’ (politics, culture, economy and the environment) guided by spirit of the Triune God. To this
end, a number of our circuits are using both traditional (revivals, field preaching, door-to-door) and
new (conversations, social media and multi-media) missional strategies to expand their reach into
new territories for ministry – and all these have led to a steady growth in membership and revealed
new challenges doing mission in the future. Noteworthy efforts include new churches and
extensions to existing properties across the District, churches such as Central Methodist church, St
Johns offering services in languages beyond the South Africa languages, communities that are
making deliberate efforts to include children and vulnerable people in the churches.
6.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE
One understanding of poverty is to see poverty as destitution (those without basic needs), inequality
(the relationship between the wealthy and those with very little) and vulnerability (those who only
live from month to month with very little protection). These categories in the District include the
challenge of restoring the dignity and providing protection for Refugees (especially through Central
Methodist), providing dignity through shelter, medical care, food parcels, gardening projects,
support for families affected by HIV/AIDS, protection of children against abuse, advocacy, building
bridges and community for people displaced through xenophobia and political instability, and other
forms of social and material support.
Our mission convenor and the youth unit have continued to assist the District in educating and
providing support to circuits in highlighting issues of safety and appropriate care for children within
our church – as highlighted by the Connexional Child Protection Act. Similar initiatives have been
initiated by women’s organisations and the Gender Desk to help the District take seriously the plight
of women within the church and society. These undertakings have been highlighted by the
escalating rate of violence against women and children.
A further issue of concern is the effect of the current issues within the mining sector that have
resulted in increased instability, loss of employment and in some cases violence in some parts of the
western part of the District. The District has the challenge of appropriately equipping our ministers
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in the mining sector to speak prophetically in these contexts and offer prudent care to all these
places. Some churches have partnered with initiatives like unashamedly ethical and community
crime fighting ministries to help and create a better society.
7.
HUMAN AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT
Every corner of the District is involved with some form of ministry of teaching, equipping and
empowering of our people. This project ranges from sewing, computer centres, and education
initiatives in partnership with schools, skills development and public works programmes. Whilst
there is a lot being done in this regard, sometimes with meagre resources, the needs are enormous.
8.
EDUCATION AND CHRISTIAN TRANSFORMATION
One of the issues highlighted by the June 16 Celebrations is the desire to know reality of what goes
on in our country’s classrooms and within the education system in our country beyond the political
rhetoric, the media posturing and the widespread celebrations. In response the Central District has
with other faith communities co-signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOA) with the Gauteng
Department of Education that calls all churches to begin practical and tangible partnership with
schools and children. This MOA sets a clear frame of reference to accelerate partnership between
civic society and the education department. For the District this adds to the already existing work
done by schools like Albert Street School and other such initiatives within the District.
9.
CONCLUSION
Again, I am deeply grateful to all the people and ministers of our District, for all they have dared to
do in the name of God. The words of Charles Wesley continue to inspire us for we know there is so
much more to be done.
‘To serve the present age,
My calling to fulfil
O may it all my powers engage
To do my Master’s will. (MHB 578 vs 2)
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HIGHVELD AND SWAZILAND (10)
BISHOP JONATHAN ANDERSON
1.
INTRODUCTION
It is with a real sense of joy and gratitude that I am able to report that our District is functioning well
with increasing signs of health and effectiveness. Our leadership team (now settled and established)
is offering much to facilitate healthy resourcing for ministry with encouraging results. Several
promising initiatives have been well received.
2.
OBJECTIVES AND VISION
Towards the end of 2012 we embarked on a process evaluating what was needed as we seek to lead
the District. Consensus was reached that alignment to the Connexional vision and between our
various organisations and agencies within the District was a priority. In February 2013 a Strategic
Planning and Vision Seminar was held including all organisational and executive leadership of the
District. Consensus was reached on a Vision Statement which is descriptive of how we view
ourselves:
“The Highveld Swaziland District, united in diversity, resourcing the dignity of God’s people,
through disciplined devotional living, structures and activities”.
We sincerely believe that the statement is somewhat descriptive of what is already our life together,
but also recognise that it is a visioning statement, and therefore somewhat aspirational. A strategy
to introduce the vision has been implemented. Circuits, Societies and Organisations are being called
upon to evaluate what they are doing against this statement and to use it for reporting purposes. As
leadership we are committed to lead innovatively and to use this vision as an ongoing point of
reference.
3.
KEY INITIATIVES AND PRIORITIES
3.1
Unity (Reconciliation and Relationship Building)
Recognising the impact multidimensional disunity has had on the witness of the Church, ongoing
attention is being given to the stresses of diversity and disunity within the District. We are
committed to facilitate bridge-building between rural groups, rich and poor, laity and clergy, men
and women, young and old. Various initiatives are envisaged in this regard.
One major dis-unifying fact that, we agree, needs urgent attention is the disparity between rich and
poor. We consider it particularly tragic that often ministry within the Methodist Church tends to be
restricted to those who can afford it. In response to that, we have initiated a fund (District
Malihambe Fund) to subsidise poorer and rural Churches and to increase agency in these areas.
Other creative initiatives to make ministry more affordable to rural areas are also being developed.
Promoting ways in which previously disconnected communities may encounter each other and be
affirmed by each other is an important part of this strategy. Particular focus is also being placed in
equipping leaders in disadvantaged areas with financial leadership and management skills training.
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3.2
Education And Resourcing For Ministry
Early in 2013 the District EMMU Committee reviewed its role and defined four key areas of training.
(Proper resourcing in these areas is key to restoring the dignity of God’s people and the
effectiveness in ministry).






Lay Training
Intentional resourcing is to be offered many largely neglected aspects. These include
leadership training, better training for Local Preachers, members of the Order of Evangelists
and material to deepen spiritual and devotional living.
Vocational direction and equipping
The work of our School of Vocation has been extended. People wanting to clarify or explore
their calling are offered extensive mentoring and material. More guidance and help is to be
offered to prospective candidates.
Training for this preparing for Ordination
Pastoral conduct in training
Ministers will be guided to pay ongoing attention to their developmental vocational needs. Areas of
concern and opportunity will include further theological training, management and lifestyle skills,
lifestyle issues and challenges, ministry skills. Processes of review and reflection are to be introduced
and Ministers will be required to reflect on their growth and development.
4.
SPIRITUALITY
A co-ordinated Intercessory Prayer Programme for the District is being introduced.


Ongoing and deeper reflection to be promoted to consider what Christ centred spirituality
means in our present context.
To make credible resources more available to our people.
5.
MISSION
While the District has had a strong emphasis on mission over the last two decades, we recognise the
need to review and refresh the work of our Mission Desk. How the District can and should be
facilitating mission in the local Church is under critical revision. A relaunch of the Desk is planned in
the second half of 2013. In line with the direction being offered by Connexional leadership our plans
include calling on local Churches to be effective as mission agents within School Committees. We
also need to offer more leadership with respect to justice issues.
6.
EVALUATING PRESENT MISSION ACTIVITY
6.1
Spirituality
Spirituality remains the principal focus of the District’s various activities. As the District that initiated
the EMMAUS movement in South Africa it is good to be able to report that three communities
continue to do well within the District. Seminars, Retreats, Conventions and Revivals continue in
various forms to resource our people.
We continue to facilitate processes that seek to ensure that our spirituality remains Christ centred
and more culturally relevant.
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6.2
Christian Service
A wide range of mission projects continue across the District. Most of our 300 Societies have at least
one mission project offering practical help and ministry. We are very close to embodying the vision
of every Church being a centre of healing. Many of these projects offer basic help or food to the
poor. Larger projects such as AMCARE, Epworth Children’s Village and Indawo Yosizo (Heidelberg)
continue to face the challenges of inconsistent Government funding and reduction of corporate and
international funding. AMCARE has made significant progress in the area of providing much needed
medical care. Several new projects across the District have emerged. Springs Care has increased the
scope of their work and acquired a large Community Centre building in the Springs CBD.
Many of the District Organisations including the Women’s Manyano, Young Men’s Guild, Women’s
Auxiliary, Women’s Fellowship and Young Women’s Manyano have extensive service projects.
6.3
Justice
An increasing awareness of the need of the Church to be more engaged in justice issues has
emerged. As labour issues have come to the fore (particularly in the mines following the Marikana
killings) the District has sought to become more involved in matters of labour and economic justice.
A Justice Champion for the District in the person of Rev Sethunya Motlhodi has been appointed and
will be an integral part of our revamped Mission Desk. Problems relating to service delivery and
corruption in South Africa are high priority in South Africa. Together with the Connexional Justice
Desk we are implementing initiatives to interrogate issues relating to democracy and governance in
Swaziland.
6.4
Evangelism and Church Growth
A greater number of Societies and Ministers are making Evangelism a higher priority. In some cases
Churches have enjoyed significant growth. Alpha has been an effective tool in several contexts. The
centenary of the Young Men’s Guild presented an evangelistic window which was well utilised in
some quarters.
Critical reconsideration of evangelistic methods remains part of our District’s conversation in the
light of ongoing societal developments.
6.5
Economic Empowerment and Development
A number of skills development projects exist within the District. Several resource newly skilled
people with business and entrepreneurial skills so that they can create their own employment
opportunities. Several communities have made Church land available for crop cultivation resulting
in unemployed people benefiting. We do, however, recognise that as a mission area that needs to
be given higher priority in the light of increased poverty in several of our communities.
6.6
Education and Children’s Ministry
As our reports in previous years reflect, ministry and mission to children has always been a high
priority to our District, and this continues to be the case. Our two Children’s Homes, various
Creches, Aftercare Centres, etc, continue to do good work. Our 33 Swazi Schools remain a priority
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and, while they have been given priority status by the Connexional Mission Department, we realise
that we have not made the most of this benefit. Our Swazi Mission Synod has resolved to do more
to place the needs of the Schools, and the mission opportunity that they represent, in Connexional
and District view. More Churches are being more intentional at becoming more effective in respect
of their evangelistic work among children and families. The Connexional call for Churches to “adopt”
a Public School has been heard and is being systematically promoted within the District.
7.
CONCLUSION
We celebrate much that is good within our District. We give thanks for much faithfulness that
honours God. While we remain a community that sees and struggles with many challenges of time
and context we continue to lead with hope and optimism towards a vision that we become to be
given to us by God.
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LIMPOPO DISTRICT (11)
BISHOP THEMBA MNTAMBO
1.
SYNOD
Synod met in Rustenburg which forms part of the platinum belt including Marikana. We were aware
of the deep pain and suffering caused by the death of miners and police officers in August 2012, and
the on-going strife within the mining industry between rival unions, the still unsuitable living
conditions in the hostels, the social problems created by the migrant worker system. At the
beginning of each session of Synod a moment was spent in prayer and lighting of a candle for all
those affected by the strife. In line with the Presiding Bishop’s theme around “togetherness”, and
meeting between Trinity Sunday and Pentecost we explored the theme of “Together in the Power of
the Holy Spirit” and the origin of the word Synod (together on the way). These guided us in seeking
consensus in our deliberations.
2.
MINING DISPUTES
The country and the world were still focused on the aftermath of the tragedy of Marikana. We
cannot even measure or comprehend the level of grief and pain the incident has caused. Statistics
show that one mineworker has six to nine people depending on his income; the 34 who died then
represent a much higher number of people who are at the risk of sinking deeper into poverty and
suffering. While the headlines in the media profile a number of prominent people involved in this
incident, there are a number of those who have been working quietly, away from the eyes of the
world in ministering to the people. We are grateful for our ministers in this area who continue to
offer support to all affected by this incident.
3.
EDUCATION
Our District has major tertiary institutions within its boundaries, receiving a large number of
students from outside Limpopo. A significant number of those are Methodists or have some link with
our church. Some Circuits in the Pretoria area have established ministries to students at the
University of Pretoria; however these are off-campus ministries, reaching only those who are able to
attend services at churches, mainly on Sundays. We have identified a need to extend our ministries
on campuses in these institutions in order to reach the large number of our students and to draw
the many un-churched young people into the life of the church. A more focussed and dedicated
ministry is being developed in order to minister to the young people on our campuses who may
otherwise be lost to the church. The call is therefore that every Circuit that has such institutions
consider appointing chaplains, either lay or ministerial, and for the District to source funding for such
ministries.
4.
BOTSWANA
Towards a New District
Progress is being made in our process for Botswana to become a District, with significant work
already done towards this goal. The Synod of 2012 gave its approval to the process and directed the
Botswana region to report back with the following:
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
Detailed income and expenditure statements of all five Circuits for a period of three years.
Membership Schedules of all the Circuits.
A detailed budget and funding proposal for the new District
Identify specific areas where there is potential growth within the region.
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Synod 2013 received a report from the working group tasked to carry this process and agreed that
the region be given District status in 2016. A resolution to this effect will be presented at this year’s
Conference.
5.
THE MINISTY
5.1
Stationing Challenges
The District has by and large managed to provide stations for ministers, but the increasing financial
challenges continue where Circuits can no longer afford as many ministers as they previously could.
Many Circuits have reduced or are contemplating reducing ministerial agency while the needs of our
communities seem to require that we appoint more ministers. The more rural and further flung
areas of our District bear the brunt of this problem.
5.2
Ministerial Families
There is a growing and alarming trend throughout the District (and Connexion), of ministers living
apart from their families. On-going conversations are being held with ministers and Circuit Stewards
that when invitations are extended or when ministers are stationed, consideration be given to
whether the ministers are able to move with their families. This requires the cooperation of
ministers and Circuit officials to resolve this issue where the minister takes responsibility that when
considering an invitation to bear in mind the need to be with the family, and to point out to the
inviting Circuit that they can only accept invitation if there is provision for the family to be together.
Circuit officials are encouraged to ensure that the minister’s family moves with him or her, and do all
in their power to assist in matters of schooling, employment of spouses and suitable accommodation
for the family.
5.3
Circuit Visits
Having taken office at the beginning of the year, the Bishop will spend 2013 in getting to know the
District, meeting the people and continuing to minister to the District as pastor to all the people. It
is planned that when visiting Circuits and regions the Bishop spends time together with the people in
conversation. The whole weekend, that is Friday evening to Sunday morning will be dedicated to
whatever programmes and activities Circuits together with the Bishop may decide on. While in
Francistown, Botswana the Bishop was able to interact with civic and political leaders, and had the
opportunity to explain how the MCSA operated in Southern Africa. He also used this opportunity to
raise the matter of work permits for ministers who are not citizens of Botswana and how these
leaders could assist the church in making it easier for our ministers to be stationed in that country.
This interaction has yielded positive results and helped to ease the difficulties our ministers face
with regard to obtaining work permits.
5.4
Mission
Our District Mission Task Team meets regularly to direct all mission work within the District under
the four Mission Imperatives, viz. Spirituality, Evangelism and Church Growth, Justice and Service,
and Economic Development and Empowerment.
5.5
Spirituality
The District’s efforts to deepen spirituality and encourage growth involve making use of resource
persons within the ministry and laity where groups and individuals are encouraged to spend time in
retreats led by suitably qualified people. Over the past few years it has also been found that spiritual
growth of our people is hampered by physical needs and illness. So much of the focus has been, in
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cooperation with other pillars of mission to conduct healing services which also included responding
to the needs that make for a better life for our people, especially in the rural parts of our District.
5.6
Evangelism and Church Growth
Our approach to evangelism is to embrace local cultures and traditions within the District, rather
than provide a blueprint which is expected to work for all people and all environments. Local
churches and organisations are therefore encouraged to do the work and the District provides the
guidance and resources where necessary. The focus this year has been mainly on children and youth
where cooperation with the District Youth Unit and Children’s Ministries has proved to be fruitful.
There will be a focus in the coming year on developing campus ministries led by local churches and
Circuits were institutions of learning are based. Cooperation with Operation Mobilization, which is to
serve as a resource for local churches, assisting in outreach programmes for all age groups has been
helpful. The intention is that this partnership will assist in developing church growth models suited
for local churches within the District.
5.7
Justice and Service
Several projects are running with varying degrees of success and sustainability. Among these are the
following:
5.7.1
Crime and Justice Watch
This is an ecumenical movement running since 2010 aimed at creating awareness on issues of crime
and justice through presentations, articles, teaching and preaching; recruiting volunteers to work as
programme facilitators, mediators and spiritual care workers within the Department of Correctional
Services; developing, equipping and resourcing volunteers; placing of volunteers; and monitoring,
evaluating and mentoring volunteers in their work.
5.7.2
Restorative Justice Training
This programme involves approaching crime from a biblical perspective; restoring ‘shalom’ by
addressing issues such as identity, relationships, punishment, reconciliation, forgiveness and
restoration.
5.7.3
Social Integration
This area of work seeks to mobilise the church to act as a bridge between the prison church
experience and reintegration of released ex-offenders back into society and the local church.
5.8
Economic Development and Empowerment
Our major area of work in this pillar has been on poverty elimination. The Feed-a-Friend programme
which involves the packaging of food to be distributed among the poor has been a great success
with a number of churches and organisations showing interest in either doing the packaging or
contributing to the purchase of ingredients for the food parcels. Synod this year set aside time for
food packaging and members of Synod got involved in the actual packaging. One of the lunches
provided for Synod delegates consisted of the food that would be distributed among the poor.
5.9
Education
The District is working on adding the pillar of education within our Mission Task Group.
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6.
DISTRICT MISSION FIELDWORKER
The District has employed a District Mission Fieldworker who provides a District presence in Circuits
and local churches where various mission projects, social action and responsibility programmes and
educational activities are conducted. The field worker is involved in a variety of activities such as
conducting workshops, facilitating training, supporting care givers and involvement in HIV/AIDS
programmes. Some areas of work are:



Places of safety for vulnerable children based in the Hennops River, Garankuwa and
Northern Odi Circuits.
A hospice in Hammanskraal, Themba Circuit.
Mahube Healing Centre which cares for people affected by HIV/Aids. A new unit to care for
sex workers and vulnerable women has been opened recently.
7.
CONCLUSION
As we continue to explore our theme of togetherness, we seek to build our District into one unit
where every Circuit, every local church, and every member has a sense of belonging within Limpopo.
We are aware of the challenges we face where Circuits are differently resourced and so we attempt
to encourage all to bring their resources together to support and uphold the work of God in our
area. We celebrate the work done by the ministers in providing spiritual leadership and care,
especially in the more vast and far flung areas of the District. We give thanks to the laity who often
hold local churches together in the absence of ministers who have to care for large numbers of
congregations. We give thanks for all organisations that not only conduct significant work in mission
but ensure the presence of the church in communities. We rejoice at the growth of the church as
new buildings are dedicated, social development projects are initiated and new areas of mission are
explored especially in the far northern region.
Our focus in the coming year will be developing ministry to the far northern region of the District
and in Botswana. This will require courageous faith, financial resourcing and careful planning and
vision to extend the work God has called us to do.
Shalom, Grace and Peace.
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MOZAMBIQUE (12)
BISHOP DINIS MATSOLO
1.
INTRODUCTION
2012 was a settling year for Mozambique District as the new District Leadership was trying to find its
footing in conducting its affairs. As we all know, change is a process that is never easy but an
indispensable component for growth and development to take place. We thank God for what we
managed to do during the period in reference. By the grace of God, the District is rising up, slowly
but surely, with great potential for expansion and growth, because, as indicated in the previous
report, Mozambique is a sleeping giant with huge potentialities for development.
2.
COUNTRY OVERVIEW
The Country is experiencing an ever growing discovery of its economic potential, that leads to megaprojects investment interest, which in turn brings a lot of anxiety among citizens as to how best
would that blessing in natural resources transform the lives of the people for better. The question
has been: “Will the natural resources that are being discovered be a blessing or a curse for our
beloved country?”
In fact people are beginning to be concerned that lately, after 20 years of relative peace and
stability, a clear indication that Mozambicans have been good custodians of the peace that was
achieved through the sacrifice of a lot fellow citizens, we are, since the end of last year, experiencing
a political crises that opposes the Government and RENAMO. With regards of this, the Church is
trying to play its prophetic role, as it will be underlined bellow.
3.
2013 ANNUAL SYNOD
Our 31st Annual Synod took place from the 23rd to the 26th of May, 2013, at Limpopo-Sul Circuit,
under the theme: “Produce therefore, fruits worthy of your transformation” Luke 3: 8.
In that way, the District was challenged to understand that the question of producing fruits is not an
option but an obligation. Thus each and every one should ask him/herself if he/she is producing
fruits… if, yes… then what kind of fruits and how many?
We had profound discussions on the work of the Church in Mozambique as well as on Connexional
issues. The Country’s socio-political situation was also analyzed and the Church was challenged to
play her prophetic role.
We were also led in Bible Study sessions by Rev. Fernando Matsimbe, from the United Methodist
Church in Mozambique, who emphasized “the value of thanking God for everything and in every
moment through giving” (Ephesians 5: 20, Job 1:13). Rev Matsimbe, appealed to Church members
for a greater pawning in producing fruits that can contribute to the growth of God’s work.
Our meeting at Hokwe, in Limpopo-Sul Circuit was also a way for the District to show solidarity with
the flood victims.
The Youth Synod which preceded the District Synod was held at Matola Circuit. It was an occasion to
reflect on youth ministry in our District and Young People were challenged to become more
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proactive and play their role towards the Growth and Development of our Church. The gathering
was blessed by the presence of the Connexional Youth Coordinator with his team, who offered to do
everything possible to get the Young People of Mozambique District involved in the activities of the
Connexion, and challenged them to envisage projects that may galvanize youth ministries.
4.
ACHIEVEMENTS/MAJOR CELEBRATIONS
We thank God for what we were able to accomplish over the period in analyses, even in the midst of
difficulties:
4.1
Spirituality
The District activities and Synod Reports show that our focus continues to be Spiritual growth for
Mission and Evangelism. Thus, Bible Studies, Class Meetings, Confirmation Class, Prayer Groups and
Retreats are carried out in the Local Society and Circuit level and by Departments/Organizations.
A Ministers Retreat was held mid-February, at Chidenguele – Gaza Province, 270 Km out of Maputo.
The occasion was used for a prayerful reflection on our Calling and our Mission. We spent time
reflecting on Mission and Evangelism (Church growth and expansion). In fact, our being at
Chidenguele gave us a unique opportunity to see the potential of growth and expansion of our
Church, being that the place where we envisage establishing the Lodge Project and Church planting.
4.2.
Evangelism And Church Growth
At the District level we hold at least two Revival Services per year and the Circuits organize Quarterly
Revivals, while Organizations and Groups/Departments promote Evangelistic outreaches in various
places, but as indicated previously, Mozambique continues to be an enormous platform for Mission,
Evangelism and Church Growth. During the period in reference we visited the Manica province in the
“Zona Centro” Circuit and Nampula province, including the Marratane Refugees Center, and the
potentialities were confirmed. We need to join hands and efforts as a Connexion to type at those
opportunities for growth and expansion.
We thank God that all the Circuits have embraced the “building of places of Worship” efforts.
4.3
Justice and Service
Children’ Ministry is becoming a priority to many of our Circuits where some of our Church
properties/halls serve as Crèches, and HIV and AIDS initiatives are carried out in some of our Circuits.
Our involvement in an Inter-Religious Initiative against Malaria is proving to be making a superb
contribution towards the elimination of this disease.
Concerning the Country's Political Crises we would like to report that all started when in October last
year, the RENAMO Leader (President Dhlakama) went to fix residence at Santhunghira in Gorongosa,
as a way of complaining on what he considered to be "power abuse" by FRILIMO.
On January the 4th we took the initiative of going to Gorongosa in the company of Dr. Brazao
Mazula, the former Vice - Chancellor (Rector) of Eduardo Mondlane University (the largest and
oldest in Country) and first President of the National Electoral Commission, with the objective of
finding
out
from
him,
why
did
he
decided
to
get
to
the
bush.
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36
He expressed his appreciation for our courage and concern that led us to get there, and assured us
of the fact that he did not go there to restart war, but as a way of putting pressure and voicing out
his complaints that have never been heard so far. His concerns were: that he felt that there was no
true Democracy in Mozambique; that the Electoral Law was not transparent but rather benefiting
FRELIMO; that there was partidarization of the State; that the Rome Peace Accord was not fully
implemented, especially as it pertains Defense and Security; and that the discovery of worth in the
country and the emergence of mega-industries was not benefiting the country but only a few. He
also indicated that we were welcomed to report to the President of the Republic about what he told
us and come back to re-check and interact, if necessary. That then opened the way for us to get
involved and play our prophetic role.
We then went to report to President Guebuza, who also thanked us for the initiative and
encouraged us to do our best for Peace preservation. We are now facilitating dialogue between
them, meeting the Political Leaders, de Delegations from both parts and all other interested parts,
persuading them to do their parts for the sake of Peace. This is an ongoing process which we hope
will culminate with a face to face encounter between the two political Leaders.
For the success of the endeavor we count with the prayers and support of all of you.
5.
ECONOMINC EMPOWERMENT & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
In this area, we continued focusing on training/capacity building events for the various Church
Groups and/or Organizations/Departments on Church Structures, Class Leadership, Leadership with
Responsibility, Stewardship and giving.
The District is supporting an Agricultural project at Mapandzeni in Limpopo-Norte Circuit that is
producing marvelous results after the floods, a clear expression of hope even after such a tragedy.
We also provided food, hygienic and clothes supplies, as well as Bibles and hymn books for the
floods victims in Gaza Province. We thank the Connexion and the Methodist family abroad for the
support afforded to our District.
6.
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCES
With the assistance of an external Senior Accountant we managed to put up accounting systems as
well as to build internal capacity by producing systems control instruments and training an
Accountant Assistant (Mss Zefa Mondlane). Apart from helping to produce the accounts report, the
Accountant gave a set of recommendations of work that should be done to maximize the quality of
financial management in the District which are being implemented. Part of the recommendations is
extensive to helping the Circuits to improve their financial management systems. This is work in
progress.
Circuit assessments are still a major challenge, but the sensitization effort by the District Leadership
for members of the Church to increase the level of financial contributions is beginning to show fruits,
especially in “Rona” contributions as the Synod Reports indicates.
7.
PERSPECTIVES
In order to move forward as a District we plan to undertake the following:


To work towards an understanding of the potentialities of our People and District.
To update the District Statistics.
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



To continue working on capacitating the Leaders efficiency and effectively in their role.
We would like to be more aggressive in our Mission and Evangelism endeavors in order to
spread Methodism throughout Mozambique, and thus, call upon the Connexion to journey
with us as the task is huge in a way that we may not be able to accomplish it alone.
To invest more and improve accommodation for Ministers (manses).
To produce and avail (to leaders at all levels) training material in Portuguese.
8.
CONCLUSION
At times the task and challenges seem to be more and huge than we can afford, but as District, we
are called to produce fruits worthy of your transformation. We mustn’t therefore be merely proud
of being Methodists or Christians, but we must produce fruits that show what we say we are. In fact,
a tree is known by its fruits. No good tree produces bad fruits and no bad tree produce good fruits
(Mat 12:33). Thus, we thank God that despite all the hardships, we remain committed and hold fast
our belief in the vision of “A Christ-Healed Africa for the healing of Nations”. These motivate us to
moving forward and transform those challenges into opportunities for growth.
Thank you all for prayers and support, and God bless.
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CLARKEBURY (13)
BISHOP VICTOR TSHANGELA
1.
INTRODUCTION
The year 2012 has come and gone giving way for the year 2013. We ended 2012 celebrating the
work done by Bishop A N Mnaba, who had served this district for the past nine years. We praise God
for all the good work He had allowed him to do. I accepted the baton from him with great fear and
awe, but trusting in the wisdom of the ever wise and trustworthy, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
It is like a bad dream to think that at synod we mourned the passing of this worthy servant of God.
May his soul rest in peace.
At the same time it is painful to say that I went through my first synod in this District with my dear
wife lying in pain in hospital, not knowing that the Lord had other plans for her in higher places. I
thank the Lord for giving me her as a loving companion through this ministry for so many years. I
know that the Lord has not forsaken me, but has allowed her to be a guardian angel to me and our
children.
2.
THE STATE OF THE DISTRICT
We begin this year with some circuits ravaged by conflict from within. Even in that darkness there is
a light at the end of the tunnel. There is great potential for mission and growth in this District. We
are encouraged by the vision of the early missionaries, like William Shaw, who did sterling work in
starting the work by building a chain of stations, and building school to bring light to the people of
this District in those dark days in our land. I must say though that this work seems to have been
neglected and forgotten. The beautiful buildings that were the pride of our work in yester year are
standing in a very bad state of repair. The morale of most of our ministers is very low. God called
the church out of the world , and sent it back to do His mission in the world, but it got swallowed up
by the world, and became corrupt like the world. It is like when God called the children of Israel out
of bondage in Egypt into Canaan and were corrupted by the ways of the Canaanites. That is why at
synod I had to call for “A LIBERATED MIND ON A TRANSFORMED HEART”. Our mission is the
proclamation of a liberating Gospel for healing and transformation. This is based on the following
five imperatives:
2.1
Spirituality:
The District is involved in various areas of spirituality:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Retreats for ministers, minister’s wives, circuit stewards took place during the year, and
various circuits organized some retreats for their leaders,
Conventions run by the Women’s Manyano, Young Women’s Manyano, Young Men,s Guild,
Local Preacher’s Association and Sunday School see the members of these organizations
grow spiritually.
Prayer services were held for various happenings and the sick and bereaved people in our
circuits.
Healing services are held at various times and places in the District. Many people receive
healing spiritually in these services. Prayers done by the Women’s Manyanos every
Thursdays are a powerful tool for healing.
Class meetings and Bible studies in circuits can be accounted for most of the spirituality of
our members in our circuits.
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2.2
Evangelism and Church Growth:
The work done by the order of Evangelism is very much commendable. These servants of God go to
very challenging places to find the stray people of God and bring them back to the fold. They work
under very difficult and trying circumstances. The order in this District partners with the Nzondelelo
movement in the Natal District. We cannot forget the work done by the Young Men’s Guild in
reviving fallen souls in the circuits. New forms of evangelization, like the one to one method, are
used to win new people for Christ. New churches are planted in various circuits through the hard
work of these people of God. The Methodist Youth Unit is also very active in evangelism. They hold
evangelistic campaigns especially during the month of September which is set aside specifically for
Youth work in the circuits.
2.3
Human and Economic Development And Empowerment
Efforts of going back to farming, both stock and crop farming seem to be on the cards for most
communities. Poultry farming is evident in some missions to try and encourage the people towards
self- sufficiency. In one circuit pig farming is taking off. In some circuits people are being
empowered in the modern form of crop farming, like perma-culture.
Workshops were conducted for the stewards in various regions of the District, in stewardship.
Financial management workshops were run for circuit stewards and treasurers in the District.
Various workshops were done for ministers on how to improve their ministry skills.
2.4
Justice and Service:
Care has been taken, in some circuits, of children who have lost their parents through HIV/AIDS.
Foster parents have been found for these children people have been encouraged in conventions and
even at synod to come forward and be tested for this epidemic, and those who are infected are
encouraged to take the medication for it. Children without birth certificates were identified in some
circuits and were assisted to obtain these. Some were even assisted to access child support grants.
2.5
EDUCATION:
The matric results are the worst in our region, hence a call has been made that the churches should
become involved in education. Some ministers are involved in the Lima project in cooperation with
other churches and the Department of Education. All the department of our church have joined
forces in establishing a bursary fund for the needy and deserving scholars. Last year two were
assisted to register at tertiary level. We hope that this bursary scheme is going to grow each year. It
is not meant for Methodist children only, but for all needy and deserving children.
3.
CONFERENCE 2013:
You are all welcome to conference in the Clarkebury District
God bless you.
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MISSION UNIT
REV KF KETSHABILE
1.
INTRODUCTION
The establishment of the Justice and Service Desk within the Mission Unit this year has been one of
the milestones in the life of the MCSA. Whilst Justice and Service work has been happening in the life
of the church over the years, we are pleased that the J & S Desk report is before us in a more
focussed way. A careful and keen reader of the MU reports over the past years will appreciate the
growing work in HIV/AIDS and Childcare ministries as reflected in this year’s report. Also evident in
this year’s report is the critical role that partnerships and ecumenical cooperation plays in the
mission of God, missio Dei, that the church is called to. We hope that the report will inspire and
encourage further engagement in mission work.
2.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE DESK
Conference 2012 resolved to establish a formal Justice and Service function within the Mission Unit
of the MCSA. A process to develop the strategy and approach for the function, and a budget for the
first year’s work was undertaken. The Presiding Bishop’s Office and MCO approved the strategy and
budget and work commenced in February 2013. In May 2013, Paul Verryn was appointed to lead the
Justice and Service function within the Connexion.
Consultation was undertaken with Districts. All Mission Coordinators were requested to develop an
overview of the key justice issues within their Districts at the 2013 annual Mission Unit Consultation.
Key issues emerged as poverty, unemployment, land disputes, violence against women and children
and democracy. District Synods were requested to appoint Justice and Service Coordinators. Ideally
each Circuit and Society should have a person or persons designated to embrace the dream of
justice in a local context. There has been some suggestion that the Connexional Coordinator should
try to meet with Bishops as they meet in their Clusters and if possible for their District Coordinators
to be present for part of that work so that expectations, lines of communication and accountability
are clearly mapped out. It is abundantly clear that the presence of Bishops in some of the work is
critical.
Much of this work demands urgent unfettered intervention. We need to be careful that this ministry
does not just end with meetings, but that we build a capacity of acting swiftly in response to some of
the symptoms that represent far deeper issues in our Southern Africa context. It is also to be noted
that in certain incidents the Presiding Bishop’s direction will be of critical importance and the
initiation and action in particular matters could well be at his direction.
3.
ESTABLISHING TASK TEAMS TO TAKE FORWARD PAST RESOLUTIONS OF CONFERENCE
Task teams were established to take forward the work from Conference Resolutions that had been
referred to the Mission Desk since 2009.
Work commenced to ensure MCSA communities:




Could access the building standards for making buildings accessible to the disabled;
Provide additional information to the MCSA constituency on legislation dealing with
traditional courts and leadership;
Combat substance abuse;
Be more active in our confrontation of violence against women and children;
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
Address the issue of e-Tolling.
4.
OTHER INTERVENTIONS
For some time now it has been thought that the church generally, not simply the MCSA, had
disappeared from the social justice platform and anxiety has been expressed that, in South Africa,
for example, with the downsizing of the SACC, crucial matters in the life of the nation are either
being ignored or certainly are not receiving the engagement of the church in a way that influences
the conscience of the nation. This has not meant that absolutely no work has been done but it
certainly seems as if a new energised commitment needs to be taken up and the church’s presence
as a critical voice in society must be heard.
The interventions in Marikana can be described as a multi layered approach. It has included
conversations that have had mediation overtones with management and various unions. The
financial disparities in this context have drawn attention to a dimension of our political life in South
Africa which is one of the greatest threats to the stability of Southern Africa. Our intervention has
also meant engagement with the South African Police Services and also the tribal authority for the
area. Furthermore, some of the engagement has meant visitation to homes of the bereaved and the
mooting of healing circles to enable communities to understand the symptoms of post traumatic
stress. The engagement with Marikana has uncovered the huge complexity of ministry in a mining
context and challenges the Church to review its entire approach to this ministry.
At the invitation of a local society in the Johannesburg North area, engagement has occurred with
the community known as Clay Oven which has been exposed to a variety of human rights violations.
It seems as if a strategy has been employed by the authorities to make life untenable in the Clay
Oven location because there are plans for highway development in the exact area of the informal
community. An added nuance to the difficulties is that most of the inhabitants are from Lesotho and
have faced all the complexities that foreign nationals do at the hands of the Department of Home
Affairs and the police. The United Nations High Commission for Refugees and the South African
Human Rights Commission have been appraised of the matter, as the behaviour of the police during
a particular raid on the community has been reprehensible. Again, the issue of poverty has raised its
head as a feature of the crisis in which these people finds themselves. Strategies to skill and
empower this community for employment has been a major part of the intervention.
A third important example of intervention would be engagement in ongoing land, accommodation
and evictions sagas. The Church, as one of the largest landowners in our region cannot escape its
responsibility in seeking to explore strategies that provide secure shelter for the most dispossessed.
Of critical import is the more general question of the allocation of land and the profound perception
that we still live in the shadow of colonised states.
There are other areas of engagement such as Sasolburg; a coalition of urban mission operatives;
engagement with Provincial Departments of Education in seeking to improve standards; grass roots
interventions in rural communities; Swaziland democracy; ongoing xenophobic violence and
violation of the rights of refugees to mention some.
Peace initiatives in Mozambique
We acknowledge with gratitude work done by Bishop Dinis Matsolo in initiating pastoral
conversations between the Government of Mozambique and RENAMO. These conversations have
resulted in the facilitation of a face to face meeting between the President of the Republic of
Mozambique and the leader of RENAMO. Under the umbrella of the Electoral Observatory, the InterReligious forum, the ecumenical body and other civil society leaders have begun working together to
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influence a positive and desired outcome. The peace talks have up to this time helped prevent the
possible eruption of conflict between RENAMO and FRELIMO (the Government) which could have
dire consequences for the people of Mozambique and the SADC community
5.
ECUMENICAL ENGAGEMENT
The Church Unity Commission has a sub-committee entitled “Places of Hope” which in some
respects has a similar mandate to the Justice and Service function of the MCSA. This is an important
window of opportunity for cooperation.
6.
CONCLUSION
There is no doubt that the engagement in this dimension of God’s work in humanity opens horizons
to a most dynamic and vital response to God’s love.
7.
HIV AND AIDS DESK
While the Millennium Development Goal No. 6 aims at combatting HIV/AIDS, malaria and other
diseases, the declaration adopted by World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1978, goes on to state
that “…the attainment of highest standard of health is the most important world-wide goal whose
realisation need action from other sectors, economic & social in addition to health sector…”. It is the
realisation of the above truth that the role played by the religious sector in waging a robust response
to HIV & AIDS is gaining momentum and recognition from communities as well as government.
As Methodists committed to a vision of healing, we are all held responsible for the realisation of the
MCSA’s “Christ healed Africa for the healing of Nations” vision. It remains a direct challenge for
every Methodist to live to “make this vision become flesh” by being the practitioners who bring
healing to every front. When through our Mission Charter we committed ourselves to taking
intentional and sustained action to implement a vigorous response to the crisis of HIV & AIDS, we
pledged to play an intentional role towards achieving this. The report on interventions made by the
MCSA across its Connexion is evidence of efforts to fulfil the commitment of Methodists enshrined
in their own Mission Charter on HIV & AIDS. Much as the ailing donor fund landscape has limited the
activities that can be carried out, the compassionate hearts of MCSA people who continue to offer
themselves to this ministry made this a rich year.
8.
CONNEXIONAL HIV AND AIDS ACTIVITIES
Four Districts & MCSA partners from World Vision participated in the Connexional World AIDS Day
event which was held in The Queenstown District on 2 December 2012. HIV Counselling and Testing
(HCT) services were rendered by the District Department of Health (DOH) in Dutywa. There was an
impressive display of material from all attending Districts. The guest speaker for the day was Dr N.
Sangoni. An activist who lives positively as well as orphans who benefit from MCSA programmes
gave testimonies. There were messages of support from local DOH and the representative of King
Sandile Sigcau who hosted the event. Four home-based care-givers (HBC) of the Queenstown District
projects received T-shirts, HBC bags & kits. Four circuits of the hosting region received food parcels
for 210 families, courtesy the MCSA partner SAP (Sytems, Applications & Products in Data
Processing, an international company dealing in application software). Overall, the event
demonstrated the commitment and passion of Methodist people at all levels and various
communities to fight the scourge of the pandemic and to care for those affected and infected. It also
underlined the importance of partnerships in this area of ministry.
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The first draft of the newly revised MCSA Strategy & Implementation Plan booklet is ready for
comment and input. It is available from the Mission Unit. Translation into Portuguese of the CUAHA
(Churches United Against HIV & AIDS) Training Manual of “Towards a HIV Competent Church” is in
progress. The MCSA’s presentation on “Our Response to HIV & AIDS” to South African National AIDS
Council (SANAC) Religious Sector Summit in February was well-received and regarded as a best
practise model.
The HIV/AIDS Coordinator participated at the Collaboration for HIV & AIDS (University of Natal)
“Contestation on HIV & AIDS Conference” and attended and participated at the briefing of SACC
member churches by the MEC for Health Dr A. Motswaledi, where information was shared on the
strategy by government for HIV & AIDS response for all role-players. This interaction served to
confirm that the MCSA’s strategic plan on treatment is on track.
The MCSA has gained a new training partner in the Aurum Institute who will serve greatly to enable
our present decentralised community-based centres with clinical training and training material
development. Our partner SAP has done impressive facelift and renovations which will convert the
Khwezi HIV & AIDS Centre at Yase-Thekwini Central Methodist Church in Natal Coastal District into
an efficient facility. The company is also presently furnishing the centre.
9.
GLOBAL FUND (GF)
9.1
Refresher training by trained trainers of trainers
Eight workshops from all five 5 inland provinces were conducted between November and December
2012 by the trainers trained earlier last year. These workshops have made a big impact on our sites
as they were not focusing only on GF trained caregivers.
9.2
Monitoring and Evaluation
A mid-term evaluation for Phase 1 was conducted by a Prof. Kataruza from Wits University. It was
aimed at evaluating the work done so far and the impact made by the GF. HBC and OVC caregivers,
ministers from incumbent circuits and beneficiaries/clients from all of our sites were invited to be a
part of this evaluation. They were interviewed privately about the programme. It became clear from
the feedback elicited that the benefiting communities now view the MCSA in a different but positive
light. They stated that their lives have been given meaning and purpose as a result of the support
they received from the care-givers in their various contexts.
During 2013, the National Religious Association for Social Development (NRASD) paid three visits to
the Mission Unit for the purpose of on-site data verification to check our progress and datacompliance within the GF Programme. The feedback has been positive and encouraging. Due to the
quality of our work, the MCSA has been identified as one of the beneficiaries for Phase 2 starting in
October 2013. We are currently in the process of identifying new sites for wider reach and impact.
The following areas were selected based upon a number of factors (HIV prevalence, number of
orphans, poverty level, unemployment, school attendance): Gert Sibande & Ehlanzeni District
(Mpumalanga), Lejweleputswa District & Thabo Mofutsanyane District (Free State), Dr Kenneth
Kaunda District (North West), Sekhukhune District & Mopani District (Limpopo) and Sedibeng District
(Gauteng).
9.3
Reach of the programme
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The following Projects benefitted from the Global Fund food parcel support (one parcel per
household and which feeds an average of eight people): 3136 food parcels, which fed 25 304
beneficiaries were distributed between October 2012 and June 2013 in the following areas: God is
Able (Limpopo District), Bula Monyako (Highveld & Swaziland ), Pimville Call Group (Central),
Bophelo HIV/AIDS (KNB), Modimo O Matla (Limpopo), Tholimpilo (Highveld & Swaziland), Empilweni
(Highveld &Swaziland), Lethabong (Limpopo), Nehemiah Place of Love (Central), Tsogang (Limpopo),
Indawo Yosizo (Highveld & Swaziland)
600 children received toiletries such as face clothes, tooth paste and brush, aqueous cream,
deodorant, body soap and sanitary towels for girls. 600 children received school uniforms ranging
from school shoes, socks, pants, tunic, shirts, ties, pull-overs, jerseys, and blazers. 500 children
received blankets to warm them up in this cold winter.
We are happy to announce that by the end of June 2013, which is our Year 3, the MCSA has reached
out to a total of 7 564 direct beneficiaries in under-served areas between October 2012 and June
2013. The total number of clients reached with home-based and OVC care services by the MCSA
between January 2011 and June 2013 is 14 257.
10.
CHILDCARE DESK
The functions of the Desk include, among many things; aligning of Child Care policies and protocols
of the church and State, coordination of Children’s work towards compliance with the Children’s Act,
encouraging and supporting the formation of District and local church structures for children’s work
and encouraging programmes that ensure the best interest of the child is taken seriously at all levels
of the church.
Child development pillars include development, participation, support, care and protection and
these are aligned to the objects of the desk which are:





Building Capacity
Strengthening ECD programmes
Policy and Compliance
Advocacy and Networking
Strengthening Partnership
Training on different issues was conducted during the past year in various districts. Topics included
listening to children, understanding the context of the child as well as identifying issues that put
children at risk. At some of the presentations the participants were shown the video from OUTWARD
BOUND, in which the Presiding Bishops calls on the church to make available church structures for
education and childhood development. Some of the Children’s homes who were exposed to the
content have started an initiative that has begun to make a visible difference in the local schools as
well as improve the teachers’ morale and increase parental participation.
The heads of the various children’s homes continue to meet quarterly to learn from each other and
share tried and tested intervention methods that ensure growth and development. The homes are
presently looking at professionalising their skills and knowledge base in therapy with a view of
expanding services to the community at large. The plan is to increase community outreach
programmes with a view of re-integrating children into their families whilst preventing the breakdown in family relationships to reduce the need for children to be institutionalised.
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A network of pre-school heads and practitioners is also looking at collaboration to increase their
reach to children who cannot afford opportunities to be stimulated. There is an increase in the
development of holiday clubs and programmes in the urban areas. There is also a call for support to
develop these programmes in the rural areas of our Connexion. Some churches are growing their
reading and maths programmes, utilizing the spaces they have in the churches. Books of all
languages are needed, particularly for young children so that these can be distributed to schools and
churches to ensure that literacy and numeracy in our children is improved.
Some Women’s Manyano programmes have assisted with the registration of children. This is a
serious and central issue as many children of Africa do not know who they are because the state
does not know who their parents and caregivers are. The potential of any human being is unleashed
when they know who they are. The gravity of children born on mine campuses or the death of a
child’s caregiver before they can be registered will affect the progress of ensuring that, as a church,
we raise children as God intended. The non-registration of children can be also a critical contributor
towards the continued perpetuation of a range of abuses including slavery.
The childcare Desk is encouraging that special events dates include prayers for our children. The
events include Global 4/14 Day, Child Protection week (last week in May), International Day of the
Child (1 June), Children’s Rights Day (16 June) and Youth Month (September).
Two documents are available from the Mission Unit. These are the MCSA Children’s Policy Booklet
and the MCSA Safeguarding procedures for children and young people. They spell out the position of
the MCSA in terms safeguarding children in all its institutions. Churches are encouraged to assign
individuals who will ensure that children are safe and can get help when required. All churches,
children’s homes, camps, pre-schools, drop-in centres and children’s shelters need to ensure that
they are compliant, so as not to compromise the position of the MCSA.
All those working with children have been asked to take the Children’s Act with regard to screening
seriously. We celebrate the fact that more than 300 people including Bishops have been screened
and been found safe to work with children. Pamphlets are available on how to apply for registration
or start early childhood programmes as well as how to strengthen the quality of palliative care
programmes that are already operative. Another pamphlet gives a description of the children’s
homes and encourages the registration of all homes.
Advocacy this year has been key in addressing issues that impact the well-being of children. There is
a concern about the unaccompanied minors who move through the Connexion. The concern was
further highlighted by 30,000 young children recorded and reported missing or trafficked by human
rights partners in South Africa since 2010. Education is required across the board as well as
information about ministries and stories of good practice where services and prevention
programmes are carried out.
Through the “Take a Stand to uphold the dignity of Women and Children” initiative driven by the
Amadodana, the Childcare Desk increased links with stakeholders in the Connexion and is proud of
the initiative done in all Districts. This movement will culminate in the 1,5 million man march
planned for August, when men take a stand against abuse of women and children. We are grateful
to all the Districts that ensured that activities for raising awareness were implemented during the
“Child Protection Week” and to all those who wore the green ribbon to emphasize this week.
The Childcare Desk continues to have strong relationships with partners from Action for Children,
the United Methodist Church in Germany, the Methodist Church in Britain and the Global Board of
Ministries in the United States. These partners have supported Childcare Desk work in Botswana,
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Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia. They support pre-schools, leadership development as well as
material support for the practitioners and ECD sites. Capacity building is core to the sustainability of
the programmes for long term sustainability. This is encouraged in partnership with District bishops
and circuit superintendents with a view that the District take ownership of programmes.
11.
PROJECTS CO-ORDINATING DESK (including SAMVIM)
The work of SAMVIM continues around the Connexion in many different forms. One of the highlights
of this year has been the appointment of a SAMVIM coordinator for the Cape of Good Hope District
in the form of Lester Sedras. This has meant that the District is constantly being reminded of
volunteerism.
Many of our churches have been involved in reaching out to make a Christian difference. This last
year, a number of churches have travelled to different destinations in Africa: St Luke’s in Welkom
sent teams to Madagascar, Malawi was a destination for mission teams from local churches and
others have gone to Mozambique and Swaziland to work on Methodist schools there. Teams have
travelled to these places with a view of working in partnership with local communities and not for
them.
We still have ongoing Connexional projects. The Swaziland School project continues with a number
of churches and organizations travelling to Swaziland to help with the upkeep of different schools
there. This project is in response to the Conference resolution on this matter.
The Mooiplaas project in the Queenstown District is moving along well with the local community
having taken ownership. The partnership with the Church of the Resurrection is a part of this. There
is a possibility that the first team from Church of the Resurrection could visit Mooiplaas in October
this year when they are in South Africa. This should help with future teams that come and work on
the project site with the local community.
12.
HELPLIFT NETWORK
The Helplift Network, initiated by the Dutch Reformed Church, is a means of connecting those with
resources with those who are in need. It is a way for those who are resourced and would not
normally get involved in mission to be able to help make a difference in our hurting world. All that
needs to be done is for churches or communities to co-ordinate those who have the resource and
those who are in need. All the necessary information can be found on the MCSA website as well on
the Helplift Network website (www.helplift.co.za). All churches are encouraged to look at this way of
reaching out.
13.
PULA FUND
We have supported a number of different projects within the Districts financially through the Pula
Fund again this year. These are projects that have met the criteria of the Mission Unit in terms of
receiving funding from the Pula fund. One of the criteria is that the projects report back to the
Mission Unit as to how the projects are doing both physically as well as financially. The projects have
a component of capacity building as well as skills development in them. These together go a long
way in helping to alleviating some of the poverty that we experience in South Africa today. In order
to strengthen this Connexional mission fund, we earnestly appeal to circuits and Districts to give to
the M & E (Rona) generously. The Pula Fund is critical for the support of mission work throughout
the Connexion.
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14.
PARTNERSHIPS
14.1
Methodist Church in Britain
Grateful thanks are extended to the Methodist Church in Britain for their support for the MCSA
Parliamentary Liaison Officer and Connexional Youth Unit as well as for the ministers in Maseru and
Rundu and two Namibian students and for future partial support towards the Justice and Service
Desk. The Childcare Desk wishes to express appreciation for the contribution towards capacity
building for children’s work in Namibia.
14.2
United Methodist Church, Germany
We are grateful to the German United Methodist Church and the volunteers who have assisted
various projects throughout Southern Africa this year. Franziska Zucker and Irina Thamm spent time
in the Natal Coastal and Natal West District respectively. Nora Eschmann and Stephanie Koerner
served in Windhoek, Namibia. Juliana Thater assisted the Ikageng project in Soweto (Central District)
with her social work skills and Lea Hofmann, a qualified nurse assisted at a hospital in Mozambique.
We look forward to a new quota of volunteers later this year. Chris Hertler served in Cambine ij
Mozambique.
14.3
General Board of Global Ministries
Two mission interns from the USA have spent time since the beginning of 2013 working in Tzaneen.
Michelle Wood has been doing research into the issue of children from Zimbabwe who cross the
border into South Africa, often unaccompanied by an adult they know and trust. She is recording the
services and support for these minors so as to inform the church on the most practical way in which
the church can deal with this social atrocity. Rebekah Phillips has been helping develop the skills of
practitioners who will develop food gardens for OVCs as well as for households gripped with illness
and who require food to ensure adherence to medication. A third mission intern, Hilary Taylor,
assisted at SMMS.
14.4
Church of the Resurrection
In June this year, a team from the Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City, USA came to assist with
leadership training in Northern Free State & Lesotho District (76 participants) and the Kimberley,
Namibia & Bloemfontein District (71 participants). The Leading Beyond the Walls three day seminars
were attended by ministers and lay people and many were reminded of principles for growing
churches. Evaluations from participants demonstrate that the seminars were fruitful in many ways. It
challenged circuit leadership to think afresh about leading their churches in missional and
transformative ways. Should resources permit, the MU and EMMU plan to do follow-up to ensure
that the training was not in vain. Renewal and revitalization of churches in these Districts is an
expected outcome of the training. We are grateful to the Church of the Resurrection, especially the
Rev Adam Hamilton and the team that came to join us during this seminar. The Rev. Cayce Stapp
has, since the signing of the MOA in 2011, ensured that our partnership is kept alive and healthy.
14.5
Volunteerism
Volunteers to Southern Africa are greatly enriched by the learning and experiences they receive. This
makes partnerships truly valuable to both sides.
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15.
APPRECIATION
A word of thank you from the Mission Unit staff goes to all those who have worked, encouraged and
advised us in order that we can serve the Connexion better. The District coordinators, District
Bishops, the Advisory Board chaired by Bishop T Mntambo and the office of the Presiding Bishop are
among the many who have made our tasks easier and more meaningful. We thank you.
15.1
The Mission Unit Advisory Board for 2013 is to consist of:
Bishop Themba Mntambo (Chairman)
Bishop Mike Vorster
Deacon Dr Vernon van Wyk
Rev Faith Whitby
Ms Yoli Tashe
Mr Mbongeni Magagula
Mr John Schorn
Rev Kenaleone Ketshabile
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Appendix 1
PULA FUND
Income:
Grants Paid:
Grants to Units:
Presiding Bishop’s Contingency Fund
Mission Area Grants:
Projects:
Mission Unit:
Communication Unit
Christian Education Unit
Ecumenical Affairs
Youth Unit
Order of Evangelists
Lesotho
Mozambique
Angola & Malawi
Namibia
Estcourt Methodist Church Outreach
Cancele Circuit
Vryburg Children’s Home
Mahamba Circuit
Rundu Circuit
Surplus:
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50
1 165 748
933 000
150 000
50 000
30 000
15 000
15 000
55 000
60 000
313 180
120 000
36 000
21 000
20 000
15 000
20 000
21 900
40 000
183 658
Appendix 2
MISSION & EXTENSION FUND
District Totals
Cape of Good Hope
Grahamstown
Queenstown
KNB
NFS & Lesotho
Natal Coastal
Natal West
Central
Highveld & Swaziland
Limpopo
Clarkebury
Mocambique
Allocations to Mission Unit
Contingency Grant
Mission Coordinators Fund
Connexional HIV/AIDS Grant
Methodist Relief & Development
Fund
Promotion of M & E
Allocation to Pula Fund
TOTAL ALLOCATION
Contributions
2011
1129 643
92 150
57 260
68 628
130 160
55 426
49 000
65 000
87 230
74 407
300 382
150 000
0
Return
2012
677 786
55 290
34 356
41 177
78 096
33 256
29 400
39 000
52 338
44 644
180 229
90 000
0
338 893
73 000
120 000
50 000
20 893
75 000
112 964
1 129 643
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Contributions
2012
1 057 479
115 757
47 325
5 301
84 000
55 308
147 797
62 000
41 320
90 377
268 294
140 000
0
Return
2013
634 487
69 454
28 395
3 181
50 400
33 185
88 678
37 200
24 792
54 226
160 976
84 000
0
317 244
30 000
140 000
50 000
47 244
50 000
105 748
1 057 479
ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS UNIT
REV PURITY MALINGA
The involvement of the MCSA in Ecumenism is based on the conviction and commitment to the will
of Jesus Christ expressed in His prayer in John 17:21 - “that all of the believers may be one so that
the world may believe”. The Ecumenical Affairs Unit is tasked with encouraging ecumenical
involvement throughout the Connexion. The unit is to ensure that Methodist people are assisted to
realize that ecumenical engagement is not an optional extra, but rather is central to our mission. It is
one of our transformation calls.
1.
THE DISTRICTS ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS SECRETARIES CONSULTATION.
To get a clearer picture of the state of ecumenism in the connexion, and also to structure the unit, a
Consultation of the Districts’ Ecumenical Affairs Secretaries (DEAS) was held at the beginning of the
year (Feb 2013 ). The representatives of the MCSA to the Councils of all the countries of the
Connexion were also part of the consultation. Addressing the Consultation, the Presiding Bishop
challenged all present to believe and participate in the unfolding future of Oneness that God is
creating. He emphasized the task of the unit to encourage Methodists to engage locally and
ecumenically on issues that people face. That is “prophetic living” which is what every Christian is
called to. Ecumenism at local level will lead to better church impact.
Out of the reports and sharing, the following became clear:
1.1
1.2
1.3
Those in the leadership (bishops) do meet ecumenically but there is lack of information and
action at the grassroots level.
Ministers’ Fraternals still exist in some communities even though in most areas they have
died.
Churches do come together in communities when there is a crisis e.g. floods, strikes etc.
Ecumenical involvements does happen around social issues in some areas e.g. HIV/AIDS
programs, soup kitchens, homeless shelters etc.
2.
COUNCILS OF CHURCHES.
2.1
While there is a general knowledge that the South African Council of Churches is going
through financial difficulty, it is a concern that the member churches have no information
about what exactly is happening. The absence of the SACC has resulted in the proliferation
of ecumenical bodies, which creates disunity and puts pressure on churches as they are
pressured to support many bodies. The Heads of CUC churches and the CUC Executive have
agreed to organize a formal meeting of the two bodies, to consider the different roles each
should play in the ecumenical endeavor in South Africa.
The Botswana Council of Churches is involved in health and educational projects which are
recognized and supported by the government. One of this Council’s achievements is the
establishment of an ecumenical college-Kgolagano.
In Namibia, the Churches are involved in three initiatives i.e. the Ecumenical Social
Community Action ( ESCA), National Youth Forum and Women Clergy and Theologians
Training.
The KwaZulu Natal Christian Council is actively involved in strengthening ecumenism in the
province. They are embarking on holding meetings one on one with church leaders to
improve relationships and to strengthen the churches’ roles in ecumenical projects. They will
hold their 4th Assembly in August where two important themes will be discussed:
2.2
2.3
2.4
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2.6
“Commemoration of 100 years of the Native Land Act: Restoration of Hope for the poor and
the marginalized”, and “ Restoring the dignity and power of Women in the context of the
current Domestic Violence and rape of women”.
The All Africa Conference of Churches held its 50th Jubilee Assembly on the 3rd-9th June in
Kampala, under the theme, “ God of life, lead Africa to peace, justice and dignity”. While the
gains of the past 50 years were celebrated, the theme highlighted the areas of challenges
facing Africa. The Assembly resolved that, to bring about peace, justice and dignity in Africa,
the member churches focus on at least the following three areas:
- Consolidation of the Protection of Life
- Promotion and enhancement of Life
- Celebration of Life.
The World Council of Churches will be meeting in Busan,Korea in November 2013.
3.
THE CHURCH UNITY COMMISSION.
2.5
The Church Unity Commission (CUC) convened its first Consultation on Unity and Mission on the 1113 May 2013. Having had to concede in 2010 that the goal of the organic union was inaccessible in
the foreseeable future, the CUC believes that its quest for unity should be undertaken and worked
for in the midst of diversity. The Consultation was (and will be convened after every five years ) to
track the progress toward deeper expressions on unity along five Trajectories i.e.
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
Co-operation in Ministry and Mission
Developing common preaching and liturgical resources
Co-operation in training for the ministry
Developing Centres of Hope
Seeking consensus on the ministry of oversight.
There was a general feeling amongst all delegates of the Consultation that the churches need each
other and that together we can achieve more. The closure of Fedsem remains a sore point for all the
churches. It is important to highlight the achievements of the CUC during its 40 years history as was
shared at the consultation:
-
the mutual Eucharistic hospitality (the open table between denominations)
the free transfer of membership between CUC churches
the mutual acceptance of ministries and the freedom of ministers to minister in any other
covenanting church.
the united churches that exist throughout the country (South Africa)
3.6
Following are the recommendations to the MCSA that its delegates made after all the
deliberations of the Consultation:
3.6.1
There is need to appoint/find someone who will champion liturgy work for the MCSA.
Passion and education in liturgy to be the criteria for the appointment.
3.6.2 Recognising that separate ministerial training has weakened ecumenical and missional
connections, SMMS is to be encouraged to be more intentional in linking with other
churches and in teaching Ecumenism as a subject.
There is need to strengthen and formalize the Fellowship of Vocation- and where possible
co-operate with other churches. Districts to be encouraged to ensure that Post –ordination
takes place.
Ecumenical co-operation to be encouraged at local levels i.e. society, circuit levels.
3.6.3
3.6.4
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3.6.5
The Methodist understanding of Episcopacy to be taught and clarified to members.
4.
MATTERS REQUIRING CE/CONFERENCE DECISION.
The DEAS consultation proposed the following as the DEAS duties to be formalized:
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
to champion/ lead ecumenical co-operation in the district
to receive ecumenical affairs reports from the circuits
to collate and present a district ecumenical affairs report to synod (copy sent to the
Director)
to facilitate training sessions to encourage ecumenism in the district- enabling and
encouraging prophetic living )
To represent the district (in consultation with the bishop) in ecumenical forums within the
district.
Linked to the duties above the following proposals are made:




5.
Districts to budget for ecumenical affairs.
Circuits to appoint ecumenical affairs conveners/ champions to ensure easy links and
communication. ( could be someone already in the leadership )
Ecumenical Affairs reports to be given time/ to be taken seriously at Synods.
DEAS term of office to be in line with other district offices (three years) to ensure some
stability.
CONCLUSION
I would like to thank and encourage all those who have continued to participate ecumenically in
God’s work without any recognition. I think of those women in all the corners of our connexion who
meet ecumenically to pray together and to support the bereaved in their communities, those men
and women who participate ecumenically to meet the needs of the vulnerable in their communities.
Keep it up! That is what we are called to do!
6.
THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS UNIT
Chair: Bishop Mike Vorster
Members: Bishops P. Witbooi and D. Matsolo, Revs S Makubalo. T. Sibi, F Whitby, R Machola,
P. Malinga, Mrs T Mncube and Mr M Magagula
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SETH MOKITIMI METHODIST SEMINARY
REV. DR. MVUME DANDALA
1.
LEADERSHIP
The Seminary welcomed its new President, H. Mvumelwano Dandala, who took office on December
01, 2012. The outgoing interim President, the Rev Prof Peter Storey did everything to make the
handover smooth, and we owe him a great debt of gratitude. Prof Storey worked valiantly to steer
the SMMS ship through highly stormy days. We cannot thank him enough.
The Leadership and Administration of the SMMS is as follows:
Registrar and Academic Dean: Dr Rowanne Marie is the Registrar and Acting Academic Dean.
Seminarian Life Unit: Dr Eraste Nyirimana is the Head of the Seminarian Life Unit. He also serves as
head of Biblical Studies and languages.
Administration: Mrs Jenny Grassow resigned and the Rev Maurice Mpeta Phiri was appointed in her
place as Acting Head of Administration and Finance.
Chaplain: The Rev Dr Peter Grassow is the Chaplain of the SMMS. In addition to this and his teaching
responsibilities, he has the responsibility of directing and overseeing the Church placements and
formation.
2.
SMMS LEARNING PROGRAMMES
SMMS runs the following programmes:
-
Diploma in Practical Ministry (360 credits, NQF level 6) – 35 Registered Seminarians
B.Th. (384 credits, NQF level 7) – 47 Registered Seminarians
UKZN POST GRADUATE – 12 Seminarians doing either Honours or Masters Programmes
FORMATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME (FIP) – 6 Seminarians
The B.Th. and Diploma programmes function under the following 5 Departments:
-
Biblical Studies – Dr Eraste Nyirimana
Church History – Rev Dr Pete Grassow
Foundations and Development – Dr Rowanne Marie (Co-ordinator: Mr Jon-Mark Olivier)
Practice of Christian Ministry and Mission – Rev Dr Mvume Dandala (This Department is
linked with Field Education Ministry - FEM)
Systematic Theology – Rev Dr Pete Grassow
2.1
Library Update
Our total library holdings now stands at 12 947 books. We place on record our appreciation for the
generous donation R150 000-00 from Cape Town Central Methodist Mission toward the library. We
also received a generous donation of R10 000-00 from the YMG towards the library. Various
Methodist have been bequeathing their libraries to the SMMS. We are most grateful. It is an
accreditation and registration requirement that our library remains current and relevant hence there
is on-going efforts to ensure its upkeep.
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2.2
Adjunct Lecturers and Co-teaching
There are presently 10 adjunct lecturers teaching in 2013. The Church History department under the
leadership of Dr Peter Grassow runs a cluster course which is co-taught by Dr Grassow and Prof
Philippe Denis (UKZN). Dr Eraste Nyirimana is also co-teaching a Biblical Studies course at UKZN. We
encourage such exchange and opportunities.
3.
FORMATION UNIT
This Unit is responsible for the spiritual journey of the Seminarians. The tools for this journey are
Field Education, Covenant Discipleship Groups, and Church placements. Evaluating the progress of
each Seminarian is achieved through the Seminary’s Formation panel. The Governing Council has
since established an Academic and Formation Board that will fulfill this responsibility.
3.1
Field Education
This programme was initiated through the sterling work of two missionaries from the United
Methodist Church in the USA, Mr. Doug and Mrs. Cheri Roland, who cold-canvassed numerous
agencies in and around Pietermaritzburg, persuading them to partner the SMMS in this work. We
cannot thank them enough for their work. This year saw the next step in the programme, which is
the integration of the practical “field” component with the theoretical “class” component of the
PCMM courses. Dr. Dandala heads up these courses. We are excited by the learning possibilities that
open up when linking classroom and practice.
3.2
The Covenant Discipleship Groups
This programme sees seminarians placed in accountability groups that meet every Monday evening.
We are grateful for Rev Brenda Timmer, who trains the group leaders, and who will become an
ongoing resource person for this programme.
3.3
Congregational Placements
We have every seminarian in a congregation somewhere in the greater Pietermaritzburg region.
They are attached under the supervision of a Superintendent Minister, who is asked to mentor and
encourage their journey of faith. This is the place where theory and practice meet. We are grateful
for all the churches that have opened their doors to us. In addition to this, every seminarian has an
Easter placement, which is achieved by means of invitations from Superintendent Ministers around
the Connexion. Once a year our Seminarians join the Nzondelelo Home missions campaigns. This will
take place from the 15th – 18th August 2013.
3.4
Counseling
We are discovering that sometimes the seminarians who come to us are themselves in need of
healing. They may themselves be coming from broken contexts, and so exhibit broken behaviour.
Often their environmental conditioning may be such that they do not even recognise aberrant
behaviour.
Currently we have 40 probationer ministers who are living on their own in seminary
accommodation, without their spouses and children. We also have 17 seminarians who are living
with children, but without a spouse
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As part response to this dilemma, we have gained the services of Dr. Lumka Sigaba, who comes to
the Seminary once a week as a pastoral counselor. In addition Dr. Sigaba gives special attention to
the spouses of the Seminarians.
3.5
Disciplinary Issues:
One seminarian is appearing before the Disciplinary Committee. Except for this, the discipline of the
Seminarians has overall been exemplary.
4.
THE GOVERNING COUNCIL
The Governing Council has met once this year under the chairmanship of Prof Gordon Zide. In
between Governing Council meetings, the Governing Council Executive oversees the governance of
the SMMS. The key challenge that the Governing Council has sought to apply itself to has been to try
and put in place policies, systems and structures that strengthen the institutional life of the SMMS.
In addition, the Governing Council has decided to create a variety of revenue streams that are
aligned with the primary mission of the SMMS.
In this regard, last year we reported that we would seek to appoint an Institutional Development
Officer whose primary task would be fund raising. This has proved to be a tough challenge. We have
now secured a short list of possible candidates with the hope that we will finally make this
appointment. Even more satisfying though is the fact that we have secured the funding of this office
for a period of one year.
5.
CONCLUSION
Currently we are in discussion with the Department of Local Preachers to look at the possibility of
the SMMS offering local preachers’ studies and administering the examinations. The agreed goal is
for this programme to begin in 2015 if final agreements are reached.
In addition we continue to explore the possibility of a one year certificate programme focusing on
ethical foundations. The programme would be aimed at the following constituencies:
-
Young people who want to do a “gap year” and use this as an opportunity of formation
Business men and women
Community leaders
Church Leaders
We are in the process of developing this course as well as acquire the necessary legal permits for us
to proceed. This one year qualification would be credit bearing but would also carry a strong
formation component.
The Seminary was raised up to produce “transforming leaders for church and nation”. This arises out
of the acknowledgement that our church and nation are in need of transformation and healing. The
SMMS continues in this commitment to grow Godly spiritual norms and values for seminarians, so
that we are able to realise this vision. Please continue to hold us in your prayers.
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EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY AND MISSION UNIT
REV. NORMAN RAPHAHLELA
The year under review was characterised by many challenging performance activities pertaining the
continuous review processes of our Education System. EMMU and SMMS partnership meetings
continued to tirelessly work hard on the seamless kind of model that addresses a number of
development areas brought about by the establishment of the Seminary. The year also saw an
exciting work done by the Lay Training Coordinator with his team producing and launching the first
publication of the Christian Education and formation material. The Lay Orders also received a lot of
attention in upgrading standards of training and raising the bar on curriculum review. The training
for the ordained ministries also saw a revised programme that took into consideration a notion of
continuity from SMMS curriculum.
The EMMU staff and members of the General Committee delights in the appointment of Rev. Dr.
Mvume Dandala as President of the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary. His appointment brought a
sigh of relief to the body of seminarians after the loss of the past president. A word of gratitude is
also sent to Prof. Rev. Peter Storey who navigated the affairs of this great institution during difficult
times.
1.
CANDIDATURE
The selection and discernment work continues to be a site of struggle particularly for those
who have not gone through a proper and thorough preparation in their home circuits. In
responding to such a challenge and managing the risk of accepting and listing candidates for
Seminary in preparation for Ordination, only to later learn of our mistakes; EMMU has
therefore introduced the School of Vocation. Conference urges all Districts to take all those
who feel called to ministry to make use of the School of Vocation to help them prepare well
in advance as they respond to God`s call.
EMMU continues to urge all Superintendents to make use of the Circuit Quarterly Meeting
Guide in the nomination processes, the guide is still available at EMMU. The year has also
seen candidates who appealed through the Presiding Bishop`s Office as they were not
successful in the screening processes. It is our belief at EMMU that if due processes are
followed we will not have such litigation outcomes.
2.
TRAINING FOR ORDAINED MINISTRIES
The January Probationers seminar was a great success as all attended save one, who sent a
doctors sick note. The seminar lasted for the entire week, our probationers had a good time
of fellowship among themselves and also learned through sharing experiences. The week
programme was as follows:



Doing Exegesis – Rev. Morapedi Diutlwileng
Spirituality of Leadership – Rev. Vusi Vilakati
Socio-Economic Justice (Focus on Marikana) – Rev. Dr. Smanga Kumalo
Diversity Management – Rev. Dr. Wesley Mabuza
The Project on Diversity Management served as a main project for the In-Service-Training (IST) year.
It covered the Presiding Bishop Conference 2012 address on together a Healing Community, the
project further celebrated the 55th year since our famous statement “One and Undivided” the
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presentation by Dr. Wesley Mabuza was followed by a panel discussion comprised of Bishop Matsolo
of Mozambique District an Bishop Anderson of the Highveld and Swaziland District together with
other two ministers Rev. Mathibedi and Rev. Mtshiselwa.
3.
NON-ITINERANT PROBATIONER MINISTERS TRAINING
Eight of our Non-Itinerant presbyter ministers met at Lumko Centre in Brentwood Park Retreat
place. The centre provided all and satisfied the needs of the programme following what the
Convenor had prepared. The programme exposed participants to a solitude and reflection periods as
part of the formation training. The programme was as follows:



Church Polity and Leadership Skills – Rev. Okkie van Niekerk
Liturgy and liturgical theology – Rev.John van de Laar (2 days)
Evangelism – Rev. Dr. Mvume Dandala
Retreat Day – Sr. Teresa Mafut
The training covered all aspects of the curriculum; Leadership Skills, Worship Skills, Evangelism and
Spiritual Formation, Pastoral Skills (Funeral and Death Work) Conflict Resolution Skills. A word of
gratitude is sent to Rev. Brenda Timmer who is the Convenor of the Non Itinerant Non Stipendary
Ministers.
4.
SUPERINTENDENTS TRAINING COURSE
The Superintendents Training Course took place at eMseni Methodist Training Centre in
Benoni. Only four Districts sent participants, namely Limpopo, Grahamstown, Central,
Kimberly Bloemfontein and Namibia. A total of 16 Superintendents were trained. In future
the training will not take place with less than 20 participants as this is not cost effective.
EMMU strongly beliefs that the current training programme responds to basic needs of
newly appointed Superintendents, this is also confirmed by the evaluation sheets. This
programme is of vital importance to the life of the church as Superintendents play a key role
in leading mission at local level. Following our Laws and Disciplines, the Superintendent is
the official head of the church in the circuit … (L&D 7.12). This statement does not only
speak to the training but also to the appointments of such persons. EMMU is committed to
work hard in improving the programme and looks forward to find a way to accredit it
through SMMS in future. The programme for the week was as follows:o
o
o
o
o
Understanding Yearbook Chapter 6 – Rev`s Diutlwileng and Raphahlela (EMMU)
Superintendents and Methodist Accounts – Mr Anthony Tibbit (MCO)
Biblical,Theological and Wesleyan Understanding of Superintendence – Bishop Rev. Hansrod
(EMMU Chair)
Superintendents as Mission Leaders – Rev. Dr Ketshabile and Mrs Pearl Moraswi
Systems Thinking – Rev. Raphahlela
5.
ORDINANDS RETREAT
A successful Ordinands Retreat was held in January at eMseni Methodist Training Centre all
participants arrived for the retreat. The retreat dealt with the Ordinands Assignments and
presentations were done on the theology and understanding of ordination in the Methodist
tradition. The second retreat was held at Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu in the final preparation
for ordination at Conference. This work was led by the able and reliable Rev. Trevor Hingle who has
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59
now asked to be released from being the Convenor of this work, a word of gratitude is sent to him
for the sterling work he did for all the years in leading and preparing our Ordinands in their year of
ordination.
---OOO--REV. MORAPEDI M. DIUTLWILENG
(CO-ORDINATOR FOR THE TRAINING OF LAY MINISTRIES)
1.
INTRODUCTION
The Lay Training division of the Unit has over the last year experienced very drastic and
recognizable development in terms of training both members of the Order of Evangelism and
the Local Preachers. The process of training is gradually realizing intergrity and affords
probationers and on-trial preachers a good sense of satisfaction and credibility of their
vocation.
2.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION AND FORMATION
The pilot project on the introduction of small groups material, a booklet referred to as, "The Way",
has been well received, particularly by urban and inner city societies. The feedback is such that,
societies are in dire need of material and tools that would assist and guide small group leaders
in their endeavors in spiritual formation and education. The fact that some inner city and
urban societies have designed and or adopted class and small group teaching and learning
material from the ecumenical circles, speaks volumes of our desperate need for material and
programs that could be used to disciple our people.
We therefore recommend that, Conference should consider funding the development, writing
and production of Christian Education and Formation material for use in our societies. We
also reaffirm Conference resolution 2010, on the appointment of an ordained Minister to
facilitate and drive the vision of "making disciples" of people called Methodists.
3.
TRAINING OF EVANGELISTS AND BIBLE WOMEN
The graduation ceremony was held by the KNB District, Bloemfontein Circuit on the 08th June
2013. Eighty-four (84) probationers of the Order of Evangelism were graduated and certificates
were conferred to them.
The training of first year probationers happened straight after the 2012 Swaziland Conference
in November. Forty-one (41) probationers attended.
Eighty-six probationers turned up for the second year training in September 2012, and 84 of
them passed, and subsequently graduated as mentioned above.
The General Committee of the Order of Evangelism continues to cooperate and participate
through structures of the EMMU, in the review of the "part time and non-itinerant category
of ministry". The moratorium on the acceptance of candidates for this category remains in
place, until and unless Conference 2013 directs otherwise.
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4.
LOCAL PREACHERS
The first 2013 TEEC quarterly report, confirms that, the College has registered 1 372 students
who claim to be Methodist Preachers and Mission Practitioners.
We are unable to certainly quantify the numbers, unless all circuits encourage and practise
group registrations of students.
The total Wesley Studies registrations for 2013, across all the levels of study, was five
hundred and ten (510). We are still experiencing great numbers of preachers who are
studying at Award and Certificate levels.
5.
LOCAL PREACHERS TRAINING REVIEW
The Co-ordinator for the Training of Lay Ministries has devoted much time in clarifying
structural issues with regards to the Local Preachers Department (LPD) and the Local
Preachers Association (LPA). We recommend that, Synods make an effort to resuscitate the
LPD structure as in accordance to the dictates of the L&D 10.9.1 - 10.9.4 for the
Connexional structure, and L&D 10.9.7 - 10.9.9.5 for the District structure.
6.
PRELIMINARY REPORT ON THE REVIEW
The review committee met with TEEC in May 2013. The outcome of the meeting did not derive
any desired pleasure, as the College was in no position to alter its curriculum to meet the
Methodist objectives. The College was not encouraging students to develop a habit of
reading text books, but rather students relied on notes provided by the College.
The conversation with SMMS regarding a possible relocation of Local Preachers studies from
TEEC to the Seminary was opened in July 2013.
The following is an abridged version of the on-going conversation with the Seminary, as pertains
Local Preachers training and spiritual formation.




That whatever recommendation and decision emanating from the discussions between the
EMMU Preachers Training Review Committee and SMMS, will be subject to approval by
the Governing Council and Conference.
That possibilities exist for SMMS to initiate the development of academic and administrative
capacity to deliver the training of local preachers.
The preparations for this additional mandate would also be subject to gaining registration
with the Department of Higher Education and Training for a mixed model of delivery of
courses offered by the Seminary. The SMMS is currently registered as a contact institution.
That, SMMS shall gradually begin the process of conceptualizing a curriculum that is a
mixture of distance training, including a week or two of contact training and formation for
preachers.
EMMU will be presenting a concept document on reconfiguration of Local Preachers Training for
consideration and ratification by Conference 2013.
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COMMUNICATIONS UNIT
MRS BONGI MOYO-BANGO
The year 2013 seems to have flown past and we are grateful for all who have supported the unit by
sharing information, writing articles and subscribing to the New Dimension. We are grateful to
Joanne Trytsman and Nelisiwe Hlengwa whose committed hard work and debt collecting abilities
have kept the units finances in the black.
1.
WEBSITE
The website has continued to be used by many mainly for information about the church and our
different organisations and units. We have received complaints about certain information not being
available on the website and I continue to plead with the organisations and units to please provide
us with as much information as possible for their pages. I take this opportunity to reiterate that the
main website is not for circuit or society events and pictures, those should be put on society/ circuit
websites and the link provided to us so that we can maintain our connexionality. We encourage any
who believe the website is difficult to navigate to make use of the search panel to find whatever it
may be they may be looking for. We are doing our best not to clutter the home page with hundreds
of tabs. I would like to extend my gratitude to Rev Michael Bishop who continues to give technical
support and maintain the website. We are in the process of refreshing the page but we want to
maintain the ‘clean’ look.
Social media continues to be the space in which most communication within and without the church
takes place - most of the communication happens on Facebook and twitter. Anyone who has a
Facebook page can like the MCSA (Shell logo) page and follow the church events as they happen.
2.
THE NEW DIMENSION
The newspaper continues to thrive with an equal number of new subscribers as cancellations. More
and more churches and people are making use of the paper for communication, to debate issues and
share good news stories. We applaud this and encourage more of the same. We also note, with
some resignation, that whenever a church goes through a time financially, the New Dimension
subscription is always the first to go.
Annual subscription is R100 per annum including postage. The advertising costs are:
Advertising Rates
Full Page
Half a page
Quarter of a page
Eighth of a page
Sixteenth of a page
A4 page
Advert Size
Casual
380mm x 265mm
190mm x 265mm
131mm x 198mm
95mm x 131mm
95mm x 64mm
210mm x 297mm
R6 000.00
R3 000.00
R1 500.00
R750.00
R385.00
R4 000.00
2 or more
issues
R5 700.00
R2 800.00
R1 375.00
R680.00
R350.00
R3 800.00
Churches advertising positions receive a 15% discount on these prices and the closing dates for
submission of articles and advertising is the 15th of every month.
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3.
STAFFING
There is still one full time member of staff in the communications unit and this is a pity. The PBO has
been investigating the possibilities of employing an additional individual who can provide all round
support in the PBOs office. We continue to ask the organisations to view the communications unit
as an integral aspect of our mission imperative and therefore support it, both financially through
subscriptions (and not just when the organisation features in the paper) and in terms of articles. In
as much as the unit is an instrument and mouthpiece of the church, it should be remembered that
its effective survival is dependent on the church.
4.
BRANDING
The church insignia is still in the process of being registered. We appeal to every member of our
church never to bring the church into disrepute, especially when wearing church uniforms or any
other branded items. It is our duty as members of the church and the body of Christ to, at all times,
be ambassadors of Christ in our carriage and actions. Any use of church trademarks should happen
under controlled conditions with permission sought from the PBO.
5.
FUTURE…
The unit is thinking of introducing a biannual magazine and is actively seeking funding for this
venture. The magazine will highlight in greater detail, some projects of the church, have longer
length feature articles on topical issues in the health and life of the church and provide space and
expression for every country in our District. Anyone who would like to be a part of this should please
contact bongi@methchurch.org.za . An e-newsletter is also something we would like to do, but with
the staffing as it is, it will have to wait until such a time as when we are better equipped.
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HUMAN RESOURCE UNIT
REV DR VUKILE MEHANA
1.
INTRODUCTION
The 2012 Conference approved the strategic direction of the Human resources Unit as presented
and gave directions on certain specific matters to be attended to by the Unit and report back to the
2013 Conference on such matters. This report gives progress on such specific matters.
2.
OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF THE HUMAN RESOURCE UNIT
The Human Resources Unit as appointed by Conference facilitates, advises and guides the Church on
matters of professionalising the MCSA Human Resource. This is done by providing a strategic and
policy formulation work to be used in the management of the Church Human Resource Management
(HRM).
As presented in the last Conference, the Unit, working with the Connexional Human Resource
Committee appointed by the 2012 Conference, has developed a strategic plan which is guided by the
4 strategic pillars namely; Procurement - which the Committee has rephrased it to be, Acquisition,
Selection & Discernment, Alignment, Development and Retention. The Connexional Human
Resources Committee met in May 2013 in a workshop and developed an HRM Strategic Plan with
short, medium and long term goals. For purposes of this report, hereunder are the short term goals
and key deliverables that will be attended to during 2014.
Such deliverables are informed by the Theological rationale which has already been presented in the
last Conference and subsequently improved after interaction with DEWCOM.
3.
THE SHORT TERM GOALS OF THE 4 STRATEGIC PILLARS
3.1
Acquisition, Selection & Discernment (previously Procurement)
Working together with EMMU, the Connexional Human Resources Committee will concentrate on
the following focus areas:







Review the processes and procedures of Candidature in the case of those in Covenantal
relationships e.g. Ministers, Deacons Etc, in order to ensure that our Acquisition Strategy is
informed by the mission plan of the Church.
To this end, matters of the Human Resources Plan that include the current headcount, the
future needs of the Church as well as the utilisation and deployment of such resources as
informed by a supply and demand principle shall be robustly attended to.
Assess the possibility of an Electronic On-Line tool that will assist also with selection and
deployment of such candidates.
Determine the Church’s Human Resource needs as informed by the Mission plan of the
Church.
Conduct studies on various Acquisition models, as well as develop an MCSA ideal model for
admitting Candidates for “Covenantal” relationship.
Map processes within MCSA through BPR principles that will assist the Methodist Church to
have an appropriate headcount.
To improve or develop policies that are to be utilised by the Church in Recruiting, Selecting
and Placing the contractual staff
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
Such policies, processes and procedures to be utilised by the Districts, Circuits and Societies
that employ contractual staff.
3.2
Alignment

The Connexional Human Resource Committee shall conduct a survey to determine to what
extent the people understand the importance of scriptural holiness, ordinances of the
Church encompassing our Laws & Disciplines, as well as Usages and Traditions of our Church.
With regard to the Alignment process, we shall develop a programme of “On-boarding” &
Induction of all Methodist workers, both Ministerial and Laity, with a view to aligning them
to the Theology, Doctrine, Ethos, Discipline and Rule of Life of the Methodist people –
including operational procedures and policies.
To monitor and evaluate how the people practice such Methodist principles, on an on-going
basis.


3.3
Development

Working together with EMMU, the Connexional Human Resource Committee will assess the
development and training needs and requirements of the Church in terms of skills and
competencies; vocational proficiency, work ethics, relationships and team work per District,
Circuit and Societies. In the case of Candidates for ministry, the Connexional Human
Resource Committee shall explore the possibility of having a School of Vocation, whereby
Candidates, before being approved by Conference, will be expected to attend.
Conduct a Skills gap analysis to identify development and acceleration learning programmes
for both Ministers and Laity.
Develop a training & development intervention based on the results of the skills gap analysis.
Develop a Leadership Development pipeline for purposes of leadership succession planning
Develop a Training Intervention on EXIT strategy especially with respect to those in a
Covenantal relationship to prepare them for retirement.
To continue evaluating the programmes offered by EMMU with respect to Ministers and Lay
people in relation to the achievement of the Church Mission Strategy.





3.4
Retention

Ensure that every job in the MCSA, whether Covenantal or Contractual, is effectively
profiled.
The Committee shall look critically on matters of Compensation and Reward Management
Systems especially with regard to categories of Remuneration and benefits of both
Covenantal and Contractual workers within the MCSA.
Focussing on matters of Church Working Conditions relating to Ministers and Laity with
specific attention given to the issue of Justice (which includes all aspects of labour law),
Welfare and Wellness.
Develop a Performance Management and Review Systems in order to ensure that the
Church embraces the culture of performance.
Review all Policies with regard to all operational Human Resource matters especially matters
such as Leave management and the revision of the Employee Handbook.




Talent Management will be attended to as well in order to ensure that there is a deliberate
Retention Strategy that will enhance the professional work ethic and competency engagement in the
Church.
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Over and above that we will ensure that the MCSA remains a CARING Institution, and in relation to
Ministers, the following programmes will be explored:
i)
ii)
iii)
Clergy Renewal Support
Emotional Intelligence
Post Ordination Training
The Renewal Support will include:
a)
b)
c)
Spiritual Direction
Professional Coaching & Mentoring
Clergy Support Groups
A comprehensive Human Resource Planning document has been developed and it shall be available
on the MCSA website.
3.5
Image & Visibility
The Committee will be exploring matters of branding and marketing of the Unit together with
possible communication about its’ goals, objectives and key accountabilities with monthly reports
published in the New Dimension. Where and when possible, a communication on current
programmes and progress of the Human Resources activities may be shared across the Connexion
for education and awareness purposes.
4.
4.1
RESOLUTIONS:
Ministers & Labour Laws
The Connexional Human Resource Committee in its Workshop in May 2013 resolved to ask
Conference to affirm the principle of a Covenantal Relationship between a Minister and the Church
(not contractual) and also to be directed by the relevant Labour Laws of all Member Countries of the
Connexion with regard to the employment of the Contractual staff.
4.2
Human Resources Unit
A comprehensive Human Resource Strategy has been developed as mentioned above and it can be
made available as a guide to the future activities of the Unit on request.
4.3
Training of Leaders
The Human Resource sub-committee on Development working closely with EMMU has provided
input on some parts of the report that EMMU shall present on matters of Training of all Leaders.
4.4
Compliance and Accountability
With regard to Compliance and Accountability, the Human Resource sub-committee on Retention is
currently looking at a Competency Assessment Tool for both Covenantal and Contractual workers in
the Church.
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4.5
Centralised Connexional Office
The Unit continues to participate in the process of integrating the Connexional Head Office, working
together with the Presiding Bishop, General Secretary and Lay General Treasurer.
4.6
Human Resources Unit
The Unit has conducted a work study exercise in the office of the Presiding Bishop, this includes the
profiling of existing jobs and looking at the filling of the resultant vacancies, as informed by the
integration of the Presiding Bishop’s Office with the Methodist Connexional Office in Durban.
4.7
Stationing of Ministers
A separate presentation shall be made at the 2013 Conference on the proposed alternative method
of Stationing Ministers.
The Human Resources Unit is thankful for the on-going support of the Presiding Bishop and General
Secretary in advancing its work.
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YOUTH UNIT
REV LUXOLO MANTINI
1.
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this report is to investigate the current state of affairs of the Unit by looking closely
to what transpired over the past 12 months and to examine the predicted future of the Methodist
Youth Unit and its advancement. Broadly, the main objectives are to inform our young people about
the road travelled so far since the adoption of our theme “Dare to Dream” as articulated by the
leadership last year, assess and to make proper analysis that will inform a clear way-forward for us
to attain our goals and ultimate realization of the MCSA vision.
2.
ADMINISTRATION
Our main role as a committee is largely about ensuring efficiency in the Unit and smooth
coordination of all children and youth programs in the Unit. It was for this reason that pretext was
made at CYC ’12, about the importance of having a strategic review process’ regular information
sharing sessions and progress evaluation with District leaders. As part of the Unit repositioning, the
MYU Connexional Youth Executive undertook a detailed Unit and strategic review during the month
of February 2013, at a session held in Magaliesburg Retreat Center.
The review covered the following non-exhaustive areas:







Ensuring a consistent “working definition” of youth.
MYU strengths and weaknesses.
Environmental situational analysis
Environmental challenges and opportunities
Define and refining the focus areas (mission pillars)
Articulating a clear vision, and Mission
Ensuring a uniform operating plan with clearly defined priority areas.
After vigorous engagements, a synthesized report on the key observations, findings and main thrust
points of the MYU, a clear vision and mission for the Unit was created.
3. VISION
“Christ centered youth empowered to attain their full potential and realize their dreams”
4. MISSION STATEMENT
“We aim to instill Christian values and Methodist ethos, infuse fresh generational expressions and
develop young people into holistic leaders who are Christ-centered and mission-focused”.
Following from our “Dare to Dream” theme and the Mission-Plan that were articulated at the
Connexional Youth Conference in the East London in July 2012, coupled with the strategic review
process held at Magaliesbug, the following 5 key imperatives were identified:
THEME
OUR STATED INTENT
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1.
Establish a Youth Unit
Investment
Company/Enterprise
Empower youth economically
Create basis for financial sustenance
Channel and invest returns on Mission work
2.
Enhance our Image and
Visibility
3.
Mission and Spirituality
4.
Youth/Child
Development and
Leadership
Advancement
Ensure that we have clear programmes that are visible and impactful.
Profile the work that we do.
Have a clear communication plan and programme that builds visibility
and reinforces what we stand for (“our brand”).
Adopt and implement a clearly articulated guiding “values” for the
MYU.
Project an image God as the Healer and Embracer of Diversity.
Deepen the spirituality of young people.
Establish a Mission Fund.
To be a Mission oriented youth.
To become responsive to local courses.
To resuscitate the National Youth Leadership Training Program (4G
Training program)
Implement programmes that expose youth to values based leadership.
Look for (and implement) programmes that impart specific skills that
are relevant to children and youth development.
5.
Education
Establish a Tsietsi Mashinini Education Fund.
Partner with like-minded organisations/institutions and ensure we
channel “our“youth to access currently available interventions.
Organize youth within MYU entities to deliver meaningful educational
interventions in support of the younger learners at school (tutoring and
mentoring).
As mandated by CYC ’12 we embarked on a drive to inform and widely consult District Youth Synods
about these developments and to inculcate a sense of ownership to this Vision and our Dream. The
Mission-Plan was well received and broadly accepted by Districts.
Furthermore, separate sessions were held, where Coordinators, Treasurers and Secretariat met
amongst each other to combine resources and effective support system to accomplish a common set
of goals. In our quest to ensure that there is efficiency in the running of the Unit, a concise
Communication Plan was adopted. This Communication Plan was propagated to Districts which saw
the establishment of District Communication/Media Officers. A clear process flow for information
and stories coming from Districts was carefully constructed such that District Coordinators are
involved before articles go into print in the New Dimension. This can be attributed to the newly
established association we initiated with the Communications Unit of MCSA and our intention to
permanently occupy a full page of the Publication advance enhancement of the Unit’s image and
visibility pillar. We have received only a minimum of children and youth related articles and
wonderful stories from Districts, however, we would like to thank those CO’s who have been active
and to encourage others who haven’t begun to follow suit. We also would like to thank the Director:
Communications Unit who has for the past couple of months expressed interest and excitement in
publishing our stories and that youth voice is heard. We have solicited the services of Iqembu
Consulting which is owned by one of our own, Dineo to assist in finding creative ways to positively
brand and market MYU not only to improve our image but to truly reflect and be ambassadors of
Christ.
Social Media: As part of an Integrated Communication Plan, we have commissioned our brother
Kago to effectively administer the MYU official website. We have encountered some shortcomings in
this regard, we have however identified these and we are working towards rectifying them. In our
quest to enhance communication, establishment of a youth and Skills Audit Database, we have
invaded the social space through Facebook and Twitter where we have taken over the Wesley Guild
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SA Page. Thobelani Ncaphayi has been commissioned for the running of this page through the
Connexional office. We are pleased to announce that this page already boasts over 6000 followers
and going strong. We also have created a Twitter account with a Twitter Handle MYU and we urge
that youth must follow these pages.
Child/ Youth Development and Leadership Advancement: Infrequent to regular practice, we took a
conscious decision to amalgamate the Strategic Review process with the CM Indaba in February this
year at Magaliesburg Retreat which indeed yielded some positive spin offs. Amongst other topical
issues that emanated from the Indaba call for the establishment of Vacation Bible schools for circuits
during school holidays and the CM Practitioner Framework. We commend those Districts and circuits
that have started to hold their own Local Indabas to take heed of such developments and urge those
who haven’t started to begin heading towards that same direction.
Child Care Desk: Placed under Mission Unit to in order to assist the Church on the complex legal
framework around child protection and compliance, tabled a draft Children’s Policy which is aligned
and therefore compels all CMPs to implement comply with the Children’s Act. After our formal
meeting with the Mission Unit Director, a general need to reaffirm the relationship between the two
Units was established with a view to strengthen long term sustainability of child care projects
beyond foreign funding. The Church has made a call to all child workers to invest in Early Childhood
Development programmes as they have developmental benefits to children. We therefore extend
this call to all those who are involved in Children’s Ministry within MYU.
After our frank interactions with Wendy Walker (Youth Pastor) last year, we are pleased to inform
CYC of the partnership we have established with the Limpopo District and Hennops River Circuit,
particularly Rev. Ian Frans and Wendy on the 4G Training program. This program provides training
entrenched in Methodist Ethos to aspiring youth workers from all walks of life. We have also stated
our intent to develop this program towards a revised NYLTP. In this regard, a presentation by Irvin
Samdaan who has worked with GS Rev. V. Nyobole in digging through archives and putting some
work to making this program contemporary. We appreciate the support from the likes of Dr. Gavin
Taylor, Bishop Losaba, Bishop Vorster, Anthony Tibbit (and others) and commitment expressed by
MCSA towards channeling of funds and investment to Youth Development and Training programs.
5.
MISSION AND SPIRITUALITY
There is an explicit will constantly shown through Mission interventions by Districts and Circuits.
Almost all MYU entities have heeded the call to be mission oriented and being a youth that is in
solidarity with the indigent. We applaud the growing trend of the establishment of District Mission
Funds for long term sustenance of these programmes. We continue to work towards strengthening
ties with the MU through our HIV/AIDS champion Mbongeni Magagula who also serves in the MU
Advisory Board this year. We also want to affirm the work done by Mbongeni thus far in distinctively
representing MYU’s voice and keeping us abreast with developments such as benefits brought by
Global Fund to MCSA Training of Trainers program and making sure that youth take part in these.
The General internal/external stakeholder evaluation still perceives youth as exuberant in Ministry
and spiritually accredited which is evident in the number of young people who enter into full time
Ministry and Lay Preachers Department. There is still a need for extended support guided
environment in the spiritual growth path of young people more especially now that we always read
and hear from media about satanic cults that target youth and other social ills. Talks with the
Sedibeng Spiritual Group led by Rev. Sidwell Mokgothu were initiated to look at ways of rolling out
this spiritual program at a broader spectrum in the Connexion.
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6.
INVESTMENT ENTERPRISE
As mandated by CYC ’12, there was an enthusiastic engagement with the PBO on this issue and there
was a general acceptance that this initiative will spearhead a new model in the church for
sustainable economic empowerment (fresh generational expression). This concept was widely
accepted by Conference last year. A concept paper was presented to Youth Synods this year and we
are pleased to present a full Paper on this concept for engagement and finalization. There is ongoing
engagement with MCO on the funding model of 1% once off contribution from one’s salary; we will
soon devise a strategy on how this will unfold. From Youth Synod visits we have discovered there is a
general decline and lack of information about YEE and application procedures to access the fund in
the constituencies. This could either be attributed to apathy from youth or relevant information not
being disseminated to young people. Notwithstanding, the YEE Task Team has been working
tirelessly in fine-tuning YEE Policy and finalizing internal/external controls for funding.
7.
EDUCATION
This is a fifth Imperative of Mission that was added by the PB. The Unit has extended a call to all
constituencies to respond and intensify this Pillar. Our church buildings have been declared as
centers of healing and as people of hope, called by God into community, we have an obligation in
offering assistance to scholars during weekends and school holidays. Bilateral meetings with the
Mashinini family to tender a request to name the Mission Fund after Tsietsi were successful and
permission was granted in this regard.
8.
WESLEY GUILD CONNEXIONAL EVENT
From the 31st of July to the 4th of August this year, the Methodist Youth Unit hosted a momentous
Wesley Guild Connexional Event in Port Edward under the Theme: “Our Dreams anchored in the
visions of our Forefathers”. This Event afforded us opportune time to reflect on our journey and the
4Cs model as a collective and not in silos as during previous times. It was also a time to Fellowship
together as Districts, deepening of Spirituality, evaluation and charting of an explicit and consistent
way forward towards Unity of Purpose and not Sameness. The signing of a reworked Wesley Guild
Charter signified a renewed expedition informed by the context within which this movement exists.
The Presiding Bishop successfully launched the Tsietsi Mashinini Mission Fund. It was very humbling
to witness the affirmation and presence of the Church Leadership in this event
9.
INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
Our Connexion is now a recognized affiliate of Africa Methodist Youth Movement. We attended the
3rd General Assembly in Kenya last year which looked at the plight of an African child and youth
challenges. Building such networks has been essential in refocusing our interventions and thinking
beyond our Connexion. The 5th General Assembly will be held in South Africa, which we believe will
provide us an opportunity to infiltrate and place us in a sphere of influence on African issues within
the Wesleyan family. A process which will ultimately give way to the recovery of an exchange
program with the United Methodist Church in Germany was initiated at Conference in Swaziland last
year. In this regard, a meeting with the Youth Department has been sought through the office of the
Secretary General of the German Conference. We appreciate the continued confidence and financial
support provided by The Methodist Church in Britain through the Nationals in Mission
Appointments.
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10.
CHALLENGES
It was generally noted that cultural nuisances and dominance sometimes impede the rate of social
inclusivity and integration. This sometimes manifests itself in language dominance and
disproportionate representation of demographics in our Youth Synods, amongst others. Youth voice
is incomplete without the other. In looking at some of the Unit challenges, it was also noted that the
Youth are generally under-led, resulting in them being easily manipulated and in most instances
being used as tools for sowing divisions and sponsoring conflicts (mischief-making).
Communication and some protocols have been somewhat a challenge from both the Connexional
Office and Districts exacerbated by busy work engagements. The Connexional Youth Coordinator
who serves in this committee has oversight on 5 Local churches in his circuit under his full
responsibility. The Youth Ministry in our Connexion requires full uninterrupted dedication, so we
continue to make an appeal for funding of this office which shall realize and support a full-time
Connexional Youth Coordinator who will be dedicated to this ministry.
11.
CONCLUSION
Our dreams are indeed of a very ambitious nature, but through God’s unmerited grace we remain
resolute in the ultimate realization of our Theme and objectives. Let us be reminded that John
Wesley himself was stringent against idleness, and therefore we believe this account provides
impetus for every young person to invest constructively to the course of Youth Ministry.
Mohandas Gandhi once said (“Young India” 1925): there are seven social sins:
Politics without principle
Wealth without work
Commerce without morality
Pleasure without conscience
Education without character
Science without humanity
Worship without sacrifice
As young people of faith we should not cease to dream dreams that are deep-rooted in
Godly values, lest our works of faith fail to change and inspire others.
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METHODIST PUBLISHING HOUSE
MR GEORGE VINE
1.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
1.1
Based on preliminary figures, overall MPH sales increased by 11.2% over 2011/12. Retail
turnover increased by 10.3% and Wholesale sales by 15.8%.
We maintained a positive cash-flow throughout the year.
Budget 2013/14: We’ve set fairly bullish targets, given the current economic circumstances,
of a 14.5% growth in shop sales, excluding the two new shops (Soweto and Benoni) and
21.1% with the new shops. For Wholesale, we’ve budgeted for a 10.4% increase. Overall,
with the new shops, we’ve budgeted for a 21.1% increase in sales.
1.2
1.3
2.
STRATEGY
Our strategy is to pursue sales growth in order to increase our share of the market and to achieve
economies of scale. We opened a shop in Soweto at the Jabavu Community Centre on 30 May 2013
and we opened in Northmead Mall, Benoni on 15 June 2013. We have no plans to increase further
the number of shops but will now consolidate our retail position and place emphasis on achieving
sales via the Internet.
3.
POINT OF SALE SYSTEM
ISOPOS is providing comprehensive information that enables us to replenish stocks more accurately
than previously and to better monitor gross profits. It will always be a work in progress in the sense
that the database needs constant maintenance.
4.
STORE PERFORMANCE
Cape Town: The trend of decreasing sales that started in Cape Town shop in September 2010 has
continued with sales for the year being down 8% for the year under review. The previous year the
shop was down 5% so the trend is unmistakable. Efforts to reverse the trend have not worked so
this year we will be following up on the idea of opening a second shop in the suburbs while keeping
a presence in the City.
Johannesburg: 4.5% up for the year.
Durban: Like Cape Town shop, Durban is a CBD shop and also suffering a downward trend. It
finished the year 3.4% down on 2011/12.
Mthatha: has experienced excellent growth, finishing the year 29.6% up. This strong performance
has taken Mthatha to being our highest turnover shop - if only by a few hundred Rand.
Pmb: Up 1.9% on the previous year. Plans are afoot to revamp the shop, making it smaller and
more appealing.
Bryanston: A good performance at 11.9% up on the previous year.
Pretoria: Our Pretoria shop has had to re-establish itself after relocating to new premises in Capital
Park, where it opened on 19 March 2012. Sales are down just .3% on the previous year.
Kimberley: Far from being affected by the opening of Bloemfontein, Kimberley shop continues to
thrive, particularly after being relocated within the Kimpark shopping centre on 2 July 2012. It
finished the year 15.1% up.
East London: East London (which opened in August 2009) continues to show good - but no longer
spectacular - growth. It was up 13.2% for the year.
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Port Elizabeth: Our shop opened in Port Elizabeth on 10 January 2011. Sales continue to disappoint
with the shop failing to achieve any growth at all over the previous year’s sales.
Bloemfontein: This shop continues to disappoint – it’s been open over a year and should be showing
much stronger month-on-month growth than it is.
New shops: As mentioned above, having opened in Benoni and Soweto, we’ll take a breather to
concentrate on improving the position at shops that are below par, and on Internet sales.
5.
STAFF: LITTLE TRAINING TOOK PLACE IN 2012 – THIS ASPECT OF THE BUSINESS NEEDS
MORE ATTENTION
An incentive scheme for managers was introduced, effective 1 July 2013, which will run for 12
months. The bonus is to be paid on a balanced set of criteria and is aimed at encouraging each
manager to treat the shop as if it were his/her own business, and to grow as a manager.
6.
ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONS
Rev. Ken Leverton’s What are we Reading? column in New Dimension continues to draw interest as
does his regular flyer in ministers’ stipend advice envelopes. As ever, Easter remains our biggest
month with Christmas sales lagging considerably behind those of Easter. We have improved our
Christmas promotions but Christmas sales are still not at their full potential. We continue to run
book-tables at a variety of events in the life of our church and its organizations and these generally
enjoy good support.
Database: The shop managers are collecting customers’ names and contact details for our database.
At this point the database comprises over 3000 names.
7.
PUBLISHING: THE FOLLOWING NEW BOOKS AND NEW EDITIONS WERE PUBLISHED IN
2012/13
SiSwati hymnbook
Venda hymnbook
Let the Children Come (revision)
Umthandazo Wenkosi by TSN Gqubule
Fire in the Bones by Jack Scholtz
The Way (pilot project study material for small groups)
Large Print edition of Xhosa hymnal
Revised LPA Constitution
Yearbook 2013
The following are underway for later this year:
History of Healdtown
Opening Doors by Donald Cragg and Joan Millard (Vol 2 of history of Methodism in SA)
Mister President by David Sadler (all Presidents and Presiding Bishops of MCSA)
8.
MPH WEBSITE
We expect a beta version of the site to be operational in August 2013.
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9.
“GIVING BACK” SCHEME
The first pay-out under the “Giving back” scheme was made in May 2012. Under the scheme, each
Christian Connexion Resource Centre donates 1% of its annual turnover (not profit) to the District in
which it operates. The donation is used by each District to subsidise its choice of a needy mission
project – or church – in its district.
The following projects benefited from the first pay-out under the scheme:
Central Karoo Circuit (Cape of Good Hope)
The Kavango Mission in Rundu and Namibia (Grahamstown)
Kavango mission Circuit 553 Pre-School (Kim, Namibia & Bloemfontein)
District Ministerial Assistance Fund (Natal Coastal)
Port Shepstone Projects and Umtshezi Circuit (Natal West)
“Rural work” in North West (Central)
Child Care Centre in Moloto village (Limpopo).
The second pay-out was made in June 2013 with seven Districts benefiting to the tune of just over
R100 000. The following projects benefited from the scheme this year:
Cape of Good Hope - Central Karoo Circuit
Grahamstown - District Education for Ministry and Mission unit
Kim, Nam, Bloem - Aldersgate conference centre in Bloemfontein
Natal Coastal - Project for the wellness and care of ministers
Natal West - Work done by Deacon Cathy Marsden in Circuit 808, Port Shepstone in rural
mission as well as the Thembelihle Children's Care Centre at Kilbarchan near Newcastle
Central - Supporting mission in the rural areas
Limpopo - Jan Botha Projects - 4G Youth Training Programme
CONCLUSION
Unlike the previous financial year, Wholesale sales showed pleasing growth. The growth in retail
sales was satisfactory under the prevailing trading conditions. Overall, MPH is very healthy. I expect
the tough trading conditions to continue during the 2013/14 financial year.
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METHODIST ORDER OF DEACONS
DEACON DR VERNON VAN WYK
““I am in the midst of you as one who serves.” (Luke 22:27 GNB)
“That is what the Son of Man has done: He came to serve, not to be served ….” (Mark 10:45 MSG)
1.
THE ROLE OF A DEACON
The model for diaconal ministry is Jesus Christ, ‘one who serves’. Servanthood is the key to
understanding the call to diaconal ministry. The servanthood that is central to diaconal ministry is a
costly way of life chosen by those who know their own brokenness and their own need for God's
healing. It can be embraced only by those who have received God's love and been empowered by
the Holy Spirit.
Diaconal, servanthood ministry, according to DIAKONIA World Federation (Diaconal Reflections, p.
1), “… means being a healing, accepting, encouraging presence to others, enabling them to
experience God's unending, unconditional, love and forgiveness. It includes seeking justice and
sharing a vision. It presumes an image of God whose love and care extends to all people. It is a call to
be in a relationship with God and God's world, to accept, support, and comfort, and to equip and
encourage others to use their own gifts to fulfil their potential in service and life.”
Deacons are ordained in and act as icona vivens Christi servi est signum spei in Ecclesia ad
mundoque. i.e. “living icon of Christ the servant, who is the sign of hope in the Church and the
world.” (From the Diakonia of Christ, p 109) When harnessed to the hope that Christ brings, the
Deacon becomes an icon of that hope. It is in this role of a living icon reflecting Christ the servant,
who is the sign of hope in the church and to the world, that the Deacon’s service emerges. In being
an icon of Christ, Deacons are identifying with the suffering of the world, with the oppressed, the
poor, the disenfranchised, and the abused. The diaconate calls the whole church, Presbyters,
Deacons and laity, to see the suffering of the world and to be involved in mobilising the church to
being a caring community. We are to bear one another’s burdens, not to make others dependent,
but to express solidarity and support, to be agents of healing and hope.
2.
ON BECOMING A METHODIST DEACON
The Candidating procedure is the same as for Presbyters. (See Chapter 6). Christians of any age with
a call to primarily a ministry of Service and wishing to candidate for this Order should, in the first
instance, explore their calling with their society minister and circuit superintendent minister early in
the calendar year. A clear understanding of a call to serve and of the type of service ministry that will
be conducted is essential in avoiding possible role confusion. Candidates should have a strong sense
of vocation to the Ministry of Word and Service (or Service only) and not a failed or thwarted sense
of vocation somewhere else (e.g. Word and Sacrament). There needs to be clarity of vision/purpose
for the whole Circuit, into which a vision for the diaconal appointment fits. This should be analyzed
and translated into specific aims and goals for the diaconal appointment. All parties are requested to
ensure that only qualifying candidates are recommended to the Order.
The basic Entrance Requirements for Deacons are as follows:



Applicants must be in possession of a Matriculation (or equivalent) Certificate
Local Preacher on trial, if candidating as preaching-Deacon
Applicants may candidate to become non-preaching Deacons, i.e. those who believe that
their ministry is of a more practical nature and that for them God’s Word can be adequately
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
proclaimed through their acts of service. A letter of recommendation from Superintendent
Minister is required.
Completed on the academic level of o
Higher Certificate in Theology: Introduction to New Testament (45121); Introduction
to Old Testament (45111); Introduction to Theology (45241) and Pastoral Care
(45371)
o
Diploma in Theology: Getting to Know the Bible (85100); Systematic Theology 1
(85240) and Practical Theology 1 (85370)
o
Bachelor in Theology: Developing Skills for Theological Study (7000); Interpreting
Texts (7004) and Engaging with people pastorally and ethically (7002)
To be accepted for ordination all Deacons must:


Complete either the Higher Certificate in Theology (TEEC), or the Diploma in Theology
(TEEC), or Bachelor Degree in Theology (TEEC) plus
Methodist Studies – Wesley, Polity and Accounting, plus
In accordance with Section 13.17 of the MCSA Laws and Discipline have completed at least 4
years of probation (together with presbyters) focussing on skills - and character formation
for a ministry of Service. One further year will be allowed to enable a probationer to
complete certain academic requirements and/or internship projects not yet completed
(maximum 5 years).
Be a local preacher on full plan, if seeking to be ordained for Word and Service.
3.
DEACONS IN MINISTRY


The measure in which progress has been made is reflected in the growing numbers of candidates for
the Order. In 2012 one Deacon was ordained at Conference in Swaziland. No Deacons will be
ordained in 2013, but the Convocation of the Order have recommended eight (8) Deacons for
ordination in 2014. Three (3) Candidates were admitted to the Order in 2013 and two (2) are in the
screening process for admission in 2014. This will grow the numbers to 44 in active servant-ministry:




Eighteen (18) ordained Deacons (12 female and 6 males.)
Five (5) Supernumeries (4 female and 1 male)
Fourteen (14) Probationer Deacons (6 females and 8 males)
Two (2) candidates) (1 female and 1 male)
Having men and women representing all sectors of our Southern African communities is an exciting
development in The Order. The scope for serving Jesus Christ in the world is limitless and the Order
provides a vehicle through which persons can be trained and prepared for servant ministry. The
names of all Deacons appear in the Church Directory.
4.
ANNUAL CONVOCATION
The Convocation remains the highlight of the year for Deacons. Deacons function as a dispersed
religious community and the time spent together in fellowship, study and training at Convocation is
invaluable and affords members an opportunity for celebrating the successes and sharing the
heartaches of ministry. Deacons meet at Convocation to transact the business of the Order (L & D
Appendix 7), to foster and develop their calling as servant-ministers and to receive training relevant
to their ministry.
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The Convocation was held from Monday 22 April 2013 to Friday 26 April 2013 at eMseni Christian
Conference Centre. We had a full programme focusing on various aspects of Children’s ministry. The
Deacons went on a field visit to AMCARE in Alberton and Rev. Dr. Leon Klein conducted a Workshop
on “Servant Leadership”. A Rededication Service conducted by the Warden, Deacon Dr. Vernon van
Wyk ended of the Convocation. It was especially gratifying to have Bishop Andrew Motswenyane
present for the whole Convocation.
5.
ECUMENICAL RELATIONSHIPS
The Methodist Order of Deacons is a member of DIAKONIA World Federation. All Protestant
Churches with diaconal ministries world-wide are eligible for membership. The Warden attended the
very blessed Conference “Diakonia – Healing and Wholeness for the World” in Berlin, Germany from
1 – 9 July 2013. Valuable links with other Methodist Diaconal Orders in Africa were forged at the
Conference.
6.
FINANCES
Most of the expenses incurred for the Convocation are covered by Circuits contributing to the
accommodation of their Deacons. Traveling is largely covered by donations received from the
District Women’s Auxiliaries. We are pleased to note that the Connexional Cash Management
Scheme has contributed to the Order’s funds and that tuition fees have been taken over by EMMU.
The Order is most grateful for this meaningful support. However in view in the decline in funding and
increase in membership of the Order, additional sources of funding need to be found to administer
the Order. We appeal to other organizations of our Church to consider supporting the work of the
Order. As the Order grows the MCSA may in future also have to consider the full-time stationing and
funding of the Warden of the Order.
7.
CONNEXIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
The Methodist Order of Deacons is managed by a Connexional Committee. The following persons
are recommended to Conference to serve on this Committee in 2014:
Bishop:
Bishop Andrew Motswenyane - Northern Free State and Lesotho District
Warden:
Dcn Dr Vernon van Wyk – Alberton (Highveld and Swaziland District)
Ministers:
Rev Dr Cedric Poole – Alberton (Highveld and Swaziland District) Rev Ina Guy Brackenhurst (Highveld and Swaziland District)
Deacons:
Deacon Rosemary van der Merwe – Parys (Northern Free State and Lesotho District)
Deacon Gerald Dickson – Toekomsrust (Central District)
Lay members: Mr Percy Howroyd - Alberton Circuit (Highveld and Swaziland District)
Mr John Mitchley - Benoni Circuit, Highveld & Swaziland District
Mrs Maureen Mildenhall - Representing Women’s Auxiliary; Highveld and Swaziland
District
Mrs Beth Kok - President of Women’s Auxiliary: Central District
Mrs J Sbo Mlangeni - President of Women’s Manyano, Highveld & Swaziland District
8.
RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION BY CONFERENCE
The Convocation requested that Conference consider the following:
a) In terms of Laws and Discipline chapter 13, and Appendix 7 of Laws and Discipline, all Deacons in
active ministry are required to attend the annual Convocation of the Order of Deacons. Such
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attendance incurs costs of travelling and accommodation. The Convocation requests Conference
to direct all Circuits to pay these costs for all Deacons in the Circuit.
b) In terms of Appendix 7.18 of Laws and Discipline, the Convocation of the Methodist Order of
Deacons endorses the resolution of the Connexional Committee to the Connexional Executive
that the MCSA address the following challenges (2012 Yearbook, p.184) and request Conference
to ensure that these are given appropriate consideration:





The structures that place one form of ministry above another
The perceived reluctance of circuits/ societies to appoint Deacons
Differences in stipends and other allowances
Promoting the appointment of those called to a specifically missional ministry
Encouraging a move towards itinerant ministry in preference to the largely non-itinerant
model that currently prevails.
c) The Convocation of the Methodist Order of Deacons requests Conference that paragraph 5.3.1.8
of the 2013 Yearbook, p. 109 be deleted in its entirety, as it is preventing poorer Circuits from
engaging the services of non-stipendiary ministers, probationers and Deacons, and requests that
alternative ways be found to support these ministries.
d) The Convocation of the Methodist Order of Deacons recommends that Deacon Dr Vernon van
Wyk be appointed as Warden of the Order for a further period of three years from 2015 to 2017.
9.
APPRECIATION
The Order is grateful for the many acts of selfless service and ministry offered by God’s servants and
thanks all who support this work in prayer or in kind.
The Deacons are grateful to God for His call upon their lives and for the many and varied
opportunities of ministry and service that have been afforded to them.
Please pray for the Deacons as they seek God’s help to fulfill their vision statement:
“To share Christ’s love through service and to help the Church respond to the needs of the
wider community.”
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THE ORDER OF EVANGELISM
REV JACOB FREEMANTLE
1.
OUR MISSION FOCUS
The basic focus of every Biblewoman and Evangelist can best be surmised by the following periscope
in which Evangelist Luke quoted Jesus’ core mission on His return to the local or home church of
Nazareth.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,
Because He has anointed Me;
To preach the gospel to the poor
He has sent Me to heal the broken-hearted
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind
To set at liberty those who are oppressed
To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord
This passage remains the seed-bed and the plateau upon which Methodism all over the world is
founded. For this reason, such a predisposed and God given approach to evangelism remains our
anchor and is critically characteristic of everything we would wish to communicate to the world from
generations to generations. We must re-emphasise, no genuine Methodist can claim to be nonevangelist. Evangelism is our breath and blood. To this end, the Order of Evangelism is, in all intent
and purpose the face of the mission of our growing and developing church. I remain humbly
indebted to thank God always for, among many things, the work being done by you, our
Biblewomen and Evangelists under extreme challenging conditions. Thank you for the good work in
Swaziland, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and South Africa. As a Warden I continue to appraise our
Church for all you are sacrificially doing out of love of the Lord Jesus Christ. We have always thanked
your Circuits for supporting, praying and remunerating you accordingly.
2.
BIENNIAL 2014
The Biennial Convention will be held at Clarkebury District under Tombo Circuit from 15-18 May
2014. Please note, in 2016 it will be in Queenstown District, and in 2018 it will be in Free State and
Lesotho District.
3.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
3.1
Rubrics (which include admission to candidature, course content, duration of studied and
discipline for not abiding by EMMU standards) in the training of are all contained in the L&D as
presented by Connexional Coordinator of Lay Training was accepted by the General Committee.
Implementation thereof will take place after the approval of L&D.
3.2
Courses
The following Courses were accepted as syllabus:
Grade 12 is an admission standard and that candidates shall have the minimum of four preaching
courses at the year of candidature.
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The First Year Courses shall be; Wesley’s Studies (e.g. preaching, church organisation etc), Doctrine,
Leadership.
The Second Year Courses shall be Evangelism (e.g. soul winning, pastoral care and counseling,
church planting, etc)
3.2.1. 2014 Candidates
0128 Jekwa Popie
0128 Lynch Oswald
0128 Magcoba Nosipho
0211 Rossouw Katie
0322 Vumazonke Nokuzola
0322 Mbanga Adonijah
0330 Sixinti Nzame
0330 Sodladla Zwelitsha
3.3.
0330 Ngceba Albertina
0703 Elizabeth Moolisa
0803 Zuma Simon
0813 Radebe Thembalihle
0902 Macingwane Sabelo
1024 Masuku Tsakasile
1105 Manamela Motsei
Eighty Six (86) students who Graduated in Bloemfontein on 08-06-2013
Surname
First Names
Surname
First Names
Baloleleki
Oupa Dauglas
Makabeni-Qoza
Nomonde Perseverance
Blouw
Kos
Makhopa
Mzwandile Elias
Bokwe
Pauline Nomvuselelo
Maraba
Teboga Steven
Cekisani
Bayisekile Eric
Maseko
Ndlangamandla David
Chaza
John
Maseti
Nontombi Cynthia
Chemese
John
Mashabela
Raseekele Ronald
Daweti
Nomthandazo Dorothy
Masuku
Duduzile
Draghoender
Errol Dennis
Dungelo
Nosipho Patricia
Dzoye
Dege Naum
Figlan
Nomandile Mildred
Griqua
Maria
Hendricks
Suezette Juaneta
Hlokomfana
Mpikiso Sakhele
Jantjie
Myra
Jeme
Mandla Samuel
Jombile
Nokwanda Grace
Kalipa
Mlungeli Melton
Koogotsitse
Seadimo Lilly
Kopeledi
Michael Kopeledi
Matshobongwana Nomvuselelo Primrose
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81
Mbabela
Bonakele Charles
Mbelu
Nosipho Euginia
Mdladlamba
Virginia Nomvuyo
Mduzulwana
Nkundla Archibishop
Mehlo
Thabo
Menyatso
Mokoai Kornel Andries
Mfiki
Mncekeleli
Mjeku
Nombulelo
Cynthia
Mkiva
Lungelwa Margaret
Mnotoza
Nomkhitha Julia
Mokgopane
Olebogeng John
Mokiri
Pulane Suzan
Putswana
4.
Ledwaba
Mathabathe Elsie
Molamu
Gabaake Sarah
Madela
Cwebile Joyce
Molapong
Gaabocwe Thomas
Magwaza
Fredman Khethani
Molutsi
Jospin Thope
Mahlangu
Maqhiri Winnie
Mooka
Kerileng Margret
Mosounyana
Mohlabani Daniel
Segopolo
Joyce Mittah
Mothibi
Glorious Keabaitse
Seisho
Moeti Bennett
Motumi
Tsepo David
Setlhare
Moretiemang Matshidiso
Mrwebo
Welcome Mkhuseli
Shiba
Thandi Kate
Mzinzi
Xhoseka Edgar
Slatsha
Bongani
Ndyenga
Noncinci Rita
Songelwa
Nobantu Christina
Ngcanga
Phakama Margaret
Tlali
Nonkosi Marry
Ngesi
Tryphina Sandikazi
Tshangana
Mxolisi
Ngwane
Gilda Nokuthula
Tshofela
Nomhle Pretty
Nong
Malepekola Mary
Tshofuthi
Nolaynette Doris
Nonjiko
Joyce Ziphokazi
Tyimi
Nosipho
Norushu
Benjamin Vukile
Vilakazi
Bongani Jackson
Nzondo
Nzima Isaac
Xhalisile
Themba
Olifant
Goitsemodimo Gideon
Xhobiso
Luthando
Oliphant
MacDonald Bandile
Peter
Nontsasa Sylvia
Phele
Matlakala Elizabeth
Pule
Nomthandazo Agnes
Qhakaza
Zamekile
Qina
Joyce
Ramoitheki
Norah Dikeledi
Roda
Mongezi Petrus
Sebaka
Moeketji Aaron
SebothoDitlhobolo
Didimalang Denise
REMUNERATIONS FOR 2014
Commissioned Biblewomen and Evangelists
Probationers
Monthly Travelling
Medical Assistance per family
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=
=
=
=
R3390-00
R2885-00
R1100-00
R4000-00
5.
BIBLEWOMEN AND EVANGELISTS WHO HAVE PASSED ON SINCE LAST CONFERENCE
MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN PEACE!
District
Biblewoman
Evangelist
Biblewoman
Evangelist
Evangelist
Biblewoman
Evangelist
Biblewoman
Biblewoman
03
Evangelist
Evangelist
Biblewoman
Biblewoman
Evangelist
Biblewoman
Biblewoman
Biblewoman
Biblewoman
Biblewoman
Evangelist
Evangelist
Biblewoman
Evangelist
05
07
10
13
6.
7.
Surname
01
02
2014 DIARY
18 February
15-18 May
03 June
07 June
29 September—03 October
10-14 November
Jantjies
Khalipha
Ngonyama
Globlaar
Hans
Bonga
Tile
Ndesi
Jongilana
Ntsondwa
Ntobeko
Robertson.
Dithungoe
Selewane
Phakathi
Mhlungu
Cynthia
Nkambule
Mohlamme
Mcombo
Mvimbi
Tyali
Sixhanti
Nomdlembu
Name
Angelinah
Milton
Gushana
Jimmy
Zenzile
Mildred
Pakama
Nozandile
Thembeka
LLulama
Jaca
Jacobs
Naomi
Angelinah
George
Harriett
Vilane
Besie
Jane
Mantombi
Skekana
Adolphus
Maria
Wiseman
District Secretaries Consultation
Biennial Convention
General Committee Meeting
Graduation
Training of First Year Probationers
Training of Second Year Probationers
Emseni
Tombo Clarkebury
SMMS
Bloemfontein
Emseni
Emseni
DISTRICT SECRETARIES
Cape of Good Hope ............................................................... Rev N. N. A. Nomqolo
Grahamstown ....................................................................................... Rev M. D. Songelwa
Queenstown.......................................................................................... Rev T.T.P. Dhlamini
Free State and Lesotho ................................................................................. Rev T.J. Kgotle
Kimberly, Namibia and Bloemfontein...................................................... Rev S.S.J. Kobuoe
Natal Coastal ........................................................................................... Rev N. R. Gowana
Natal West .............................................................................................. Rev H.M.H Mngadi
Central............................................................................................................ Rev T.T.S. Sibi
Highveld and Swaziland ............................................................................... Rev S.S.A.Toolo
Limpopo .............................................................................................. Rev R. J. Mabidikama
Mozambique ............................................................................................... Rev R. Massango
Clarkebury .................................................................................................... Rev T.T.H. Ntuli
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YOUNG WOMEN’S MANYANO
MRS ZIME NYEMBEZI
PREAMBLE
God has called on the Young Women’s Manyano to humbly serve as agents of His love and healing;
transforming society through prayer and service. As we begin our journey for the next three years,
our direction shall be steered by our theme, “Save and Heal the Promised Seed”.
1.
OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF DISTRICTS
1.1
Spirituality:
Spiritual upliftment takes precedence in Manyano gatherings. We are constantly discovering
creative ways of worshipping God using contemporary musical instruments and order of service to
conceptualise our worship. We encourage and foster the spirit of giving as part of spirituality.
1.2
Mission Work
In our execution of God’s work, the Manyano is targeting women and children. We actively engage
in poverty alleviation and relief initiatives. Financial relief for the needy is given in the form of
bursaries for children’s tuition; school uniforms, food, utensils, furniture and clothing are donated to
day care centres, places of safety, hospices and old age homes.
A prayer service was held for South African Nolubabalo Nobanda, imprisoned for drug trafficking.
Her family was invited to a Manyano gathering and pocket money for Nolubabalo’s needs was
collected.
The organisation has established a number of varying projects such beading, sewing and vegetable
gardens to promote economic empowerment and sustainability of the Manyano and the Church at
large.
Environment sustainability is practised by Districts which participate in clean-up campaigns in
partnership with local municipalities.
2.
ACHIEVEMENTS
A number of initiatives are noted as achievements at circuit and district levels.
Circuits have formulated and/or reviewed policies for ease of operations and consistency.
Bursary funds are created with one District escalating its fund to R20 000 by 2013. Another District
has established a crèche. A number of Young Women’s Manyano members have accepted the call
and we have one ministry candidate and nine fully ordained Evangelists.
3.
HIGHLIGHTS
3.1
Triennial 2013
The Presidential Address at the Triennial held on 2nd -5th May 2013 outlined the following:
3.1.1
Objectives of the next three years (2013-15):
To promote a culture of reading amongst children
To build and enhance self-esteem in young women
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3.1.2
3.1.3
3.1.4
3.1.5
3.2
Focus Areas: The Manyano shall focus on education and literacy of children and on gender
quality
Envisaged outcomes: In setting out to accomplish the set objectives, we envisage:
Restoration of the Church tradition of educating the young and the old.
Taking on the responsibility of promoting reading by the children in our churches and
communities.
Taking charge to solve ills of society (poverty, abuse of women and children).
Spreading positive messages about women, so that as role models to children, we are able
to address gender equality issues and in that way educating them for their own future.
Triennial Magazine: The Young Women’s Manyano published a magazine of a high standard
in terms of design, packaging and most importantly relevant content. It was informative,
educational and attractive and was appreciated by various targeted audiences.
Gala dinner: A gala dinner of note held at Triennial clearly demonstrated that Young
Women’s Manyano is ready to establish a new identity for itself and create a unique space
for the Manyano within the Church. Political leaders of a high calibre (Hon. Naledi Pandor
and Helen Sauls-August) were our key note speakers. They critically analysed issues on the
gender equality debate.
Natal West District Visit and Celebrations:
The General President and Executive visited the Natal West District which was celebrating 50 years
of the Young Women’s Manyano’s existence.
3.3
Connexional CCS Project:
The General President and Executive launched its “Drop Everything and Read” (DEAR) Project at
Phillip Nikiwe Primary School in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth on the 20th of July 2013. The event was
timed such that it also paid tribute to Nelson Mandela’s birth month. Reading books were donated
for a classroom - turned reading room, which is being renovated by the Manyano for use in the near
future.
4
CHALLENGES
Numbers of Young Women’s Manyano are showing a decline due to an increase in attrition rates as
a result of HIV/Aids, pregnancy, ceasing membership, migration to the women’s Manyano and
marriages.
Unemployment is rife among Manyano members which destabilises the economic standing of the
Manyano and is a discouraging factor to others who end up ceeding their membership.
The geographic vastness of some Districts also proves to be a challenge in particular for the Districts’
smooth operations as this poses difficulties when the unemployed women have to incur travel costs.
5
FUTURE PLANS
5.1
Database
The Manyano is in the process of creating a database of its membership, specifying biographical
details, qualifications and jobs. The purpose of the database is skills auditing and profiling of the
membership, so that programmes relevant for all ages can be provided and when opportunities
arise, job, business, financial and otherwise, the profile of the Manyano is available for proper and
relevant channeling.
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5.2
Annual Magazine
We plan to have annual magazine publications which will feature highlights for the year and other
relevant, useful and educational information.
5.3
Reading Rooms
In the next 3 years, all churches with Manyano membership will have established reading rooms.
5.4
10th Anniversary
In 2014, we will be celebrating 10 years as the Connexional Young Women’s Manyano and we intend
to hold an event to observe this milestone.
5.5
August activities
All Districts are expected to do activities during August (Women’s month) which promote gender
equality and enhance the self-esteem of young women. A list of suggested and possible activities has
been sent out to Districts and these are (1) Grooming children to be independent. (2) Discussions on
issues of women choosing the right partners. (3) Career choices for women. (4) Setting up reading
rooms. (5) Establishing book clubs. (6) Black Thursdays – YWM wearing black on Thursdays as a
statement against the abuse of women and children. (7) Awards to extra-ordinary women. (7)
Discussions on relationships between women today. (8) Cleaning up our environment.
Districts are expected to submit reports on the August activities they have done.
5.6
Visits to Districts
The General President and Executive intend visiting districts to ensure that plans are put into
operation.
6.
MATTERS REQUIRING CONFERENCE DECISION
The 4TH Triennial Convention held in the Grahamstown District on the 2nd to 5th May 2013 resolved
that all the Constitution matters discussed and agreed upon in terms of the Clauses in our YWM
Constitution at the 3rd Triennial Convention in 2011 and in the February Meeting in 2012, be referred
to the 2013 Conference for approval.
The Clauses discussed and agreed upon are the following:7.
UNIFORM
The uniform of the YWM shall be:Add
6.1
A white round neck blouse without a collar.
6.3
Plain leather black shoes without buckle.
6.5
Six panel Manyano hat with brim.
8.
LOCAL BRANCH ORGANIZATION
7.5
Add: Should be no local Minister’s wife, a YWM, the Branch Chairperson shall be nominated
by the Circuit Executive. If not possible, the wife of an Evangelist may be nominated, in
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86
consultation with the Superintendent of the Circuit and appointed by the Circuit Quarterly
Meeting.
8.
CIRCUIT ORGANIZATION
It was resolved that 8.2.1 be deleted, as it completely contradicts with 8.2
9.
Add
9.2.4
9.2.6
DISTRICT ORGANIZATION
10
CONNEXIONAL ORGANISATION
The President, Office Bearers and two elected delegates of the Circuit YWM.
Delete the entire Clause
10.1.3 Delete a phrase “except for the minister’s wives in the committee”.
10.1.4 Add: Ex-President
Add Clause 10.1.6
Minister’s wives, widows and the wives of the supernumerary ministers, ministers who are members
of the YWM in the Connexion are Ex-officio members with no voting powers.
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WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION
MRS CHARMAINE FORTUIN
THEME : “ God’s Table of Grace and Healing” 2 Chronicles 30: 19 – 20; 1 Peter 2:24
1.
OVERVIEW
The invitation to a round table of coming together (Luke 14 verse 21) is still extended throughout the
Connexion. The aim of this is in a context of changing moral values and seeking to deepen spirituality
in the life of our church. It is also to challenge inclusiveness for all, to engage in an invitation from
God to have a personal relationship with Him and to grow daily in Christian values and behavior.
In living out our motto-“By love serve ye one another’, we believe that the church is one of the best
places where we can learn to begin to live together in love and harmony. We come from very
different backgrounds with diverse histories and stories to tell some even quite horrendous. And
yet, somehow, we can gather in peace around the Eucharistic table and celebrate the resurrected
Christ in our lives. Therefore a common thread in our discussions and resolutions run through the
social challenges facing our communities on the topics; victim abuse in all its forms, substance
abuse, teenage pregnancies, the brokenness of family life, and the specific need for the
empowerment of women.
2.
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Women’s Association are as follows:
2.1
2.3
2.4
2.5
Revisiting of Women’s Association rules and Affirmation to bring these in line with the
MCSA procedures and structures
To have the Constitution and rule book which will include the Affirmation , Women’s
Association Prayer , be reprinted as one book
To revisit / amend the Order of Service for Induction and Dedication services
To have achieved the MDGS
To recruit and empower younger women
3.
ACHIEVEMENTS
2.2
Our relationship with the global sisterhood of the World Federation of Methodist & Uniting Church
Women was endorsed through the emphasis placed on working towards achieving four of the eight
Millennium Development Goals (MDG’s) and our Mission Pillars; these are:
3.1
To eradicate extreme poverty and hunger (MDG1)
Soup Kitchens and various feedings schemes are being done by the sisters in all of the districts.
Clothes and blankets are also donated and distributed at these outreaches. Children and their
parents come for nourishment and are fed spiritually as well.
3.2
To give all children a primary school education (MDG2)
The Ladies are encouraged to assist at school with the assemblies and prayer rooms. They are also
encouraged to be the voice of the church in the schools and to build relationships with teachers in
their areas. In most Districts ladies are on the school governing bodies and represent Christ in the
schools. They also have established prayer groups who pray for the schools, the pupils and the
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teachers. The WA throughout the connexion is also very involved with the orphanages in the various
Districts and has sponsorship programs and mentoring programs in place.
Districts and branches have taken up the initiative of ‘adopt a learner/s’, where they are responsible
for buying full uniform and stationary for learners coming from poor families.
Connexional project (2013 Biennial) : All branches in the 5 Districts to collect school stationery e.g.
Colouring pencils, pencils, exercise books, cello tape, glue sticks, rulers etc.
3.3
To promote gender equality and empower women (MDG3)
The Women’s Association have taken a stand by supporting the fight against “Victim Abuse” in all its
form by wearing black on Thursdays in solidarity with those affected, and to practice the “knock on
the door” initiative as challenged by Bishop Witbooi of the Northern District, with the aim of
exposing and speaking up against violence in the home.
3.4
To combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases (MDG6)
The sisters are actively involved in ministering to those infected and affected at the various places of
healing such as Hospitals and orphanages. They also visit the hospitals and old age homes in their
areas regularly where they spend time tending to the sick, frail and lonely.
Continuous health education and HIV/AIDS awareness programme are done in societies and
communities and also at our organizational meetings.
4.
ACHIEVEMENTS
4.1
4.2
MDG’S as reflected in overview
Shawl Ministry (WFMUCW): This unique ministry is aimed at the infirm, the bereaved, and
the elderly members of our Women’s Association. These shawls are knitted with a specific
person, she and her family are upheld in prayer. Our aim is that the ministry to develop
further and many ladies of our Association be blessed and comforted by the shawls. An
article was published in the Tree of Life where a shawl was handed over to the oldest
member who turned 100 years in February 2013.
We are delighted to report that Namibia is included in the KNB District after their absence
for some years. Namibia will also be hosting the 2013 District Meetings.
4.3
5.
HIGHLIGHTS
A women’s consultation was held in Durban from 28 – 30th June 2013 (South an East Africa region).
How true, as we stepped out in the unknown tomorrow putting our complete trust in our Lord and
Saviour, Jesus Christ to a gathering of an unexpected large number of faithful members of the
Southern & East Africa Area - joyfully welcomed old and new friends. This is always an amazing and
happy experience meeting women from many other countries within our Area.
This was an ideal platform for ladies from the three sisterhoods (South Africa) to show unity.
Common goals were achieved and set for the future. We were also blessed with the presence of Mrs
Siwa wife of MCSA Presiding Bishop, Mrs Nyobole –wife of Rev. Vuyani “Vido” Nyobole, Thenjiwe
Ncube –past Area President, Mrs Songia and Mrs Lazekya from United Methodist Church Zimbabwe.
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6.
DEVINE SERVICE AND HOLY COMMUNION (Sunday)
The Service was led by Rev. Dandala who substituted for Presiding Bishop Siwa.
His message was taken from scripture reading Judges 5:1-9 and Hebrews 10: 19-27 with the Theme
on HOPE.
He elaborated on “Never give up” as we are not living in easy times. When we call on the name of
Jesus – never give up.
7.
CHALLENGES
We are still facing this huge challenge of substance abuse and women and child abuse. The women
are working hard in being vocal about these social evils, but it a drop in the ocean. We pray and trust
that more Methodist men will speak out against these evils that are destroying our communities.
Men’s League: As the Women’s Association we are looking forward to working in partnership with
the Men’s League at Connexional and District levels on workshops on drug abuse and other
educational and social issues.
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WOMEN’S AUXILIARY
MRS SHIRLEY FERGUS
‘Through Faith all is possible’
Our theme for the year 2012-2013 is “Faith” This has been the main theme for our General Executive
that all portfolio holders have focused on and used when the President and General Executive have
visited Districts especially during March as they visited and attended some District Meetings and
Branch celebrations.
As we get closer to our Centenary many Branches are already turning 100.
The overall purpose of the Women’s Auxiliary is to ’Know Christ and make Him known’. And as we
the Auxiliary make our way towards the Centenary we can see how it has created a place in the
church as a whole, where women can fellowship, share and grow spiritually. It is also a place where
collectively through their talents the ladies have met the ‘millennium goals’ through projects in a
mighty way.
1.
MEMBERSHIP
It is both with joy and sadness that I report on membership of the organization. As always it
is easier to report on the good things first and that is some Branches have experienced quite
positive growth. As well as some of the Affiliate Branches who have also sort a much closer
active interaction. Sadly however I must report that the overall membership has declined
and that we find it difficult to motivate younger women to join.
Membership……………………………….3532
Country and Postal……………………..1045
2.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH
The greatest event annually between ladies of other denominations is when the Women of all
churches come together for the service of ‘Women’s World Day of Prayer’ which is held yearly on
the first Friday in March.
It is a time where women plan and pray together for the World and its people.
World Federation Day Services are together planned with the other women’s organizations within
the church. Young Women’s Manyano, Manyano and the Women’s Association. It is at these events
that further ideas and opportunities emerge where we can work together for the Glory of God.
The Greatest of all is that each of these groups where possible supports the other at their annual
meetings.
3.
SPIRITUALITY
All Branches start each meeting with spiritual messages.
Many members are involved in church leadership, leading Bible Studies and attending Spiritual talks
through-out the year.
Most Branches have a Prayer Chain where fellow members uphold members both in the branch and
the church. Oh how powerful is the power of prayer.
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I just give thanks to our Savior for answered prayers.
Some branches during outreach projects pray with and spread the word with those they help.
4.
HUMAN AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
Many projects in the Branches are committed to empowering those in need. We have a very
successful program of evening Computer lessons. These empower those who have not had the
opportunity to obtain these skills.
Sewing classes are also not only times of learning and passing on sewing skills but times of sharing.
Many women have empowered themselves by being able to start their own sewing businesses after
attending such classes. This promotes gender equality and empowers women.
Some projects have helped women start gardening businesses thereby helping households to sustain
themselves by planting vegetables.
In one instance this has led to the individual opening a small seedling business in her own backyard
where the community can buy their seedlings.
5.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE
To borrow a sentence ‘Justice and Service’ are synonymous with the Women’s Auxiliary in that these
goals are the goals and aims of each branch. Our members are natural good Samaritans, as mothers’
helping the needy seems deep seated.
The Women’s Auxiliary has many projects focused on the old and young alike, especially the
vulnerable. The collective effect of the numerous projects of food hampers, HIV affected and
infected, knitting and making of clothes, knitting of bed socks and caps, all come with love that only
the Lord can give. We see these projects as the mission arm of the Women’s Auxiliary. (Service). On
Justice, information on social injustices is shared and members are encouraged to speak out on
them.
6.
CONNEXIONAL MEETINGS
The 96th Annual Connexional Meetings were held in August 2012 at the Gonubie Methodist Church –
East London. These were ably hosted by the Queenstown District.
Here delegates meet to discuss business, events and accomplishments of the past year.
We give thanks that the Lord through the miraculous healing of the Queenstown District President
enabled delegates to see God’s work in action. It surely gave the new / incoming General Executive,
a sound foundation to base their’ Faith’ theme on.
These meetings were Induction Meetings of the ‘New Incoming General Executive’. The Induction
Service was led by our Presiding Bishop, the Rev. Siwa. He gave an inspiring message giving the
delegates a real meaning of what it is to serve such a great and powerful God.
7.
WORLD FEDERATION OF METHODIST AND UNITING CHURCH WOMEN
I would like to thank Mrs. Gwen Gibb for agreeing to represent us on this body. This is an
organization where women can work on projects all having the same goal.
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We met in Johannesburg earlier this year with the area President, Mrs Gretta Makhwenkwe, where
plans for the future work of the WFM&UCW was discussed for this area. A conference is to be held
in Durban at the end of June and the Women’s Auxiliary will be doing a presentation on Sustainable
Development in line with our Millennium Goals.
8
COUNTRY AND POSTAL (C&P)
This is an area of Mission within the Women’s Auxiliary very close to my heart. The majority of these
members served within Branches of the Women’s Auxiliary for many years and either due to age,
illness or relocating to new areas where there is no longer an active branch still wish to stay
connected with the Women’s Auxiliary as the C& P still gives them a sense of still belonging to the
organization. They receive a monthly contact letter which is a letter sent out with scriptural message
and then they also receive another of Women’s news. The collective Contact Messages will be
printed as a booklet at the end of our term of office. Many of these ladies are powerful prayer
partners and are also helping gather information for our Centenary Book ‘Stepping Stones to a
Centenary” for which we are forever grateful.
9.
FINANCES
Most of the funds raised are through the talents God has given each individual member from
cooking, baking, knitting, sewing and other various talents.
We are blessed in the knowledge that ‘Seek first the Kingdom of Heaven and all things shall follow’
and that God honors his word to those faithful and obedient and so our finances continually blessed.
Monies paid out this year are Local missions:
Outside organisations:
Methodist Church funds:
R 423 171.00
R 114 025.00
R 456 726.00
Notwithstanding the above the General Executive is very aware of the current recession in our
country and the increasing needs of the people. We feel that monies need to be spent in a
responsible way.
10.
JUBILEE FUND
This fund was established by the General executive some years ago.
The annual interest received is donated to a widow of a Methodist Minister. Donations given for
entries in the Book of Remembrance have yearly swelled these funds now standing at R 118 490.79
at the end of April 2013.
We are trusting that this fund will continue to grow, so that the interest thereof will meet a ever
increasing need as living costs increase daily.
11.
THANKS
As our theme says ‘Through Faith all is possible’ and so it is to Him, Jesus Christ, that I humbly say
thank you for His faithfulness and for the promise of His word that He will never leave us to do
things on our own.
We give Him all the Glory.
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Secondly, a sincere thanks to our Presiding Bishop and his Executive Secretary of the Methodist
Church of Southern Africa for their support and guidance.
To all District Presidents and District Committees, it is to you we owe our thanks. It is your
encouragement and nurture of branches and members that bears fruit. Thank You.
To each Branch member never let us forget that without you the organisation would not exist. So
thank you for your faithfulness and love.
Last, but certainly not least, to my General Executive without you the world would be a poorer place,
your support, love and amazing work will surely be rewarded in heaven with many Crowns.
Thank you always seems such a small word for big deeds.
God Bless. Keep the faith.
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METHODIST WOMEN’S PRAYER AND SERVICE UNION
WOMEN’S MANYANO
MRS NOBUNTU MADWE
FOCUS AREA: EDUCATE WOMEN AND CHILDREN FOR A VALUE-ADDED LIFE.
1.
PREAMBLE
As we are ordained of God; we are a reflection of His Will and Purpose. We must then arise and arm
ourselves with the power of Faith and cleave unto which that draweth us together and united us.
2.
SPIRITUALITY
This aspect is so vibrant in Manyano generally. Ecumenism is encouraged at all levels. In all Manyano
gatherings spiritual upliftment takes precedence.
3.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH
We believe in Evangelism in action and this is our strongest point. This is evidenced by many
converts who join Manyano. Manyano has resuscitated the financial assistance to the Order of
Evangelism. We have donated a sum of R50 000 to the order and have committed to make this a
yearly contribution.
4.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE
Eleven tertiary students have been awarded bursary funding of R18 000 each. Still awaiting
Mozambique to furnish us with details of the academic institution at which their candidate is
registered. This is an on-going programme that will continue until the beneficiary finishes the junior
degree on condition that he/she does not fail.
During Connexional General Executive meeting held in February in Port Elizabeth we donated 50
desks and chairs to Emsengeni Primary School in Zwide and Grade R playing and teaching material at
John Masiza Primary School in Walmer Township.
In Response to mitigation of climate change, Manyano membership have donated water tanks to
schools for water harvesting and have also planted trees at the area where they convened for their
District and Connexional meetings.
We graciously donated a sum of R30 000 to the plight of Mozambique. The contribution was
channeled through the office of the Mission unit.
5.
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
Through CCS Manyano membership engages in educational programmes as well as income
generating projects. Speakers are invited to educate membership on wellness, social and economic
issues. Women are capacitated with strategies of taking care of their health and encouraged to
participate in projects that will sustain their economy.
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6.
EDUCATION
Natal Coastal District was engaged in a Matric intervention programme last year which activity
resulted in the improvement of end of the year Matric results especially in the rural areas of KZN. In
recognition of this good will, Natal Coastal Women’s Manyano was awarded a certificate of
appreciation by KZN Department of Education
During their Manyano Convention, Queenstown District handed over to the Eastern Cape
Department of Education a renovated building of Mt Arthur High School which is one of the
Methodist Missionary Schools.
As directed by their focus Connexional Women’s Manyano refurbished Eagle Block in Healdtown in
an endeavour to save the soul of Healdtown. This structure will be handed over to the church and
Eastern Cape Dept. of Education on the 9th of August 2013.
7.
ACHIEVEMENTS
After a long struggle of keeping Manyano website functioning; we have eventually successfully
created our own. Our website is www.manyanounion.co.za
All Manyano documents that carry our history are archived at Cory Library since the end of 2012.
8.
STATISTICS
75000 Full members
9.
CONCLUSION
We extend our sincere gratitude to each and every member of this organisation for carrying us
through in their prayers and ensuring that God’s work is fulfilled. May the good Lord weave us
together so that through us He may be known.
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YOUNG MEN’S GUILD
REV MOTLALEPULE PETRUS LESEBA
1.
INTRODUCTION
This report covers submission of seven districts out of the expected 12. These districts are presented
not necessarily on their importance but rather in the order of their respective submissions namely,
Central, Queenstown, Kimberely Namibia and Bloemfontein, Northern Free State and Lesotho,
Limpopo, Grahamstown and Natal Coastal.
The report will address ten aspects that are; the above stated introduction, new executive
committee, theme and presidential address, mission imperatives (related to DDSR), finances,
constitutional matters, resolutions, Triennial roster, conclusion and visual annexure of projects
within the Connexion.
2.
NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
The new Connexional Executive Committee was inducted on the 30 May 2013 by the Central District
Bishop, Rev Peter Witbooi (courtesy for Presiding Bishop Rev Z. Siwa). The executive portfolios are as
follows:
General President, Rev Motlalepule Petrus Leseba, Ex-General President, Rev Linda E. Mandindi,
General Vice President, brother Buntu Rasmeni, General Secretary, brother Selogilwe Petrus
Mokobe, General Recording Secretary, brother Malesela John Mokoele, General Treasurer, brother
Vuyani ELia Ngcatshe, and General DDSR, brother Papile Fred Kekana.
However, the current executive acknowledges the work done by the following ex-general
committee:
Ex-General President, Rev. L. E. Mandindi, ex-General Vice President - bro. S. H. Mbatha; ex-General
Secretary – Rev. G. M. Monama; ex-General Recording Secretary, bro. T. P. Z. Sangweni; ex-General
Treasurer – bro. W. B. Ngidi; ex- General DDSR – bro. M. E. Ngcobo and the past-General President –
Rev. L. Mdoda.
3.
THEME AND PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS
The theme for the 26th YMG Triennial Convention read thus: “The Role of Christian Men (YMG) in
Reclaiming Humanity in a Broken Society: The 2nd Century Outlook”.
In line with the theme, the General President Rev Motlalepule Petrus Leseba challenged the YMG
and concluded by tabling the following recommendations as way forward for implementation in all
districts:
a)
b)
Districts should establish dialogue forums with different stakeholders within communities.
Strategic plans should be adopted in order to address:
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
v)
Unemployment across the board aggressively
Educational issues of circumcision, abuse, bursaries, and youth intake to the YMG
Effective and efficient monitoring of programmes agreed upon
Formulation of prayer chains
Partnership with other organization
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4.
MISSION IMPERATIVES (RELATED TO DDSR)
No
District
Mission Imperatives
Performance Indicator
1
Central
Evangelism and Church Growth
Regional revivals, street revival and evangelism
done.
Spirituality
09/06/2012 Vryburg Circuit/ Bophirima Region
25/08/2012 Mogale Circuit/ Soweto Region
Development and Economical Empowerment
Registered 2 Town Region students for 2012
2
Queenstown
15/08/2012
Rev Tlholwe E., 1971 – 1973
First president of the District medical support.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation
16/02/2013 at Klerksdorp: Prayer support to
Rev. Leseba M.P. family for the late Mrs Leseba
M. and daughter Tshidi’s Tomb stone
14/10/2012 Schweizer Reneke/ Ipelegeng
March against women and children abuse, drug
and alcohol abuse with different organisations
e.g WM, YWM, SAPS, CBO
09/09/2012 Rustenburg prayer for
Marikana Massacre that rocked the Nation
Evangelism and Church Growth
Ventures into old age homes, hospitals, schools,
taxi ranks, prisons and private homes for
evangelism.
Spirituality
Holding healing services, retreats, weekly
evangelical crusades and night vigils during the
times of hardships, when members have lost
their loved ones.
Development and Economical Empowerment
Shared sheets and blankets to a needy
community of Queenstown
Capacitate each other and share best practices
with the less fortunate.
Address Issues of circumcision
Regions alive
“Then my soul just opened up…”
“Helping others to fulfill their
potential”
Ms R.J. Kgasago Unisa R2000.00
Ms A. Latsha
TEEC R2000.00
R5 000.00 Medical bills donation
Central, Limpopo and H & S together
went out and prayed for the people
in Marikana
N/A
N/A
Strategic Plan Exist
June and December target months
3
Kimberely
Namibia
and
Bloemfontein
Justice, Service and Reconciliation
Correctional services given quarterly revival
services that clearly show Gods unwavering
salvation even beyond redemption.
Evangelism and Church Growth
It is as all these years difficult to determine
growth in our district due to poor reporting from
the circuits
Spirituality
Recruitment of membership through revival
services and also conducted bible studies.
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Quarter Plan
Regions alive.
Zastron, Achbell, Tweespruit
Development and Economical Empowerment
Taung, Kuruman and Aliwal North donated
blankets, food parcels, fenced Taung station
mission and Upington church, Achbell and
Tweespruit renovated manse.
4
5
Northern Free
State
and
Lesotho
Limpopo
Adopted baby Christopher Vissagie, a disabled
child. His parents are unemployed.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation
Evangelism and Church Growth
District fellowship relations with KNB were
forged and a joint revival was held at Senekal in
September 2012 as a way of learning from each
other and prays together.
Spirituality
The level of spirituality within the YMG in the
district seemed to have deteriorated
Development and Economical Empowerment
Vegetable gardens are much sustainable to
support vulnerable families. Poultry project is
being run.
YMG History booklet which states NFS & L history
dating as far back as 1971 during the
demarcation with KNB under the leadership of
Rev Coetzee is being produced.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation
Evangelism and Church Growth
The regions continue to spread their wings
through evangelism in the various circuits of their
respective regions.
Spirituality
We managed to visit Marikana after the disaster
to convey our condolences and pray at Die
“Koppie”the venue where the disaster occurred,
the hospital to also pray to those who were still
admitted and lastly went to the police station
where we prayed for the Officers because we as
the church does not take sides we only assist
where our need is required.
Development and Economical Empowerment
Supernumeraries are offered an amount of R250,
00 for them to utilize it according to their will.
Provide annual financial assistance to the district
Young Women’s Manyano and Youth by donating
to them R2000.00 and R5000.00 respectively.
The YMG has also contributed R5000.00 towards
the Bishop’s discretionary fund and another
R5000.00 to the MCO for our ministers in
Mozambique.
R10 000.00 was allocated to our deserving
students who need financial assistance; one of
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99
4 Circuits
Upington circuit
N/A
Partnership of KNB and NFS & L.
Refer to the forged KNB and NFS &
L links above
Mafeteng
History booklet
N/A
Regions alive
Central, Limpopo and H & S together
went out and prayed for the people
in Marikana
Record Newspaper 29 April 2013 for
Botswana support to students.
6
7
Grahamstown
Natal Coastal
them is a student minister at Seth Mokitimi
Seminar.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation
Our Circuits participate in full uniform during 16
days of activism against abuse of women and
children and also read the statements during
these gatherings.
Evangelism and Church Growth
Street revival and visits to hospitals, homes for
the elderly and sick, correctional services and
support to the weak are key on our evangelism.
Spirituality
YMG members attend to bereavement prayers.
Development and Economical Empowerment
Projects adopted in the district:
-Adoption of at least two children per Circuit,
Initiation school project
-Family life and February month as the Baqwa
month
Justice, Service and Reconciliation
YMG at all levels contribute a lot when it comes
to visits on sick and giving on needy hence
minimal contribution on Justice, Service and
Reconciliation.
Evangelism and Church Growth
The evangelism campaign in the hosting circuit
has yielded positive results in that we managed
to visit and prayed 75 families and ensured that
the gospel message was delivered to them.
Spirituality
The Bible Study conducted by the Rev SHS
Khuzwayo and he focused on St Luke 15:11-32.
He reminded us to be aware of various sources
and types of theologies that are not related to
the Wesleyan culture and theology.
Development and Economical Empowerment
We have bought school uniforms for 50 pupils
ranging from shoes, socks, girls’ school uniforms
and white shirts.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation
Visited in-mates to pray, give hope and
affirmation of God’s presence in their
circumstances.
5.
FINANCES
5.1
Annual Financial Statements (Afs)
Thokoza
Statement
Violence).
(Domestic
Regions alive
Spiritual revival is done through
imvuselelo,
amahlaselo
nemidibaniso.
Food parcel distributions.
4 Students bursary at R5000.00
each.
N/A
75 families
Script
Dr JW Vilakazi School in Groutville.
Stanger Prison
The 2010 – 2013 AFS presented by the ex-General Treasurer, Brother Wiseman Ngidi were approved
and adopted by the 2013 YMG Triennial Convention. The balance brought forward by the
27/05/2013 was R134 685.91
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5.2
Budget 2014 – 2016
The proposed budget by the General Treasurer, Brother Vuyani E. Ngcatshe was adopted.
Compressed gross budget totals are as follows:
YEAR
2014
2015
2016
INCOME
R201 120.00
R206 120.00
R2011 120.00
EXPENDITURE
R208 404.00
R2011 404.00
R251 934.00
R20 000.00 budget shortfall to be covered through fund-raising by all districts treasurers
5.3
Seth Mokitimi Seminary Support
The 26th Triennial Convention handed over the following amounts in cheque form to the Seminary:
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
GT
6.
R10 000.00
R20 000.00
R25 000.00
R25 000.00
R80 000.00
For Library
Donated by Highveld and Swaziland District
Donated by Central District
Donated by Queenstown District
CONSTITUTIONAL MATTERS
The 26th Triennial Convention held at Central District, hosted by Jabavu circuit officially deferred the
“Constitutional matters” to the 06 – 09 February 2014 Connexional General Executives Committee
(CGEC) meeting to be held at East London, Queenstown District.
7.
RESOLUTIONS
The following resolutions were approved by the 26th YMG Triennial Convention for
implementation:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
To avert impoverishing the District of new talent and gifts, the term of office should be
limited to that specified in the constitution irrespective of the different portfolios the person
has served in that term of office. Meaning, a person becomes eligible after a terms’ break.
To collaborate with other church denominations and intensify a joint stand to fight the
spread
of Satanism in our country.
To year YMG uniform in all funerals irrespective of affiliation of the deceased for evangelism
and as YMG marketing strategy.
To take the resolution of “Selling Liquor on Sundays” to the MCSA Conference in September
2013 at Umtata.
To re-affirm the Thokoza statement by YMG members in all Districts level.
All district presidents are to submit material of their presidential addresses to support the
incumbent General President’s presidential address.
All districts are to submit a “Bursary Fund” to the GDDSR in order to augment “Bursary
support” to deserving students from Connexional level.
The host of the Triennial should submit list of B&B’s and quest-houses so that Districts that
are able to pay accommodation for their members can do so.
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101
i)
j)
All districts that are able to bring and pay for their choirs to Triennials should continue to do
so without limitations, lest we kill the spiritual “Methodism Movement”.
Starting 2014 all Districts are to ensure that each Saturday in their YMG Annual Conventions
is scheduled for marches against the atrocities perpetrated against woman, children, and
vulnerable of our society.
8.
TRIENNIAL ROSTER AND GP-ELECT
The 27th Triennial will be led by the General President Elect, Rev S. Nhlapo of Limpopo District as
follows:
Date
Host
9.
:
:
2016
Zone 3. Cape of Good Hope, Grahamstown and Queenstown
CONCLUSION
Firstly, regions are alive in different districts. Constitutionally, they make districts more viable in
relation to administration. Secondly, most districts engaged in tangible projects to address the four
mission imperatives. We thus add value and bring change to our most needy people. See the visual
annexures. Thirdly, both our retired ministers and those who served the organisation diligently are
being taken care off. They receive some reasonable support in the form of subsistence. Ruri “Hube
ga a tshwane le setlhe!!!” Fourthly, the organisation’s AFS 2010-2013 as well as the Budget 20142016 have been adopted and leaves the organisation in a viable state. Hence Seth Mokitimi Seminar
received YMG’s ownership to the tune of R80 000.00. Fifthly, the Constitutional matters will be
addressed by broader meeting during February 2014 at East London. Sixthly, our resolutions as well
as the challenge to forge links with the Zimbabwians based from the presidential address will be a
blessing for the SADEC region.
Lastly, this report reflects 58% of the submitted work of the YMG Connexionally. However, it gives
one joy to say bravo to the district secretaries who made this report to be a success namely, Brother
Monaheng David; Ngumbela X.G.; Khatlake M.A.; Masilo P.A.M.; Manamela T.W.; Nobuya Xolile;
and Vusi Kunene. Sterling job brothers!!!
10
VISUAL ANNEXURE OF PROJECTS (See attached Annexure)
This is the spirit in the Connexion – “One heart, One way!!!” Bakaulengwe.
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LOCAL PREACHERS ASSOCIATION
MR JAMES NKOSI
1.
INTRODUCTION
The Local Preachers Association (LPA) is an Organisation of the Methodist Preachers who have
accepted the calling of Jesus Christ to proclaim His Gospel within the holistic Mission of the Church.
These local preachers organized themselves in a formidable church entity striving to assist the
Church towards strengthening preaching. This Organisation always promotes the fellowship of all
Local Preachers of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa within the context of her progressive
unfolding Vision and Mission. The Organisation committed herself to make the Vision and Mission of
the Methodist Church of Southern Africa be realized through encouraging preachers to minister to
God`s people following different themes usually enunciated at the Organisation`s Triennial and
District Conventions. Currently the Local Preachers Association performs ministry within the theme:
“LIVE FOLLOWING THE DIRECTION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.” The LPA members trusting in this theme
and embracing the Presiding Bishop`s theme which says: “TOGETHER A HEALING COMMUNITY” have
gained strength in their calling and minister to God`s people within the five imperatives of our
church, working hand in hand with the Connexional, District and Circuit leaders.
2.
EXECUTIVE
General President
Ex General President
Vice General President
General Secretary
Asst General Secretary
General Treasurer
Committee members
3.
: Mr. JM Nkosi
: Mr. ZM Jakavula
: Mr. NG Mlambo
: Mr. ME Kumalo
: Mrs. NM Mntungwa
: Mr. ES Zulu
: Rev. AM Mkhwanazi, Mrs. LP Zikalala and Mr. ZG Bhusa
LPA OVERVIEW
The year under review has revealed an increase in numbers of preachers who have affiliated to Local
Preachers Association. The Accredited Preachers increased from 7920 to 9087 and Preachers on Trial
from 1646 to 2003. This data demonstrate an increase of 1524 despite the sad loss of 489 preachers
who have been called to the higher service. May their souls rest in peace. The preachers who have
affiliated to Local Preachers Association come from 11 Districts of our Connexion. The plan of
Mozambique District Local Preachers to affiliate is in progress.
4.
OBJECTIVES FOR PERIOD UNDER REVIEW
The following objectives were successfully adhered to in the year under review:
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
Encouraging all Local Preachers and Ministers to observe the Vision and Mission of the MCSA
and enhance its purpose.
Giving fresh and relevant impetus to the preaching ministry of lay persons.
Encouraging and assisting Local Preachers and Ministers to empower themselves through
study and reading widely in order to enhance their preaching potential.
Promoting fellowship amongst all Local Preachers and Ministers in the MCSA.
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103
4.5
4.6
5.
Utilising the Association as a forum to promote fellowship, inspiration and empowerment,
and to share issues of common concern amongst members of the Local Preachers
Association.
Finding creative ways of embracing each other within and among all Local Preachers and
Ministers in the Connexion in a manner that is sensitive and uniting.
ACHIEVEMENTS, HIGHLIGHTS, CHALLENGES AND FUTURE PLANS
The Local Preachers Association committed to pursue ministry within the framework of five
imperatives of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa as follows:
5.1
Spirituality
All Districts gave positive reports about their District Conventions and the workshops were
held. The well prepared bible studies enriched the spiritual lives of those who attended.
The DRD (DISCIPLINE RESPECT DISCERNMENT) model which is a tool to revive humanity has
been adopted as the project in all the Districts. This model (DRD) has proposed prayerful
strategies to fight with social and spiritual ills. Regions and Districts have made plans to
implement this model with the belief that it will help the entire Church to fight against all
kinds of ills. This year under review revealed to us the 24th celebration of Local Preachers
Association in Clarkebury and recognition of the work done by the MCSA and Traditional
Leaders in promoting spiritual unity among God`s people. Local Preachers of Central District
have also celebrated Jubille.
5.2
Evangelism and Church Growth
In each District the preachers are always working hand in hand with the leadership of the circuit
societies in proclaiming the Gospel to Gods people in urban and rural areas. Preachers actively
participate in taking preaching appointments in societies, hospitals and in other identified places
where the word of God is needed most, thus assisting their Ministers in the preaching field. The
Evangelical Crusades have been held in all the Districts and Regions culminating in the Connexional
Crusade, which will be held on the 19-20 October 2013 at Ellis park arena in Johannesburg. The
Evangelical Crusade is the Preachers sponsored Triennial (3 year) event. The one to be held this year
will be the second one following the first Crusade which was held in 2010 in the KNB District.
5.3
Justice and Service
The Local Preachers have produced the 2nd edition of the LPA Constitution to update the clauses that
required some changes that will help the Association to meet its objectives. The revised Constitution
was launched by the Presiding Bishop and General Secretary of Conference at the LPA Connexional
General Committee in February 2013. The LPA is currently in the process of translating these
Constitutions from English into other South African languages to promote understanding by all its
members. The LPA has also produced a new badge which is now understood to be in line with the
Methodist doctrine. This new badge was also blessed and launched at the same General Committee
of February 2013.
5.4
Human and Economic Development & Empowerment
Working and helping of communities in our Districts is continuing in various ways. We have
embarked on a project of giving help to our Mozambique fellow preachers. Our General President
will visit Mozambique District in preparation of launching the Local Preachers Association and
presentation of Manels, Copies of the Constitution and LPA badges to preachers and identify other
necessities preachers who would have affiliated to the Local Preachers Association may need.
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104
Districts have been requested to identify projects in the Community and work as partners with the
structures of the Community in helping the needy.
5.5
Education and Training
The training of the local preachers is being reviewed and the report of the task team was presented
at Conference of 2012. Conference supported it and a follow up report is expected to be presented
at the Conference of 2013. It is our view that this initiative of reviewing training of local preachers
would improve preaching in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa if the Methodist Contextual
model is implemented.
6.
FINANCIAL POSITION
We are happy to report that our books are being audited by the MCSA Central Accounting
Organasation and our finances as at 31 December 2012 closed as follows.
INCOME
:
EXPENDITURE :
SURPLUS
:
7.
R28 0782.00
R24 0342.00
R 4 0440.00
RESOLUTIONS
The resolution on Review of Local Preachers Training is now in the hands of EMMU for presentation
to this Conference (2013) as directed by 2012 Conference.
We thank the Holy Spirit who keeps us alive and directs our Church to empower the Local Preachers
Association as a forum to enhance the purpose of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in
ministering among God`s people. Let us follow Our Good Lord even in the shade of darkness.
Amen
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105
WOMEN IN MINISTRY
REV. NOMVUYO J.E MHLONGO
1.
INTRODUCTION
“Because of the Lord’s great Love we are not consumed, for God’s compassions never fail. They are
new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lament. 3: 22-23)
The Women in Ministry (WIM) Forum continues to strive for equal participation of men and women
in decision making structures within the Church. Healing and transformation can only be realized
when we ALL become one in Christ Jesus!
2.
ACHIEVEMENTS

More women are candidating for the Ordained Ministry of Word and sacrament / word and
service.
A few women serve in District/Circuit level as Vice-chairpersons; District Secretaries and
Superintendents.
Conversations between Women Ministers and Ministers wives took place on the 28th
November 2012 at the Presiding Bishops Office. The conversations continue in the different
forums seeking healing and transformation for both parties.
Improved working relations between WIM and Women Manyano
WIM Consultation where at connexional level we share our joys, pains, struggles and
achievements! Here we encourage and empower each other.




3.
CHALLENGES

The consistent pain, humiliation and oppression as a result of only one sector of male
ministers officially privileged to labour with their spouses while other ministers across colour
and gender do not enjoy the same privilege. This is an issue of Injustice and human rights
abuse which needs to be addressed by the MCSA.
The tension between the Laws & Discipline (L&D) of the MCSA and the constitutions of the
Organisations.
To move beyond “first appointments” churches.
The inability to move in significant numbers beyond the local church to serve in
Connexional/District/Circuit positions to effect change and/or be a part of the decision
dynamic on the connexional level.
To effectively engage the WIM Connexional Task Team for Gender transformation because
of financial constraints.




4.
CONCLUSION
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the office of the Presiding Bishop for making the
meeting between the WIM and Ministers Wives possible. We also applaud the establishment of the
Justice and service agenda of the MCSA.
Despite progress being made in terms of Gender-transformation, examples of Women Ministers in
Key positions remain minimal. Most of the men in Key positions are also multiple Committee/Board
members which further stretch their strategic capabilities. As a result Women in Ministry are left
struggling to navigate the male-dominated workspace.
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106
MUSIC ASSOCIATION
MR MOTINGOE ITUMELENG
1
OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF CONNEXIONAL MUSIC ASSOCIATION (AUGUST 2012-JULY
2013)
Motto: “One voice; one song!”
As Connexional Music Association we believe in our call to be ‘fishers of men’. Our existence as
Music Ministry relies on the main pillars of our objectives as suggested in our Constitution with
mainly deepening the sense of spirituality in our respective societies and Circuits, leading all worship
services, irrespective of event and size. The Church Choirs, through their music, bring people closer
to God. They touch everyone to evoke various emotions such as happiness, dance, hope, crying and
praise, interpret scriptures, heal, unite, give comfort and hope to the hopeless because music is the
language of Heaven.
2
OBJECTIVES OF THE CONNEXIONAL MUSIC ASSOCIATION FOR THE PERIOD UNDER REVIEW
-
To finalize and submit Music Association Constitution to the Conference for approval
To monitor improvement on the Districts not fully participating in Connexional activities
To market Connexional Music association
To increase membership of the Church Choirs in all Circuits/Societies
To support SMMS financially
To re-visit and make possible Germany trip for 2014
To unify music and singing in the Connexion (bring back Methodist chants in our Divine
services), especially Liturgy
3.
IMPERATIVES OF MISSION
3.1
Spirituality
As a spiritual body, we continue to refresh, inspire, uplift every soul by praising in song, cherishing
every moment granted to us by God to burst out in song. Throughout the Connexion, choirs avail
themselves in all Services and events of our Church. It is noted with appreciation that church choirs
are beginning to sing the hymns in all Methodist Hymn books, not only concentrating on the usually
sung hymns and they bring new and original Methodist chants so that the generation to come is not
confused by our hymns being sung the ‘gospel’ way. Circuits have worked towards forming District
choirs to unify singing in the church. District Lay Leaders have conducted workshops in the Districts
to instill a spirit of belonging in the districts. It is also appreciated that all but two Districts (Natal
Coastal and Northern Free State & Lesotho) are holding their District Conventions on a yearly basis
3.2
Evangelism and Church Growth
Music destroys the social and economic barriers that face our church and community on a daily
basis. Though some Circuits still struggle with choir membership, few as they are, church choirs are
visible, and try against all odds to claim their rightful place in the church by leading all services. In
some Districts though, it is still difficult to unify singing, especially liturgy, however, through music
workshops at District and Connexional levels, this will soon be the thing of the past. Some Districts
have report some growth in terms of membership as the Circuits that have been regarded as not
active, have been revived and are now participating in their respective District activities. Our Youth,
though very active in our Church activities, it is still an uphill battle to recruit them to join church
choirs.
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107
3.3
Justice and Service
Church Choirs do visit the needy families and organizations at different occasions, some during
Conventions and some out of their own planning.
During these visits they donate items according to the needs, like, blankets, school uniforms and
groceries to mention but a few. Also during the Connexional Convention in November 2012, such
gesture was demonstrated by visiting three (3) identified places of need, namely, Khayalethu Day
care Centre (Kliptown), a home for mentors (peer) who assist vulnerable children with educational
needs and a family of two girls who were victims of rape, who were later burned and killed. The way
in which such visits brought touching emotions to the people who were tasked with this mission
work, Rev Sethunya S. was requested to do de-briefing and counseling for them. In different Districts
choirs do support existing District Methodist Bursary Funds
3.4
Human and Economic Empowerment and Development
Music destroys the social and economic barriers which face our Church and communities on a daily
basis. Church Choirs are now beginning to close the economic gap by using their inheritance as
Methodists (Hymn books) to the benefit of the Church, rather than leaving the Methodists Hymns to
empower gospel singers. Apart from these projects forming part of the Districts’ fundraising, they
also contribute greatly to ‘healing and transformation of our Church. We are proud to mention that
the following Districts have recorded their CDs:
Cape of Good Hope: Dumisani & False Bay Circuits
Grahamstown
Queenstown
We encourage the Methodist Church to support these Districts, and besides, the music recorded is
so inspiring and as Methodists, we cannot afford not to have all these CDs in our collection.
WALALA! WASALA!
We also have Highveld and Swaziland and Natal West Districts in the process. Watch the space!
4
ACHIEVEMENTS
We hosted a successful Connexional Music Association Convention in November 2012 at the Central
District (Pimville Circuit). All Districts participated. We were happy to see Rev Mandindi L
representing Natal Coastal District. This event was blessed by being graced by close to twenty (20)
Ministers from all over the Connexion. The event was further recorded and broadcast by Dumsa
Channel 340.
Visited Northern Free State District with the objective to revive it and try to have other Circuits
joining the District in reviving music and also participating in Connexional activities, rather than
having only two Circuits (Qwaqwa and Parys) participating in Connexional activities. This visit was
successful and the District reports slight improvement and will soon have the District structure in
place.
Communicated with Natal Coastal District to mobilize the District to participate actively in the
Connexional activities. The Natal Coastal District has appointed Rev Mandindi L to coordinate the
activities of the District.
Connexional music workshop held in Welkom on 18 May 2013, facilitated by our own Methodist
adjudicators who will also officiate adjudication in our Connexional Competitions on 12 October
2013 in Rustenburg.
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108
One of the prescribed music was also arranged by one of our own, Mr. Mthethwa PT (Natal west
District), who has arranged music (Liturgy) to be sung by mass (District) choirs – “Umphefumulo
wami uyabusho ubukhulu beNkosi.”
The Connexional Choir has now been constituted in preparation for Germany trip due to take place
in May 2014. The choir has 3 members from each of our 10 active Districts.
Mr. Makgalane SJ (Conductor of St Thomas Methodist Choir – KN&B Districts and an Evangelist, had
been accepted by the Methodist Conference as a Minister and now studying at SMMS from 2013.
5
CHALLENGES




Failed attempt to represent the MCSA in Germany in May 2013 is the reason for concern
Failure to recruit members to join our Church choirs at Society and Circuit levels
Not yet honoured our promise to support SMMS financially as we committed ourselves
The majority of the Districts still unable to meet the Connexional financial targets due to
very low membership
 NFS&L still struggling to have all Circuits participating in music activities at District and
Connexional levels. Only two (2) Circuits representing the District and trying to meet
Connexional financial needs
 Natal Coastal District still not participating in Connexional activities.
Much as we are trying to penetrate certain Districts, there are some far flung circuits which are not
reachable but may only be realized with the assistance of Circuit Superintendents Ministers in
general if they offer support
6
FINANCIAL POSITION
The financial status of the Connexional Music Association according to the audited financial
statement as at 31 December was as follows:
Income:
R106 435
Expenditure: R105 300
Balance:
R001 135
7
FUTURE PLANS




To meet with the office of the Presiding Bishop and MU to pave the way forward for the
Germany trip
To visit Natal Coastal District to try and mobilize the District and Circuits to participate in
Connexional activities
To complete the Connexional Music Booklet with specific reference to the birth of Music in
the Methodist Church (from all Districts) as well as establishment of Connexional Music
Association.
To enable all choirs in all Districts to incorporate all Methodist hymn books and sing all
liturgies in all languages and in a uniform manner.
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109
8
BEREAVEMENT
It is with deepest sympathy especially to Natal West District that we report the loss of one of our
icons in the music fraternity, Rev Xaba CN who has been the District President of Natal West District.
She will always be remembered for her humbleness and dedication in this Association and for taking
Natal West to the greater heights. “May God peacefully rest her soul!”
9
CONCLUSION
We request the Church to apply its mind to the fact that in the seven days of every week church
choir is the only organization that meets frequently, more than once in one week, including Sundays.
Church choirs deserve some amount of vocal support from Ministers. Our Youth Unit is far away
from us. We request the Church to assist us in recruiting members into the Association by bringing
the Youth Unit in one way or another closer to the Music Association.
10
DISTRICT STRUCTURES
DISTRICT
Cape of Good Hope
Grahamstown
Queenstown
Kimberly, Namibia &
Bloemfontein
Northern Free State &
Lesotho
Natal Coastal
Natal West
Central
Highveld & Swaziland
Limpopo
Clarkebury
11
NAME
Rev Maseti VG
Ms Tyutu J
Mr Meke H
Ms Beja C
Mr Mhlaba S
Bam N
Rev Stuurman S
Ms Makate P
Rev Moeketsi ME
Ms Molibeli L
Rev Mandindi L
Mr Mthethwa PT
Ms Mthiyane N
Mr Monyane TL
Mr Phasha E
Mr Sefatsa JR
Ms Maritz J
Ms Kgabi G
Mr morekhure J
Rev Mahe MR
Ms Tolobisa P
PORTFOLIO
District President
District Secretary
District President
District Secretary
District President
District Secretary
District President
District Secretary
ActingDistrict President
ActingDistrict Secreary
District Coordinator
ActingDistrict President
District Secretary
District President
District Secretary
District President
District Secretary
District President
District Secretary
District Secretary
District Secretary
CONTACTS
082 423 9789
JTyutu@oldmutual.com
073 380 5575
bejaconny@gmail.com
smhlaba@ecleg.gov.za
noluthandobm7@gmail.com
stuurmans@mweb.co.za
Pmakate@yahoo.com
Moeketsi.me@gmail.com
Lindi.molibeli@gmail.com
Rev.amc@polka.co.za
Mthethwa@lantic.net
Nomusa.Mthiyane@kzndoe.gov.za
Monyane@gauteng.gov.za
Edgar.masega@gmail.com
Sefatsa.sibeko@vodamail.co.za
JMaritz@lscmasakhe.co.za
loungog@gmail.com
nchaupej@yahoo.co.za
mzwamadoda@yahoo.com
pattolobisa@gmail.com
MATTER REQUIRING CONFERENCE DECISION
Approval of the Music Association Constitution submitted so that it can be formally put into
operation.
We request District Bishops to be involved and support, including financially the choristers that are
part of the Connexional choir from their respective Districts.
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110
DOCTRINE, ETHICS AND WORSHIP COMMITTEE
BISHOP JONATHAN ANDERSON
It is a pleasure to be able to report that DEWCOM continues to function well as a resource agent of
the MCSA.
The Committee functions as a Sub-Committee of Conference with the principal responsibility of
responding to matters of a theological nature (Doctrine, Ethics, Worship) referred to it by
Conference. For 2013 the Committee has fulfilled their responsibility thoroughly and excellently.
A.
MATTERS REFERRED TO DEWCOM BY CONFERENCE
1.
The Same Sex Debate (Conference 2012 page 84)
DEWCOM is committed to assist Districts towards making concrete and informed suggestions for a
way forward.
To this end, DEWCOM has supplied two papers to Conference (available on our blog site). These are
intended to help people to consider ‘concrete suggestions’ as required by Conference 2014.
Arrangements have been made for some of the material in “In Search of Grace and Truth” to be
simplified, abbreviated and made available in five of our sub-continental languages (Xhosa, Zulu,
Sotho, Tswana and Portuguese).
2.
Christian Holy Days (Yearbook 2012 page 82)
DEWCOM has prepared a comprehensive document on Christian Holy Days and the Christian
Calendar to be presented to Conference. We have noted that this document would be beneficially
linked to the material on clerical wear and with the related material being prepared by DEWCOM.
Our hope is that this material would be published and made available in a booklet form.
3.
Definition of Marriage/Family Life (Yearbook 2009 page 239)
A successful Conference was co-hosted by DEWCOM and SMMS in October 2012. DEWCOM,
however, considers that more ongoing work needs to take place if the Church is to respond
adequately and relevantly to ongoing trends within Southern Africa. Plans for ongoing research and
resourcing are in place.
B.
OTHER BUSINESS REFERRED TO DEWCOM BY VARIOUS PARTIES WITHIN THE MCSA
1.
Human Resources Unit
At the request of the Unit a DEWCOM Sub-Committee supplied a critique of some of the theological
and philosophical positions supplied in the discussion document. Dr Mehana has indicated that
further inputs may be sought as the Unit is in the process of being established.
2.
Gambling - The ethics of receiving donations from the proceeds of gambling
DEWCOM is in the process of preparing a paper on this matter. This has become particularly
necessary as several of our major mission project endeavours are somewhat dependant on receiving
LOTTO money.
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111
3.
Non-Itinerant Ministry
DEWCOM has been called upon to assist the Task Team reviewing the place and justification of the
Non-Itinerant ordained ministry within the MCSA. Our brief includes giving critical consideration to
our view of ordination.
C.
LITURGICAL DEVELOPMENT
Conference appoints a Sub-Committee of DEWCOM tasked with the responsibility of developing
liturgical material for the MCSA. Slow progress in this endeavour has been of concern for us for
some time. It is hoped that the new Committee (proposed below) with the prospect of better
financial resourcing will result in the Church receiving much needed new liturgical material.
D.
OTHER BUSINESS
DEWCOM also takes on the additional responsibility to resource the Church on issues that the
Committee Members consider important. Ongoing work in respect of gender issues, poverty,
ecumenism, remains part of our conversation and research.
E.
CONCLUSION
All interested parties are encouraged to read and make comments on DEWCOM work. The material
alluded to in this report may be accessed on the website www.mcsa.dewcom.blogspot.com. Those
who prefer to receive printed material may contact Rev Dr Wessel Bentley who is able to provide it.
Proposed DEWCOM Committee for 2014:
Bishop Jonathan Anderson (Convenor);
Rev’s Peter Witbooi; Dinis Matsolo; Diane Worringham (Secretary); Vusi Vilakati; Jenny Samdaan;
Pumla Mtshiselwa; Tim Attwell; Luvuyo Sifo; Dumisane Sikhakane; Lumka Sigaba; Neill Robinson;
Roger Scholtz; Phidian Matsepe; Peter Grassow; Faan Myburgh; Nomvuyo Mhlongo; Wessel Bentley;
Norman Raphahlela
Connexional Liturgy Committee:
Bishop Jonathan Anderson;
Rev’s Nomvuyo Mhlongo; Luvuyo Sifo (Secretary); Lumka Sigaba; Tim Attwell; John van de Laar ;
Phidian Matsepe; Mbuyiselo Stemela ; Kenaleone Ketshabile
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CONNEXIONAL STRUCTURES COMMITTEE
BISHOP MICHEL HANSROD
Following the acceptance of the 2011 Structures Indaba Report and Proposals, conference in 2012
received the submissions at the 2012 Conference of the various Synods in response to the said
proposals.
Those proposals which were accepted were referred to the various Units, Organisations and
Revisions Committee for report directly to the 2013 and subsequent Conferences.
Amongst those to report to Conference 2013 are:
Resolution 43.2: Training of Leaders
Conference directs EMMU, SMMS and the HR. Unit to work together in the development of models
for the training and on- going training of leadership for both laity and ministers at all levels of the
church, and that these proposals be brought to the 2013 Conference.
Resolution 43.4: Centralised Connexional Office
Conference directs that the Presiding Bishop’s Office, the MCO and the various Units of our Church
be relocated together in one place, and mandate the formation of a steering Committee to plan and
oversee this exercise, under the direction of the Presiding Bishop. A progress Report should be
presented to the 2013 Conference, but Conference gives permission for sooner implementation if
deemed necessary.
Resolution 43.5: Human Resource Unit
Conference directs the MCO Executive, in consultation with the HR Unit as it exists at present, to
draw up proposals for the establishment of a full-fledged Human Resources Unit, and the
appointment of full-time staff to run it, for presentation to the 2013 Conference.
Resolution 43.6: Inclusivity
Noting that work has already been done with regard to the greater accommodation of the different
languages of the Connexion, Conference directs EMMU, the Mission Unit, Communications Unit and
Youth Unit to do further work and bring recommendations and plans to the 2013 Conference.
Resolution 43.7: Streamlining of decision making
Conference, noting concerns expressed regarding the cumbersome decision making processes, asks
the Connexional Structures Committee to develop a streamlined process for presentation to the
2013 Synods and Conference.
Resolution 43.8: Resources
Conference, noting the need to capacitate the Church in terms of fulfilling her mission mandate,
requests the MCO and the Mission Unit to establish a Committee to explore additional methods of
income generation and report at the 2013 Conference.
Resolution 43.9: Establishment of a Property Unit
Conference reaffirms its 2007 resolution for the establishment of a MCSA Property Unit (Resolutions
Book, p.84) and instructs the MCO Executive Committee to act accordingly and submit a progress
report to the 2013 Conference.
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Resolution 43.14: Stationing of Ministers
Conference instructs the Human Resource Unit to explore alternative methods of stationing
ministers and report to the 2013 Conference taking cognisance of already existing inputs, proposals
and comments.
Those units, organisations and committees so directed by conference should now report directly to
conference.
The following resolution was referred to the Connexional Structures Committee for report to this
Conference:
Resolution 43.1: Appointment or Election of Leadership
Conference receives the proposals, comments and suggestions of various Synods regarding the
appointment or election of people to serve in leadership offices at Circuit, District and Connexional
levels and directs the Connexional Structures Committee to draft new proposals taking into account
the comments of the various Synods, for presentation to the 2013 Synods and Conference.
The Structures Committee referred to the Synods various proposals bearing in mind that there was
widespread consensus that more care and discernment be exercised in the elections of leaders at
Society, Circuit, District and Connexional levels.
Submissions with comments were received from the following Districts and Units: Cape of Good
Hope, Grahamstown, Queenstown, Kimberly Bloemfontein and Namibia, Northern Free State and
Lesotho, Natal Coastal, Natal West, Central, Highveld and Swaziland and Limpopo Districts as well as
the Human Resources Unit. It should be noted that this is 2nd year we have had no responses from
Clarkebury and Mozambique Districts on Structural Matters.
This report is therefore a consolidation of ALL responses received both quantitatively and
qualitatively.
A review of the responses continues to affirm the principles accepted by the 2011 Conference of:
i)
ii)
iii)
The desire to ensure that the structures of the MCSA are relevant to the present context of
being church.
That much more care and discernment be exercised in the election and appointment of our
leadership at various levels.
That the principle of election would best be served by a wide body of people, through
collective nomination and discernment.
With regard to the Proposals on the Appointment and Election of Leadership the following are
noted:
a)
b)
c)
d)
There has been unanimous support for a number of the proposals with minor amendments,
namely on: Leadership of small groups/class leaders, Society Stewards, Circuit Stewards,
Superintendents, Treasurers, Mission Group Leaders and Organisational Leadership.
There is a call for clarity on the role of the Leadership Discernment Committees, whilst some
Synods rejected the concept completely.
There remains major disagreements in the election procedures proposed for the Offices of
Bishop, Secretary of Conference and Presiding Bishop.
There was a unanimous rejection of the proposal to abolish the office of District ViceChairperson.
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Following unanimous support, from various Synods, Conference resolves to implement the
following amendments on the Appointment and Election of Leadership and refers these changes
to the Revisions Committee:
1.
Leaders of Small Groups/Class Leaders: Should be appropriately identified and skilled,
ratified by the Society Leaders Meeting and appointed for a 3 year term to a maximum of 3
terms by the Annual Society Meeting.
2.
Society Stewards: Nominated by the Leaders Meeting as well as by members of the Society
at the Annual Society Meeting for election and appointment at the Annual Society Meeting
for a 3 year term up to a maximum of 3 Terms.
3.
Circuit Stewards: Nominated with motivation by members of the Circuit Quarterly Meeting
for Election and Appointment at the October Circuit Quarterly Meeting for a 3 year Term up
to a maximum of 3 Terms.
4.
Superintendents: The Conference through the Connexional Executive shall appoint
Superintendents on an Annual Basis, after consultation with the Bishop, District Executive,
and the Circuit Stewards and Ministers of the said Circuit.
5.
Treasurers: Should be appointed after careful consultation between the Superintendent
Minister and Circuit Stewards or the Minister and the Society Stewards and ratified at the
October Quarterly Meeting or Annual Society Meeting. The appointment shall be for a 3 year
term renewable up to a maximum of 3 Terms.
6.
Mission Group Leaders: Shall be appointed by Call and Gifting with no form of election.
7.
Organisation Leadership: Appointed at various levels as set out in the Organisational
Constitutions.
8.
District Lay Leader: Shall be nominated with motivation at District Synod for election and
appointment by the said Synod for a 3 year term up to a maximum of 3 Terms.
9.
District Bishop: Candidates for election as Bishop shall be Ordained Ministers in Full
Connexion. Supernumerary Ministers are not eligible. The election shall take place in the last
year but one of the Bishop’s terms of office, unless there are special circumstances in which
case the Connexional Executive or Presiding Bishop shall make a ruling.
The following shall apply: The District Secretary shall invite all Circuit Quarterly Meetings
within the District to nominate any Minister in Full Connexion, whether or not in the District
concerned at the January Quarterly Meeting. These nominations are to be submitted to the
Secretary of Conference by 31st March.
Bishops shall be appointed by Conference following their election by Synods for a term of 5
years renewable for one final term.
10.
Presiding Bishop: The Presiding Bishop shall be appointed following an election for a 5 year
term renewable for one final term.
11.
General Secretary: The General Secretary shall be appointed for a 5 year term renewable for
one final term.
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12.
Unit Leaders and Directors: Shall be appointed by Conference for a 5 year term renewable
for one final term.
Conference further resolves: to instruct the Connexional Structures Committee to draft new
proposals for the appointment or election procedure of people to serve in leadership offices of
Presiding Bishop, General Secretary, Bishop and Unit Leaders/Directors and further clarify the role of
Leadership Discernment Committees in this regard, taking into account the comments of the various
Synods, for presentation to the 2014 Synods and Conference.
Conference resolves: to appoint the following Connexional Boundaries Committee to investigate the
possible restructuring of Districts and report to Conference 2014 thereon:
Revs Mzwandile Molo (Convenor), Bill Meaker and Kenaleone Ketshabile, Mrs. Annah Mathiba, Mr.
Zandile Jakuvula and a Representative of the Human Resources Unit.
The Following are appointed to the Connexional Structures Committee:
The Presiding Bishop Zipho Siwa, the General Secretary Vuyani Nyobole, the Lay President Mr.
Fungile Dotwana, Rev’s Michel Hansrod (Convenor), Mzwandile Molo, Bill Meaker, Kenaleone
Ketshabile (Mission Unit), Vukile Mehana (HR. Unit), Messrs. Anthony Tibbet (General Treasurer),
Ivan Samdaan, Mrs. Jo Anne Trytsman (MCO).
Report Submitted by Rev Michel W Hansrod on behalf of the Connexional Structures Committee.
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REVISION COMMITTEE
REV VUYANI NYOBOLE
1.
REINSTATING THE PURPOSE
The Revision Committee is an advisory commission appointed by Conference in terms of Laws &
Discipline 5.38.3. Its terms of reference are:



2.
to maintain and ensure the integrity of Laws and Discipline
to publish revised editions from time to time
to report to Conference through the Connexional Executive.
LAWS & DISCIPLINE (12TH EDITION)
The Committee has been working on the L&D amendments for the past two years. These have been
circulated to Circuits/Synods for consideration. Comments and suggestions from Synods have been
carefully considered and some have been incorporated in the Committee’s submission to the
Connexional Executive and Conference.
The approved amendments will be incorporated in the proposed L&D (12 th Edition) to be published
early next year.
3.
MATTERS REFERRED TO COMMITTEE
3.1
Youth
Conference celebrates the appointment of the Rev Lauren Matthew to the Presidium of the World
Methodist Council, as Youth President. Conference refers the proposal of her membership at
Connexional Youth Executive Committees, Connexional Youth Conference and being a member of
Conference to the Revision Committee, in consultation with the Connexional Youth Unit. The
Revision Committee is asked to also give consideration to other members of the MCSA, serving on
related structures of the World Methodist Council being members of the Annual Conference.
The Revision Committee endorses Synod and Conference membership of all MCSA members who
have been appointed to serve in Methodist related regional and world bodies provided the
respective bodies carry the costs. This excludes ordinary members who are appointed from time to
time to represent the MCSA in regional and world bodies.
3.2
Women Organisation’s Representation at Conference
Conference refers the request for increased representation of Women’s Organizations at
Conference to the Revision Committee for report back to the 2013 Conference.
The Revision Committee having carefully considered the matter recommends that Conference
rejects this request as women organisations are already entitled to four (4) representatives at
Conference. Women representivity at Conference has also increased.
3.3
Divorce of Ministers
Conference reaffirms its 2009 Resolution on Divorce of Ministers (p. 14 of Resolutions Book) and
directs the Revision Committee to finalise the review of rules governing the divorce of ministers and
report progress to the 2013 Conference.
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A proposal procedure to deal with Ministers Divorce was circulated to Synods for consideration.
These are ready for adoption and implementation.
The Revision Committee is of the opinion that there are other moral issues and preventative
strategies (apart from the proposed procedures) that Conference needs to refer to other
appropriate structures.
3.4
Role of District Lay Leader
Conference notes the changes with regard to the role of lay leaders and refers these to the Revision
Committee. Conference furthermore directs the Revision Committee in the meantime to develop
guidelines to assist lay leaders with the execution of their responsibilities and to report this to the
2013 Conference.
The guidelines have been developed, referred to Synods and are to be included in the 12 th Edition
of the Laws & Discipline.
4.
MATTERS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Conference approves the implementation of the following proposals and directs the Revision
Committee to make the necessary policy changes so that:
4.1
Societies




are outward looking and missional;
disciple and care for members;
have a Connexional identity;
promote every member ministry and offer healing and transformation especially in relation
to our mission pillars, namely:

spirituality; evangelism and church growth;

social justice, economic development and dignity;

education and Christian formation.
4.2
Circuits



oversee and coordinate societies;
become mission champions;
the Circuit Quarterly Meetings devote significant time, at least twice a year, to mission
planning and reflection.
The Connexional Structures Committee together with the Mission Unit is directed to modify the
CQM agenda so that the necessary Laws and Discipline changes can be implemented.
The necessary changes have been made and will be included in the 12th Edition of Laws &
Discipline.
5.
REVISION COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The 2012 Conference appointed the following as members of the Revision Committee:
The General Secretary (Convener)
Rev’s Vukile Mehana, Brian Smith, Norman Coetzee, Jacqui Rivas, Norman Raphahlela,
Dr. Gcwalisile Kabanyane, Prof. Simphiwe Mini, Messrs. Anthony Tibbit and Fungile Dotwana.
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CONNEXIONAL CHAPLAINCY COMMITTEE
BISHOP THEMBA MNTAMBO
The committee meets regularly to monitor the work of chaplains in the three security services,
namely, South African National Defence Force, South African Police Service and Correctional
Services; to offer support and guidance to our ministers who have been appointed chaplains on
behalf of the MCSA, and to enable all those appointed to these positions to give accountability to
the church. According to our records we have 22 chaplains within the three security services (9 SAPS,
9 SANDF and Botswana Defence Force, 3 Correctional Services).
1.
OTHER RELATED CHAPLAINCIES
There are other related chaplaincies which in essence conduct ministries similar to the three
recognised and supported by the church. We have one chaplain serving within the Johannesburg
Metro Police Department, two within the Johannesburg Emergency Services and one within the
Western Cape Community Safety Department. The committee wishes to include these within its
work in order that they receive benefit of the church’s support system and have a place of
accountability for their work. However, before this decision is made, the committee needs to
determine whether indeed these ministers are doing the work of chaplains, if not so then they will
have to be recorded as seconded ministers.
2.
PASTORAL COMMITTEES
In terms of Laws and Discipline 15.3.3 “During the tenth year of the Chaplain’s service the CCC will
arrange a Pastoral Committee to review the chaplain’s work and recommend whether or not they
should continue in cha[pliancy.” A number of our chaplains have indeed reached this stage in their
ministry and arrangements are being made for such committees to meet with them and make
recommendations to the CCC.
3.
TRANSFERS TO OTHER DEPARTMENTS WITHIN THE SERVICES
It has been brought to the attention of the Committee that some chaplains, particularly within the
SAPS get transferred to other departments which may not necessarily require them to do chaplaincy
work as the church understands it. The Security Services have over time taken the role of
determining the work of chaplains, this may at times conflict with the church’s view. We have taken
this matter up with the Security Services Christian Advisory Board (SSCAB) who will work together
with the three security services to come to some agreement regarding this matter.
4.
APPLICATIONS FOR CHAPLAINCY
There seems to be general ignorance regarding the process of application and appointment of
chaplains. In order to give information (which can be found in L&D chapter 15), the committee sent
a pamphlet to all ministers through the stipend advice slip. We hope the information will assist
ministers who wish to apply for chaplaincy. In last year’s report the committee pointed out some
challenges regarding the appointment of chaplains. We continue to address these through the
SSCAB, but we are also bound by the fact that chaplains become employees of the security service to
which they are appointed and are subject to labour legislation pertinent to that particular service.
Another challenge is the availability of posts, whereby posts become available at any time and if our
process would be followed to the letter, then our ministers may lose out on opportunities for
appointment. In order to facilitate appointments the committee has been flexible to allow a parallel
process where an application for a position may be submitted while at the same time the church
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processes the application for chaplaincy through a pastoral committee. The committee has had four
applications to apply for chaplaincy and all four have been granted but none of the applicants have
been able to secure positions within the security services.
5.
REVIEWING CHAPLAINCY
It is the committee’s view that the understanding of chaplaincy has widened beyond the three
traditional areas, viz. SANDF, SAPS and DCC. Some areas of uncertainty about the definition of
chaplaincy have emerged which will require the church to determine what constitutes chaplaincy,
who may be appointed chaplain and to which specific areas are chaplains appointed. At our retreat
with chaplains at the end of the year some time will be given to consider these questions and bring
suggestions and recommendations to the Connexion.
6.
CONCLUSION
Chaplains continue to represent the church in areas where traditional forms of church cannot be
exercised. They are a vital link between not only members of the church but even to those who may
be regarded as ‘unchurched”. This is a vital part of the church’s mission and challenges the church to
seek always to appoint people who believe they are called to this work, who are the most suitable
and able to represent the church in an increasingly secularising world. The committee will seek to
offer the support and resources our chaplains need to perform their duties, and to hold them
accountable for what they are sent to do on behalf of the MCSA.
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