2016 YEARBOOK - Methodist - The Methodist Church of Southern

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2016 YEARBOOK
THE METHODIST CHURCH
OF
SOUTHERN AFRICA
ZIPHO D SIWA
Presiding Bishop
CHARMAINE MORGAN
General Secretary
JAMES M NKOSI
Lay President
Methodist Publishing House, Cape Town
ISBN: 978-1-920464-22-6
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2016
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THE CHARTER OF THE MISSION CONGRESS ADOPTED BY
THE CONFERENCE OF THE METHODIST CHURCH
OF SOUTHERN AFRICA IN JOHANNESBURG
ON 30 AUGUST 2005
Where there is no vision the people perish.
Where there is no passion the vision dies.
God has given us the vision of
“A Christ healed Africa for the healing of nations.”
As members of the Methodist Family our challenge is to share more deeply
God’s passion for healing and transformation. We believe the Holy Spirit is
guiding us to continue the pilgrimage which has led us through Obedience
81 and the Journey to the New Land to the present day. We recognise
the importance of the local church and rejoice in the many Circuits and
Societies where life-giving mission is taking place.
In trust and obedience we commit ourselves anew to the four imperatives
for mission in our time:
A deepened Spirituality as individuals and a Christian Community.
Justice and Service in Church and Society.
Evangelism and Church growth which build up the people of God.
Empowerment and Development which give dignity and new purpose
to those who have been deprived.
We resolve to take intentional and sustained action to implement these
imperatives in such areas as:
The Healing Ministry.
Deepening our understanding of African and other spiritualities.
Co-ordinated programmes for Christian Education, information and
communication.
Building meaningful relationships that transcend racism, sexism and all
other forms of discrimination.
A vigorous response to the crisis of HIV and AIDS.
Informing our prophetic ministry by research into socio-economic issues.
Identifying land for sustainable livelihood.
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Sacrificial giving.
Becoming a church in solidarity with the poor.
Providing training in evangelism.
Training ministers for the African context.
Implementing anti-bias training.
Becoming a more Youth and Child centred Church.
We invite the people of God throughout Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique,
Namibia, South Africa and Swaziland to join us as we put ourselves at
God’s disposal to carry forward God’s mission in this sub-continent.
Let us each renew our personal commitment to Jesus Christ and seek to
grow in grace and in love for God, one another and the world.
Let us ensure that our mission of healing and transformation is holistic,
embracing all the imperatives for mission.
Let us participate in God’s mission in ways that are appropriate to our local
contexts and in partnership with the wider church and community.
Let us celebrate our diversity and the gifts God has given to each of us;
support each other, challenge each other and pray for each other.
Finally, we encourage every Circuit to set aside the last Sunday in May
each year to celebrate what God is doing among us and to commit
ourselves once again to our high calling in Christ.
God bless this Africa which is our home.
Give us grace to follow
Jesus the healer,
Jesus the peacemaker,
Jesus the Saviour of the world,
Jesus the Lord of all life.
Restore us and make your face shine on us
That we may be saved.
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CONTENTS
The Mission Statement of the MCSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Charter of the Mission Congress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The Presiding Bishop’s Address to Conference 2015 . . . . . . . . 7
The General Secretary’s Report to Conference 2015 . . . . . . . . . 16
The Lay President’s Address to Conference 2015 . . . . . . . . . . 27
The Lay General Treasurer’s Report to Conference 2015 . .
The Districts’ Reports to Conference 2015 .
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The Minutes of Conference 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Chapter 1 Conference 2015: Message to the Methodist People . . . . 95
Chapter 2
Conference 2015: Resolutions . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Chapter 3
World Methodist Council . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Chapter 4
Amendments to Laws and Discipline .
Chapter 5
The Finance Unit .
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Appendix 1, Effective Financial Management .
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Appendix 2, Institutional Competency Assessment . . . . 139
Appendix 3, Stipend Augmentation Fund . . . . . . . 143
Chapter 6
Education for Ministry and Mission Unit . . . . . . . 145
Chapter 7
Ecumenical Affairs Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Chapter 8
Communications Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Chapter 9
Mission Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Appendix 1, Mission and Extension Fund . . . . . . . 188
Appendix 2, Pula Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
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Chapter 10
Human Resources Unit .
Chapter 11
Order of Deacons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Chapter 12
Order of Evangelism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Chapter 13
Connexional Chaplaincy Committee
Chapter 14
Connexional Trust Property Committee . . . . . . . . 222
Chapter 15
Methodist Publishing House . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Chapter 16
Women’s Work .
Chapter 17
Young Men’s Guild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
Chapter 18
Doctrine, Ethics and Worship Committee . . . . . . . 251
Chapter 19
Methodist Archives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256
Chapter 20
Connexional Youth Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258
Chapter 21
Seth Mokitimi Seminary .
Chapter 22
Connexional Music Association . . . . . . . . . . 269
Chapter 23
Connexional Local Preachers` Association Report .
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274
Chapter 24
Elections and Appointments .
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277
Chapter 25
Conference Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
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Connexional Diary 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Audited Financial Statements of the Connexional Office . . . . . . . 287
2016 Lectionary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 392
List of Conferences, Presidents, Lay Presidents and Secretaries .
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In Memoria
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TopMed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440
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PRESIDING BISHOP ZIPHO D SIWA
OPENING ADDRESS TO CONFERENCE 2015
Theme: Sub-theme:
Readings:
TOGETHER a transforming discipleship movement
“Shaped for Mission”
Isaiah 32:1-7. Acts 2:42-3:10. Matthew 25:31-40
Greetings
The General Secretary, Rev Charmaine Morgan, the Lay President, Mr Mabhalane
Nkosi, District Bishops, District Lay Leaders, members of the Connexional Executive,
team leaders of our units, leaders of organisations, members of conference and all
our guests and visitors, people of God gathered here today, I greet you warmly in the
name of our Triune God – AMEN.
This is Nelson Mandela Bay. It is here that the 1820 British settlers landed, bringing
with them the Rev William Shaw whose missionary calling changed the landscape
of this part of the world with the establishment of a chain of mission stations that
touched numerous lives in countless ways. It was here that umJwarha, Rev Tiyo
Soga landed on his return from Scotland, where he was ordained in December 1856.
When Tiyo Soga landed in July 1857 with his Scottish wife the colonial agenda to
subjugate the “natives” was in progress. He was taunted here in Port Elizabeth and
told that the African people would be overcome by Europeans and his culture and
all that it stood for would be forgotten. It was the year of Nongqawuse and the cattle
killing that broke the back of the native people’s resistance. The song Tiyo Soga
wrote was a response of faith and hope at a trying time: “Lizalis idinga lakho Thixo
Nkosi yenyaniso.” Malusi Mpumlwana notes that Tiyo acted unlike the exiles in
Babylon who hung their harps on willow trees refusing to sing the Lord’s songs in
a foreign land and refusing to forget Jerusalem. In the face of ridicule and taunting,
Tiyo Soga dug deep from the well of his faith and hope in the Living God: “Fulfil
your promise O God…” What promise was he speaking of? What hope did Tiyo
Soga have? What picture of a transforming discipleship movement did he have? Let
us bear that in mind as we engage in conversations at this conference. We meet at a
place of many struggles and hopes.
th
We meet in the year of the 30 anniversary of the Kairos document, and only last
month people of faith from around the globe met in Johannesburg to reflect on
that experience. Allan Boesak, one of the key theologians from our mission area,
launched the book entitled; “Kairos Consciousness.” The Masikhulume Group
issued a statement with a title “Asikaqedi”, meaning the journey is not yet finished.
In that statement they assert that many people’s lives were put on hold by the
brutalities of the past and may I add that even today many people’s lives are put on
hold by the circumstances they are subjected to. The people of the member countries
of this Connexion are free from colonial subjugation, but “asikaqedi.” Old and
fresh wounds continue to put people’s lives on hold. Healing and change is critical
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– hence this Conference asked that we hold on to the current conference theme
“TOGETHER: A transforming Discipleship Movement” longer than just one year.
The mission of the church is to be awakened and sharpened like never before. The
shape of this movement must speak to the realities of our context in a representative
incarnational model. It has to be a movement that has space for serious reflections,
Kairos consciousness, soaked in prayer, punctuated by moments of forgiveness
and openness. It has to be a movement intentionally shaped that we ‘may know one
another instead of running away from each other.’ The Kairos document used the
analogy of needing to take the cattle out of somebody’s garden before you lay claim
on the need to be forgiven. You cannot be shouting forgiveness, while your cattle
continue to graze in my garden. The call for a transforming discipleship movement
is that we become followers of Jesus in a way that visibly reflects our identity as
the agents of genuine forgiveness, restoration and healing, touching the world with
Scriptural holiness. What are the figurative cattle that continue to graze on each
other’s gardens in ways break our relationships?
Moments of Celebration
We “meet at the best of times and at the worst of times.” I choose to focus on the
first part of this dictum by Charles Dickens. The best is that God is with us. Martin
Luther King Junior puts it thus:
“When our days become dreary with low-hovering clouds of despair, and when our
nights become darker than a thousand midnights, let us remember that there is a
creative force in this universe working to pull down the gigantic mountains of evil,
a power that is able to make a way out of no way and transform dark yesterdays
into bright tomorrows. Let us realize the arc of the moral universe is long and bends
toward justice.”
We are agents of love, mercy and justice. We are citizens of the moral universe
whose arc is long and our calling is to expedite its bending towards justice.
It is therefore fitting to reflect on the missionary shape of our discipleship movement
at such a time as this. Next year marks 200 years since the arrival of Barnabas Shaw
who landed in 1816 and was the first to introduce Methodism in this country. It is
appropriate therefore that next year we will launch the celebration of our heritage
until Conference 2017. Let us also recall that in 1958, this Conference made the
declaration of its conviction “that it is the will of God for the Methodist Church that
it should be one and undivided.” That decision was a protest against the onslaught of
dispossession and separation. The year 2018 marks 60 years since that declaration. So
in 2017, we will launch the focus on unity – reflecting on the impact of that resolution
on our life together, culminating into the 2018 Conference. I suggest that we declare
the 2018 Conference – ‘Obedience 2018’ in the Spirit of Obedience 81. Mrs Graca
Machel, addressing the BMC gathering in July, expressed how intrigued she was at
the deliberations of Obedience 81 which she had followed with keen interest.
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My car has scratches which disturbed me greatly when they happened, but I have
not had them fixed yet. I have gotten so used to the scratches now that I don’t always
notice them. They no longer disturb me as they did on the day it happened. Our
discipleship vehicle has some scratches we have become so used to. Now is the time
to reflect on these as we draw near to 2018.
However, at this Conference, we launch the celebration of Conference’s decision
to allow the ordination of women as presbyters – 40 years ago. This was a move
that was in obedience to God’s call of how to be and do church. It is time to pause
and praise God that our mothers and fathers acknowledged that in Christ we are
one.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male
nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28).
I plead with the Connexion that we make a big deal of these moments. It is time to
reflect on what God is calling us to be and to do. Let us celebrate together and be
inspired to rise to greater heights of God’s call on the life of the church. We plan to
use the time after this Conference up to the 2016 Conference to open our eyes even
more intentionally to a greater awareness of what God is doing in our midst. Our
mothers, sisters and daughters are a special gift to this discipleship movement. Male
and female, God created us, although the journey of the church has not been great in
appreciating this gift. Now is the time to reflect, engage and take appropriate action
to redress this. We are asked to showcase and celebrate the work of women ministers
in a visible way. I will request the 2016 Ordinands to consider including a Woman
Presbyter among those they select. I will also appoint a Woman Presbyter.
I must pause here and applaud the South African government as it is ahead of the pack
in addressing gender justice. Prior to 1994 there were 2.7% women parliamentarians.
Today they stand at 42%. Big strides have been made in just 20 years. I lament
the fact that in our 40 years, we have only had one woman Bishop. Only 4% of
our Superintendents are women and I have no record of how leadership at Circuit
and Society levels stand, but Circuits and Societies can do their own introspections,
beginning now as we move towards 2018.
Conference Theme
In my 2013 Conference Address I referred extensively to the then unpublished
booklet of Rev Dr Martyn Atkins. He writes the following:
“A desire to be a Christian disciple shaped the early structures of Methodism. It’s
probably unsurprising then that the divine disquiet some Methodists experience
today stems from the fact that they feel Methodism is no longer best structured and
shaped to enable Christian discipleship. This disquiet may be the prompting of the
Spirit of God, and if so we can expect revelation and guidance as we seek to respond
and discern the way ahead.”
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Malan Nel in his new book, Identity-Driven Churches quotes Zscheile; I quote:
“By missional church I mean a church whose identity lies in its participation in the
Triune God’s mission in all of creation. In the view of missional ecclesiology, it is
God’s mission that has a church, not the church that has a mission.”
God’s mission is bigger that the church but he uses the church as a visible symbol
of the transforming presence of God. The tune must be taken from God all the time.
God’s mission will always survive in spite of us. Hoekendijk says that a sign of
deterioration is when the church focuses more on its survival at the expense of taking
the tune from the God of life. The church must remain faithful and obedient to God’s
purpose for it. I have witnessed how many local congregations lose their sense of
purpose and go under when the concern becomes the survival of a particular group
interest and they take their eyes off the purpose of God which goes beyond any
particular group interest. The world is rapidly changing, and demographics change
with it. God is creating a new thing. Tim Attwell writing in the New Dimension in
November 2014 put down these words: “change/transformation is inevitable; it has
happened and is happening whether we like it or not. The major transformation is
in the scale of human interactions as the modern world arrives at our doorstep.”
Quoting Monica Wilson, Attwell writes, “Faced by the vast scale of interactions
presented to us, we can hanker after the close knit community of the small society, in
which faith becomes a religious expression of fear.”
How are the local congregations visiting their shape for mission in this time of rapid
change? Will the church take the tune from God?
The structures of the Methodist Church which initially came into being at the first
Conference in 1744 and subsequent conferences, were intended to facilitate the
ministry of a growing movement. They had a purpose. It was the 1748 Conference
that resolved that societies should be firmly and closely united. Circuits must make
geographical, missional and pastoral sense, Michel Hansrod concluded in one of his
presentations. ‘We have to constantly reflect on foundations, the motives and aim as
well as the nature of mission,’ writes David Bosch. There are instances where the
way we are organised becomes more of a bottleneck than a conduit of Connexional
vision and a facilitator of mission. We can do better.
I need to immediately acknowledge that there are many good practice models in
our local congregations, circuits and organisations formulated when we embraced
the Conference call to be a transforming discipleship movement. A message needs
to go to all Methodist people in appreciation of their obedience to God’s call on the
church. Staying with that theme, the sub-theme for this year is ‘shaped for mission.’
It is aimed at unpacking the cliché “transforming.” How do we go about responding
to this call? We have to be intentional. Surely we must not stop asking the question:
‘What creates marginalisation?’ The tools developed over the years must not be
abandoned – “See, Judge, Act” – model of reflection and action. In some ways we
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are doing it. I urge this conference to keep reflecting on best practice models in
search of mission effectiveness and obedience to God. Next year we will be having
the Mission Congress and the details thereof will be presented during the Mission
Unit Report slot.
Igniting Transforming Discipleship Communities
I came across this notice on a huge vacated building up for sale: “This building is
not empty but full of possibilities.” I am bubbling with joy as I witness the mission
enthusiasm of our local churches and organisations as they explore the possibilities
for this transforming discipleship movement. We are a people of God, called for the
purposes of God. Ours is to follow the distinctive teachings of the Master. God is
active in the world, igniting transforming discipleship communities. I have found the
Resolution on Pastoral Work in our Book of Order (Laws and Discipline) Appendix
2, a helpful guide. I call on each congregation to read and engage this resolution.
That resolution speaks to our shaping for mission effectiveness. How do we best
shape our work at the local level to respond to that resolution? Surely this movement
is not empty but full of possibilities.
I dream of transforming discipleship communities coming up all around the
Connexion, in every new settlement area as well as in old previously abandoned
ones where there is a return of people and in most cases they return as exciting
people of many languages and backgrounds. As we do this we have to be serious
about taking changing dynamics into consideration as we organise worship and
our life together in these places. We have to tell ourselves that these are changes
which cannot be reversed. The stories we tell ourselves have power of forming or
deforming us. Therefore the liturgy we use is a powerful tool that shapes the lives of
people as these are repeated every Sunday. Reflecting on the Power of Liturgy, John
van der Laar writes;
“As we gather for worship, we encounter narratives that are different from ours.
There is the narrative of faith, contained in the Scriptures. There is the narrative
of our particular theology or denomination. And there are narratives of various
groupings and people that gather with us. As we allow these narratives to impact
us… they expand and change our story, making it more whole, more objective and
more connected to the story of God’s Reign. The most influential role of liturgy in
shaping our stories is that it begins to unite our story with God’s story”
John also quotes Anais Nin who wrote: “We do not see things as they are. We see
things as we are.” Let’s allow our worship to touch our stories and make them
whole.
The Hope expressed in Isaiah 32:
The Prophet here gives us a pictorial view of what is not yet but what is hoped for.
The time is in the future. The Good News Bible calls it “someday.” The passage
expresses a cry and a hope which come from the well of faith in God who is able
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to do it. In a typical quality of the Hebrew language we are given pictures of how
it will be. It will be like having a hiding place from the wind and a shelter from the
storms. There will be protection from those things that blow havoc and destruction
in people’s lives. The dry places will be transformed and have streams of water and
the craving of the hungry will be satisfied. There will be provision for the needy.
Eyes will see and ears give attention and there will be no ruining of the poor with
lying words. The Prophet speaks of the moral quality of life that will replace the
empty words of the eloquent. There will be care, compassion and honesty. The
spirit of God will permeate life. The passage speaks of deep longing for a moral
reference point. It is hope for a purifying and transforming presence from those who
have influence on the lives of others. How do we shape the conversations and actions
of our gatherings and the daily lives of the people called Methodists?
The pillars or imperatives of mission agreed upon by Methodists seek to guide us
in the transformative direction. In every church, which is the centre of healing and
transformation, there will be:
1. Education and Christian formation taking place.
2. Human and economic development and empowerment.
3. Justice and service actions.
4. Evangelism and church growth and
5. All these will be rooted in authentic spirituality.
All these speak of protection, provision, care, compassion and honesty. The Spirit
of God will permeate all that we do. I have paraphrased these imperatives for my
own clarity as follows: We have one pillar, one stem, which is authentic spirituality
and from which grow the branches of mission as outlined above. The impact in our
world does not depend on our resources and strength but on God who can make all
things new. The focus is on the “hope of a messianic reign.” Impacting the world
and transforming the church and nations according to the MCSA Vision! We are
not designers of mission but disciples and lifelong learners of the school of God’s
mission in the ever changing world of the ever present Creator. The shape of the
movement must be determined by what God is doing at any given time.
I repeat here what the Port Alegre Assembly of the World Council of Churches
concluded: “The local church is the church catholic, but not the whole of it. The
church is the church catholic when it is in connection with others.”
Imagine the people in each geographic area sticking together and committing to
strive together for the transformation of everything in their town or city or group of
villages. Think of the mission area in which you find yourself. Is it best positioned
to be responsive to the call of God on the church? We are adequately resourced to
respond to God’s call on our life together. There used to be something called the
“Malihambe Home mission” model which was a glimpse of how we can facilitate
togetherness. I wonder if it cannot be revived for the new context and involve a
wider section of membership in order to sharpen our character for effective mission.
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Let us learn and be inspired together. The continuing call for the review of structures
for mission effectiveness is not a nice to have option – it is a must. What are the
things that hinder mission effectiveness? Let us talk about everything and act on it.
We have to ask this question all the time: “What are the challenges that God’s people
face and how do we become God’s transforming presence in those situations?” How
do we join hands to maximise mission effectiveness?
Building Strong and Effective Partnerships to maximise
the Impact of God’s Resources
Speaking at the Maramon Convention in India, Rev Dr Sam Kamalesan said “no
tree eats its own fruit.” The blessings and mission resources that God channels our
way are for the mission of God articulated in John 10:10: “I have come that they may
have life and have it abundantly.” Many are waiting for that life and daily God is
giving out resources to those He intends to use to be his transforming presence. May
the tree that bears that fruit not eat it only for itself.
We have been shown the way in Acts 2:42-47. There was devotion to teaching and
seriousness in prayer. Resources were passed on to where they were needed most.
There was joy and there were generous hearts. The Lord danced with them and there
were wonders and signs and God saw fit to add to their number day by day. NB: They
devoted themselves to the apostles’ teachings and the fellowship, to the breaking of
bread and prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs
were being done through the apostles. (Acts 2:42-43). Note that awe came and was
not mimicked and wonders were done through and not by the apostles. There was
growth in the quality of serving God and God being pleased with it added growth
quantitatively. God added to their number day by day. Here was the shaping of an
enthusiastic community of disciples of Jesus Christ. The believers were together
discerning God’s will and bringing in their individual gifts for mutual service of all.
Teaching was a serious activity so that the world would know God and follow him.
Their vision was: following God in the business of transforming God’s world to the
likeness of God’s Kingdom. It is not a programme but a lifelong commitment and
learning. Eskia Mphahlele’s words: “Education is a process of becoming.”
You have heard often the story of Dr Albert Einstein who had lost his train ticket
and was frantically looking for it. Even when one of the train crew assured him
not to worry, because they knew who he was – a world-renowned professor and
Nobel Laureate – he would not stop. When the conductor said “Relax Dr Einstein,
we know who you are”, he responded “it’s not that I don’t know who I am. I know
exactly who I am. I’m looking for my ticket because I don’t know where I‘m going!”
Commenting on this, Bryan Loritts writes: “Identity and direction lie at the core of
humanity’s soul.” Failure to find answers to these questions leads to a life devoid of
meaning and satisfaction. People do look for answers, but the tragedy is filling the
soul with the wrong answers that cause anxiety, and even conflict. Jesus Christ is
the Light of the world and direction for our life together comes from following Him.
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We have to remind ourselves about who we are and why we are in this movement
together. Issues of identity call and obedience should characterise our conversations
on the work of God.
Mission is the Act of Compassion:
Connecting People with God and One Another:
I repeat here the question I quoted before which came from Rorisang Tshabalala
who wrote in the Sunday Independent of 9 September 2012: “How do we break the
hypnotic spell of division…? In this day and age we still have structures that are based
on racial, cultural and economic exclusion. Jesus in Matthew 25 gives us a clue of
God’s dream for the world. It gives us a view of the shape of the church that serves
the purpose of God. It is a church where the hungry and the thirsty find satisfaction
and the naked are clothed. It is the church where the sick and the vulnerable are cared
for. It is a church where strangers are welcome. It is a church where the bereaved find
comfort without having to pay for it. Such a church becomes the sign, witness and
foretaste of God’s dream for the world. Matthew 25 is a call for a contrast society.
Alex Roxburgh and Scott Boren describe the contrast society as a “people shaped by
an alternative story, living by a set of distinctively Christian practices.”
We must be careful here when we interpret the passage. Mission is not primarily
about charity, though it does not exclude it. Mission is about joining with all,
including the poor and the vulnerable in working for justice and the eradication of all
those things that rob God’s people of dignity. It is the lifting up of the downtrodden.
In our immediate mission areas it means churches that reflect the demographics of
the area – the poor, the wealthy, the strangers and the wounded joining together and
seeing each other as human beings made in the image of God. In the wider field it
means pilgrimages of pain and hope to witness to what God is doing and responding
to the invitation to go with God where he is working; to turn things upside down to
God’s glory. Last year we made the call for people to hear the call of the Palestinian
invitation to “come and see.” Those who have the opportunity to visit the Holy Land
are asked to include an alternative visit to the Palestinian territories and interact with
Palestinian Christians particularly but also with all people in Israel/Palestine.
It is a call for the church working with all stakeholders, to deal with issues that
continue to bring injustice to God’s people. The Handbook for Volunteers of the
United Methodist Church says that our work should embody the mission of erosion
slowly wearing down the resistance of the powerful to allow the offering of life in
all its fullness to all people. May I add slowly bringing down the gigantic mountain
of evil that Martin Luther King Junior spoke about. We cannot be silent and inactive
when there are still landless people whilst others own land that is the size of some
cities and towns for their exclusive use. We cannot be silent and inactive when our
grandmothers, mothers and sisters live in constant fear of violence and rape. Let
us work together towards a world without violence and rape. We cannot remain
numb when the global refugee crisis reaches an alarming level and we witness the
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2016
vulnerable crossing rivers, forests and even oceans in dangerous ways. These have
to be in the conversations of every congregation and organisation. The websites of
Ecumenical partners have adequate information about the situation in Syria and
other parts of the world.
The hope of Isaiah 32 and the mission of the faithful in Matthew 25 have the power
to make unjust authorities uncomfortable and to invite all to move towards authentic
mission, actively anticipating those words which will come as a refreshing stream:
“Come you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you
from the foundation of the world” (Matthew 25:34). This is mission informed and
shaped by compassionate and unifying justice.
Conclusion
Let us now go and take a hard look at the shape of our societies, circuits, districts,
organisations and all structures and sharpen them for effective mission because God
loves it so. Let us go in faith in God who is working to pull down the gigantic
mountains of evil. Let us go encouraged to hear the good news that the arc of the
moral universe is bending towards justice. Let us go in hope that someday, there will
be justice, protection, provision, compassion and care. Let us go in the knowledge
that God’s dream for the world will be a reality and on the stem of authentic
spirituality will grow strong branches of mission obedience and God, being pleased
will add more and more disciples to the movement. The words of the song will ring
beautifully in our ears:
“Wosiphatha ngobubele, wosinika ubungcwele, wopha abakukhonzayo
okuthamsanqelekayo. Ithamsanqa elikhulu, ithamsanqa elezulu, likho
kothembayo kuWe ngokuba ethandwa nguWe.”
(IsiXhosa Hymnal 18 verses 3 and 4). AMEN.
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2016
REPORT OF THE GENERAL SECRETARY
TO CONFERENCE 2015
Rev Charmaine Morgan
The year started with a new Lay General Treasurer and a new General Secretary for
the Methodist Church, in an MCO in which a fair number of new staff were learning
the ropes of some of the unique systems and challenges we face in the Methodist
Connexional Office. But thanks to our Connexional Leader and his patience as well
as his deep insight into the life of the whole church, and his many years’ worth
of a broad scope of Connexional experience, the new staff at the MCO have been
finding ourselves gaining direction and being able to fall into the patterns of work
required of us. Beyond that, we have been able to begin a few new procedures that
have hopefully been of assistance to the Connexion, such as electronic pay slips for
Ministers and a monthly electronic newsletter for our clergy.
Communication
For a body as large as the MCSA, with more than 4000 Societies spread around 6
countries, communication is both difficult and vitally important. What makes our
communication extra difficult is that we never manage to meet all together, and
for many of us modern electronic communication is challenging. For some of us,
Connexional communication is not a priority because we feel either too isolated, or
we are too self-sufficient.
When you think that we have 12 times as many societies as Pep Stores have shops, or
more than 3 times as many societies as Standard Bank has branches in our countries,
the size of the MCSA strikes one, and one becomes overwhelmingly conscious of the
tremendous need for us to be in communication with one another. This is important,
because we call ourselves the Body of Christ. A dis-embodied body is a dead pile of
bones. A body can only be a functioning body, when the brain communicates with
the limbs, and the limbs give feedback to the brain, or if the brainstem maintains
vital control of the heart and lungs, and coordinates those important reflexes. If we
as the Church do not communicate effectively, we will at best look and act like a
paralysed body; at worst, a corpse. Our mission will be haphazard, our relationships
superficial and our efficacy weak.
Our most obvious means of formal communication are our New Dimension, which has
a very low readership, and our Yearbook which is owned by many but read by few.
We have a website and Facebook page, which are frequented by a certain demographic
of the church, and which we encourage.
We have instituted a brief newsletter e-mailed to Ministers monthly, which is received
by all on e-mail. Ministers also receive those statements the Presiding Bishop makes
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2016
from time to time about burning matters in our nations, and we trust that these get
into the hands of our Members as well.
We are investigating the possibility of skype at the MCO and District offices, so
that District officials can be in connection with one another and their Connexional
counterparts, increasing communication, and hopefully reducing travel.
One other means of communication to highlight is that we appreciate at the MCO
receiving communication from the Connexion. Talk to us. Give opinions, share
ideas, ask questions, interact. Our MCO staff are working at full capacity, but we
only exist because of you and for you and we want to hear from you.
I ask us as a Church to make use of the communication means available. Subscribe
to the New Dimension. Like our Facebook. Tweet our twitter. Read our e-newsletter.
Pass on the news. As St Paul says: “How can the eye say to the hand, I have no need
of you, or again the head to the feet, I have no need of you…. As it is there are many
parts, yet one body.” (1 Corinthians 12)
Connexionality
Paul in 1 Corinthians goes on to speak about the truth that there should not be a
division in the body but that the members may have the same care for one another.
The structure and the belief of the Methodist Church is based on the principle of the
Body. Our Connexionality is our strength. It binds us together, holds people from
diverse places and diverse backgrounds in one body. At its best, Connexionality
means the strength of one also becomes the strength of the other. In the recent
response to Xenophobia in South Africa, Connexionality came to the fore as one
society was closer to the burning point, the next Circuit pitched in and assisted with
human care, and yet another Circuit was able to contribute provisions, while others
marched and prayed. And the Methodist Church of Southern Africa was world news
because together we were able to provide care and make a difference to those who
were and still are, very vulnerable.
In our current series of themes for Conference, the word “Together” is key.
As a Connexional Church, the first challenge for us is to believe in our
Connexionality.
Some of the obvious out-workings of our Connexionality are, among others:
• When we look different from one another, have different nationalities or speak
different languages-that does not diminish our oneness. It does mean that we
become deliberately hospitable to one another, and those who feel outnumbered
are to be specifically embraced. That might mean a Mozambique citizen at this
Conference, or a White member of a certain Synod or a black worshipper in a
suburban church.
• Connexionality means that the Methodist Church name and its logo is displayed
proudly outside our church buildings.
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2016
• It means that as clergy, we are accountable to one another and we hold high our
Rule of Life because the way we speak and act as individuals has an impact on
the reputation of the Church and the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
• Connexionality means we stand with the decisions of the church, and with its
Laws and Discipline, even when we might not have voted for that decision.
• It means we attend Connexional events wherever possible, even when an
induction of the Bishop is 200 km away, and I could have my Sunday afternoon
lie-down, or I attend the funeral of a colleague in my District out of respect.
• It means if we have a problem with a person, a church, a Bishop, the MCO, we
do not take it to the newspapers or Facebook. We deal with it among ourselves.
• Connexionality is clearly seen in the role of our Superintendent Ministers when
they are good, relational leaders of Circuits, knowledgeable of our practices, in
touch with their people, accountable and available to their Bishop. To a great
extent, the well-being of our Connexion is in the hands of our Superintendents.
They are the visible representation of our Connexionality, which places a great
responsibility on them.
• We need to understand that our Bishops are not only District officials, but also
Connexional officials. They, together with the Presiding Bishop, are our Spiritual
leaders, the custodians of our doctrines, our Mission leaders, they represent the
Church ecumenically. Bishop Matsolo is not only the Bishop of Mozambique;
he is a Bishop of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. This understanding
should influence how we see the role of our Bishops, and it should influence how
we elect and appoint our Bishops, and also help us understand when Bishops are
at Connexional Meetings outside their Districts.
• Connexionality means that we recognise our leaders as our leaders. We put the leaders
of our church in an impossible position when on one hand there are grumblings that
our leaders are doing or saying nothing, and the next day, on the other hand, the
same grumblers are grumbling that everything is top-down and they obstinately
refuse to be led. If we are together in a transforming discipleship movement, there
will be consultation, of course, but there will also be bold leadership.
Units
One division of our Connexionality which propels us forward, and is at the heart of
our being together, is our Units. One of the important functions of all our Units is to
hold together the work of the Church in a methodical, disciplined, carefully thoughtthrough, and always progressive manner.
The Units work at full capacity, I assure you, and they are all under-staffed and overworked, but at the same time passionate and committed to the Church and their role
in the church. The component of the assessment that goes from Circuits to Units is
carefully used to the last cent and with a deep understanding of the sacrifice with
which those assessments are given. The work of the Units include that:
• They train and empower;
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2016
• They vision and lead in the field of each of their operations;
• They enact the hundreds of Resolutions that come out of this Conference and
Synods;
• They co-operate with similar bodies in other denominations and Methodist
bodies nationally and globally;
• They support the Connexion and create Connexionality.
Mission Resource Fund
Finance is often on the agenda of our conversations. How do we enable mission
in all the parts of our Countries? If we are a Connexional church, somehow the
resources of the many need to benefit the few. Last year, in 2014, R1 million was set
aside from the Church Property Protection Fund by the Connexional Executive, and
we stationed 11 ministers in places where agency could not be afforded. The report
of Bishops is that almost all of those eleven stations have been brought to their feet
to the extent that they will continue agency without assistance in 2016.
Conference 2014 asked the MCO to find ways to perpetuate this one-off grant.
The MCO has made money available from the Church Reserve Fund to station 21
Ministers and Evangelists for 2016. This is again for one year only, and in stations
where new work is established or existing work revitalised. These 21 stations include
all the countries of the Connexion. We acknowledge that offering financial support to
this extent requires thorough accountability, and quarterly reports will be required by
the Bishop of the District and the Presiding Bishop to ensure that Circuits are strategic
and missional with the resources they are given. The same fund will contribute to the
logistics of the Mission Congress you will hear more about from the Mission Unit.
Conference Centre
Conference is one of the crucial expressions of our Connexionality, and in recent
years we have experimented with a triennial Conference. However, the overwhelming
preference of the Church has been to move back to an Annual Conference. An
Annual Conference does have many benefits, but the one prohibitive component is
the financial expense. In the market place, the kind and size of venue we need, comes
mostly in campsite or 5-star forms-neither of which is suitable for us. You know
from Synod experience, that the days of people opening their homes to strangers,
even if they are Methodists, are long gone.
For 2015 we were able to keep the Conference Fee at the same level as 2014, but
this is not something we can continue. My predecessor, in his 2012 Conference
Report proposed the idea of exploring a Connexional Conference venue to use
every year. This proposal was well received and Conference 2013 approved finding
a permanent Conference venue. Investigation shows that the cheapest destination
from every corner of the Connexion is Johannesburg. At least six Districts could
easily drive. For the further Districts, it is cheaper to fly to Johannesburg than to any
other destination in Southern Africa.
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2016
We have begun negotiations with Emseni, owned by the MCSA and almost right
next to the OR Tambo International Airport. As we own the land, the only cost we
would incur is the building of a Conferencing venue. Logistics are already in place,
such as break-away venues, dining rooms, catering, cleaning and ground staff, and
Emseni itself is busy adding bedrooms of a 3-star quality. There are other residential
facilities in the neighbourhood which we can use until the venue can accommodate
all members of Conference, but by 2017 they will be able to accommodate 120
people in double rooms.
Building can commence very soon, and we could in 2 years’ time have Conference
at our own venue.
Report on Resolutions passed in the last 2 Years
Sixty Conference Resolutions were passed by Conference in the last two years.
Some of the resolutions are very difficult to implement and are dependent on multiple
agencies, including Districts, Circuits, Units and individuals. Some resolutions are
ongoing in nature.
I see that my predecessor often spoke about Resolutions in his reports, and I can,
after less than a year in office, see why:
• We need to remember that Conference is not a Resolution machine. It exists for
a number of other good purposes, as well.
• We should remember that a resolution has no magical properties. It is only of
value if implemented and adhered to.
• Repeating resolutions does no good. Implement those that have been made.
• If you can “just do it”, it doesn’t need a resolution.
• If you haven’t spoken to the office your resolution is aimed at, don’t bring the
resolution until you have engaged the relevant office. Resolutions regarding
TopMed, as one example, would have been much more helpful, had the Circuit
or District first interacted with the Lay General Treasurer, and understood the
complications and dynamics of the law, the Medical Aid Board, and the Medical
Aids we have entered negotiations with during the year, and made use of the plea
from the Lay General Treasurer to invite her and TopMed staff to visit Districts
for interaction and information.
• Lastly, we have requested the Methodist Publishing House to again provide a
booklet as they did five years ago, of all Conference Resolutions of the past 15
years. This can serve as an educational tool, a reference in pursuing the mission of
the Church in Circuits and Districts, and as a directory of decisions to implement
rather than to devise a new resolution.
Connexional Focus for 2016, 2017 and 2018
Bishop Siwa has introduced us to the Connexional Focus for the next three years, as
specific components of our life together, not forgetting our overall church Vision and
Mission, our Mission Pillars and our Conference theme.
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2016
Starting now, we celebrate the Year of celebrating Women Clergy. 40 years after the
Ordination of the first woman as a minister, 17% of our clergy are women, 4% of
our Superintendents are women, and no women are Bishops. We will celebrate our
victories in the coming year in various ways, but we still have a far way to go before
we can say we have achieved our goals.
Next year, starting at Conference we will celebrate a Year of Heritage, 200 years
since the establishment of Lilyfountain in Namaqualand. Paying our respects to our
heroes of the faith in our tradition and in our part of the world, we will pay special
attention to the places where history was made, as well as to our buildings that have,
and will one day have, historic value. We will remember our collective story, and
seek our untold stories, and we will celebrate who we are and what we believe, and
our unique contribution we are able to make to the wider society.
I hope that this Conference will give us permission to establish a Standing Committee
on Heritage, not only to plan for a year of celebrations, but to keep our Heritage
before us into the future.
The following year, 2018, we wish to focus on Unity, celebrating 60 years since
our watershed statement that we are ‘One and Undivided’. Let us now, without a
moment’s hesitation begin to take very seriously our unity in diversity, and pick up
again our commitment to rainbowness, to anti-bias training at all levels, stationing
ministers across the Connexion, putting aside our old racially divided past. Let us
not wait for 2018 to re-focus ourselves on unity again.
Connexional Meetings and Events
2015 saw the third year of District Trust Secretaries coming together to work on a
Connexional Properties strategy. We have a team of extremely competent people
in this field, and the results of their work will soon become more evident in the
development of our Property Unit.
We also this year called together all the District Discipline Conveners for consultation
and training. Our time together was short, and the need to get together, very obvious.
The one inhibiting factor in continuing this gathering and training, is as always,
budgetary constraints.
The Connexional Discipline Committee, with its new Secretary and long-standing
Convener, have just met for the first time, and apart from the regular work are
committed to training on a District level. One of the greatest issues that the CDC
have found in recent years, is that procedures are not followed in the District, to
satisfactory standards. In issues of discipline and church law, processes have to be
followed to their smallest detail, or a case is either dismissed or has to be re-tried. To
this end, the CDC commit themselves to training District Disciplinary Committees
around the Connexion in 2016.
There is also a great need for the work of Mediation work in our church. Many issues
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that come to discipline are really issues of relationship that get out of hand, and are
not addressed. As a church we should always be committed to the well-being of
the church. We should always want all our members to find their rightful place in
ministry or leadership. We are to be a model to the world of how we can disagree
and yet not destroy one another. To this end, mediation is almost always the first port
of call when there is an issue in a Circuit or Society. A Discipline Registrar should
only consider charges if all avenues of pastoral reconciliation have been exhausted.
It is the intention that District Mediation Panels, which must be operational in every
District, be further trained during the coming year.
Statistics
Lastly, I present to the Conference a brief snapshot of our Connexional Statistics as
they were received from Districts. In 2014, this was the status of our Church in this
Connexion:
We have 577 401members including adherents compared to 801 565 in 1995. This
is a decline of 38%.
We have more than 5000 Societies and 790 Preaching Places – that is around 6000
spaces around the Connexion where the Gospel is preached every Sunday
The Central District has the most members, and the Mozambique District, the
fewest:
12 Mozambique
6896
6 Northern Free State and Lesotho
18979
7 Natal Coastal
36217
2 Grahamstown
40198
3 Queenstown
42040
5 Kimberley, Bloemfontein and Namibia
45916
8 Natal West
48334
11 Limpopo
57030
10 Highveld and Swaziland
59502
1 Cape of Good Hope
68537
13 Clarkebury
76312
9 Central
77440
The Mozambique District has the fewest members per minister – 431, The KNB
District has the most – 1093. The Connexional average is 700 members per
minister.
23
District
2016
Members
per Minister
12 Mozambique
431
449
3 Queenstown
488
11 Limpopo
553
7 Natal Coastal
632
700
1 Cape of Good Hope
704
9 Central
707
2 Grahamstown
780
13 Clarkebury
942
8 Natal West
986
5 Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein
1093
Average
700
District
Members per
society
8 Natal West
42
13 Clarkebury
59
12 Mozambique
74
3 Queenstown
77
2 Grahamstown
121
7 Natal Coastal
126
143
168
9 Central
324
1 Cape of Good Hope
331
11 Limpopo
Average
146
24
District
1 Cape of Good Hope
9 Central
7 Natal Coastal
3 Queenstown
2 Grahamstown
12 Mozambique
13 Clarkebury
8 Natal West
11 Limpopo
Average
2016
Societies
per Minister
2,4
2.3
4.1
5,1
6,2
6.5
7.5
5.8
15,9
22.9
7.8
Looking at our statistics, and the decline of membership in the last 20 years, our
Mission Congress comes not a moment too soon. We cover an enormous area – are
in reach of 86 million people in our six nations. Looking at our countries with their
challenges and our local communities, families, children we need the igniting fire of
the Gospel to take a hold of us again. Methodists are people of passion, of mission,
of believing in the depth of our heart that all people need to, and can be saved. We
have good news. Let us ignite Methodist Mission again!
In Conclusion
Our task is colossal, and the church needs to be at its unified, missional best to do
what we were created to be. Let us keep our focus on what is most important, and
put aside those things that are not of the Kingdom, and that don’t build the Church.
Let us honour one another, hold hands, and be the best we can be.
To the glory of the Lord of the Church and for the Healing of the Nations.
With thanks for a good year’s work to the staff in the Presiding Bishop’s office,
the whole of the MCO, the Bishops, the Unit Leaders who are a superb team, and
the Lay President and Presiding Bishop for true Servant Leadership and their deep
devotion to the Lord and His Church.
984
5436
On Trial
Members
and classes
Junior
Members
51334
27
Number of
Preaching
places
Full
Members
0
Societies that
have closed
this year
207
Number of
Societies
0
243
Preachers on
Trial
New
Societies this
year
893
11
Probationers
Full
Preachers
71
Ordained
Ministers
Dist 1
4543
708
34560
0
1
331
237
1760
9
42
Dist 2
2969
1286
33378
49
539
156
1548
12
74
Dist 3
4183
2456
32749
58
319
172
762
8
34
Dist 5
2113
0
16866
94
38
Dist 6
3906
937
30232
76
287
208
753
4
52
Dist 7
7500
5025
34249
436
1125
255
1875
11
38
Dist 8
9646
1869
61300
64
1
0
239
380
1249
14
89
Dist 9
6416
1627
49265
63
353
235
917
13
72
Dist 10
7431
2024
45721
312
1361
11
92
Dist 11
1201
1388
4307
0
0
3
93
41
192
0
16
Dist 12
13008
5362
50942
17
0
0
1289
48
730
4
77
Dist 13
68352
23666
444903
790
1
4
4876
2287
12040
97
695
Totals
177938
59770
516374
1995
25
2016
57754
10783
68537
699
1173
620
568
406
514
1762
Total of
Members,
on trial and
Junior
Wider
constituency/
adherents
Total of
members
and
adherents
Total
number of
baptisms
Growth by
confirmation
Growth by
conversion
Growth by
transfers in
Loss by
transfers out
Loss by
death
Loss by
ceased to
meet
532
417
233
281
523
781
40198
387
39811
604
510
163
748
916
1767
42040
4358
37682
704
649
122
111
268
909
45916
727
45916
1093
18979
0
18979
306
504
106
230
394
569
36217
1142
35075
2198
48334
1560
46774
3145
1999
892
2203
4068
3961
77440
4625
72815
59502
2194
57308
120
57030
1854
55176
0
27
5
15
11
88
341
6896
0
6896
98
5663
11
21
62
242
4451
76312
7000
69312
7151
10283
1938
4177
6862
9490
577401
34630
543498
801565
47483
754082
26
2016
27
2016
LAY PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS
TO CONFERENCE 2015
J Mabhalane Nkosi
The Presiding Bishop, General Secretary, District Bishops, District Lay Leaders,
Members of Conference, Distinguished Guests, Greetings to you all in the name of
the one who paid with His life to redeem all Nations from eternal condemnation, Our
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
I feel much humbled by the honour and privilege given to me to stand before this
august Conference after my two hundred and sixty seven days (267 days) in office,
where according to our Church`s tradition, I am expected to address you. I never
dreamt in my life that I would ever address esteemed leaders like you, and worse
the Policy-making body of God`s Christian Church, especially the Christian Church
of our time. I’m reminded of the day when I made a declaration by choice to be a
Christian under the Methodist Church of Southern Africa and also when I committed
myself to adhere to its dogma and practices. I have those memories as I’m standing
here today before you. These memories make me find it appropriate to renew my
declaration and commitment to Christ and his church, and remain a disciplined
Methodist Christian.
I believe it is by God’s grace that I am part of the Methodist Church of Southern
Africa’s capable leadership whose current agenda focuses on the collective ministry,
and from whom the theme of Together a Transforming Discipleship Movement
has been born, with the sole aim of striving towards achieving the tenets of the
Methodist Church of Southern Africa’s vision of a Christ-healed Africa for the
Healing of Nations.
I would like to put on record my appreciation of the Christian way the Connexional
leadership has welcomed me into this office and the conversation I had with the head
of the Church, the Presiding Bishop Rev. Zipho Siwa, which served as an orientation
and induction for me before I assumed my responsibilities.
Fellow esteemed members of Conference, Methodist Christians, allow me first to
take this opportunity to pay tribute to my predecessor Mr. Fungile Dotwana and
all past Lay Presidents who came before him for the contributions they have made
in the church during their terms of office. I would like to express my gratitude
to you members of Conference, and the Methodist Christians of our Connexion
who are not here, for your faith in God which intentionally guided you to entrust
me with this important ministry of leadership. I acknowledge your gesture and
appreciate the appropriate framework you as the church have drawn for anyone
who is traditionally assigned to function in this office. This framework which
th
is well crafted and cited in the 12 Edition of the Book of Order paragraph 5.8
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2016
subsections 5.8.1 and 5.8.2 serves as a clear guide to me as I pursue my role and
functions in this office.
Like all Methodist Christian leaders, the expectation is that I should perform my
role and functions in harmony and in collaboration with God`s people with the aim
of promoting God’s mission at all times and avoid placing God and his church, the
Methodist Church of Southern Africa, in disrepute.
Introduction
I’ve noticed that from time immemorial, a decision was taken to have Conference
take place during September which is Heritage month. I don’t believe that this
decision was just a sheer coincidence that Conference should be in this month. I
believe it was taken after serious discernment. I assume this decision was intended
to allow Conference leadership and delegates not to miss an opportunity to reflect on
things that are the Church’s heritage while they deliberate on issues of importance to
keep the Church relevant and to be on track with its contextual internal and external
affairs.
I therefore, being informed by this notion of reflection on the Church’s heritage, would
like to request this Conference to allow me to first give a report on the Perspectives
of District Lay Leaders, covering abridged Achievements and Challenges lifted from
their reports about our performance as the church. Secondly I will touch on the
activities performed by myself as the Lay President. Thirdly I will comment about
the issue of balancing the Methodist conventional and the Dot com approaches when
conducting services in our churches. Fourthly I will share with you the tenets of
the statement which says, “Now You are a Methodist Christian and a Methodist
Christian leader”. This will then lead to the conclusion of my address.
District Lay Leaders’ Perspectives on Church Achievements
It is with great excitement that I report to this Conference about the sterling
work done by the District Lay Leaders (DLLs) in their respective districts. These
Methodist Christian leaders’ reports give assurance on the achievements our church
has managed to have through the direct participation of the DLLs as well as working
with Bishops, District and Circuit leaders. The DLLs successfully facilitated and
conducted workshops in the districts and circuits where the following topics were
dealt with: Trust Properties, Financial Management, Effective Circuit Management,
Invitations, Stationing process and its challenges, the Methodist ethos and policies,
the HIV/AIDS challenges, to mention a few. These DLLs addressed District
Organisation Conventions on issues such as church membership, the call of Christian
Women, financial management, to mention a few. The DLLs visited circuits with
Bishops, and attended and participated in the induction services of ministers in their
districts. They attended District and Connexional consultations. Some of the DLLs
met with Circuit Superintendents to try and resolve issues that were found to be
noticeably hindering God’s work in the Districts, circuits and societies.
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District Lay Leaders’ Perspectives on Church Challenges
The District Lay Leaders have noted with concern the challenges in their districts
that hinder circuits from performing to the best of their abilities, but these
Methodist Christian leaders, the DLLs, have started working with their Bishops,
District Executives and Superintendents to find solutions and ways to address these
challenges. The common challenges the DLLs noted among others are as follows:
Failure of some circuits to pay District and Connexional dues, because they cannot
afford them, which leads to losing ministers. The DLLs perceive that this untoward
eventuality leads to an increase in a number of ministers who end at the foot of
stations. The DLLs have noted a challenge where at times the lines of communication
are flouted by some circuits’ leadership, and such contraventions were found to
be contributing to the feuds that bedevil circuits and societies and hinder proper
functioning of circuits.
Activities performed by the Lay President
I thank God and the leadership of the Church, who in my past 267 days in office
enabled me to cruise across the Connexion and pursue numerous activities within
the provisions of the framework given in paragraph 5.8 of the Book of Order. I have
listed in the provided framework all the activities I pursued as follows:
• Representation of the Church in Ceremonial Activities
I represented the church at the Inauguration of the first Seth Mokitimi Methodist
Seminary Chancellor, represented the church at the SMMS Graduation and as
per invitation at the Black Methodist Consultation, and again represented the
church at funerals in the Cape of Good Hope, Natal Coastal, Natal West and
Clarkebury districts.
• Pastoral Interventions
I served as a Commissioner in the Rev. Dr. Mehana`s Pastoral Commission
which was assigned to resolve a matter in Clarkebury District and again served
as a Commissioner in the Rev. Professor Jafta`s Pastoral Commission which was
tasked to resolve a matter in Natal West District.
• Visits and Motivation on Church Issues
I visited the Local Preachers General Committee which held its meeting at eMseni
in Highveld and Swaziland District on 13 February 2015, as well as visited the
joint meeting of the Bishops and Synod Secretaries who had held their meeting in
Cape Town on 4 March 2015. In both meetings I presented a proposal on raising
the issue of an Every Member Ministry Model (EMMM) as a project I want to
pursue during my term of office, and motivated them to look at the possibilities
of formulating a strategy for full implementation of EMMM in the church. I
further presented the same proposal at the Consultation with the Lay Leaders
in Bloemfontein in March 2015. In this consultation other church issues like
interrogation of the Presiding Bishop’s, Lay President’s and General Secretary’s
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2013 and 2014 Conference addresses was done, with an intention of developing
insight on the direction the church leadership had invited all Methodists to take,
as well as the pertinent issues we the church have to take cognisance of, as we
honour the ministries we are called to pursue.
Rev. Dr. Mehana and I visited Clarkebury District in May 2015 to assist the
preachers at the Local Preachers’ Association Convention to understand the different
operations of the Local Preachers Department and the Local Preachers’ Association
respectively. I visited Natal Coastal District on 25 July 2015 to give inputs on the
discussions regarding the existence of Organisations in the Methodist Church of
Southern Africa and hosting of their conventions in circuits.
I visited the Synods of Kimberly Namibia and Bloemfontein District, Northern Free
State and Lesotho District and Natal West District, where I presented a paper under
the title The Church a Community of Partners of which I used the allocated time
to motivate and broaden insight with regards to the Church’s operations and lines of
communication.
• Other Duties and Tasks
As a member of the MCO’s Committees assigned specific duties and tasks,
and a member of the SMMS Governing Council, SMMS Governing Council
Executive, I have been able to attend one SMMS Governing Council meeting,
two SMMS Governing Council Executive meetings and all five meetings called
by the MCO’s Committees of which I am a member.
Balancing the Methodist Conventional and Dot Com Approaches
As Methodist Christian leaders, we are leading the church during changing times,
changing needs, the times where one part of the church still believes in conventional
ways of doing church and another part wanting a paradigm shift in the way we do
church, since the emergence of technology. I have therefore observed that as the
church we sometimes have a big challenge of how to balance the conventional and
dot com approaches in our church services.
I believe that if we have decided to introduce the Dot com approach in our services
over and above the known Methodist conventional approach, we as Methodist
Christian leaders need to be sensitive to the plight of the old mothers and fathers
of our church, who were born before technological changes, when we conduct our
church services. These mothers and fathers are the heritage of our church, they love
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this church and they are used to the known 20 Century Methodist conventional
approach when they are in the service. We need to cater for them as well and move
with them at a snail’s pace. I believe they do not want to be left behind or their needs
left unattended to. I believe they want the service that will appeal to their hearts and
bring healing in the spiritual wounds they might have experienced in their lives, as
well as the service addressing the needs of the dot com generation.
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My plea therefore in this regard does not ignore the needs of the Dot Com generation
who were born and became fortunate to be exposed to technology which makes
them more geared to have services conducted using technological apparatus or
gadgets. However, my clarion call to you members of Conference, especially the
Methodist Christian leaders, is to let us all at our local churches work out how can
we sensitively balance the use of the two approaches in order to cater for the taste of
both groups during our services.
We should take into account that if we do not balance the use of the two approaches,
we might find ourselves having membership drainage from our churches, if it has
not already happened. I have no doubt that membership drainage if it happens has
a negative impact in the finances of our societies, our circuits and our districts.
This challenge of lack of funds in our circuits and our societies was also raised
in the DLLs’ reports. If such an eventuality of membership drainage kicks in, we
will in no doubt experience an increase in agency withdrawals by many societies
and circuits, because the few members that might be still left in the society or
circuit may find themselves unable to meet all the financial contributions to
sustain an agent in the circuit. Let us remember we are Methodist Christians and
Methodist Christian leaders; let us not discard our heritage but let us build on it
and move hand in hand with everyone like the Israelites, who when moving out
of Egypt, moved out with all their belongings. The old age people were there,
the youth were there, the babies were there, their livestock was there, and they
even took Joseph`s bones and left with them, because when Joseph was still alive
he requested them to take his bones with them the day they are brought out of
Egyptian bondage. So let us leave no one behind as Methodist Christians and
Methodist Christian leaders.
Now You are a Methodist Christian and a Methodist Christian Leader
In the 80s Rev. Dr. HM Dandala and the late Mr. S Dube co-authored a series titled
“Manje Usuphendukile”, literally translated as “Now you are converted”. This
material was helpful to the class leaders to use during the process of initiation of new
converts who at the time would have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour
and joined the class. This to me serves as a good example of heritage material,
written in simple language that people could easily understand, and was shaping new
Methodist Christians in class and also empowering the Methodist Christian leaders
assigned with leadership role and functions in the church of God.
The spirit and aim behind which the material of this nature was produced influenced
me to intentionally use the simple statement, “Now You Are a Methodist Christian
and a Methodist Christian Leader”, to affirm Methodist Christians and Methodist
Christian leaders as members of Conference about their important current dual
leadership responsibilities of being disciplined Methodist Christians and at the same
time disciplined Methodist Christian leaders, who I believe act as such, or shall I say
they are expected to act as such at all times within the corridors of the church and
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in the platforms of society representing God and the Methodist Church of Southern
Africa expediently.
I believe it is proper to remind ourselves as members of Conference that we are
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Methodist Christians of the now 21 century, hence I say in this statement “Now”,
because I don’t want to focus on your past. I say this borrowing from Paul’s words
from second Corinthians chapter five verse seventeen, where Paul says, “When
anyone is joined to Christ, he is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come.”
We have to remind ourselves that we have no chance to abdicate our Christian
embedded dual responsibilities where God has placed us to serve him and his people;
hence I say in this my statement “You”, because every Christian is a servant and has
to conduct oneself as such. We have to remind ourselves that we have no option but
have to demonstrate a Christian character being Methodists where ever we are and
stand for Christ and the Methodist Church of Southern Africa when we are happy
and during times of upheavals; hence I say in this my statement here is “a Methodist
Christian”.
We have to remind ourselves that we need to demonstrate a Christ-like leadership
character and not be afraid to take difficult decisions and stand by them as long as
they advance God’s agenda in his church. When we do that we would be emulating
our great leader Jesus Christ who advanced God’s agenda despite the criticism he
received from Pharisees, but he never stopped. The individuals who emulate Jesus
Christ in leading God’s people without failure: hence I say in this my statement here
is “a Methodist Christian leader”.
One of course is aware of the fact that taking unpalatable decisions goes with
criticism, but never despair or shy away from doing the right thing, because it is a
right thing to do so and you will be someone that God can trust and rely on. I believe
that what Jesus said in Matthew chapter twenty five verses twenty one and twenty
three, can be said to the one who has done good where his/her master will say, “Well
done you good and faithful servant”, because the individual would have not feared
criticism on what he/she would have done. Aristotle once said, “To avoid criticism,
do nothing, say nothing, be nothing”.
Members of Conference, I can see we didn`t want to be nothing, hence we took a
bold step to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour when he was introduced to
us, knowing very well that we will in the process have to fight against the wicked
spiritual forces in the heavenly world, the rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers of
this darkness age (Eph 6:12). I believe we can positively and successfully respond to
the tenets of this statement explained in the fourth section of this address only if we
remember who we are, what we are created for, what we are saved for, what we are
called for and what we are commanded to do.
At this juncture I find Paul’s words in Ephesians chapter two verse ten fitting
extremely well to remind us as he reminded God’s people at Ephesus and said: “God
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has made us what we are, and in our union with Christ Jesus, he has created us for a
life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do”. Indeed all Christians
are destined for good things.
Members of Conference, Now You are Methodist Christians and Methodist Christian
Leaders trusted by God and the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, because God
has prepared us to serve him. I believe serving God is not difficult, because Paul has
assured us that through union with Christ Jesus, God himself has prepared our hearts
and souls to do good things. Let us then “Together a Transforming Discipleship
Movement” serve God by being sure that we are blinking in the light where all
can see, because blinking in darkness no one will either see nor experience God`s
wonders. I believe that the prefix of the current Conference agenda which says
Together makes an insinuation of inclusivity which means everyone or anybody in
the Transforming Discipleship Movement has something to do.
In the context of this address, allow me therefore to reiterate the call on every member
of Conference and all Methodists of our Connexion in whatever sphere of life they
are to join the collective and serve God with diligence, being conscious of the fact
that they are Christians and leaders in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, and
are expected to adhere to its dogma and practices, but shy away from putting God’s
mission in disrepute.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Martin Luther King Junior said, “Anybody can serve. You do not
need to have a college degree to serve. You do not have to make your subject and
verb to agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love”.
The issue is the serving whether its within the framework of God and his church’s
ordinances or not. Members of Conference, I call on the hearts that are full of grace
and the souls that are generated by love to do something for God and his people,
because if you do nothing, say nothing, you will be nothing.
Remember, Now You Are a Methodist Christian and a Methodist Christian Leader.
God bless you.
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REPORT OF THE LAY GENERAL TREASURER
TO CONFERENCE 2015
Mrs Thini Ngonyama
Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord
and not for men”
I bring warm greetings from the whole team at the Finance Unit and greet you all the
wonderful name of our redeemer and comforter, Jesus Christ.
A Look in the Rear-view Mirror:
Let me start by reflecting on the past 9 months I’ve spent in the office of the Lay General
Treasurer and firstly thank my predecessors for the support and encouragement along
the way. On a personal note, the landing has been very slippery, but nonetheless, as
in Psalm 27:13 ‘I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the
land of the living’. It is a privilege and an honour to be able to continue to walk in the
footsteps of my predecessors and build on the foundations they laid for the growth of
the MCSA and its financial heartbeat.
1. Administration
The Finance Unit’s scope of administration includes, but is not limited to pension
funds, insurances, medical aid and property. We not only ensure smooth running
of the Finance Unit, payments of stipends, pensions, grants and managing a
few trusts but we also to ensure that we comply, albeit not always welcomed
by members, with regulators such as the FSB, SARB, Treasury, Medical Aid
Council and many more. As much as we are a church, the MCSA operates within
regulatory and statutory frameworks and we certainly cannot live outside of that.
2. Staff Matters
I am pleased to report that the office move from Durban to Johannesburg has
been completed. A large part of the Durban office where the MCO had operated
previously in currently being leased out. The Finance Unit has a team of 15
committed, highly skilled staff members who have a passion for God’s people
and the MCSA.
As part of an ongoing effort to ensure that we capacitate our lay people, we have
also established a Financial Compliance Team whose core focus will be training
on financial administration and also performing audits on all 4C & 4S schedules.
Schedules cannot be completed for the sake of being completed, but must be
completed accurately so as to give a clear picture of where we are.
As expected with any office move and new staff, there have been teething
problems. However we continue to train staff and grow together as we find ways
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of working more efficiently and diligently. As a team we have embraced the
calling to serve the MCSA, its clergy and their families and also to act as good
stewards for the Kingdom of Christ.
We encourage the connexion as a whole to give us feedback; criticise when
necessary but please do so constructively. All channels of communication are
open and WE ARE HERE TO SERVE YOU FAITHFULLY.
3. Pension Fund Matters
It is pleasing to report that the ongoing dispute concerning the Methodist
Supernumerary Fund over the past seven years has finally been put to rest. Judge
Combrinck found that Conference had at all times been duly constituted and
had acted within its decision-making powers, and in his award handed down
on 12 February 2015, the claims by the complainants against the MCSA were
dismissed.
It is unfortunate that this matter has dragged on for so long and in the process has
caused a lot of confusion and pain, and has tainted the image of the of the MCSA.
It is my prayer that we find constructive ways of moving forward.
Conference 2012 reaffirmed the need for district dialogues around the
Supernumerary Fund. Now that the arbitration has been finalised, the Trustees will
be conducting educational roadshows across the connexion in the first 2 quarters
of 2016. Dates have been agreed with district bishops and will be included in the
2016 Connexional diary. I urge all members to actively and constructively take
part in these roadshows.
Despite market conditions, the Pension Fund Trustees are satisfied that the funds
are in a great position. The Fund positions as at 31 Dec 2014 can be summarised
as follows:
• The Supernumerary Fund has a Market Value of R1.4 billion with an
annualised return on investment of 11.15%.
• The Provident Fund has a Market Value of R27.3 Million with an annualised
return on Investment of 10.08%
• The Lay Staff pension Fund has a Market Value of R56.1 Million with an
annualised return on investment of 10.46%
This has been exceptional growth.
The Pension Funds are compliant with Regulation 28 limits as required in terms
of the Pension Funds Act No 24 of 1956. I am also pleased to report that we had
a routine visit from the Financial Services Board in August and the Trustees were
able to assist the FSB in the analysis of our funds.
Looking forward, micro economic issues keep changing; the rand has weakened
and tight monetary policies internationally and locally indicate that we may not
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be in a bullish market for a long stretch. Based on these facts, it is clear that the
Trustees will be focusing energies on nothing else but constructively ensuring that
the funds continue to grow for the benefit of all members and their beneficiaries.
4. Ministerial Student Fund
District Donations to the Ministerial Student’s Fund are showing a concerning decline.
With the increasing cost of education, my plea to us all is to take this fund seriously
and make deliberate attempts to highlight the good work done from funds received
and the need to ensure continued development and training of our ministers. I would
like to thank all districts that have been faithfully donating to this fund.
5. Arrears and non-submission of Schedules
It is unfortunate that in my maiden address to this Conference I also have to
dwell on the not-so-good stories especially the arrears. My predecessor’s reports
have all stressed the need for us to keep the arrears report clean.
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The Arrears report is enclosed in the Conference Finance Unit book. As at 20
June 2015, 43% of circuits were in arrears, totalling R4.6 million. This not only
impacts negatively on the administration but more so affects the minister and
the family units directly. If stipends are not paid, this means that that minister
would not have contributed to their pension fund. More often than not, we seem
to want to resolve internal disputes by holding on to assessments. Holding back
on assessments in not a solution.
Our analysis also reveals that there are a number of circuits where ministers are
being paid directly and not via the MCO as required. All ministers are required
to pay PAYE; paying directly means that the recipient of this undeclared payment
is not being taxed appropriately and thus evading tax. This is not only dishonesty
but simply put IT IS FRAUD. I strongly caution against this practice.
The team in the Finance Unit has been inundated with requests for us to amend
payslips to reflect these undeclared allowances/payments. Please note that we are
in no position to amend payslips for any credit applications. This practice needs
to stop and proper processes followed.
The due date for submissions of 4C and 4C schedules to the MCO is within 2
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weeks of Synod rising. As at 8 August, 170 4C schedules had still not reached
the MCO and I am also disappointed at the number of inaccurately completed
schedules that we have received.
At the last superintendents training held at Emseni in August, I stressed the
need for all superintendents to take deliberate interest in finance administration,
governance and accountability to ensure that Lay Leadership is not only equipped
on requirements in line with our Laws and Discipline , but that they are supported
in carrying out their roles.
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• The Superintendent of the Circuit is the official head of the Church in the
Circuit and shall exercise authority and carry out duties as such subject to
the directions of the Connexional Executive and the Laws and Discipline of
the Church, being responsible in the first instance to the Bishop. (Book of
Order 7.16)
• Simply put – Superintendents are Presbyters who in exercising their ministry,
undertake particular responsibilities on behalf of the CE.
Par 9.87 of the L&D is very clear on what steps need to be taken. I ask that
Conference reaffirms and implements this clause to be taken seriously. District
Bishops have all received letters to this effect.
The MCSA cannot submit its schedule to the SARB if we don’t receive
schedules from circuits. Our late submission to SARB will not only affect the
TAX exemption status but also result in heavy penalties being levied against
the MCSA, and to recover this amount, CE has endorsed the proposal that the
Finance Unit recovers this amount by levying a fine on each circuit that has not
submitted.
Perhaps I should highlight what’s at stake for us a BPO:
– Exemption from donations tax – Sect 56(1)(h)
– Exemption from Estate Duty tax re estates of deceased persons – Sect 4(h).
– Exemption from income tax on receipts and accruals – Sect 10(1)(cN)
The MCSA tax exemption status needs to be maintained and this can only be
done through your co-operation.
6. Medical Aid Matters
In May this year, TopMed embarked on Medical Aid Roadshows. We only
received invitations from 2 districts (Natal West and KNB). The feedback
received was constructive. TopMed has taken note of concerns, and we continue
to engage on operational issues on a monthly basis. Please give us feedback. I
believe this will not only enable to us to improve benefit structures and also get
a sense of where we are as church, but allow us to assist in improving the state
of wellness of our members.
However I also need to highlight that the cost of medical aid in South Africa and
internationally is very high; the medical schemes council has tight regulations
around medical aid schemes, thus keeping medical costs where they are is
becoming unsustainable.
On the upside though we can expect some changes in 2016 with a possible
increase of the Overall Annual Limit (OAL) to R1 million per beneficiary for
2016.
A Wellness benefit has been added which means that certain tests can now be
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done i.e. Mammograms, Prostate screening, Pap smears, etc. We will be sending
medical aid booklets shortly after conference.
I still urge Districts to invite us for this very important engagement.
7. Stipend Increases for 2016.
Inflation is expected to be around the upper level of the SARB’s target band at
the end of this year, around 5.5% to 6%, largely due to base effects from petrol
prices last year as well as rising electricity costs and food prices.
Generally over the past years, stipend increases have been far ahead of inflation
which also increases circuit assessments.
We still recommend that additional Stipends NOT be increased above 1% of the
recommended 7.05% for 2016. Exorbitant additional stipends not only make it
difficult to maintain the 80% target as per the pension increase policy but also
complicates the stationing process in that ministers become either unaffordable
or are unwilling to take up stations where additional stipends are lower. Going
forward, the Finance Unit, together with the district Bishops, will be spending
more time re-looking at the processes around additional stipends paid by circuits.
All Stipend authorisation forms for 2016 need to be submitted on time. Without
these forms, the Finance Unit is unable to pay stipends in January. This also
impacts on PAYE, pensions and various other deductions. Going forward,
as agreed with District Treasurers, all stipend forms are to be sent to district
treasurers who will submit them to the Finance Unit, but also ensure that they
have been correctly completed as required. Further communication will be sent
to all districts soon after conference.
8. Property and Insurances
Work is well underway on the property unit and we will be continuing with
property audits going forward to ensure that our property wealth is well
preserved and used for income generation to alleviate some of the financial
strain connexionally. I would like to stress the need for all circuits to ensure that
properties are insured and that all construction/alteration work complies with
building regulations and general regulations as stated in Ch 10 of the L&D.
9. Mozambique District
In 2012 my predecessor reported that there had been R500 000 put aside for
property development in Mozambique. This year, I visited the district to get
a progress report on the work done and to facilitate a finance workshop with
district leadership.
It is refreshing to report that indeed God is at work in Mozambique. Our
brothers and sisters in Mozambique expressed their hunger for an improved
connexionality not only with regards to finances but also intentional actions
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around agency that would reaffirm that this discipleship movement is indeed
one and undivided.
The construction of a church and a retreat centre is almost complete at Inhaca
Island. I look forward to continued engagements, collaboration and development
projects that will assist Mozambique district in improving its finances.
I would like to extend a word of appreciation to Bishop Matsolo and the district
leadership.
I am also pleased to report that for the first time since the establishment of the
SAF, the trustees have put aside R108 000 towards Augmenting ministers in
Mozambique from January 2016. I appeal to all ministers and organisations to
consider voluntarily contributions to this Fund. Please indicate to the Finance
Unit should you wish to assist in keeping this fund healthy.
10.Reports for Approval and Adoption
The 2014 audited Annual Financial Statements for the MCO, the Methodist
Millennium Resource Fund, the Finance Unit Order of Business together with
the Arrear Reports, the Unit Budgets, Reports on the Pension Funds, amendments
and all other relevant reports are attached to the Finance Unit Report to CE and
Conference 2015 for reference and adoption.
11.Conclusion
We can only improve with feedback, communication and co-operation. Let
us know where the needs are. We will in turn do our best to train, inform and
equip.
I would like to thank my team at the Finance Unit for all their dedication, hard work,
commitment and passion for Christ despite the challenges. Most importantly, I
would like to encourage the Connexion at large, especially District Bishops and
Treasurers to work with us, talk to us and guide us as we TOGETHER work to
build this movement.
As John Wesley put it “Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In
all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all
the people you can. As long as ever you can”.
Thank you.
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DISTRICT
REPORTS
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CAPE OF GOOD HOPE (01)
Bishop Michel Hansrod
Introduction
Straddled across two provinces, namely the Western and Northern Cape, and
including a mining town in Namibia, the Cape District is a microcosm of the people
of Southern Africa, rich in cultural, language, economic, social, racial and religious
diversity. The Methodist Church is found in cities, towns, townships, informal
settlements and villages, across this beautiful, sometimes rugged landscape,
ministering to the rich and poor, the vulnerable and privileged, violence and drug
wearied communities. Our centres and places of worship from where our ministries
emanate comprise of both formal and informal structures, some huge architecturally,
magnificent and expensive, others modestly practical and functional, yet others in a
tin or wooden informal building or shack. The Cape District is also home to some
of the oldest Methodist Congregations in our Connexion, founded when Methodism
was first imported to the shores of Southern Africa some 210 years ago. These
early Methodist Communities still exist today in Simonstown on the Southern Tip,
Wynberg in the Southern Suburbs, Namaqualand in the Kamiesberge, Beaufort West
in the Karoo, Central Mission in the heart of Cape Town, Salt River in the midst of
various industries, Raithby, Somerset West and Sir Lowry’s Pass in the Winelands
and McGregor in the Boland. We also meet in school classrooms, community halls or
simply share buildings with other faith communities. Each of these a meeting place
from which we seek to fulfil God’s Vision for the church in general and the Methodist
Church of Southern Africa in particular, serving in a myriad of ways as Healing
Centres to proclaim the “Gospel of Healing and Transformation”, longing for and
working towards “A Christ Healed Africa for the Healing of the Nations”, warmly
and enthusiastically embracing God’s Call to be “A Transforming Discipleship
Movement” made up of a band of Jesus followers.
District Statistics
The District is home to 22 Circuits, 4 Institutional Circuits including 2 Children’s
Homes, 3 Old Age Homes, a College of Education and the Publishing House, 234
Societies and Preaching Places with a membership of 51 334 and 17 203 adherents
served by 82 Ministers and Deacons, 6 Ministers in secondment or chaplaincy, 62
Supernumerary Ministers and Deacons, 30 Members of the Evangelism Order, and
a huge committed and faithful band of Lay Followers of Jesus serving as stewards,
leaders, preachers, carers and teachers.
District Review Visioning and Planning
The Annual District Planning Indaba continues to serve as a gathering of the
leadership in conversation with each other, reviewing, analysing, and assessing
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our Mission and Ministry whilst serving as a conduit to dreaming, visioning and
planning for the future as we together through prayer and “Godly Conversations”
seek God’s heart for our work and ministry.
A key conversation point was the question of purpose for the District within our
governance structure. ‘What is the role of the District?’ This was followed by a
further challenge as the meeting progressed, ‘Where is God inviting us to go?’
There was a renewed commitment to the process of seeing Circuits reshaped and
transformed for mission.
One of the images found helpful was that of the District as “a Well”, where each
one can gather, drink, be refreshed, and take some water back to the local Society or
Circuit to refresh others.
We were challenged to recognise that sometimes we achieve more by doing less.
The role of the District was seen to focus on the following:
• Celebration, telling stories, sharing good news, and affirming good practice;
• Ensuring compliance with the requirements of Laws &Discipline in relation
to matters as varied as the submitting of financial and statistical schedules;
safeguarding regulations; or care of archives;
• Creating synergy between different Organisations and groups working in related
areas;
• Being a bridge between the Connexional Structures or processes and the
Circuits, while also helping to explore and develop the different understandings
of Connexionalism;
• Drawing people into activities and responsibilities that would enable them to
grow in their discipleship and having a particular care for the development of
young people;
• Offering training to support the work of Societies and Circuits, or to help members
with their vocational discernment, and preparation;
• Engaging in honest critique of ourselves and addressing the painful issues that
arise as a result of that examination.
Arising from our conversations the District leadership team resolved, that rather
than adding further activities to the District programme, there should be a continuing
and consolidating of the initiatives that had been put forward at the Indaba in 2014,
namely, the School of Discipleship; the School of Vocation; Discipleship Mission
Weeks for all Circuits; the bringing together of Marsh and Heatherdale Children’s
Homes on the Marsh site, and using the Heatherdale premises as a Drug/Alcohol
rehabilitation Centre for young people; Wesley Training College becoming a Training
Centre for Early Childhood Development Practitioners; hosting an Education
Summit; developing projects to help alleviate poverty and unemployment.
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District Synod
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The 186 Annual Synod was hosted at Theology Faculty of the Stellenbosch
University, by the Stellenbosch Circuit. In keeping with the Connexional Platform
of work, the Synod reflected through its worship, fellowship, administration and
business God’s call to us as a Discipleship Movement to “Prophetic Activism.” The
Synod was ably chaired by our District Vice Chair Rev Yvette Moses, the first in our
186 year history to be led by a Woman Minister, who significantly led our Synod at its
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conclusion to the launch of the 40 Celebration of Women in the Ordained Ministry
to be celebrated in 2015. We were deeply challenged in our Discipleship to become
Prophetic Activists in our communities around us through a Panel Conversation with
Civil and Church Based Organisations involved in Gender Justice, Education and
Social Justice. The Dean of the Theology Faculty and Vice Rector of Stellenbosch
University, Rev Prof Nico Koopman encouraged and challenged the Synod through
his thought provoking Bible Studies. We celebrated the Ministries of those who
had significant Anniversaries including Father Daryl Hackland who celebrates his
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50 Year of Ordination. Together with their families, Synod in a moving Memorial
Service remembered those who had laboured within the church, who had entered
the Church Triumphant. In its concluding ceremonies Synod humbly accepted
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the gracious invitation of the Namaqualand Circuit to host the 187 Synod in the
Namaqualand Mission Circuit as part of their Bi-Centenary Celebrations as the
oldest indigenous Methodist Mission Station in Southern Africa.
District Community Life
Seeking to live our shared values of Honesty, Integrity, Being in Community,
Celebration, Respect, Acceptance of Differences and Christ like Attitude we continue
our covenant of meeting through various intentional community gatherings which
include our Twice a Year Retreats, Spouses Fellowship and Monthly Fellowship
Gathering. Our Monthly gathering has now grown into a Theological Reflection Pot
Cooking session in which we continue to encourage, challenge, grow and hold each
other to account. All ministers will by the end of 2015 have completed their first
Annual Review of Ministry as part of our accountability for our health and ministry.
Laity Training and Consultations for Circuit and Society Stewards as well as forums
for Organisational and Unit Leaders continue to serve as a conduit for empowering
our laity for Mission, Ministry and Discipleship.
Achievements and Celebrations
With a deep sense of gratitude to God amidst the many challenges faced by our
people, congregations, communities and Circuits we celebrate the activity of God’s
Spirit in the following:
• The Centenary Celebration of the Mission and Ministry in Malmesbury.
• The successful hosting by our Women’s Organisations of the World Federation
of Methodist and Uniting Women Area Seminar
• The completion of a New Sanctuary at Lingalethu in Malmesbury
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• The Launch of our District School of Discipleship offering Six Disciplines over
the year in equipping and growing Disciples for Transformation and Mission.
• The successful hosting of a District Heritage Indaba to celebrate our Heritage as
a tool for Transformation and Healing
• A meaningful participation in the Back to School Project of providing school
shoes to children in various communities which welcomed New Ministers.
• The partnership and funding agreement of between Heatherdale Children’s Home
and the Department of Social Development to launch by the end of this year a
Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Programme for Children and Young People at
Risk – a first in the Western Cape.
• The near finalisation of a Memorandum of Agreement between Cape College, the
Western Cape Education Department and the MCSA to establish Wesley Training
College as a Training Centre for Early Childhood Development Practitioners.
• The first of our Ministerial Mission Week exchanges within the District to provide
support, ministry and mission.
• The attendance of 5 Ministers to the Alpha International Conference in London,
with the purpose of introducing Alpha in the Township Contexts.
• The attendance by our Mission Unit Convenor of the West Carolina Conference
of the United Methodist Church to strengthen our Mission Partnerships, as well as
the attendance of our Volunteers in Mission Co-ordinator at the United Methodist
Church International Volunteers in Mission Training.
Conclusion
We give thanks to God for the privilege to be engaged in His Mission to the world as
Disciples seeking to fulfil God’s Call to establish God’s Kingdom amongst us, and
as a District recommit ourselves to this task, by serving as Jesus disciples to bring
Healing and Transformation to the world through the communities we serve. Our
sincere desire is captured in the Hymn authored by Cecil Frances Alexander:
“Jesus calls us! O’er the tumult
Of our life’s wild restless sea,
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth
Saying Christian follow Me.
Jesus calls us! By Thy mercies,
Saviour, make us hear Thy call,
Give our hearts to Thine obedience,
Serve and love Thee best of all.”
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GRAHAMSTOWN DISTRICT (02)
Bishop Andile Mbete
With the departure of Bishop Musi Losaba and the induction of a new bishop at the
end of 2014, the Grahamstown District report will indicate a weakness and point
to a strength in the MCSA system and the Grahamstown District in particular. A
weakness lies in the fact that Methodist Reports from the Quarterly Meeting, Synod
and Conference are largely about the year that is past. These reports are also anchored,
mainly, on the Superintendent or Bishop, both of whom are itinerant.
Strength, in our present experience in this District, is that a change in the office of
the Superintendent or Bishop should not lead to a disaster if the Executive members
of the committee know their function. And so it is that the following report, although
it is under my name, is largely based on the information gathered from the reports of
the heads of departments and portfolios in our District.
Location
The Grahamstown District forms part of the three Districts that make up the
Eastern Cape. Politically, the three Districts (Grahamstown, Queenstown and
Clarkebury) revolve around Bisho in terms of socio-economic engagements. Bisho
is a 3 hour drive from Port Elizabeth, 2 hours from Mthatha, and 30 minutes from
East London where the various bishops reside. Culturally and historically, the 3
Districts of the Eastern Cape have a lot to do with the Cape of Good Hope District.
Most of the workers and youth from our areas continue to flood the more affluent
“Mother City”.
Joint Work
The meetings of the four Cape Districts continued to enhance the implementation
and administration of joint projects last year. Matters around stationing procedures
and handling of Circuit conflicts were managed effectively in these joint
meetings.
The co-operation between this District and the Cape of Good Hope District in terms
of student ministerial formation continues to offer a platform in sharing resources
and personnel. Challenges around funding such endeavours remain unresolved but
they cannot be viewed as obstacles that cannot be addressed.
At local level, the District has opened many doors of possible partnerships with local
and District municipalities. A shining example in this area is the joint efforts in the
metro municipality of Port Elizabeth. The Education desk in our area has opened
various ministries which involve the municipality and schools.
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Mission Imperatives
All societies, Circuits and organisations in the District are increasingly organising
their activities around the mission pillars. The District mission unit continues to be
a rallying point for mission and extension. The annual District mission campaign
and the District Manyano and Youth conventions focused on the various phases of
discipleship. There is evidence that, finally, the MCSA mission imperatives and
theme are being taken seriously on the ground.
Of particular interest in the District is how various organisations and Circuits are
linking up with relevant stakeholders in order to advance the fight against poverty,
inequality and corruption especially in our rural areas. The project of reviving the
Healdtown Institution near Fort Beaufort reached a milestone last year. The buildings
are almost complete and the Eastern Cape government is now fully on board. The
on-going challenge is for the MCSA to find a focus around the renewed Institution
so as to make Healdtown vibrant again.
Conflict
Someone once said that it is not wise to stop and look at the road that one has
travelled unless one wants to use that road again. This saying holds true for this
District. The year 2014 saw this District engulfed in a conflict that threatened to
destroy the ethos and pride of what it means to be a Methodist. The issue was around
leadership succession and what it means for Conference to be the final authority in
the MCSA. The spirit of division and hurt affected both the departure of the previous
Bishop and the induction of the new Bishop. The implications of such tensions will,
no doubt, rest on how the year 2015 will be managed by all the leaders and members
of this beautiful District.
The Future
The challenge facing us now is how we can ensure that 50 years from now, songs
will be sung about us, and poems recited to honour our contribution towards a Christ
healed Africa for the healing of the nations. How will future generations of the people
called Methodists remember us? What gives the year 2015 its power is what we
bring to it – our dreams, our stories and our deepest inarticulate fears and hopes.
As the sun advances across the sky throughout this District which Rev William Shaw
himself built, feeling its warmth at noon even after it has actually begun to decline;
looking at these flowers like Commemoration, Kingswood and Healdtown whose
seeds they planted, may we, as we sift through the evidence of decline, uncover,
more and more, proof of rebirth.
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QUEENSTOWN DISTRICT (03)
Bishop Mthobeli E Matyumza
Introduction
Queenstown District has generally started well this year with minor challenges
pertaining to conflicts in Circuits, as opposed to 2014 where we had situations with
the potential to destabilise about six Circuits in the district. By now five of those
have sailed safely out of the troubled waters due to cooperation between district
and leadership from those Circuits. The district still mourns the passing on of Rev.
Admiral Malixole Dondashe who was serving a second term as a vice-chairman. Yet
we celebrate his ministry and service as he has served Wodehouse 0326 as a minister
and Circuit Superintendent for seventeen years. Praise be to God for his dedication and
commitment to the work of Evangelists and Biblewomen over the past 10 years.
District Overview
The District is currently served by 57 ministers, 60 Biblewomen and Evangelists of
whom 80% are Non-Itinerant, Non-stipendiary, Part-time. We are in the process of
reviewing whether Southern Drakensburg Circuit 0328 should be amalgamated with
a neighbouring Circuit due to its continuing non-viability status and the consequent
inability to station a minister over the past 10 years.
The theme for the year is “Re-discovering our Wesleyan Heritage of Personal
Holiness”. The theme seeks to emphasise that our Methodist heritage from its inception
was that of transformation, and that it begins with personal transformation.
Leadership and Clergy Matters
Ministers Retreat and uMhlangano: The District Ministers retreat was led by our
Chief Pastor which focused: 1) Prophetic action as the fundamental need in our
context rather than issuing prophetic statements and resolutions. 2) Authentic worship
that prepares and empowers congregations for transformative engagements in their
communities. 3) Understanding our role of leading a transforming movement.
Ministers’ Pre-Synod Convocation: It took place a day before the District Synod
and attendance is compulsory for all ministers in active ministry in the district. It is
meant as a platform for accountability, mentoring and development amongst ministers
in response to challenges on leadership and family life pertaining to ministers. Rev.
Des Plint (Supernumerary minster) led the convocation on: 1) Understanding the
call and vocation of a Methodist minister, 2) The Discipline and accountability of a
Methodist Minister as expressed in Question 1 of Synod questionnaire. Then Rev.
Nkululeko Makula (Supernumerary) led the Convocation on the re-affirmation of
our Ordination vows and concluded with Holy Communion.
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Leadership Development: An annual strategic workshop which is compulsory
for all Circuit Superintendents, Ministers, Circuit Stewards and Treasures, District
Presidents and executives to attend. The objective of the workshop is to empower
those newly elected leaders and refresh those who have been leaders, for visionary,
contextual and effective church leadership and management.
Rev. Dr. Mehana led the workshop on:
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1. Update on the Laws and Discipline 12 edition release (The Methodist Book of
Order),
2. Principles of Effective Church Governance, and 3) A transformative discipleship
movement.
Rev. Mdingi and Mr. Lunga Phanya (District Treasurer) led a presentation on;
1. Mission focused and Mission orientated budgeting.
2. Financial management and Accountability.
District EMMU
The District has extended the EMMU so as to focus not only on the preparation of
Ordinands and ministers on Probation, but also on Christian Education and Laity
Training.
This initiative has produced good results as demonstrated in the Synod examination
of Candidates for ordination and candidates for the ministry. They all performed
extremely well after concerns about the low standard of performance were expressed
at previous Synods.
Discipleship Courses which were scheduled for two weekends in June 2015 has seen
overwhelming attendance and participation by all Circuits in the district. The district
Christian Education Team has four teams that led the presentations in two regions
per weekend. The focus for the year 2015 is on the following areas: 1) Training
of Confirmation Class Leaders, 2) Training and development of a Sunday School
Syllabus for Sunday School Teachers, 3) Training of Circuit and Society Stewards
on Christian leadership and church governance. This material is yet to be compiled
into a manual to be used by Circuits for this work from now onwards. The Christian
education team includes both ministers and Laity who have a passion and skill for
this work.
District Mission
In a nutshell Queenstown District is a mission focused district and this is evident from
the Circuit Mission Reports received at the District Synod annually. The Mission
Unit Secretary in the district chooses 10 Circuits each year to do presentations on
their mission work throughout the duration of Synod. This initiative has encouraged
all Circuits in the district to be mission focused, and it has been happening for more
than five years up to now.
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Evangelism and Church Growth
As a District we have identified Circuits that are struggling in terms of membership
growth and financial viability. We have combined the Convention of Evangelists
and Biblewomen with a Mission week which is financed by the district. The mission
week begins on a Monday of the Convention week with workshops, seminars
and evangelical campaigns run by all ministers, evangelists and Biblewomen
from Monday to Wednesday, followed by Convention business from Thursday to
Friday, and concludes with a crusade on Saturday and Sunday led by YMG and
LPA presidents with other members of the organisations. The Mission week and
Campaign took place in Centane Circuit for 2015.
The Queenstown District Bursary Fund
This Fund is a benchmark for our District and continues to thrive as such. It is financed
by all Circuits through assessments to the district and all district Organisations, and
is meant to assist children coming from disadvantaged backgrounds for tertiary
education. Synod 2015 decided to rename this fund the DR. T.S.N GQUBULE
BURSARY FUND, a past Bishop of this District, in recognition of the role
he continues to play in the Education of Black/poor/disadvantaged children as
an Educational Activist from our Church. The honour, which he came to accept
personally, with some reluctance yet with deep respect so long as it will accelerate
further the need to serve our people and maximise support and participation of all
stakeholders on taking seriously the education of our children, and making it a
priority.
The Bursary Fund initiative towards the Education of our Children has been adapted
by other Circuits: the MWEDF (Methodist Women Education Fund) in East London
Circuit 314 since Dr. Ernest Baartman’s time still thrives; adopt a Child initiative and
Bursary Fund in East-Coast Section and Greenfields Methodist Church in East London
Circuit 313, and MZOLI RUSI EDUCATION FUND in Dutywa Circuit 330.
UMTHA weLanga Project
The Project is housed in Dimbaza Township of Circuit 308, and is primarily meant
to care for senior citizens and the sick, who become targets for robbery and rape
while left alone by working/schooling family members during the day. This project
was established under the leadership of Mrs. Gretta Makhwenkwe and is primarily
funded by the Womens’ Manyano in the District and assisted by the District through
the Mission Unit when necessary. Although it has had some challenges over the last
three years, these have been solved by Mrs. Lerato Dondashe as the new president
and it is back and running now.
Mooiplaas Training Centre
This project has been struggling over a lack of funds. I am delighted to report that
the District Young Men’s Guild under the leadership of Rev. Zukile Makula has
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established a Mission Fund and named it as REV. VUYANI NYOBOLE MISSION
FUND. On the very launch and inception of this Fund at the 2015 YMG Convention
held in Wodehouse Forest Circuit 0326, the YMG raised over R170 000, and amongst
its mission projects, the Mooiplaas project resuscitation is the priority.
The District Wesley Guild
Continues to identify and build a house for a poor person in the Circuit where the
District Annual Youth Consultation is held. This they do through their Mission Fund
known as REV. MVUME DANDALA MISSION FUND, which was established in
2003 to assist and encourage Young Methodist to study for Scarce Skills on Tertiary
Education, and other mission priorities. The Youth have been joined by East London
Circuit 314 in this initiative as they have built houses for 6 families, and started Youth
and 4 community garden projects in partnership with the government departments
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during the 25 Anniversary of Dr. E.J Mqoboli Methodist Church.
Devlopment of Church Buildings: The Circuits in this District continue pride
themselves on building places of worship and Manses for Ministers without raising
a loan; King Williams’ Town Circuit 312 has bought a Manse (Phakamisa township)
and built 2 church buildings (Kwalini and Mxaxo), East London Circuit 314 has built
a Church and manse (Mncotsho), bought a new manse (Berlin), and is currently in
the finishing stages of a R10 000 000 project of rebuilding the Rev. W.M. Nondlwana
Methodist Church. Gompo Circuit 340 has erected 2 church buildings (Mphintsho
and Needs Camp). Mdantsane North Circuit 339 has built a Church (Nxaruni) and
the Molteno and Stormberg Circuit 303 has built a church.
This summary is clear evidence that Queenstown District is alive and continues
to engage in conversation, practice of the work of God, and as a Mission-focused
District. I continue to praise and thank God for all leaders in the district (both
clergy and laity) for sound spiritual leadership, and for all Methodists people for
their cooperation, participation and encouragement.
Let us continue to Do our Best, Our very Best, and Let us do it every Day!
GRACE AND PEACE TO ALL
Rev. Mthobeli Matyumza
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KIMBERLEY, NAMIBIA AND BLOEMFONTEIN (05)
Bishop Litaba Isaiah Mothibi
Introduction
The year 2015 marks the end of my third and final term as the Bishop of the
Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein (KNB) District. My family and I want to
extend our sincere gratitude to the Church at large, especially the KNB District, for
the opportunity that was given to us. In the same breath, I wish Reverend Lesiba
Nkhumise and his family well as he will be taking this District further in seeking to
make all people disciples.
At the end of the year, we evaluate our failures as well as our successes for the past
year. In Jeremiah 29:11 God says: “I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to
bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for”.
Reports received from Circuits, Organisations and Units clearly showed that people
are beginning to grasp the theme of our Connexion: ‘Together A Transforming
Discipleship Movement’ and also the Mission and Vision statement of the Methodist
Church of Southern Africa.
Spirituality
Spiritual formation seems to be the core priority in all our Circuits and Organisations
where teachings in class meetings, cell groups and revivals enhance our witness in
this broken community. Healing Services are held from time to time in many of
Circuits and the impact thereof is remarkable as people begin to see God at work.
At the 2015 Youth Synod one noted the growth of membership and involvement in
outreach in order to make a difference in our communities.
What deprives us from seeing numerical growth is INCORRECT statistics that
are received from Circuits and Organisations. Practically the Methodist Church
of Southern Africa is growing in our District. The recently introduced electronic
database system will correct this problem. There is however a need for the Church
to look at programmes that can attract young people more in its activities. Our
Presiding Bishop dedicated the Kuisedmond multipurpose centre which is a big
achievement for the community of Walvis bay. Our gratitude to the Mission Unit
under the leadership of Rev Dr. K. Ketshabile for the assistance it has given to this
project and many others in Namibia.
Justice and Service
All Circuits are involved in this pillar in various ways like giving food parcels and
helping in burials of those that need help. All our organisations reached out to the
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needy at the climax of their Conventions. The Women’s Manyano, being the biggest
Organisation, donated furniture to five families in Barkly West. School uniforms
were also distributed to the needy children in that area.
Education and Christian Formation
Reports showed that our Circuits, and especially our Organisations, are now taking this
pillar seriously. Books and educational toys were donated to some schools according
to needs. The District Childcare Desk is functioning to our satisfaction especially
in the region of Kavango where extensive workshops took place. Mrs Sikhakhane
helped us a great deal in this endeavour. Toys to the value of R24 000 were delivered
to the three pre-schools in that region. We are definitely sure that the children of those
centres will enjoy playing with them whilst at the same time they will be learning, as
we know that they do that through play. There is, however, a need for the societies to
adopt schools in their areas so as to make those children disciples at a young age.
District Synod
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The 134 District Synod was held in John Wesley Circuit at De Aar under the
theme: “Gospel-centred Discipleship Movement Church”. The supporting text was
taken from Romans 1:17. “The Gospel is the power of God that brings salvation
to everyone.” The Synod appreciated a presentation on the history of De Aar
(meaning Artery) as a reference to the underground water supply which resembles
an artery. We met to talk and celebrate the work that has been done in our District
and Connexion.
District Lay Leader
The Office of the District Lay Leader, though disturbed by a limited budget, continues
to yield good results. The Lay Leader was afforded space in our Young Men’s Guild,
Young Women’s and Women’s Manyano conventions to talk about the role they are
expected to play both as individuals and as Organisations in the life of the Church
from grass root level. She also helped in fundraising in those Organisations that
needed her expertise. She also played a pivotal role in mediations in societies and
Circuits. We are envisaging that she visits struggling Circuits with a view to teaching
and motivation.
Aldersgate Conference Centre
Funding is needed in order to bring this place up to standard. The District Women’s
Manyano asked permission from Synod to build a conference facility at this centre.
This request was gladly applauded. The established committee is trying to make this
dream a reality.
Presiding Bishop's Visit to Namibia
The visit of the Presiding Bishop and MCO team was a blessing to us, especially
the people of Namibia. They felt the presence of the Methodist Church of Southern
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Africa. This visit yielded the need for a Namibia mission congress. The resolutions
in this connection will be tabled at next year’s District Synod.
Challenges
The vastness of this District cannot be over emphasized and this makes it impossible
to manage it properly as the Mission leader. This needs our collective attention.
Secondly, the growing number of “concerned groups” that do not follow protocols and
encourage people not to give or collect monies and keep them is in itself a concern.
A workshop needs to be organised in order to teach people and Superintendents how
together we can be a Church that God wants us to be.
Migration of people from smaller towns to cities makes Circuits in those rural areas
to be non-viable. Pastoral and financial support to Ministers and their families
serving in those struggling Circuits is a challenge.
Conclusion
In conclusion the Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein District still continues to
proclaim that God calls the Methodist people to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ
for healing and transformation. I extend a word of gratitude to all who supported the
vision and mission of the District.
May God bless you all.
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NORTHERN FREE STATE
& LESOTHO DISTRICT (06)
Bishop Andrew Motswenyane
Introduction
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The Northern Free State and Lesotho District is now in its 44 year of existence as
an independent District. The District stretches from Harrismith in the east, Sasolburg
in the north and Welkom in the west and includes the whole of Lesotho. The District
is faced with many challenges, especially poverty since the mines have shut down
and farm workers have been driven from the farms. Although the situation is still
this way we seek to be true to the MCSA Vision of “A Christ Healed Africa for the
Healing of the Nations”.
Education
On Christian Formation: The Lay Leader holds workshops for the District leadership
and he has written notes that are being distributed to the leadership of the church.
Bible Study is being conducted in other Circuits, as well as teaching around the
Five Mission imperatives. Education: most Circuits are involved in schools in the
local Circuits. Most Circuits seek to arouse an interest and passion for learning
among learners. The Ficksburg and Ladybrand Circuit played an important role in
motivating and giving educational equipment to learners last year. Speakers were
invited to the church and learners from High schools in Ladybrand were packed into
the small church building of Manyatseng. We salute the Rev Philisiwe Ntyshapha
who together with the education committee organised this; learners were grateful
for what they received that day. Some Circuits are running projects such as “Back
to School” programmes where they buy school materials, such as book covers, pens
and educational toys for the Grade Rs.
Spirituality
Intercessory prayer ministries are growing and healing ministries are being conducted
through the Circuits right up to District level. The class meetings, sharing groups and
home groups, small retreats and Youth camps and many vital tools for people to
engage in spiritual growth are alive in the District.
The organisations play an important part in evangelism, especially YMG and
Women’s Manyano. Prisons and hospitals were visited as well as old age homes. The
confirmation classes and new converts are also a vehicle of Evangelism and Church
growth. House visitations also play a big role in evangelism. We had a convention
for both KNB and NFS &L Districts of the Order of Evangelists and Bible Women
last year at Winburg. This brought awakening in this Circuit.
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Justice and Service
The Northern Free State and Lesotho District, as far as Justice and Service is
concerned, is very active in mission projects at local level. There are vegetable
gardens in many of our local communities. There is a Clinic for the people who
live on the streets (that is the destitute) running at St. Luke’s Methodist Church
in Welkom. They have the services of a Social Worker at this Clinic to assist
the people with applications for grants, identity documents etc. The District was
alerted by the Superintendent of QwaQwa, who is the District Mission Secretary,
about the plight of people at the Youth Centre, who are dumb (cannot speak).
The District bought groceries for families of the Bokamoso people who are
homeless.
Development and Economic Empowerment
Sewing classes are being offered for previously disadvantaged women, so that they
may be empowered. In other Circuits women are sharing their different skills for
doing handwork, by teaching others. This is done so that at the end of the day they
can sell their items to develop themselves economically. YMG donates food parcels
to the needy.
Special Events
The Women’s Manyano continue unabated to fully pay the funds of Bongiwe Skosana
who is now doing her final year at the University of North West. During the 16 Days
of Activism, Women’s Manyano took part in protest marches against Women and
Child Abuse. Again Women’s Manyano are partnering with Government Structures
operating in our Communities as well as empowering and capacitating all Women’s
Manyano members with basic counselling skills. The District regional CCS was
held at Mafeteng and old people were given blankets and food parcels. All four
Circuits of Lesotho shared groceries and wash basins that were brought by the CCS
Secretary.
Young Women's Manyano
The Young Women’s Manyano collected food parcels, toiletries, colouring books
and wax crayons, which were donated to a school at an informal settlement, called
Honey Park in Welkom, and some donations were made to Mmabana Day Care
Centre, also in Welkom. They also donated money to a family that was struggling
to get documents for children who were from Lesotho, in order to get their identity
documents.
Young Men's Guild
The organisation painted both the inside and outside walls of the House of Hope
Centre, which caters for children who are abandoned. They also repaired broken
taps. The Organisation also donated food parcels to the needy, soccer balls and other
toys to the children of House of Hope.
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Youth Unit
The Youth asked Rev. T. Ngcayisa to lead them in learning about the importance
of Liturgy and Worshipping which led to understanding the importance of
Spirituality. They also invited the Rev. Dr. Leon Klein, who focused on “The
Christian Authentic Lifestyle to Abundant Living”. The Youth Unit in the District
acknowledges that drugs and substance abuse, alcohol and cigarettes are a
challenge in our area. The District Bishop has introduced the Ministry against
Substance Abuse (MASA) programme to assist the youth, and Rev. M. Leseba is
the District Secretary of MASA. He will assist young people with this scourge of
substance abuse.
Lesotho
The Circuits in Lesotho are trying their level best to understand about mission.
The only snag is that Circuits are impoverished due to the closure of mines.
Unemployment is growing day by day in Lesotho. Lesotho is a sovereign country
within another country. It depends on South Africa for its economic growth. Due
to the high rise of unemployment Circuits have deteriorated as far as assessments
are concerned. Reports on the MCSA Schools in Lesotho are encouraging as year
after year the results are outstanding. It is a great pleasure to announce that two
particular schools, namely Leribe Methodist Primary School and Methodist High
School in Maseru, are consistently the best schools in the Kingdom of Lesotho. The
Methodist High School is sought after by Ministers and Parliamentarians who want
their children to be educated at this school. We thank God for the educators and
Principal of this School.
Challenges
• Circuits that cannot meet their assessments, especially in Lesotho.
• The unending case of Ficksburg/Ladybrand Circuits – where our property is
vandalised. Also the Lesotho case of Rev. D. Rantle.
• Unemployment that is rising in this District.
Future Plans
• Developing of clergy and also the leaders of Circuits, namely Circuit Stewards,
Treasurers etc. A workshop is scheduled for early next year.
• We will continue to meet with all the principals of our Methodist Schools in
Lesotho.
Conclusion
We remain committed to and seek to be vigilant in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus
Christ for healing and transformation. We are now trying to understand that we are a
discipleship movement. This we will do through the concluding words of our former
Presiding Bishop, now the General Secretary of the World Methodist Council, when
he said,
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“It is only as we draw on our rich Wesleyan heritage
and again link faith and works, pietism and social action,
spirituality and political engagement,
that a new world of justice and peace will become a reality”.
Yearbook, 2012, p.15
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NATAL COASTAL DISTRICT (07)
Bishop Mike Vorster
Paradoxically just when we thought the church could not get any better it does. For
we stand yet again on the precipice of new opportunities. As ones who are committed
transforming disciples we become part of Christ’s revolution in a context of growing
abuse, to bring hope and radical change and we declare that another world is possible.
We live in a District, province and country where there is growing unhappiness in
our church and country; racist attitudes; growing sexism and misogyny; suspicion
of each other, especially when it comes to our use of money; ethnic divisions;
xenophobia; corruption in church and nation; questionable morality of our ministers
and lay leaders; tension between clergy and laity; economic inequality; environmental
degradation; land grabs by corporates taking the best land and water resources from
indigenous people; challenge of church finances; child abuse; education challenges;
etc. For transforming disciples committed to being Christ-followers, now is the
time, the Kairos moment to rise and shine. Now is the time for prophetic activism
and prophetic living. In times of crisis, challenge, persecution the early church grew
in its resolve to be an alternative community which shared all things in common (Acts
8 2). Now is the time when we need as transforming disciples to hear these words “ We
are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair;
9 10 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in
the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our
11 bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so
12 that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work
in us, but life in you.” (2 Corinthians 4:8–12).
Transforming Disciples bring Life in Places of Death and Entropy
Hence through the leadership of the District Bishop and others we have created
spaces where transforming disciples can be nurtured and incubated through:
• The District School of Evangelisation and Discipleship;
• Reaching the 1 million campaign – becoming the aroma of Christ to others;
• The emphasis of the District Mission Unit to enable us to assess what we are
doing in mission and to promote a more prophetic activist stance. The District
Justice and Service pillar is in the process of designing a kit on prophetic
living.
• Embarking on a journey of conversation to review our six transformation calls,
a journey toward healing, justice and authentic reconciliation. Setting aside each
Thursday for prayer and fasting.
Transforming disciples are champions of God's prophetic action in a fractured
world: In his devotions at the 2015 District Ecumenical Affairs Secretaries
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consultation, Mozambican District Bishop Dinis Matsolo said that ‘a champion is
one who believes in oneself when others don’t’. As transforming disciples we are
campaigners of God’s prophetic action and living in a fractured world, even when
others oppose us. As transforming disciple leaders we are part of God’s vision and
mission of a transformed reality where a new humanity and creation of colourful
oneness is possible even when others don’t see what we see or experience.
The chosen theme of our Synod 2015 wishes for us who are serious transforming
disciples to eradicate every form of child abuse in our country and planet. 2014
was South Africa’s worst year of child abuse on record. Hence the theme: “Together
a transforming discipleship movement cares for children”. You will not get a better
example of prophetic action than that of Jesus in Matthew 18 when children were
brought to him even when cultural norms dictated otherwise. Synod spent time reflecting
and planning action on this issue. During Synod delegates filled in a clearance form,
which is compulsory, both by law of the land and policy of the MCSA.
Transforming disciples in Circuits are addressing the challenge of evangelism and
church growth: In addition to the District work done through Evangelist Shadrack
Khumalo, Circuit 701 sums up this work done in most Circuits: “Because of the diverse
contexts that our Circuit ministers in, the actual responses in terms of Evangelism and
Church growth differ greatly and require individual responses. However, some of the
approaches by this Circuit have included Youth Camps and rallies; Conventions and
street processions; teaching and preaching at soup kitchens and literacy programs;
Alpha Courses; Holiday Clubs for Children; Drama and music events; Children’s
Church; special Services; Cottage meetings; Revival services; Mission weekends
and outreaches; conventions and vigils; training seminars; mentorship and personal
growth. The Circuit also has an evangelist stationed whose focus is, obviously, largely
on this pillar”.
Transforming disciples in Circuits are addressing the challenge of spirituality:
The District coordinator, Rev Hugh Jenkins, continues to sharpen our focus on
spirituality as he offers specialised retreats and spiritual direction. In addition to
this I am happy to report that all our Circuits take spirituality and its Christian
formation very seriously under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I highlight the work
of one of our Circuit’s report in this regard: “In 2014, the Circuit re-demonstrated
the Methodist Church of Southern Africa’s mission policy (Conference 1958) of
“becoming a one and undivided church” during the Easter weekend with the
highlight of a great attendance on the Good Friday service held at Lamontville
High School in a big tent. Early morning paddlers and walkers bore witness to the
celebration of our Lord’s resurrection as the Montclair and Manning Road Societies
hosted a combined Easter Sunrise service on the uShaka beach. The theme of unity
was further reinforced by another successful Circuit Pentecost Service which we
celebrated together on 8 June 2014 at the Umbilo Society. At this occasion we had
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the pleasure of having Rev. Pete Grassow as the guest speaker, who is the Chaplain
of our Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary. Bishop Mike Vorster was also present
and commended our Circuit for our continued intentional work on becoming one
and undivided.” (Circuit 703)
I like the way that spirituality is linked with transformation … through worship
flows scriptural holiness.
Transforming disciples in Circuits are addressing the challenge of justice and
service: The District Justice and Service task team, coordinators Deacon Wendi
Tiedt and Nomabelu Mvambo-Dandala, having heard some of the challenges faced
by our people as reported by the various District Mission Task Groups, produced a
Theological reflection on the central crisis facing our province and nation, which
can be summed up in one word: Abuse.
It is most encouraging to see how our respective Circuits and Organisations maintain
a constant awareness campaign on the Abuse of Women; Children; Drugs & Alcohol.
Our efforts need to intensify and we need to persevere, until there are substantial
signs of a reduction and the eventual eradication of all forms of abuse. I share these
activities by Circuit 703: “Violence against women and children remains a huge
concern in our Circuit as well as in our Country. We are deeply troubled by the
growing number of women and children who have been in crisis during 2014. When
one of our own children in the Montclair Society was abducted and brutally raped
at the beginning of the year, the Society rallied around the family and a march was
organised to protest against this evil and supported by all in the Circuit.” Circuit
712: March against women and children abuse in August 2014 in partnership with
the KZN Department of Social Development
Responses to Xenophobic attacks-Heeding the Presiding Bishop’s call, many of
our Circuits took up the challenge and made a visible stand against Xenophobia.
They gave food, blankets (Kearsney College collected 600 blankets) and of their
time to alleviate the plight of those affected. We are encouraged at the setting up of
the independent reference group to investigate the causes and what we can learn to
ensure this does not happen again.
It is good to see that at least two Circuits, 708 (Kairos ministry) and 712, highlighting
the often forgotten prison ministry.
Transforming disciples in Circuits are addressing the challenge of human
economic development and empowerment: The tireless work of our people from
every Circuit continues to alleviate hunger, poverty and unemployment. In Circuit
725: Road Construction Company on Our Church Site: The Ingwavuma Church
is also indirectly involved in the development of the community, as we have made
available the church premises to the Wonke Road Construction involved in the
upgrading of our main roads in Ingwavuma. They reside on our church premises and
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all their construction machinery and equipment is safely harboured by our church. It
is our joy that some of our community members have also received job opportunities
through contract employment in this initiative. It means that they can put bread on
their tables, and also give an offering to the Church. Our Church is involved in selfhelp projects as one of our societies in KwaNtunja, has opened the church doors
to the making of grass sleeping-mats. One of these is currently on route for display
in the Bishop’s Office. Through this initiative, people have also found sources of
income from their labour and they are praising God for the blessing of their skills and
also for the church giving them space for work opportunities.” Ubombo 726: The
Thembalethu Sewing Centre is still actively running and still brings training to the
community for those who are interested in sewing and fashion designs. The nearby
school receives our service of sewing their school uniforms. Different denominations
also use our service in the sewing of church uniforms. Bhekizandlazakho Garden
Project is still being cultivated by the community members.
Transforming disciples in Circuits are addressing the challenge of education:
2
One of The Millennium Development Goals was to eliminate poverty by 2015 and
to ensure education for all children. In 1999 100 million primary aged children had
reduced to 57 million. This has been a collective effort of Government, Corporates,
NGOs and Faith communities. Our District has done so through its many educational
projects: John Wesley Kosi Bay, John Wesley Eshowe, John Wesley Pinetown, John
Wesley La Lucia, Phakamisa (Clerpine), Malibongwe (South Durban), Udobe –
(Montclair Methodist), Masifudisane – (Durban North Methodist), Kwangwanase
pre-school feeding scheme – to mention but a few. We celebrate with Mam Ntuli
from Kwangwanase who founded John Wesley Kosi Bay, and who received a
Conference award in 2014 for this achievement. Circuit 725:“Computer School
on Church Premises: The Circuit continues to offer our church buildings for a
computer skills learning programme. The old church building was renovated and
is used for this programme. Our post matric learners receive a three year computer
course through the Ensingweni Computer School. It is with great joy that our
learners receive this course and get jobs in the corporate world. A stipend is also
offered to our students so that they can meet their immediate needs. Young people
benefit greatly from this resource centre. Education of Our Learners: The Matric
Result Intervention Program which aims to help nearby schools towards educational
excellence, took root from the District Women’s Manyano project and has continued
within our community led by the Women’s Manyano under the Leadership of their
President Mrs. J. J. Mngomezulu. Last year, we were privileged to be visited by the
heads of our church, our Presiding Bishop Rev. Zipho Siwa and District Bishop Rev.
Michael Vorster. During this occasion we visited the Ingwavuma High School for a
word of Prayer and to motivate and encourage the learners and teachers in their
efforts. The Women’s Manyano distributed school uniforms to the needy scholars.
Oh! We Praise God For His Doings!” Thanks to Rev Khuzwayo our District
Education co-ordinator.
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Transforming disciples in Circuits are addressing the challenge of HIV and
AIDS: “Deaths from HIV/Aids in sub-Saharan Africa have fallen by 32 per cent
in the last seven years, with particular progress made in protecting children from
the deadly virus,” the UN has said. Thanks to the efforts of continued testing at
Conventions, Synod and other spaces within our District we in our own way have
contributed to this reduction. We thank the team of mam Phewa and Lay Leader
Sanele Gumede for faithfully ensuring that HIV and AIDS Circuit coordinators are
trained through the District Methodists Challenged by AIDS programme.
We also acknowledge the huge contribution that the Hillcrest AIDS Centre,
Greenwood Park Care Centre and CCMyT KHAM project has made over many
years. Having had our moment of celebration, we still need to intensify our efforts
because there are still 19.1 million people infected and countless millions who are
affected by HIV and AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. KZN has for a long time been the
epicentre of this pandemic in South Africa. This challenge is reflected in the Circuit
702 Superintendent’s report: “The Circuit was alarmed by the significant increase
in the number of people within our Circuit community who tested positive for HIV/
AIDS in 2014. We have fallen short in the follow-up and counselling of the people
being tested and the Circuit is trying to concentrate efforts on ministering to and
educating the community at large about this pandemic.”
Transforming disciples in Circuits are addressing the challenge of environmental
justice: A number of Circuits are involved in this. The Bishop continues to write and
supply articles for Eco News in New Dimension.
Presiding Bishop's visit: We were decidedly blessed when our Presiding Bishop
travelled the length and breadth of our District during 2014. We had so many wondrous
encounters with the people called Methodists in this part of God’s vineyard. Thank
you to all the hosting Circuits.
Conference 2014: I applaud the Natal Coastal District for your fantastic hosting
abilities. Against significant logistical and financial challenges we were able to
assist the Methodist Connexional Office have a wonderful and well run Conference.
Everyone who was involved: YOU ARE STARS!! We hosted the largest Ordination
service yet seen in our Connexion with over 6000 in attendance. Our District rose to
the challenge and raised funds for this event, however at the expense of the Mission
& Extension fund which dropped from R147000 to R49000. This was also because
of another major Connexional event in the same year, the LPA Triennial. In spite
of the challenges, once again the talents of NCD came to the fore and delivered
two excellent events. The “Bishop’s on a Mission” within various Circuits was a
success and we have pioneered something that is to happen at our next Conference
in Grahamstown District.
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Conclusion
Circuit 701 expresses what many other Circuits experienced in 2014 where it has
“faced its fair share of challenges in 2014, and these are carried over into 2015.
From a spiritual and ministerial point of view, the work in the Circuit/s goes
on as strongly as is possible. Ministry and the commitment of the people called
Methodist in our Circuit is inspiring, to say the least. To see the way people are
pulling together has been absolutely wonderful. However (as many Circuits are
discovering) the financial pressure that Circuits are under creates a stress and
tension all of its own. Much of the Circuit’s efforts, time and energy in 2014 have
been spent in finding creative ways to meet assessments and sustain ministry as well
support the staff members currently stationed in the Circuit. We know that 2015 is
going to be another tough year for Durban Metropolitan, but we also trust that
God will lead and guide us as we seek to implement ideas and strategies to meet
the challenges we face.”
I echo these sentiments: On the positive side, we have committed ministers and
Circuit staff whose strong sense of call and faithfulness to God, continue to see
ministry moving powerfully at local levels. This is matched by faithful Christfollowing people, in both societies and Circuit, who go about living their Christian
witness daily, often under trying and challenging circumstances.
We give thanks to God for the faithful people in all our Circuits. To our District
Youth Unit; all the Organisations, Associations and Orders, District Mission
Unit and respective Mission Pillar coordinators, your energy and enthusiasm for
the well-being of God’s mission within the Natal Coastal District is palpable and
makes the heart of God swell with love.
I would also like to say a big thank you for the support, challenge and perseverance
demonstrated by our District Finance, District Management and District
Executive Committees respectively. With a special thank you to our Vice-Chair
Rev Linda Mandindi for taking over some significant pastoral tasks; Lay Leader
Sanele Gumede for her commitment to ensure that all our minsters are stationed and
that the views of laity are represented; to our ever efficient and innovative Synod
Secretary, Rev Ansie Liebenberg; Lindiwe Mazibuko our District Treasurer who is
always available to deal with financial matters and to Hazel Stanley who keeps the
office going even when the Bishop is away for prolonged periods. It is our obligation
that as we TOGETHER BECOME A TRANSFORMING DISCIPLESHIP
MOVEMENT we are at the same time people of great imagination. Ours is to
imagine that God’s project can become reality and to find signs which are already
out there, and share them and embrace them and make them relevant for our context
in KZN. TOGETHER BECOME A TRANSFORMING DISCIPLESHIP
MOVEMENT-together imagining a world where children are always safe and
then working to make it happen.
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Endnotes
1. In the sense of: “Lack of order or predictability, gradual decline into disorder” (Oxford dictionary).
2. The Millennium Development Goals are a UN initiative. The Millennium Development Goals
(MDGs) are eight international development goals that were established following the Millennium
Summit of the United Nations in 2000, following the adoption of the United Nations Millennium
Declaration. All 189 United Nations member states at the time (there are 193 currently), and at least
23 international organizations, committed to help achieve the following Millennium Development
Goals by 2015:
1. To eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
2. To achieve universal primary education
3. To promote gender equality and empower women
4. To reduce child mortality
5. To improve maternal health
6. To combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases
7. To ensure environmental sustainability[1]
8. To develop a global partnership for development
(Source: Wikipedia)
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NATAL WEST DISTRICT (08)
Bishop Sandy Dickie
The Methodists of Natal West are yet alive and rejoicing in the knowledge that God
is with us. Our Annual Synod held at the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary was
a truly joyful occasion of fellowship and business. The overall tone of the Synod
was optimistic and reflected an attitude of co -operation and awareness of the needs
both in the church and wider society. Visitors and guest speakers included Mrs Thini
Ngonyama, Lay General Treasurer, Rev N. Raphahlela from EMMU, Mr J. Nkosi,
the new Lay President, Mrs Debbie Stefano from TopMed, Mrs Martie Hildyard
from the MCO, and Rev David Sadler who introduced a book he has written on the
lives of past Presidents of the Southern African Conference. Devotions were ably led
by Rev Scott Couper of the Congregational Church and lecturer at the Seminary.
Elections were held for all of the Top Table positions e.g. Vice Chairman, Lay Leader,
Secretary and Statistical Secretary. None of the incumbents were available for reelection, so there will be a completely new team working with the Bishop elect, Rev
T.W. Dlamini, from January. The District Executive elections showed a balance of
age, experience, male, female and youth representation. The District Treasurer, Mr
L. Chivers will assist the incoming treasurer, Mr L. Afrika until March 2015.
Indaleni
Our country is experiencing terrific strain as the drought is affecting farming operations
and food production, strikes have led to job losses, and poor education levels have led
to low productivity and joblessness. It is in this context that developments at Indaleni
near Richmond are a sign of God’s intervention. The Alumni of the old Indaleni
School and Teacher Training Institution have sought for some time to establish a
Further Education and Training College at Indaleni. Apart from the leasing of land
for farming purposes the Institution has been dormant since 1992 when the area was
ravaged by political violence and murders. The Mission had been established by Rev
James Allison in 1847 with Swazi converts who fled from the warring soldiers of the
Swaziland king at that time. Stories of great heroism are recorded in the biography of
Rev Allison. It is ironic that similar faction fighting should have destroyed the work
at Indaleni which was originally a place of refuge and pioneering work in education
and skills training. But now there is renewed enthusiasm for the work of education.
A survey done by the Richmond Municipality showed that out of a population
of 64 000 some 36% of the youth were unemployed. 50% of the people had not
progressed beyond grade 7 and only 12% had completed High School. Only 0.7%
had post matric qualifications. At Indaleni there is a Primary School, High School
and School for the Deaf, all on Methodist property. In an amazing way the IMIAP
(Indaleni Alumni), Dept. of Education head Blade Ndzimande, Umgungundhlovu
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FET College, Richmond Municipality and the Methodist Church came together
to launch the new Indaleni TVET College. R25 million has been allocated to the
project. Prefab classrooms have been delivered, and a satellite campus of the
Pietermaritzburg TVET has begun to operate. There are plans for new buildings
and facilities for 300 students to study garment making, woodwork, forestry and
agriculture to begin with. The land has been made available to the Government by
the Indaleni Methodist Institution on a 10 year lease, and there is a good Methodist
representation on the Steering Committee.
The rest of our farmland is being managed by a management committee that has
allocated land for lease by local small co-ops. Mrs Phumzile Dandala has closed
down the ENDLA co-op that was severely tested by stealing of the crops, and also
threats from some criminals. She did amazing work in training both men and women
to farm with vegetables. It is hoped that the new ventures will succeed by building
on her example and keep unscrupulous farmers from taking over more of our land.
It has been a long battle to reclaim our land for the Church.
The first five months of 2015 saw the Bishop conducting 9 Induction services and
attending several Circuit Quarterly meetings to oversee invitations to ministers
and also to preach at Conventions. This exposure to the people has helped to build
good relationships between the District leadership and the Methodist people.
A few Commissions were set up for various administrative functions. A Pastoral
Commission was set up to help with an unhappy situation in one Circuit. The work
is ongoing.
The existence of “Concerned Groups” in many Circuits is an indication that all is not
well with the management style of some Ministers and their Executives. It is very
distressing to see a “Winner takes all” understanding of elections and appointments
to positions of leadership. This attitude is dividing people into “Us and Them”
groupings. In some, but not all cases there have been genuine reasons for concern
to be voiced, and action to be taken by the Bishop in creating opportunities for
discussion and redress.
Mission
The MCO allocated R1 million towards stationing of ministers for 2015. Our District
benefitted by the appointment of two ministers with the aid of this subsidy of basic
stipends paid for one year. At Brentwood in Howick a probationer was stationed as
the first full time minister to help this congregation to grow and stand on its own feet.
Projects at Brentwood have been subsidised by the Brentwood USA congregation
and the Pietermaritzburg Circuit.
At Newcastle an ordained minister has been working hard to establish a new society
at Kilbarchan. This is an unchurched area where new residents have moved in over
the years after the closure of the coal mines. Work is being conducted from the
church room which is part of the Methodist supported Thembelihle Children's Care
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Centre. The minister has also started up a crèche that has received Dept. of Welfare
approval. The crèche parents are now attending Sunday worship at the Centre.
The District Mission Unit has been working on co-ordinating projects within the
District. There is a need for Circuits and Organisations to work better together. There are
4 official District supported projects. Woodlands and Siphakeme in Pietermaritzburg,
Thembelihle Children’s Care Centre at Newcastle and the South Coast Deacon mission
outreach program. It is hoped that a meeting later in the year of all Organisation leaders
and the Mission Unit will bring a greater sense of unity of purpose.
The present District Co-ordinator, Rev A. Roux has accepted a position with the
British Conference and Synod approved of the Rev James Adams as his replacement.
Rev Rob Sim heads up the Justice and Service sector. Great work is being done at
Ixopo in assisting people to obtain birth certificates and access to treatment for HIV/
Aids and other illnesses. Our churches were spared from most of the Xenophobia
related unrest, but the YMG held a march through Kokstad to protest against the
attacks on foreigners in SA.
Training days organised by the Lay Leader Mrs N Mbonane have been held for
Circuit Executive members and Regional Meetings for ministers by the bishop. These
events have been invaluable in team building and creating a sense of belonging to a
larger organisation, namely the MCSA.
The District Executive met regularly, and open communication between the Bishop,
Vice Chairman, Lay Leader and Secretary have led to the smooth running of the
District, with this all being co-ordinated through the Bishop’s office, even though
the office is in Newcastle. The Bishop spends many days each month also using an
office in Pietermaritzburg as a base.
The Seminary is very much a part of our District and Circuits around Pietermaritzburg
have benefitted from the ministry of seminarians. The “Passion Play” this year was
a resounding success. The ill health of Rev Mvume Dandala has affected us all,
and we reluctantly acceded to his request to retire. He has done a remarkable job
in a short time. May the Lord continue to heal him and to fulfil his dreams for the
Seminary.
The Lord has been good to us all in Natal West. There are financial challenges for the
future stationing of ministers, but the Lord always provides where He guides.
As I prepare to retire from the active ministry after candidating in 1971 at Synod
in Port Elizabeth, I am looking forward to attending Conference which meets
coincidentally in Port Elizabeth this year. I thank the MCSA and the Lord Jesus for
this opportunity to have served Him as a Bishop for the past three years, and as a
Preacher of the Gospel for the past 43 years. ‘His goodness faileth never.’
The Ministers, District Executive, Lay Leadership and People called Methodists
have been wonderfully supportive, as have my fellow Bishops and the Presiding
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Bishop and his office. In all my years of ministry, the MCO and congregations I
have served in four Districts have not once failed to pay my stipend or remember my
birthday. My family all love the Lord, and my wife Susan has been a constant helper
at my side, and for all that I could not be more grateful.
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CENTRAL DISTRICT (09)
Bishop Peter M Witbooi
It is with deep gratitude to God and the people of the Central District that I pause
to reflect on the work of God in this part of our Connexion. It is always difficult to
capture the full extent of the dreams and aspirations of a community that vibrates
with so much hope and possibility. Travelling through the district and witnessing
the Methodist family whether in worship, service or even in the silence of late night
meetings of discernment, is always an enriching experience. The highlights put
forward here can never do justice to what God is doing within the Central District.
Understanding the Place and the Focus of Our Ministry
Our district is reflective of the considerable geographic, economic and socio-cultural
diversity of our country. Spanning from Johannesburg into the heart of the North
West Province, the district is marked by the growing inequalities, persistent poverty,
the plight of migrant workers (especially in the cities and the mining communities)
and many of the social ills that affect our sub-continent. The recent xenophobic
attacks and the resurgence of the race conversation in our public discourse have
heightened the need for us as a district to re-visit missional priorities and have
meaningful conversation to address these threats to our society.
In responding to these challenges and the Connexional call to become a transforming
discipleship movement, the district continues to keep as its primary focus the need
to develop relevant, vibrant and practical mission strategies that would bring about
healing and transformation. Areas of critical importance that require our renewed
imagination include: Christian formation, issues affecting women and children,
education, church growth, healing and conflict, ministry to the mining sector, diversity
management, poverty focused stewardship, and rural ministry development.
Responding to the Xenophobia Crisis
Following the shameful attacks on foreign nationals, many of our ministers and
churches within the district responded in both word and deed. As social action is the
heart of Methodism, a number of our churches stepped up to publicly say NO TO
XENOPHOBIA, call for the end of violence, house the displaced, feed the hungry
and protect the weak and the stranger. While the violence has subsided, there is still
a need for broad local and national engagement on the socio-economic factors that
brought such levels of anger to the surface.
Synod
During our annual Synod the district spent time in conversation in order to review
and sharpen focus on discipleship. Central to our conversation over the last year was
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the emphasis that being a discipleship movement requires prophetic action. Broadly,
the district has identified the need for sharpening its strategic leadership, networking
and collaboration, as well as team ministry. As part of recognising place, our Synod
began with the community stakeholders in the Randfontein-Mohlakeng area, where
much social upheaval has occurred over the last few years, to highlight the issues of
service delivery, social cohesion, violence and the need for sound governance. The
Central district synod also rejoiced at the nomination of the Rev. Gary Rivas for the
office of Bishop.
Hosting the 16 Days of Activism Against Children and Women Abuse
Through our district and Connexional mission unit, and in collaboration with the
Jabavu Circuit, two events were hosted in the district: the launch of the 16 Days
of activism for no violence against women and children, and the launch of World
Aids Day. They were hosted in Alexandra/Johannesburg and Jabavu Circuits
respectively. Most of our communities in these districts are constantly in flux,
and as such the need to address the vulnerability of women and children cannot
be overstated. These events sharpened our focus on the needs to: encourage silent
female victims to challenge abuse; help children report bullying behaviour at
schools; educate and raise awareness highlighting the roles of men and boys as
critical partners in the fight against the abuse of women and children; ensure that
victims get help; and encourage societies to speak out against woman and child
abuse.
MINISTRY TO REFUGEES AND DISPLACED PERSONS
Tsietsi Mashinini Community Centre
The Soweto Community Centre came into being in the context of considerable
anxiety about the future, particularly of young people, in Soweto in 1976. This
centre, now formally named Tsietsi Mashinini Community Centre, takes its name
from the agonized picture of a young man carrying the body of Hector Petersen.
The church’s involvement with the Mashinini family exposes our determined and
historical struggle for justice in this context. The closure of Central Methodist as a
refugee residence, and the moving of, albeit a very few of those who wished to move
to Soweto, exposed us to considerable threat from the community in their anxieties
about a deluge of foreign nationals descending into their safe space.
For the last five years, the Centre has accommodated vulnerable adults and families
and unaccompanied young people. While the number fluctuates, there are generally
60-80 children and young people in our care. Through the leadership of Rev Dr Paul
Verryn, the centre has enabled displaced and dysfunctional youth to deal with their
crises and trauma by bringing them into an affirming and congruent community. This
work has been expanded in 2015 to include the wider community and to extend the
concept of family in the Centre.
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Ministry to the Inner City
Given Conference direction regarding the ministry of the Central Methodist Church
in the city centre, the district has re-affirmed the need to support all the people
affected, and to strengthen our witness in this complex part of our district. We note the
resultant sadness and practical challenges emanating from the transition. The district
has committed itself to partnering with the Central Methodist Mission Circuit in
shaping a focused life-affirming response that will be underpinned by godly justice
and commitment to healing and transformation, especially for the impoverished and
marginalised.
Apart from the continuing pastoral support and care for ministers and their families,
the district has taken upon itself to highlight the importance of developing a heart
for mission for both laity and clergy. Through strategic laity engagements and
ministers’ retreats, a sharpened focus has been given to developing particular
skills for church growth and development. Our ministers’ retreats are becoming
a helpful resource for equipping our ministers in shaping their best response
to the call of Jesus Christ, as well as becoming a transforming presence within
the church and society. These retreats have taken a triple focus-a time of Rest,
Restoration and Renewal. A substantial number of our ministers are using these
moments of encounter as places to deepen their relationships, to nurture mutual
partnerships and to develop genuine integration across the barriers of race and
ethnic groupings.
Conversation on the Work of God
The scope of our mission entails the whole spectrum of our district work in response
to the Connexional call to together become a transforming discipleship movement.
Evident through the work of our 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.
Deepening Spirituality
The number of churches that are taking seriously the issues of diversity and the
need to carve an authentically African spirituality within the district, is growing. The
quality of worship and inputs at our conventions and district events are becoming
more contextual and practical. Such innovation promises to revitalise the spirituality
of our people. Most of our churches continue to deepen the spirituality of our people
through class meetings, cell groups, bible studies, enrichment courses, retreats,
Alpha courses, Emmaus/Chrysalis, Upper Room resources and engaging with
other ecumenical groups. Looking forward, the district continues to explore ways
of moving away from ‘working as silos’ toward greater collaboration and synergy,
teamwork and co-ordination in order to cross-pollinate the richness of our resources
for spirituality. All district platforms will be used to to highlight and encourage
spiritual growth across the District.
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The discipleship call as it relates to evangelism is helping us with the intentional
voicing of the gospel, including the invitation to personal conversion with a new
life in Christ and to discipleship – rediscovering the reality of a “strangely warmed
heart” for our churches within the district. Our 2014 Synod stressed the need for
strategic and critical thinking that can help us conceptualise church growth in the
context of a district that stretches across rural and urban, rich and poor, and those
with different ministerial and material resouces. Furthermore, the materialistic and
pluralistic context in which we find ourselves is influencing attitudes and the beliefs
of our people. There is a need to discover new ways of “being church” and forging
authentic partnerships between our poor communities and rich communities.
Another critical factor in our conversation about church growth within the district is
the issue of resourcing, stationing and confronting the numerical decline in some of
our city and suburban churches. As a district we have not found the suitable tools for
matching our resources, agency and missional needs.
Justice and Service
The issues of justice and service are more like choosing whether to stop the leak on
the bucket (mercy) or to close the tap that first fills the bucket (justice). In the district
we believe both the acts of mercy and the voice of justice are inseparable. Circuits
and societies continue to provide dignity through shelter, medical care, food parcels
and gardening projects. Practical support, counselling and education are provided
for families affected by HIV/AIDS and child headed households. Campaigns against
socials ills and various forms of abuse have been spearheaded by our uniformed
organisations. Commendable amongst these is the rise of Men’s Organisations in
highlighting the issues of women and child abuse. Some plans developed by our
Justice and Child Desk are still in their early stages.
In the broader context, our district continues to face a number of socio-economic
disparities and varoius manifestations of injustice. Poverty resulting from the systemic
exclusion of the poor from the mainstream economy remains a major challenge for
most rural communities, informal settlements and in some ways migrant comunities
within our cities. In addition to these is the current state of labour relations and
pseudo-political disicussions between unions and government that worsen
employment relations and threaten possibilities of decent work, tampering with the
basic human rights of workers. In light of these the district is considering strategies
for strengthening its ministry to the mining community. Periodic discussions on the
placement and support of ministers within the mining belt have taken place.
Relating to the issues of suffering, exclusion, discrimination and xenophobia, we
celebrate the gifts of the diversity (in perticular the gift of the stranger amongst us);
visit the wounds to encounter the places where peoples’ lives are broken by crime,
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violence and poverty; and act in concrete ways to transform and heal injustices
within our churches.
Education and Christian Formation
Circuits and societies have taken up the challenge to highlight the plight of education
in the country, and to recognise and celebrate the contribution of teachers and
lecturers within our communities. A number of socieities have education intitiatives
which include support to educators, extra-tuition to learners and partnerhips with
schoools in their communties. A school like St Stithians provides many opportunities
for our students and staff to serve communities in Greater Johannesburg and beyond,
either through school-structured or individual volunteer activities. The school is
particularly keen to develop partnerships or relations with youth organisations. Also
worth celebrating is the sustained success rate recorded by the Albert Street School,
standing up to the challenges faced by the school and its students, most of whom are
children from displaced families. Lastly, our conversation on education has touched
on the need for focusing on the role of the family in the education of the child.
Youth Unit
The district has been blessed with a growing youth unit. We want to extend our
gratitude to the Rev. Phindile Mabinyane for her leadership over the last few years.
The youth leadership has taken especially seriously the deepening of the spirituality
of our young people, dealing with issues of integration and awareness campaigns on
critical issues affecting young people within the district. While the issues of integration
are critical to the youth unit, much work still needs to be done in integrating all the
young people within the district. Also, the coordination of children’s work within the
district remains a challenge.
Conclusion
As this is my last year I am overwhelmed by the many blessings that have come
my way through the prayers, support and encouragement of the Methodist family. I
give thanks to God for the gift of faith, the call to the presbytery and inexplicably to
the office of Bishop. Most of all, I thank my family for their unwavering love and
support. For all these gifts, I can only bow in humble gratitude. I also want to express
our congratulations to the Rev Gary Rivas on his nomination for the office of District
Bishop. We keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers as he embraces the
district and the task of leading the Methodist people in responding to God’s call. We
are confident that he brings to this task a rich tapestry of faith, experience and heart
for the kingdom of God.
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HIGHVELD AND SWAZILAND (10)
Bishop Jonathan Anderson
Introduction
Beset with doubts, discouraged by his circumstances and imprisoned, John the
Baptist sends messages to Jesus asking the question “Are you the one who has come
or should we expect somebody else?” Jesus responds to this discouraged questioning
by pointing to the outward signs and evidence. “The blind see, the lame walk, the
deaf hear, the dead are raised and the Good News is preached to the poor.” (Matthew
11:2-6). Many are affected by the challenges of context and age and some find
themselves at a place of considerable discouragement. Many are deeply discouraged
and critical of the failures and shortcomings of the Church, and the Methodist
Church of Southern Africa in particular. Yet a cursory look at the external life of
the Highveld and Swaziland District leads one to recognise that the hungry are fed.
Orphans are clothed and cared for. The aged are loved and protected and cared for.
The poor are restored to dignity. The lost are found. The discouraged are awakened
to Good News and people delight in the goodness of God and the faithfulness of
God’s people. There is much that needs to be corrected and improved but so much
to be celebrated.
Strategy and Vision
The Connexional theme of discipleship is reflected through our own attempts to offer
leadership and vision to our District. We are fortunate to have a strong leadership
team who are deeply committed to guide the Church to improvement and greater
faithfulness. Our Synod theme, The Good Life, reflects our present focus to lead
people to live the way of Christ with integrity and consistency.
The District retains a strong emphasis on pastoral care (particularly of Ministers,
their spouses and their families). I am pleased to be able to report, that in my view,
care is increasingly expressed and appreciated amongst the Clergy and their families.
In our effort to improve our mental self-care and accountability we are introducing
a District Day of Convocation for those within the Presbyterate Order. Other efforts
to facilitate vocational growth include a Book Club and improving our School of
Vocation process.
Fostering and building unity in a context where many divisive factors are at play also
remains a challenge and a strategic priority for the District.
Another major challenge and priority for us is to improve our financial resourcing of
ministry. We continue to explore ways to ensure that ministry is not only offered to
those who can afford it. A task team was appointed by our Synod to fulfil this brief
under the leadership of our Lay Leader (Mr Patient Ndlumbini).
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We are blessed with a strong District Finance Committee who have done much to
improve capacity within the District. The demise of the Central Accounting Office
has made such institutions more important and necessary.
Initiative has also been taken to explore ways to reduce the cost to Circuits of hosting
Conventions-this under the leadership of Rev Phidian Matsepe. The respective
leaders and Presidents of our District Organisations are at an advanced stage of
working out a coherent strategy to reduce what has become burdensome to many of
our Circuits.
EVALUATING PRIORITY MISSION ACTIVITY
Spirituality
In most Circuits and Societies the traditional resources of Bible Studies and Class
Meetings remain primary. Some have recognised the need to seek fresh ways of
employing these resources.
Some Circuits and Societies report encouraging increases in the number of people
involved in small groups. Mid-week Prayer Services and Healing Services have
been introduced in several contexts and appear to be on the increase. The general
perception is that there is an increasing appetite and need for such initiatives.
Emmaus, Alpha, Disciple and various other programmes remain popular and are
used in many contexts. Quiet Days and Retreats are also becoming more common
and more popular.
Justice and Service
The service aspect of this imperative remains the most prominent aspect of our
mission activity. Every Circuit and almost every Society sustains several service
projects as part of their ministry. These range from simple feeding schemes and
attempts to provide assistance to the poor and those in need to major enterprises
such as AMCARE (in Alberton). Within South Africa many of our PBOs that
were previously funded by Government subsidy are really battling because of
the reduction or withdrawal of Government funding. Yet, new initiatives with the
benefit of Government funding have started up. Most District Organisations (such
as Women’s Manyano, YMG, Women’s Auxiliary, and LPA) continue to emphasise
welfare and service work.
The justice aspect of this imperative is being increasingly emphasised. Much progress
has been made to establishing a District Justice structure. Annual Justice Indabas have
been facilitated in 2014 and 2015 with an increasing number of participants being
present. Within the Circuits there is an increased call for the Church to do more in respect
of justice. In South Africa this appears in many cases to be as a result of increasing
dissatisfaction in respect of service delivery and increasing poverty. Pleasing progress
has been made in Swaziland where the Church has often been justifiably accused of
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not speaking out against political injustice. The Methodist Church in Swaziland has
taken initiatives to improve our relationship with the Council of Churches, which in
turn, seems more ready to address the State in matters of justice.
The outbreak of xenophobic violence in certain areas within our District has been
both painful and tragic. The humanitarian response from the Methodist Church
was impressive and needs to be celebrated. We did much to supply two Refugee
Camps on the East Rand with food, shelter and other necessities. Attention to the
devotional and spiritual needs of the refugees was also part of our response. We
are very aware, however, that attending to the issues of xenophobia in South Africa
requires us to attend to and engage with deeper and underlying issues. One of our
Synod Commissions gave specific attention to our ongoing response to this matter.
The traditional methods of recent times continue to be employed in many contexts.
Street revivals conducted by the YMG and other Organisations are still common
and considered effective. Within several of our communities the Alpha Course has
been owned as a priority evangelistic resource. Some have introduced training and
support for person to person evangelism. Others have sought to employ innovative
methods which include infiltrating Schools and Police Stations and making use of a
local Radio Station as a platform for Evangelism.
During the Statistical Report at our Synod concern was expressed at the evident
reduction in our number of young people over a number of years. Strategic work on
how we reach out to our younger generation needs to be considered a priority.
Economic Development and Empowerment
Often previously neglected, our call to be instruments of economic empowerment
appears to be becoming a higher priority within many of our Circuits. This may be
a consequence of increasing poverty but is an encouraging sign. Several Circuits
sustain, generally small, initiatives to equip and assist people to find employment.
These include Employment Agencies and Skills Development Projects. One of
our Circuits has developed a Mentorship Programme for entrepreneurs and young
business people. This successful programme is being considered by other Societies
and Circuits.
One of our Swaziland Circuits is considering ways of making better use of agricultural
land it possesses for poverty alleviation and empowerment purposes.
Education and Children's Work
Education, and children’s work particularly, remain a high priority for our District.
This work includes four major residential institutions, i.e. Epworth Children’s
Village and John Wesley Children’s Home in South Africa, and two Orphanages in
Swaziland. Epworth Children’s Village and John Wesley Children’s Home continue
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to seek ways of coping with reduced Government funding and to do so successfully.
The Orphanages in Swaziland remain under-resourced and in need of support. We
continue to run and manage approximately 50 Mission Schools in Swaziland, many
of which are old and neglected. In some cases communities have become dissatisfied
with the level of care and input that the Church has been giving in respect of these
Schools. The Methodist Schools structure within Swaziland has resolved to do more
to improve and maintain our Schools. Assistance and support from the Church in our
other South African countries is much needed and would be appreciated. The Mission
Unit does, however, contribute much. We also acknowledge the contribution of the
District Women’s Manyano and other District Organisations to assist us in caring for
the many poverty affected children that we minister to in Swaziland.
Many of our Churches provide care and ministry to poverty affected children. These
ministries include Crèches, feeding schemes, assistance with clothing and uniforms,
and after care and homework supervision. Several Churches have developed support
structures to a local School.
It is pleasing to note that several of our Circuits have indicated new initiatives in
leadership, discipleship and lifestyle training activities. There seems in many cases
to be a shift to seminar type events. We as District leadership will continue to
encourage such activity.
Conclusion
There is much to be concerned about as we pursue our God-Given Path. As we
move on we reasonably contemplate a future that is unlikely to be easier. Yet God is
faithful and God places us amongst a number of faithful people who look forward to
the future with ongoing hope that much of that which is good will be sustained and
that God will bring good out of even that which is imperfect.
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LIMPOPO DISTRICT (11)
Bishop Themba Mntambo
Introduction
“I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist…. But
I am afraid lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion
without the power...” (John Wesley) – challenging words that should inspire us to
continue seeking ways in which we may influence the world, taking the powerful
Gospel to those who need to hear it. One of the biggest challenges for the church
today is how do we fulfil the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20). How do we go
out into the world? How do we move out of our churches and places of worship to
meet the world instead of waiting for the world to come to us? How can we become
incarnational in a world that desperately needs to meet Jesus? How can we make
disciples? How can we invite people, in the words of Jesus, to “come and see”? To
use another Wesleyan expression “O let me commend my Saviour to you”? How do
we create an inclusive environment by opening passage into faith in Jesus Christ?
These are challenges we have to face as we seek to be faithful to the Gospel in our
time within the Limpopo District.
Synod Theme
Our Synod Theme for this year, “Transformed Disciples in Mission” continues to
align the District with the Connexional Theme, with our focus in the next year on
Church Planting, Growth and Evangelism.
Good Things Happening around the District
Our District has many good things happening. We have mostly hard working
Ministers (Presbyters and Deacons), Evangelists and Bible Women who do their
best, applying themselves to the work to which God has called them. We have lay
persons in leadership within Circuits and Societies with a deep love for the Lord
and the church, who give of their time and resources to ensure that we continue to
be a presence and an influence in those places where God has appointed us. Most
Circuits are able to retain agency even in very trying economic times through regular
giving from our people. Circuits, Societies and individuals are involved in initiatives
designed to minister especially to people in need. These are in the form of feeding
schemes, soup kitchens, economic empowerment projects, skills training, and
education programmes especially focused on pre-school children.
CHALLENGES IN THE DISTRICT
Distances
While there are many good things happening, there are also many challenges facing
the District. Many Circuits within our District cover vast areas, requiring ministers to
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travel long distances to reach congregations once a quarter. Ministers can only visit
some Societies once a Quarter to ‘dispense’ the sacraments, leaving no time to build
the people up in their faith. We are indebted to those leaders, Local Preachers and
‘pastors’ who continue to offer ministry and leadership in the absence of the minister.
Conflicts
Conflicts in Circuits continue to blight our ministry and witness. In the past year we
have had three major conflicts. In order to address this, the District Management
Committee has agreed to the appointment of intervention teams who will be deployed
in those areas of conflict. Their role would largely be:
• Team building (given that the divisions go through the whole spectrum
of leadership in the Circuit, and that in most cases the leaders do not regard
themselves as a team).
• Develop a mission strategy for the Circuit (in most cases conflicts arise because
Circuits and congregations do not have a well-defined vision and mission strategy
that holds them together).
• Conduct leadership training.
• Facilitate processes of healing and restoration.
District Stationing Committee
In order to promote an inclusive, consultative and participatory process of
stationing, and to enhance transparency and collective decision making, the District
is considering a review of the current practice where the District Management
Committee deals with matters of the stationing of ministers. The Synod Stationing
Meeting comprising of all Superintendents and Circuit Stewards will remain in place
to allow all Circuits to participate in the overall stationing process.
Discipleship Champions
In seeking to align with the Connexional theme “Together a Transforming
Discipleship Movement”, Synod agreed that every Circuit appoint a suitable
discipleship champion whose role would be to:
• Advance and promote Discipleship programmes
• Network with other discipleship champions
• Develop and find resources for discipleship training and education
• Conduct training events on discipleship
BISHOP’S INVOLVEMENT IN OTHER AREAS OF MINISTRY
Security Services Advisory Board
The Limpopo District Bishop continues to chair the Connexional Committee on
Chaplaincy. In this role the Bishop is also a member of the Security Services Christian
Advisory Board in which all denominations who have appointed chaplains to the
SANDF, SAPS and Correctional Services are represented to advise the Security
Services on matters relating to chaplains.
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Mission Unit Board
Every Bishop has a responsibility to chair a Connexional Unit or committee as directed
by the Presiding Bishop. The Bishop is chairman of the Mission Unit Board.
Centre for Contextual Ministry
The Centre is based at the University of Pretoria and the Bishop serves on its
Advisory Board which advises the University of current needs of Churches so that
they could develop appropriate courses. The Bishop has attended some courses and
participated in presenting one course on conflict resolution.
Conference 2016
The Limpopo District will host the Annual Conference in 2016. Synod appointed
the District Vice-chair to convene the committee, with one minister to be the overall
coordinator. The two, together with the District Management Committee have the
power to co-opt any other persons who may be of assistance in these preparations.
District Boundaries – Botswana
The matter of Botswana becoming a District is in the hands of the Connexional
Boundaries Committee. The Committee has not concluded its work and it is hoped
that a report will be presented to Conference in due course.
Circuit Boundaries
A number of Circuits within the District overlap with one another, leading to
competition for members, and duplication of property and buildings. Such a situation
does not enhance our mission and witness in these areas; it creates barriers to unity
and disempowers Circuits economically. The District Vice-chair has been tasked with
facilitating conversations with the affected Circuits, with the view of consolidating
the boundaries and enhancing ministry to our people.
The Far North Mission and Church Planting Vision
The Far North Mission and Church Planting Vision is beginning to take shape as
we hold conversations with Circuits and Organisations within our District. The
Lephalale area has been identified as a growth point which requires ministry. The
Bishop has met with our members in the area and plans are afoot to have evangelists
and Bible Women in the District to spend a week in the area conducting mission and
ministry, including house to house visits to invite those with no church affiliation to
attend our services. Presently we have five confirmed members of our church but
there is upwards of fifteen to twenty people worshipping on Sundays in a garage at
the home of one of our members. The second area is in the Letaba Circuit where we
had until recently an evangelist. The leadership in that Circuit will advise concerning
the need for agency and any other community development needs. The third area is
Maun in Botswana where the demographics of the church are changing rapidly and
the need for a local agent is becoming urgent.
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Financing such programmes is necessary so that we appoint suitable and able agents.
The vision is to find pioneering, mission-minded ministers/agents by sounding a call to
this ministry and by careful screening of such persons. There must be a clear sense of
call and a willingness to start ministries where none have been established. Whoever
is placed in these areas should receive their full stipend, travelling allowances,
accommodation and any other allowances required. In essence we should not look
for cheap options for ministry in these areas. Another option may be to find selfsupporting church planters and missioners who will require less financial support.
In order to finance this, the Bishop has called upon all Circuits that collect Rona to
give 10% of their total income; those that do not have Rona to raise 10% above their
Mission and Extension Fund giving. Organisations will also be asked to give 10% of
their total income. This will establish a District Mission and Church Planting Fund to
be set aside exclusively for mission and church planting. In addition the Bishop has
th
already raised some money by sky diving on his 60 birthday and asked individuals,
Organisations and Circuits to sponsor the dive. At the writing of this report the sky
diving effort has realised about R229 000.00. It is hoped that this amount will be
doubled by the end of the year. We will then have sufficient funds to place a person
in at least one of the areas identified as possible mission and church planting fields.
It is proposed that two working groups be appointed, one for the Northern Region
and one for Botswana, who will give input to how the vision should be developed,
conduct screening of candidates to be appointed, monitor and evaluate progress,
give support to the vision and report to Synod through the Evangelism and Church
Growth Coordinator.
Conclusion
We thank God for the privilege of serving within the church and for God’s continued
leading as we explore ways in which we should not continue to exist as a dead sect,
having the form of religion without power. We have great opportunities to make
Jesus known. “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the
harvest, therefore to send out workers into his harvest field.” (Luke 10:2)
Shalom, Grace and Peace!
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MOZAMBIQUE DISTRICT (12)
Bishop Dinis Matsolo
Introduction
As it has been said “the biggest risk in life is to try not to risk anything, because if you
try to do so, you end up doing nothing, having nothing and being nothing”. Thus, as
you will see throughout the report, motivated by our Conference theme, as a District
we have taken steps that showcase that we are indeed becoming more and more
together a discipleship movement that seeks to reach out and feels uncomfortable
remaining in the same place. Movement and discipleship together is the name of the
game.
Country Overview
We would like to begin by thanking you all for your supportive prayers during the
critical times that Mozambique has been going through due to the socio-political
crisis that badly affected our economy. We thank God who has taken us through
those dark moments.
2014 was a challenging year for Mozambique because of the typical tensions that go
with electoral processes, as the Country prepared for another General Election that
took place in November 2014. As always it became a busy and challenging year,
demanding a lot of all of us as we engaged in civic education activities and electoral
monitoring and observation. We are thankful to God because although the process
began on a bad note, with the main opposition Party threatening a boycott on the basis
of the fact that the electoral law was unfair and favoured the ruling Party, eventually
and through a long and difficult negotiation process the parties agreed on reforming
the Law and that led to the participation of all interested parties in the process.
We now have a new fully functional Government, although the main opposition
Party is still complaining that there has been fraud and that the Government in place
is illegitimate.
Annual Synod
Led by the theme “As a true Discipleship Movement, let us therefore ’free ourselves
and run with perseverance the race set before us, focusing on Jesus’” (Hebrews
rd
12: 1b-2a), we met at our 33 Annual Synod in Matola Circuit (Bairro da Matola
th
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Local Society), from the 14 to the 17 May, 2015.
Our theme challenges us to do more than move, but to run (a clear recognition that we
are too late), certain that for us to be able to run we need first to free ourselves from
anything that hinders us from effective and efficient running that gets us somewhere.
We need to understand that it will not be without challenges (hence the need to run
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with perseverance), because we are not running just any kind of race but the race
whose focus is Christ Jesus Himself, the Pioneer and Perfecter of our faith.
We re-examined our role and responsibility in a context of the socio-political crisis
that our Country is facing and discussed Connexional issues and the endeavours of
our District.
Bishop Themba Mntambo, from the Limpopo District, graced us with his presence
as he led us in Bible Studies throughout the Synod and brought a Connexional
flavour to it. He recognised the crucial role that the District leadership is playing in
Peace Building and Conflict Transformation in the Country, and emphasized that the
Connexion is proud of such good and courageous work helping to bring stability in
the Country and indeed in the Region.
He challenged Synod to run the race with confidence, not allowing discouragers to
discourage us and rather to recognise and renew strengths, knowing that there are so
many true supporters out there. He reiterated that we should use the pile of obstacles
that our opponents put against us as ladders and/or steps towards our success, and
make them wonder how we are successful.
st
rd
The 2015 Youth Synod was held in the “Quartel” Circuit from the 27 to the 29
February under the theme “Together, let us be Young People in continuous movement,
discipling and transforming Nations”. It was indeed an opportunity for Young
People to reflect creatively on their call for Mission, where ideas to forge partnership
with Young People throughout the Connexion were explored with special focus on
neighboring Districts (Youth from Swaziland, Mpumalanga and Kwa-Zulu Natal).
Synod congratulated the Young People for their hard work that led to a successful hosting
of the 2014 CYC in Maputo, Mozambique. Young People on the other hand expressed
their gratitude for the support they received from the whole Church and parents.
Achievements/Major Celebrations
Mozambique District is no longer confined to the “Maputo and Gaza” areas only. We
thank God and all of you for your prayerful support that allowed us to move from
the “comfort zone”. We have come to the understanding of the fact that indeed “a
comfort zone is a nice and comfortable place to be at, but nothing grows there”. We
have now ministerial presence in “Zona Centro” (Cruzamento de Tete) and in “Zona
Norte” (Nampula). We are indeed “keeping on keeping on…”
Spirituality
We have experienced vibrant Spiritual growth nowadays in our District that
is translated into improvement in Giving and Thanksgiving, and Mission and
Evangelism outreach that characterises our activities throughout all Circuits. We have
seen intentional growth in our Ministers, Evangelists and Bible Women, teaching/
training, Bible Studies, Class Meetings, Confirmation Classes, Prayer Groups and
Retreats at all levels.
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We held our inspiring Ministers Retreat mid-February, in Mbabane (hosted by
our Korean Mission Partner, Rev. Moongyun Yi and his family, who were really
a blessing to us). We did an introspection on our Calling and God’s Mission as
we contemplated God’s beautiful creation as we moved between Swaziland and
South Africa (Badplaas). We forged a partnership with our Church in Swaziland and
worshipped with Hhohho Wesley Circuit in Mbabane. We also spent time digesting
our Conference theme.
We have been working hard in strengthening our presence in the previously identified
potential Expansion places that we mentioned in our last report {Chinhacanine
and Chidenguele (in Gaza Province), Závora and Vilanculos (in Inhembane),
Cruzamento (in Manica), Nampula City (in Nampula) and the bordering villages of
Ponta D'Ouro, Goba, Namaacha and Ressano Garcia (in Maputo)}. Our call to the
Connexion is that “the harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore we
ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into His harvest” (Luke 10:2). Will
you not respond to this call?
We did Special outreach and revival visits to Chidenguele, Cruzamento de Tete in
“Zona Centro” Circuit, and Nampula province in the Northern part of Mozambique
(Marratane Refugees Center).
The enthusiasm on “building new places of Worship” is growing at all levels
throughout all Circuits and the “District fund raising” initiative that we initiated last
year is showing positive results.
With the support of our Sister Church in the UK we managed to finish building a
Mission House in “Zona Centro” Circuit (at “Cruzamento de Tete” in Chimoio),
which permits us to station a minister there comfortably. This is a strategic Mission
Station for expansion of our work. We are ever thankful to the British Methodist
Church for this crucial support.
Justice and Service
Children’s Ministry activities have been carried out throughout all Circuits
and awareness of Children’s Rights and Protection is growing in our District.
Consequently Children’s Celebration days are meaningfully observed and Children
are given their rightful place. The majority of our Church buildings (properties/halls)
serve as Crèches.
We have got a pool of HIV and AIDS Activists/Volunteers who are doing a superb
job in caring for PLWAs and in encouraging people to embrace Voluntary Testing
and Blood Donation and save lives.
As a Church, together with other Churches and Religions in the Country we are
making a huge impact in fighting Malaria under the Mozambican Inter-Religious
Programme against Malaria (PIRCOM).
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Our involvement in addressing the Country’s Socio-Political crisis led to the signing
of a “Cease Atrocities” Agreement between the parties in September 2014, which
we considered to be a God given blessing to Mozambique. That agreement paved
the way for Elections to take place in a generally peaceful environment. We thank
God for that, and thank you for your unceasing prayers. We continue to monitor the
situation and we will appreciate your continued prayers and support.
The situation on the ground requires more interaction and engagement between
people, on the understanding that “we must learn to live together as brothers and
sisters, or we will have to face the reality of dying together as fools” as Martin
Luther King Jr would say. Thus, the Community based “Culture of Peace” project
that we mentioned in our previous report, which aims at creating “Dialogue Spaces”
at Community level for people who share the same geographical space to reflect and
be engaged in identifying actions that they themselves ought to carry out in order to
create a peaceful and better society for all, becomes more relevant than ever. For this
initiative to gain more momentum we need your support.
Economic Empowerment and Human Development
At the District level we continue to focus on training/capacity building workshops for
the various Church Groups and/or Organisations/Departments on Church Structures,
Class Leadership, Leadership and Development, Stewardship and Giving, training
“ToTs” in order to replicate the training at Circuit and Society levels.
The Agricultural project at Mapandzeni in the Limpopo-Norte Circuit has shown
extraordinarily positive results and we are now working at exporting it to other
Circuits. It has been a source of inspiration for our Church members engagement and
commitment to Church business and Mission. They have been motivated to build a
Church which is now ready to be dedicated.
Perspectives
For us to run the assigned race as directed by our theme, we plan to undertake the
following:
• To invest in a statistics update at all levels in order to offer an accurate picture of
our membership and galvanize the impact and meaningfulness of statistics.
To continue investing in human capital by capacitating our Leaders for efficiency
and effectiveness in empowering people.
To pursue the establishment of a “Hope to our Children” Centre in Chinhacanine
to galvanize Children’s Ministry in the Northern part of Gaza Province, that
reaches as far as the border with Zimbabwe in Chicualacuala, which will also
serve as an ark of salvation in time of floods.
• To invest in a statistics update at all levels in order to offer an accurate picture
of To strengthen of work in “Zona Norte” (Nampula Mission Station) and
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•
•
•
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galvanize the expansion of God’s Mission and Evangelism in the Northern part
of Mozambique. We need your support to build a Mission House there and carry
on several mission projects related to Children’s Ministries and Agriculture and
Grazing.
To invest in a statistics update at all levels in order to offer an accurate picture of
To continue investing more and improve accommodation for Workers (manses).
To continue producing and/or translating and making available training material
in Portuguese.
To establish Mission Chaplaincy for the Seafarers in Maputo and Nacala.
To invest in a statistics update at all levels in order to offer an accurate picture
of To build a partnership with the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe and explore
possibilities of stationing a Zimbabwean Minister in Chimoio (same language
spoken).
Conclusion
May our focus in Him sharpen us to do His Mission the way He would like us to
do it, understanding that we are not just running any race, not even our own race,
but the race which is set before us, so that our work is indeed for the salvation of
Humankind.
So then, as a True Discipleship Movement, may we strive to “free ourselves and run
with perseverance the race set before us, focusing on Jesus” (Hebrews 12: 1b-2a),
if we are indeed mindful of His vision and Mission for us as Church.
May God bless you all and thank you so much for your continuous prayers and
support
Glory to God, forever and ever… Amen.
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CLARKEBURY DISTRICT (13)
Bishop Victor Tshangela
Introduction
The year under review has been a year of transformation and development in
the Clarkebury District. Our focus has been to reconstruct the fallen walls of our
heritage buildings. We realised that the good work started by the missionaries in
this District is perishing; the buildings in our institutions of learning are dilapidated
and in many cases cannot be reconstructed. Hence, at Synod 2014, we consciously
looked at the theme “Discipleship and Development” underlining the Connexional
theme “Together a Transforming Discipleship Movement”.
Reconstruction
We toured some of our heritage sites (Clarkebury Institution, Buntingville, Shawbury,
Osborn, Emfundisweni and Palmerton) to assess the condition of the buildings and
propose what can be done to make them useful again. We realised that these sites
need to be declared and registered as Heritage sites.
At Clarkebury a development committee has been established comprising of the
following components: the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, as the major
component; the Department of Education, represented by the School Governing
Body; and the greater community, represented by the chief and his committee.
The principal aim of the committee is to develop Clarkebury into a self sufficient
rural cosmopolitan centre. The main focus of the District is to rebuild the walls
of our Jerusalem. A monument to King Ngubengcuka, who invited the Methodist
missionaries to come and start the Christian work at Clarkebury has been completed in
partnership with the Chris Hani District Municipality and is ready to be unveiled.
Work at Emfundisweni, Palmerton and Osborn is at a planning stage for various
projects.
District Overview
Our District is basically rural, with one Circuit, Umtata/Ncambedlana, which can be
said to be partly urban and partly rural, and there are fifty two totally rural Circuits.
They are served by sixty three ordained ministers and five probationers, and twenty
one full time Evangelists and Bible women. There are twelve mission stations which
used to run boarding hostels for students. Talks are continuing to resuscitate this
valuable work in our schools in collaboration with the Department of Education.
District Synod
Synod 2015 was held at Mount Frere society in the Mount Frere Circuit 1324. I
can safely say we had a joyous celebratory time at Synod this year. I am sure this
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can be attested to by Bishop Mike Vorster, of Natal Coastal District, who was our
honoured guest.
One candidate for the ordained ministry was accepted and recommended for seminary
training in 2016. The Synod listened to two moving testimonies, one from an
ordinand and the other from an ordained minister On Trial. Both were accepted and
the ordinand was recommended to be ordained to the ministry of Word and Sacrament
at Conference and both were recommended to be accepted into full Connexion.
When Synod business was completed the members were treated to some moving
music by the District choirs in a choir competition. Remember, Methodism was born
in song. On the Sunday, the Synod message was read to the local congregation, with
the District Bishop preaching his farewell sermon.
THE MISSION OF GOD IN THE DISTRICT
Spirituality
For me to live a spiritual life is to belong to the family of God. The conventions
which are run by the various organisations of the church every year witness to the
need to belong and worship God together. During the year under review I attended
seven of these conventions, even if for just one day. In all I could feel the presence
of God with His people. Other forms of nurturing people’s spirituality in this District
that most Circuits witness to, are retreats, class meetings, Bible Studies prayer cells
and intercessory groups.
Many Circuits built and dedicated new and bigger church buildings, which is
evidence of physical growth in our Circuits. Our Evangelists and Bible women go
out day in and day out to call those who are still far from the grace of God to join
the fold. They also visit those who fall by the wayside to revive them. Young Men’s
Guilds, Wesley Guilds and members of the Local Preachers Association run revival
services every quarter in Circuits. Through the efforts of these people of God our
Lord continues to add to the harvest.
Justice and Service
There is prevalence of substance abuse in our communities, which affects the lives
of children. The District has started a ministry against substance abuse (MASA),
in order to fight against this bad behaviour. Awareness campaigns have started in
various areas of the District. ‘Thursdays in black’ is being observed in certain areas
to raise awareness against the rape of the elderly and little children.
The work done by the health desk needs to be commended. HIV/AIDS centres have
been established in various parts of the District and care givers have been appointed.
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We must applaud the work done by the Connexional HIV/AIDS co-ordinator, Mrs
Pearl Moroasui, who does not tire of coming to the District to give support whenever
she is called upon to do so. Attention is also given to other illnesses, like TB, Diabetes
and High Blood Pressure.
In partnership with the Department of Social Development a number of children in
a number of schools were given school uniforms and some needy people were given
blankets to protect them against the winter cold.
Human and Economic Development and Empowerment
Plans are moving ahead at Clarkebury to establish a tannery and many other
home industries. Skins and hides will be collected around the District and taken
to Clarkebury for processing. Classes for leather work, sewing and woodwork are
ready for operation. The struggle now is to equip them with tools and machines. The
development committee is busy with many ventures of rural development to help
create jobs for the people.
With the assistance of the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency, the District
has managed to acquire 80 Dawn merino rams, to improve the quality of sheep for
the farmers. They are kept at Mnceba mission station. Whoever needs their services
make an application to the District Mission Secretary.
Plans are also going ahead to cultivate the church land in our mission stations. The
main aim is to have the produce processed locally and as much of it as possible to
find local markets. We need to help eradicate hunger and unemployment (God being
our helper). I must commend the hard work done by the District Trust Properties
Secretary and the District Mission Secretary, who both do not sleep trying to make
sure that these efforts come to fruition.
Education and Christian Transformation
Sunday schools are growing in many of our Circuits with our teachers equipping
themselves whenever an opportunity presents itself. Emphasis is placed on our
Christian Methodist doctrine, so that our scholars should grow knowing who they
are. Examinations are written every year in September.
Our ministers try as much as possible to make themselves available to schools to
do morning devotions, as well as taking the opportunity to address the staff and the
scholars on the dangers of drugs and alcohol, and child pregnancy which is rife in
our schools. The ILIMA programme for the grade twelve class is also happening in
some of our schools with great success.
In partnership with the Alfred Nzo District Municipality, a skills training centre for
women is being established at Palmerton. The purpose is to give skills to the women
which they can use to open small industries for themselves.
A need to reopen our hostels to accommodate High School scholars has been
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identified. It has the support of the local communities, because it is seen as one of
the cures to the high failure rate of our children. At Synod, an education committee
was established.
Well, it is time to say good bye. I want to thank the people called Methodist for their
faith in me these past three years. It has not been easy, but I have always been aware
of the “third eye”. I give thanks to the Presiding Bishop’s office and the MCO who
often tolerated my short comings and gave a helping hand where necessary. Finally,
I want to give thanks to God who has always been my strength, my wisdom, and
everything to me.
God bless you all.
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Minutes of the 126th Conference
of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa
23-27 September 2015 in Port Elizabeth
Members of Conference were welcomed by the Presiding Bishop, Rev ZD Siwa,
and we began Conference with the singing of the hymn, ‘And are we yet alive’ and
a prayer led by the Lay President, Mr JM Nkosi.
The roll was called as per the Laws and Discipline 5.5 (as per the attendance list) and
the Presiding Bishop declared the Conference properly constituted.
Conference was however reminded that the target of 40% women and 20% youth
was once again not met (Miscellaneous Conference Resolution 36 in the L&D).
Districts were encouraged to ensure that Synods observe this requirement when
electing delegates.
Permission was given to the Mission Unit staff, Mrs V Sikhakhane, Mrs P Morasui
and Rev F Whitby to be present and to participate in debate but not to vote. The same
courtesy was extended to Past President, Rev Dr S Gqubule.
The following Conference appointments were made:
Assistant Secretaries:
Rev K Carr, Mrs N Nyobole
Recording Secretary:
Ms V Peters
Logistics: Mrs H Fleming
Letter Writer: Rev P du Plooy
Resolutions Committee: Rev V Vilakathi (Convener), Rev Dr V Mehana,
Rev N Geja, Rev P Mtshiselwa, Bp M Matyumza,
Ms A Jaji, Mrs, L Brown, Prof N Malema
Listening Committee: Rev A Liebenberg (Convener), Rev I Howarth,
Mr A Gogobala, Rev L Marumo, Mr B Ntsepe,
Rev I Puleni, Rev K Monoametsi
Scrutineers: Rev L Matthew (convener), Rev K Mbalo,
Mr T Ramabulana
Precentor: Rev M Stemela
Convener of commissions:
Facilitator: Bp M Hansrod
Polity and Doctrine: Rev M Diutlwileng
Admin and Finance: Mrs N Hlathi
Specialised ministries: Mrs G Makwenkwe
Advocacy and
Communication:
Mr V Chuta
Ministry: Rev D Sibeko
Mission: Rev D Matsolo
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The hours of session were moved.
It was agreed that Conference would operate in a consensus decision making
procedure.
Conference delegates had received a Report book, Resolutions book and Finance
Report book. Conference agreed that these be taken as read and noted as printed.
Bishop Siwa delivered the opening address (printed in the Yearbook 2016).
Reports were received by Conference from the Lay President, Lay General Treasurer
and General Secretary. These are recorded in the 2016 Yearbook.
Conference received the 2014 Finance Statements of the Church, the MCO and the
Mission Resource fund, and Unit budgets for 2016. The statements were approved
and adopted by the Conference.
Conference awarded the following individuals with the annual Conference Award:
Mrs J Mngomezulu for excellence in education
Mr AJ Muchahua for excellence in agriculture.
DEWCOM: Bishop Matyumza replaces Bp Anderson as Convener.
Ecumenical Affairs: A booklet called “Ecumenism defined” was presented and
distributed. Bishop Bethlehem Nopece (Anglican Church) brought Ecumenical
greetings to the Conference.
EMMU: Rev J Stewe is appointed Ordinands’ Convener. A committee is established
in EMMU to develop Post Ordination Training.
The following appointments were made by the Conference:
EMMU Director: Rev P Malinga
Ecumenical Affairs Director: Rev M Losaba
Mission Unit director: Rev Dr KK Ketshabile
Bishops:
Rev M Hansrod – Cape of Good Hope (2017-2021)
Rev M Matyumza – Queenstown (2017-2021)
Rev G Rivas – Central (2016-2020)
Amendments to the Laws and Discipline as approved by the Connexional
Executive were received by Conference and will be published in Chapter 4 of the
Yearbook.
The Stationing Proposal which was developed in consultation with Synods was
received and accepted for implementation in 2016.
A Harassment Policy was accepted by the Conference with the following
amendments:
One of the Circuit-appointed Task Team must be from outside the Circuit.
A Confidentiality declaration must be signed by all members of such teams.
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(see Chapter 10, page 198). A pamphlet outlining the procedure must be
developed and translated for distribution. This document will become an
appendix to the Laws and Discipline.
• 2015-16 is declared the Year of Celebrating the Ordination of Women.
• 2016-17 is declared the Year of Heritage in honour of 200 years since the first
Mission Station at Leliefontein.
• 2017-18 is declared the Year of Obedience 2018 in honour of the 60 years since
the 1958 Conference decision that the Methodist Church is One and Undivided.
Conference approved the establishment of two Standing Committees – one of
Marriage and Family Life and one on Heritage.
Conference received 26 Presbyteral Ordinands and 2 Diaconal Ordinands as well
as 4 Ministers brought into Full Connexion, and asked of them the questions of
discipline in preparation for their Ordination and reception into Full Connexion on
Sunday 27 September 2015.
Conference concluded its business at 15h30 on Saturday 26 September.
Conference adopted all Conference business as per the Reports in the Report Book,
Finance Unit Report book, Resolutions adopted on the floor of Conference, together
with the Connexional Executive report Book, Draft of Stations, appointments made
on the floor of Conference and the Connexional Executive.
These together form the record of the 126th Conference of the Methodist Church of
Southern Africa.
Port Elizabeth
26 September 2015
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CHAPTER 1
CONFERENCE 2015
Message to the Methodist People
th
Statement of the 126 Annual Conference of the Methodist Church of Southern
Africa to the Methodist people:
th
The 126 Conference of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa was held in the
Grahamstown District from the 23-27 September 2015, under the theme: TOGETHER
a transforming discipleship movement ” and the sub-theme “Shaped for Mission.”
We assembled in the District which stretches from the Amatola Mountains across
the dusty plains of the Karoo, from the City of Saints, Grahamstown, to the shores
of the Indian Ocean, known as the heartland of Methodism in the Eastern Cape.
The Grahamstown District itself produced faith pioneers who have contributed
immensely to the history of our faith and country. At GraafReinet in the Karoo a
preacher and political activist was born by the name of Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe.
We note that September is the anniversary of Steve Biko’s death and this year is also
th
the 30 anniversary of the Kairos document.
In his opening address the Presiding Bishop Ziphozihle Daniel Siwa used a variety
of rich metaphors to highlight the fact that the journey is not yet finished. With
“Asikaqedi” – we are not yet finished, which was first used by the Masikhulume
Group, he said that peoples’ lives are put on hold by the circumstances they are
subjected to; that the people of the member countries of this Connexion are free from
colonial subjugation, but “Asikaqedi.” We heard his passionate call for a Movement
that has space for serious reflection, Kairos consciousness that is soaked in prayer
and punctuated by moments of forgiveness and openness.
He pleaded with all to embrace the 40 year celebration of women as Presbyters,
but lamented the fact that so few women have been elected to senior positions in
the church. Into the future, he invited us to consider the journey of a movement
that is shaped for mission. It involves seeing endless possibilities where others see
empty buildings. It requires hope, and strong and effective partnerships to maximise
the impact of God’s resources and connecting people with God and one another.
“Asikaqedi” – the journey is not yet over!
During the Bible Studies led by Rev Dr Ketshabile we were given direction for the
journey. He implored us to deconstruct some of the gods that we have created and
then boldly claimed as tradition. He cautioned against the domestication of God and
urged us to reconstruct an authentic faith movement. As Africans we need to start
drinking from our African pots and gather around the fireplaces in the villages where
the stories of faith can be shared. “Asikaqedi”.
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Our Conference was shaped by worship and prayer. Our Services were linguistically
diverse and liturgically rich. Our joyful singing punctuated the days in a range of
languages. Our Bishop sensitively allowed for moments of reflection, contemplation
and prayer at significant points. A very moving Memorial Service was led by one
of our fathers, Rev George Irvine. We remembered 32 ministers who have walked
the way before us. In our worship and our prayers we were reminded that for us –
asikaqedi – (the journey is not yet finished).
The Lay President, in his address, aligned himself with the Presiding Bishop’s theme
“Asikaqedi”, warning that the pace at which we move from the traditional way of
doing church to .com churches should be a pace that all can journey together.
The General Secretary informed Conference about the focus points for the next 3
years:
• Starting at Conference in 2015, we celebrate 40 years since the Ordination of the
first Woman Minister.
• Starting at Conference in 2016, we will celebrate a Year of Heritage. 200 years
since the commencement of our witness at Leliefontein on the Cape West Coast,
we pay our respects to the heroes of faith in our tradition and in our part of the
world.
• Starting at Conference In 2017, we will focus on unity – reflecting on the impact
of that resolution on our life together.
We were reminded of the joy and privilege of our Connexionality. Conference
celebrated funds being made available from the Church Reserve Fund to station
21 Ministers and Evangelists for 2016. We applauded the financial donation to the
Mozambique District.
It was with joy and appreciation that we accepted the reports from the different Units
and Organisations of the work of God in the connexion. They shared the work done
and the challenges faced.
We acknowledged that integrity in our financial management is crucial to help us
reflect the values of the kingdom of God that bears witness to the Gospel. It was
with concern that we noted that this integrity is not always evident. As the plight
of the vulnerable was highlighted it was clear – “asikaqedi”. Conference therefore
welcomes the Mission Congress in 2016 to find ways to continue our journey.
Conference celebrated the appointment of the new EMMU Director, Rev Purity
Malinga and the SMMS President Rev Dr Simangaliso Kumalo. We are delighted
with the appointments of the following bishops Revs Michel Hansrod – Cape of
Good Hope, Mthobile Matyumza – Queenstown and Rev Gary Rivas. Central
District.
We noted with a deep sense of appreciation Conference’s awards to Mrs Jabu
Mngomezulu (Natal Coastal District) and Mr Artur Mu ca Chua (Mozambique
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District) acknowledging their commitment, sacrifice and dedication to uplifting their
communities, shining examples of our disciple movement in action.
Conference rejoiced with Bishop Michael Vorster on the awards he has received
from the eThekwini Municipality as a Living Legend and Diakonia Award for his
work for human rights
We congratulated Rev Dr TSN Gqubule on his appointment as the first Grand
Chancellor of SMMS and his award as a Distinguished Old Rhodean, presented to
him by Rhodes University for his immeasurable contribution in Education.
In our initial engagement with the resolutions we realised that “asikaqedi”. However,
as we engaged one another further we realised that each one of these resolutions
spoke of a manner in which we can continue the transforming discipleship
movement’s journey in seeking God’s desire for us as a Church. We applaud and
affirm Conference in implementing the consensus method of decision making as we
seek to move forward as one body of one mind and one spirit.
Conference affirmed by the imposition of hands and prayer men and women who
have journeyed with God. In recognition of God’s call on their lives 29 brothers and
sisters were accepted into full Connexion.
Together, “asikaqedi”, the transforming discipleship movement’s journey,
continues!
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CHAPTER 2
CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS
2.1
2.2
TRAINING FOR ALIGNMENT ON POLITY AND DISCIPLINE
MATTERS
Conference notes the growing anxiety in the understanding and application
of our polity as it relates to discipline, arbitration, mediation and the nature
of pastoral commissions. In order to ensure alignment, fairness and equity
across our structures, Conference directs the HR Unit to set up Connexional
training for members of the Connexional Discipline Committee, District Discipline Committees, Arbitration panel, Mediation panel and District Mediation panels.
TIMING ISSUES RELATING TO MATTERS OF DISCIPLINE
Conference notes the problems created by timing discrepancies between the
submission, the laying of the charge, and the communication between the
District Discipline Registrar & District Disciplinary Committee. Conference
resolves the following amendments to the Laws and Discipline:
11.5: “and shall deliver the charge …add: “within 14 days” as stipulated in
paragraph 11.11.
11.6: “…decides that the complaint does not demand a charge and hearing,
the District Discipline Registrar shall inform the accuser accordingly
…..add: “within 14 days” and may refer it to another …
Conference further refers the matter to the Revision Committee to consider the
possibility of establishing an office of the Connexional Discipline Registrar,
who shall have the same qualification as the District Discipline Registrar.
2.3 INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF DEPENDENT CHILDREN FOR
MINISTERS
Taking the socio-economic, financial and theological implications into
account Conference resolves to increase the number of adopted children from
“2” to “4”, and directs the Revision Committee to amend L&D 9.72.2 to read:
“no more than 4”. Conference further mandates the Finance Unit to review
the financial implications of this decision, and report to Conference 2016.
2.4 CONSTITUTIONALITY OF OUR POLITY AND STRUCTURES
Conference recognises that our Polity and Structures are in their nature
evolving and organic, and instructs the Revision and Structures Committees
to continue reviewing the Structures and Polity of the MCSA, especially in
light of the Constitutions of our Member Countries.
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2.5
PARTY POLITICAL CHAPLAINCY
Conference reaffirms the 2014 Conference decision. Further, Conference has
agreed to continue discussions with DEWCOM in consultation with the Chaplaincy Committee and ecumenical partners. The Presiding Bishop is requested
to set up a small committee to prepare discussion documents for quarterly
meetings and the 2016 Synods for reporting and decision at Conference 2016.
2.6
MINISTERS AND DIVORCE
Conference directs the Revision Committee to revisit the chapter on divorce
as prepared by the Human Resource Unit in 2013, and requests the Office of
the Presiding Bishop to set up a Standing Committee on Marriage and Family
Life to investigate the phenomenon and its underlying causes and possible
remedial actions and strategies, and report to Conference 2016.
2.7
NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION (NPO) AFFILIATION
Conference notes the challenges relating to the establishment, affiliation and
partnership with NPOs and directs the Finance Unit to develop a regulatory
framework for reporting to Conference 2016.
2.8
BAPTISM CERTIFICATES
Conference notes that the practice of designing localised Baptism Certificates
carries a risk of Copyright Infringements and directs the Methodist Publishing
House to explore the possibility of making available a copyrighted electronic
version of the baptismal certificate as mandated by the Church Unity Commission
and approved by Conference. Circuits and societies are also reminded of the
importance of maintaining a Baptism Register (Refer L&D 1.13).
2.9 HOUSING AND MINISTERIAL ALLOWANCE
Noting the fluctuation of the housing market and that our housing allowance
figure has not been reviewed over the last few years, Conference requests the
Finance Unit to re-assess the recommended figure for housing allowances and
other Ministerial allowances that affect the different offices of the Receivers
of Revenue for reporting to Conference 2016.
2.10 MINISTERIAL FAREWELL GIFTS
Conference notes the concerns relating to the giving of gifts to ministers,
including farewell gifts, and directs the Finance Unit, in consultation with
DEWCOM, to develop policy guidelines for discussion at quarterly meetings
and 2016 Synods, for report to Conference 2016.
2.11 DISTRICT TREASURER AND DISTRICT AUDITOR
Conference reaffirms that the District Treasurer and the District Auditor
be two separate persons as outlined in the Policy on Effective Financial
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Management. In the case that a firm is appointed as District Auditor, the
District Treasurer may not be an employee/partner/member of the firm so
that the District Treasurer does not have any conflict of interest.
2.12 DISSATISFACTION WITH CHURCH INSURANCE COMPANY
Conference notes the administrative challenges experienced by some Circuits
and directs Circuits to communicate all matters pertaining to the insurance of
Church property with the Finance Unit and reaffirms the provisions of clause
9.40 of the Laws and Discipline.
2.13 STREAMLINING THE RELATIONSHIP WITH THE INSURANCE
COMPANY
Conference reaffirms paragraph 9.40 of the Laws and Discipline and notes
the concerns around claiming procedures with the current insurer. Circuits
are advised that any concerns and queries should be referred to the Finance
Unit for guidance and assistance.
2.14 SUPERNUMERARY FUND
Conference resolves that the trustees of the Pension Fund review the Pension
Fund rules, specifically focusing on the link between the Defined Benefit
Fund and the Defined Contribution Fund and to report to Conference 2016.
2.15 PENSION FUND CONTRIBUTIONS
Conference resolves that the Finance Unit, in consultation with the Trustees
of the fund, investigate the impact of reducing the percentage of Circuit
contributions to the Supernumerary Fund Reserve and report to Conference
2016.
2.16 PENSION FUND MATTERS
Conference reaffirms resolution 14 of 2011, Yearbook 2012 and refers all
Pension Fund related matters to the Finance Unit and the Trustees of the
Fund. Conference draws the attention of all Districts to the Finance Unit
roadshows planned for 2016 and advises Districts and Circuits to direct any
other Pension Fund related matters for deliberation during these encounters.
2.17 UNSUSTAINABLE ESCALATING OVERHEAD COSTS
Noting the concerns about cost effectiveness at all levels of the church,
Conference affirms the provisions of the MCSA’s policy on Effective Financial
Management and directs Circuits to always familiarise themselves with the
provisions of this policy on matters of effective financial management.
2.18 SAFER TRANSPORT FOR CHILDREN TO AND FROM SCHOOL
Conference notes with concern the recent spate of accidents relating to the
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transport of children to and from school and refers this work to the Child Desk
to investigate all matters relating to the general safety of children, provision
of safe transport and the enforcement of Government Policy provisions. In
the light of our Connexional emphasis on education, Circuits are encouraged
to be vigilant in their responses to this challenge.
2.19 CORRUPTION
Conference notes with concern the levels of corruption and lack of
accountability in our public institutions, in particular issues such as Nkandla.
Conference further observes that corruption knows no boundaries and calls
on all Methodist people to promote stewardship, good governance and
accountability through participation in anti-corruption campaigns such as
Corruption Watch and Business Against Crime South Africa.
2.20 XENOPHOBIA
Conference laments the unfortunate acts of xenophobic violence and affirms
the Presiding Bishop’s leadership and statements, as well as the positive
responses of Methodist people and communities across the Connexion.
Conference observes the complex socioeconomic factors underlying these
attacks on foreign nationals and directs the Mission Unit in consultation with
Ecumenical Affairs Unit and DEWCOM to develop working materials to
assist Districts, Circuits and Societies in addressing the issues of economic
migration to ensure social cohesion, cultural integration, equality, peace and
the dignity of all people.
2.21 ENGAGEMENT OF YOUNG PEOPLE ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO
BE AFRICAN
Conference directs Districts, Circuits, and all formations, to engage the
importance and embodiment of the African and Christian values of “Ubuntu”,
diversity, tolerance, nurturing, self-value, African community values, etc.
Work has already been undertaken by DEWCOM. See the DEWCOM
BlogSpot: http://mcsadewcom.blogspot.co.za/
2.22 RESOLUTION ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE CAMPAIGN
Conference notes the prevalence of substance abuse across our Connexion,
especially amongst our young people. Conference directs the Mission Unit
to heighten the pace of instituting District and Circuit working groups for
MASA (Methodists against Substance Abuse) as well as co-ordinating annual
awareness campaigns.
2.23 SUBCRIPTION TO THE NEW DIMENSION
Conference resolves that every Circuit shall subscribe to a minimum of 25
copies of the New Dimension to promote unity and Connexionality. Conference
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directs the Communications Unit to explore web-based applications of the
newsletter and report to Conference 2016.
2.24 INITIATION SCHOOLS
Conference notes with dismay the increase of deaths in young males and
the mushrooming of illegal initiation schools, and refers the matter to the
Mission Unit, in consultation with DEWCOM, to develop practical, liturgical
and pastoral materials to assist ministers and our members in their response
to initiation and similar cultural practices. The Unit is expected to report on
progress at the 2016Conference.
2.25 METHODIST YOUTH UNIT DISCIPLINE
Conference notes the concerns about disciplinary processes within the
Methodist Youth Unit and refers these matters to the MYU and the Revision
Committee for inclusion in the current discussions on the governance of the
Youth Unit and youth formations.
2.26 RESOLUTION ON DELEGATES TO YOUTH SYNODS
Conference notes the concerns about the constitution of the Youth Synod and
refers these matters to the MYU and the Revision Committee for inclusion
in the current discussions on the governance of the Youth Unit and youth
formations.
2.27 CLEARANCE FOR PEOPLE WORKING WITH CHILDREN
Conference affirms the need for the protection and safety of children and
the need for conscientiousness in appointing people to work with children.
Conference directs the Mission Unit’s Childcare Desk to advise the Youth Unit
on guidelines and matters of screening and obtaining relevant clearances.
2.28 FUNDING FOR CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Conference notes that in many instances children’s work does not receive
adequate financial support at District, Circuit and Society levels. Conference
endorses the need to prioritise children’s work across the Connexion and
requests the Revision Committee to include in the current discussions on the
governance of the Youth Unit and youth formations strategies for funding
youth and children’s Ministries.
2.29 YOUTH PASTORS’ TRAINING
Noting the continuing need to clarify the nature and function of Youth
Pastors’ work and the anticipated relationships with Circuit, District and
Connexion, Conference requests EMMU in consultation with DEWCOM
to determine whether the ministry of Youth Pastors is of covenantal or
contractual nature.
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2.30 HERITAGE
Noting that Conference 2015 declared 2017 as a year of celebrating 200
years of Methodism in Southern Africa, Conference requests the office of the
Presiding Bishop to establish a Connexional Heritage Committee to look into
matters of Heritage and issues such as potential name changes.
2.31 MISSION CONGRESS 2016
Conference resolves to hold the 2nd Mission Congress at the Seth Mokitimi
Methodist Seminary in November 2016 in order to ‘reflect on the foundations,
motives and the nature of mission as well as the missionary shape of our
discipleship movement’ (adapted from the Presiding Bishop’s Address to
Conference 2015) with the view of nurturing mission effectiveness through
making every congregation a conduit of Connexional vision and facilitator of
mission.
2.32 MISSION CONGRESS AND RESOURCING FOR MINISTRY
In the light of the Conference sub-theme of a church ‘Shaped for Mission’,
Conference observes that our stationing and resourcing for ministry are not
suitably aligned with our missional focus of extending our ministry into new
frontiers. Conference refers all matters relating to resourcing for ministry and
developing missional streams of ministry to the Mission and Finance Unit for
consideration at the 2016 Mission Congress.
2.33 PATRIARCHAL ATTITUDES AND SEXUAL DISCRIMINATION
AGAINST WOMEN IN MINISTRY
Conference directs the Mission Unit in consultation with DEWCOM to
develop guidelines and reflection tools as well as convene reflective sessions
on the persistence of patriarchal attitudes at all levels of our church and report
on progress at conference 2016.
2.34 STUDY RESOURCES FOR PROBATIONERS
Conference directs EMMU in consultation with the Finance Unit to investigate
the possibility of making book allowances available for Probationer Ministers,
and report to Conference 2016. Where possible, online material should be
made available to Probationers in Circuit, over and above the Readers which
are made available by EMMU.
2.35 LOCAL PREACHERS WITH DISABILITIES
Conference affirms its policy to be open to people with disabilities and
notes the prior efforts in developing suitable material for visually impaired
preachers. Conference requests EMMU to continue the development of audio
material and other such aids. All congregations are encouraged to be sensitive
to this need.
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2.36 MINISTERS IN THE CONNEXION
Conference notes the concerns around the possible shortage of ministers
in the near future and requests EMMU, in consultation with HR, Mission
Unit and the General Secretary to investigate the emerging issues relating to
entrance into ministry, retention and retirement and to develop strategies for
motivating young people of all races to consider becoming candidates for our
covenantal forms of ministry.
2.37 WOMAN MINISTERS
Conference resolves to recognise and celebrate the ordination of Women
Ministers for 40 Years, and affirms the work already done by the Presiding
Bishop, especially in establishing a Task Team to lead these celebrations
in 2016. As part of this celebration, Conference directs the Task Team, in
consultation with SMMS, to develop a booklet on the history and stories of
Women in Ministry. The Finance Unit is requested to make provision for the
cost involved.
2.38 NOMINATION OF WOMEN MINISTERS
INTO POSITIONS OF LEADERSHIP
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Noting that 2016 marks the 40 anniversary of the Ordination of Women,
and the low number of Women ministers in leadership within the Connexion,
Conference refers all issues relating to the involvement of women at all
levels of leadership in the church to the Mission Unit for consideration
during the reflective sessions planned for 2016. Conference further instructs
Districts, Circuits and Organisations to be intentional about the inclusion of
women in leadership and leadership development pipelines, such as leading
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conversations, Bible Studies or as Guest Speakers in all the 40 celebrations
in 2016.
2.39 APPOINTMENT OF WOMEN MINISTERS
AS SUPERINTENDENTS
Conference requests the Connexional Executive to be intentional about the
appointment of women ministers as Circuit Superintendents as a means of
enabling gender equality and inclusion in senior leadership in the church.
2.40 MINISTERIAL SESSION
While noting the need to deal with matters relating to theological and moral
integrity as well as the general welfare of Presbyters, Conference observes
that in light of our affirmation of our common ministry and the priesthood of
all believers, re-introducing a ministerial session is not necessarily the answer.
Therefore Conference directs DEWCOM to suggest a possible framework
for dealing with matters relating to the order of presbyters within our current
structures.
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2.41 ADDRESSING INEQUALITIES BETWEEN THE ORDERS OF
DEACONS AND EVANGELISTS
Conference notes the imbalances and the need for training on the differences
between the Diaconate and the Order of Evangelism and directs the Human
Resources Unit and the Orders to investigate all issues including relationships
and imbalances as well as the retirement age for members of these orders and
report to Conference 2016.
2.42 POST-ORDINATION TRAINING
Conference instructs Bishops to ensure that structured Post-Ordination
Training for ministers happens within Districts to ensure continuous
ministerial development and institutional competence. Conference directs
EMMU in consultation with HR and DEWCOM to develop strategies and
material for this work.
2.43 NON-ITINERANT CATEGORY OF MINISTRY
Conference recognises the recommendations of the consultative process
facilitated by EMMU on the continuing relevance of the Non-Itinerant
Category of Ministry and resolves:
• that the Non-Itinerant category of the ordained ministry be discontinued
in its current form and no new candidate will be received;
• that present clergy who fall within this category of ministry will continue
and those still in training under this category of ministry will be allowed
to continue.
2.44 NEW MISSIONAL STREAMS OF LAY MINISTRY
Conferences resolves and directs EMMU in consultation with the Mission
Unit to investigate the possibility of new streams of lay ministries with a
missional focus, such as Missionaries and Church Planters, as an alternative
to the category of Non-Itinerant Ordained ministry.
2.45 MINISTERS TRANSFERRING FROM OTHER DENOMINATIONS
Considering the number and ages of those applying to transfer from other
denominations or seeking reinstatement, Conference resolves that:
• All applicants for transfer must be able to serve the MCSA for at least a
ten year term, including their years of training as ministers on trial.
• No application will be considered from people above 65 years of age, who
apply to be considered Supernumeraries in the MCSA.
• The applicant`s denomination must be part of the traditional mission
churches.
2.46 AGE OF CANDIDATURE AND RETIREMENT
Conference refers the issues of Candidature age and retirement age of
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Deacons, alongside those of Ministers, to the Human Resources Unit and
General Secretary, with the help of EMMU, the Lay General Treasurer and
Mission Unit, together with conversations with the Orders concerned.
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CHAPTER 3
THE WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL
3.1
3.2
Resolution on Syria
Believing that the way of Jesus Christ is a way of nonviolence and peace; yet,
recognising the sinful nature of all human beings, deeply concerned about
the continued and escalating violence in Syria and the surrounding region,
further deploring the use of religion as a political wedge to pit peoples against
each other, and finally, observing with horror the use of chemical weapons
against the Syrian people, The World Methodist Council
1. Strongly condemns the use of violence as a means of resolving political
disputes.
2. Stands in solidarity with all those who are suffering as a result of the
conflict in Syria.
3. Urges its member churches to call on their governments to bring
international pressure to bear on the participants for peaceful solution in
this conflict.
4. Directs its Officers to forward this resolution immediately to the G20 and
the United Nations affirming restraint and diplomacy.
Resolution on Arms Fair held in London
Believing that the way of Jesus is a way of non-violence and peace and that
we are called to live in a way in which “swords are turned into plough shares,
spears into pruning hooks and nations will no longer train for war” (Micah
4.3) and as the WMC meets in London to debate issues of concern to its
global body, members are deeply troubled by the arms fair being held at the
same time in the capital. The World Methodist Council:
1. Condemns the profiteering by governments and companies from the sales
of arms.
2. Supports those Christians and others engaged in peaceful protest against
the fair.
3. Urges its member churches to support and encourage organisations
working for peace and dialogue.
4. Urges its member churches to disinvest from any holdings in organisations
involved in the arms trade.
3.3
Resolution on Ownership of Epworth Old Rectory
From the Epworth Old Rectory trustees, presented by Claire Potter, curator
WMC London, 12 September 2013.
The World Methodist Council notes that Epworth Old Rectory is held in trust
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by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (of the British Methodist
Church), for the purposes of the World Methodist Council.
The WMC confirms both the responsibilities and opportunities this ownership
gives us. The WMC confirms that it will continue to offer financial support,
administration support, and a connection between Epworth Old Rectory and
the World Methodist and Wesleyan family.
3.4
World Methodist Hunger Movement Resolution
From the WMC Men’s Affiliate WMC London, 12 September 2013.
The World Methodist Council encourages all member churches of the
Wesleyan/Methodist family to engage in hunger mission projects during the
time span of the World Methodist Conference in Houston, Texas, August 3 –
September 4, 2016.
All hunger projects will be registered at a designated website (to be
determined).
Reports will be tallied and reported on Sunday, September 4, 2016, and
reported as ONE collective act launching a World Methodist Hunger
Movement.
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CHAPTER 4
AMENDMENTS TO LAWS AND DISCIPLINE 12
4.1 1.28
TH
EDITION
Add: “(Ref 4.37)”, at the end of the paragraph
4.2 Chapter 4
4.9
Delete: “a copy of the Candidate’s birth certificate and copies of
the highest educational certificates or qualifications held by the
Candidate.”
Insert: “…and shall forward to the Director the prescribed
documents.”
4.18 Delete: “Quarterly Meeting”
“Screening Committee”
4.20
Delete: “probation and training”
Insert: “probation or training”
4.22
Add at the end of the paragraph:
“A person whose candidature has not been accepted for 3 consecutive
years may recandidate after a period of 2 years. The same two (2)
year rule applies for probationers who have been discontinued.”
4:27
Delete: “Probationers at the Seminary”
Insert: “Seminarians”
4.27
Delete: “Probationers”
Insert: “Candidates ”
4.28
Delete: “small group of Probationers”
Insert: “One Student Minister”
Delete: “full-time Probationers”
To Read: “One student minister at seminary shall answer synod
on behalf of the full complement of student ministers when the
questions are asked”
Insert: “Student Ministers …when the Discipline Questions are
asked at Synod”
4.29
Delete: “Probationer”
Insert: “A Student Minister”
4:30 Delete: “Probationers”
Delete: “and of the Bishop”
Insert: “and the EMMU Director”
To read: A Student Minister at the Seminary who must unavoidably
be absent for any part of the academic term shall first obtain the
permission of the person in authority at the Seminary and the EMMU
Director.
4.31
Delete: “probationers”
Insert: “Student Ministers”
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4.52
4.55
4.56.2 4.149 2016
Delete: “or Probationer Minister”
Delete: The entire clause
Delete: “In service Training”
Insert: “Internship”
Delete: “Part Time”
Insert: “Non-Itinerant”
Insert at the end of paragraph: “Following their stationing for the
ensuing year, Non Itinerant Ordained Ministers shall be received into
Full Connexion at Conference. Probationer Non Itinerant Ministers
shall be required to fulfil such residential training as determined by
EMMU. Should such persons be stationed, they shall thereby be
regarded as having become itinerant Ministers.”
4.3 Chapter 5
5.4
Insert: “Powers” to read: “The functions, powers and duties of
Conference are to:…”
5.12 Delete: “powers”
Insert: “functions” to read: “The functions and duties of the
Connexional Executive …”
5.13.1 Delete: “Connexional Executive”
Insert: “Conference”
To read: “The Conference may from time to time appoint a
Registrar…”
5.14.3 Insert: “or”
To read as: “… should submit recommendations or findings to the
Bishop and/or the Presiding Bishop...”
5.17 Delete: “Connexional Executive”
Insert: “The Conference”
To read: “… The Registrar if such appointment has been made by
the Conference for and on behalf of the Church…”
4.4 Chapter 6
6.4.2
Delete: “Probationer Minister elected by …”
Insert: “Student Minister elected by …”
Delete: “the Probationer Ministers at Seminary”
Insert: “the Student Ministers at Seminary”
6.4.16 Delete: “elected by the Mission Group”
Insert: “recommended by the Local Preachers’ Committee”
6.8 Delete: “Powers”
Insert: “Functions”
To read: “The functions and duties of the District Executive are …”
6.8.2
Delete: “preparation of a draft of the stations”
Insert: “to receive and make necessary changes to the draft of the
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6.10 6.26 6.28
6.28.3 2016
stations received from the Stationing Committee” …of Ministers in
the District, for presentation to Synod”
Delete: “powers”
Insert: “functions”
To read: “The functions and duties of a Bishop …”
To read: “The functions and duties of the …”
Delete: “instructions is a requirement of the bank concerned”
To read: “Electronic payments are only permitted where there is
dual control of authorisation of payment and separate confidential
passwords are utilised”
4.5 Chapter 7
7.15 Stationing of Ministers (see Chapter 10 page 193)
7.16
Delete: “Connexional Executive”
Insert: “Conference“
7.18.6 Insert: “(Ref 4.12)” at the end of the sentence
7.37.12 Delete entire clause
7.37.13 Delete entire clause
7.43 Delete: “powers”
7.43.12 Insert new provision: “The Society Leaders’ Meeting shall elect
any Society Steward, for which there is a vacancy, when this occurs
in between Annual Society Meetings. This shall be until the next
ASM”
7.46.13 Insert: “….or Conference”
To read: “any member of the Society who is a member of the
Connexional Executive or Conference”.
4.6 Chapter 8
8.6.2
Insert: “The Bishops of the 3 Northern Districts, (Central, Highveld
& Swaziland and Limpopo Districts), Ordinands’ Convener, and
General Secretary of the Local Preachers’ Department.”
8.11.3 Delete: “Methodist Connexional Office”
Insert: “Finance Unit of the MCSA”
8.11.11 Insert: “the MCO, Finance Unit and”
To read: “Regular annual reports, including financial reports, shall
be submitted to the MCO, Finance Unit and Synod. In the early days
of the School Synod may require more frequent reports”
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4.7 Chapter 9
9.4
Insert: “renewable twice”
To read: “ …. eight (8) Lay Members nominated by Synods and
appointed by Connexional Executive for a three (3) year term,
renewable twice”
9.34.3.2 Delete: “Probationers”
Insert: “Student Ministers”
Renumber: as 9.34.3.3
9.34.3.1 Insert New point: “All Ministers contribute a percentage as
determined by the Finance Unit Executive from time to time, towards
their training; payable after Ordination.”
Renumber current 9.34.3.1 as 9.34.3.2
9.55.2
(a) Delete: “amalgamate or disband the Circuit.”
Insert after “improve the level of giving”….
“or request the Bishop & District Management to consider to
reorganise, amalgamate or disband the Circuit”
4.8 Chapter 10
10.31
Amend to read: “All members of Local Trust Property committees
should declare any conflict of interest that may exist in relation to all
property matters. A register of Conflicts of Interest shall be kept and
submitted to the District Trust Property Secretary and the General
Treasurers.”
4.9 Chapter 11
11.11.2 Insert: “as well as the Bishop”
To read: “The DDR shall within 21 days inform the Superintendent(s)
of the Circuit(s) in which both the accuser and accused reside as well
as the Bishop, of the charges that have been laid”
11.14 Correction:
Delete: “may”
Insert: “shall” …. (see L&D 11th Edn, 11.14 – “shall”)
11.36 Delete: “…10 (ten) days…”
Insert: “21 (twenty-one) days …”
4.10 Chapter 12
12.11
Insert: “General Regulations”
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New point (from 11 Edition L&D)
12.11.1 “If there are too few Local Preachers in a Circuit to sustain a regular
Local Preachers’ Meeting, the business of the Local Preachers shall
be conducted by the Circuit Quarterly Meeting.”
12.11.2 “Local Preachers who remove to another Circuit shall present a Note
of Removal from their former Superintendent, giving their status
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as Local Preachers. They shall be received with that status without
further trial or examination.”
12.11.3 “No Local Preacher may preach in another Circuit without the
permission of the Superintendent.”
12.11.4 “Local Preachers shall fulfil their preaching appointments; if unable
to do so they are to provide duly accredited substitutes but only with
the agreement of the Superintendent.”
Correction:
12.11.5 to read: “Long Service Certificate
Long Service Certificates are given to all Local Preachers of forty
years’ service since first coming on to Full Plan. Certificates shall also
be given to Local Preachers of 25 years’ standing. Superintendents
are requested to give the full names and surnames of all Preachers
who claim forty years’ service, together with the actual date of
coming on to full plan. Full information on the Local Preachers’
Schedule will constitute an application.”
Add at the end of paragraph: “No other circuit or district generated
certificates will be recognised.”
12.11.6 Insert: “One Sunday in the year shall be set aside as Local Preachers’
Sunday, to be used as Conference directs.”
Insert: New point 12.12: “Local Preachers on Trial
Superintendents shall follow our regulations regarding Local
Preachers On Trial in the interests of a higher standard of Local
Preaching. Superintendents are reminded that the length of probation
of Local Preachers on Trial is not to exceed THREE years.”
Insert: New point 12.13: Appointment of Supervisors of Studies
Each Local Preachers’ Quarterly Meeting should appoint a Supervisor
of Studies whose functions are:
Insert the following wording after “Supervisor of studies”: “who is a
Minister or an accredited Local Preacher with preferably, a minimum
of a diploma in theological studies”
• to pastor and tutor Preachers on Trial, or arrange for this to be
done,
• to supervise and guide Preachers on Trial in their studies,
• to ensure timeous registration of Preachers on Trial for their
courses,
• to encourage and assist upgrading and retraining of Full
Preachers,
• to seek to establish a Local Preachers’ library in the Circuit,
• to be the liaison between the Preachers and both the
Superintendent and the Unit.
Insert: New point 12.14: Insert 3 paragraphs ….
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10.10.7.1 :
th
4 paragraph :
Insert: “Local preachers may be robed when they have passed the
Local preachers’ examination and been placed on full plan”
4.11 Appendix 8
“Order Of Business For Circuit Quarterly Meetings’’
8.12
Insert under January: “nomination for Bishop in year that it is
required from the District”
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CHAPTER 5
METHODIST CONNEXIONAL OFFICE
PROFILE OF THE METHODIST FINANCE UNIT
CHALLENGES TO THE CHURCH
1. The MCSA’s property portfolio is under-utilised. The huge reliance on Circuit
Assessment for the running of the MCSA places the Church’s operations at risk.
The Church needs to strategically position its property portfolio in line with market
trends by investing in property research and audits. This will place the MCSA in
a better and competitive property position. Strategically investing in property and
land may provide an opportunity for the Church to establish a property portfolio
that can generate income for the benefit of the whole Connexion.
2. Based on the number and type of insurance claims received, it is evident that
there is a need for all structures of the church to implement a process to safeguard
our buildings and ensure that the MCO Insurance team is made aware of any
changes in property registers.
3. The MCO expects all Circuits to pay their assessments on time. As at April 2015,
43% of Circuits were over 2 months in arrears. We appeal to District Treasurers
to proactively monitor the arrears reports in order to exercise control in limiting
the arrears.
4. Non-compliance with submission deadlines continues to pose a challenge. This
not only threatens the Church’s tax exemption status, but also makes it difficult
for this office to assist Circuits in their financial planning. Financial 4C and 4S
Schedules must be completed, audited, approved by the April Quarterly Meeting
and 2 copies submitted to the District Treasurer well before Synod annually.
One copy is to be sent to the Finance Unit Compliance team as soon as possible
but by no later than 2 weeks after the Synod meeting. Late submission of these
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Schedules is not acceptable. Please refer to paragraph 9.87 of the L&D 12
Edition.
5. All Church owned property is to be registered in the name of the Presiding
Bishop, and all Title Deeds lodged with the MCO for safekeeping. This includes
properties which are fully paid for in cash at the time of purchase. A copy of the
Title Deed must also be sent to the MCO where properties are bonded to a bank.
This needs to be done in every instance.
6. The average cost to a Circuit for an Ordained Minister is approximately R550 000.
This must be taken into account when considering the viability of a Circuit and
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deciding on the number of Ministers a Circuit can afford. This is particularly
important for those Societies or Circuits which receive less than R500 000 in
total income per annum. We strongly discourage Circuits from offering additional
stipends that are too high and in certain instances result in Circuits struggling to
meet their obligations.
HIGHLIGHTS AND SIGNIFICANT EVENTS
1. Following the move of all units to Bruma, we are happy to report that the Finance
Unit now has a full staff compliment and as we continue to grow together, training
and a constant review of processes continues so as to ensure that the unit serves
the Connexion efficiently and diligently as has been the practice in the past.
2. The circuit assessment account is carefully monitored throughout the year to
control costs. In an effort to assist the Church to achieve mission objectives
we have maintained the Circuit Assessment at 20% of Ministers’ stipends plus
allowances.
SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES – A BRIEF OVERVIEW
• Pension/Provident Funds
The FU administers two pension and one provident funds. Total assets under
administration amount to R1.4 Billion.
• Payment of Stipends/Pensions
850 Ministers, Evangelists and Biblewomen, as well as 729 Supernumeraries are
paid monthly through the FU.
• Insurance of Church Properties
The FU administers the insurance cover through Marsh Insurance for the Church’s
assets
• Medical Aid
The FU, in conjunction with TopMed Medical Scheme, administers the medical
aid for our Ministers, Evangelists and Biblewomen.
• Property
The FU holds Title Deeds and administers the records of over one and a half
thousand properties owned by the MCSA.
OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGY OF THE FINANCE UNIT
The FU exists to facilitate the vision of a Christ-healed Africa by:
• Objective No. 1 Care for Ministerial staff and their families:
Strategy
a. Listen and respond positively to Ministerial staff, Supernumeraries and widows;
b. Provide Ministerial staff with information about the facilities the Church offers
them in their Ministry, such as facts about the itinerant ministry, stipends and
allowances, Pension benefits, income tax, health care, retirement planning and
how to buy a vehicle, house or investments.
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• Objective No. 2 Effectively administer Connexional Funds in accordance
with missional objectives in an accountable and
responsible manner:
Strategy
a. Provide appropriate administrative and financial systems and services;
b. Control Connexional expenditure within reasonable limits;
c. Exercise management oversight of out-sourced specialised services to those who
have the financial resources and expertise, such as vehicle and housing loans,
insurance, investment management, processing medical claims and computer
consultancy.
• Objective No. 3 Offer administrative and financial facilities and resources
to the Church:
Strategy
a. Provide Connexional financial and management guidelines to ensure integrity,
accountability and responsibility and monitor such;
b. Encourage and train Bishops, Superintendent Ministers and Stewards in
management principles;
c. Provide Bishops and Superintendent Ministers with financial and other
information to enable them to manage effectively;
d. Circulate an Administration/Financial procedure manual.
• Objective No. 4 Initiate financial resourcing for mission growth and
development:
Strategy
a. Maximise income and capital growth on Connexional money and assets;
b. Utilise the Millennium Fund as effectively as possible;
c. Encourage donors to contribute to and take advantage of tax concessions by
donating to the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary (Incorporated under Section
21).
d. Consider vacant church-owned land and buildings in such a way as to utilise the
asset affectively.
e. Contribute to a Church Reserve Account for financing purposes as opportunities
arise.
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THE METHODIST CHURCH OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
FINANCE UNIT
ORDER OF BUSINESS – 2015 for 2016
5 THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS SHOULD BE READ IN
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CONJUNCTION WITH THE 12 EDITION OF THE LAWS AND
DISCIPLINE (Book of Order), CHAPTER 9, and PAGES 102-121.
5.1 Administration
5.1.1 Finance Unit Executive Committee:
The Presiding Bishop, the Bishop of the Central District, the
Secretary of Conference, the Lay President, the Ministerial and
Lay General Treasurers, Director-Human Resources, Rev J B
Freemantle, Rev M Sibeko, Rev F Marumo, Rev S G Jones, Mrs
F B Y Nodada, Mrs N Hlati, Mrs J Simons, Mrs C Cronje, Mrs R
Stoltz, Ms A Mpiriane, Mr M Sabelo and Prof N Mbombo.
5.1.2 General Treasurers
The 2013 Conference appointed Rev C Morgan as Ministerial
General Treasurer for a period of five years (2015-2019).
The 2014 Connexional Executive appointed Mrs T Ngonyama as
Lay General Treasurer for a period of five years (2015-2019).
5.2 Audited Financial Statements
The Finance Unit Executive received and adopted the audited Annual
Financial Statements of the Methodist Connexional Office and the
Millennium Mission Resource Fund as at 31 December 2014.
5.3 Connexional Funds
5.3.3 Connexional Assessment Fund
See paragraph. 9.12 – 9.13.1
5.3.1.1 Circuit Assessments
To maintain the Connexional Funds the levy on all
Circuits in 2016 shall remain 20% of the amount paid
by Circuits and/or Societies for stipends, bonuses and all
allowances (excluding travelling and housing (up to R4
500pm)) of Ministers and all other pastoral agents for the
period ended 31 December 2014. The above stipends,
bonuses, allowances and payment for Pulpit Supplies and
private contributions paid for the support of Evangelists,
and allowances made to theological students for supply
work in Circuits are also subject to assessment.
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2016
5.3.1.2
5.3.1.3
5.3.1.4
5.3.1.5
Medical Expenses (previously called Extraordinary
Affliction Grants):
To maintain Medical expenses in 2016 of R26 334 465,
(2015 – R23 839 900) the levy on all Circuits remains
19% of the amount paid by Circuits and/or Societies
for stipends, bonuses and all allowances (excluding
travelling and housing (up to R4 500pm)) of Ministers,
Probationers, Supernumeraries, Biblewomen, Deacons,
Evangelists and Catechists for the period ended 31
December 2014.
Circuit contributions to the Supernumerary Fund and
the Supernumerary Fund Reserve/Church Reserve shall
not be a charge against the Circuit Assessment Fund
but shall be paid directly to the Finance Unit by the
Circuits
N.B. Of the total amount of the estimated assessment
income for 2016 – R12 460 216 (2015 – R11 830 000)
is to be used directly for the care and maintenance of the
ministry. This is made up as follows:
Ministerial Training EMMU/SMMS Removals
Long Leave Grants
Exigencies of Stations
Bursaries Work permits
Children’s Educational Grants BUDGET
2015
R
8 280 000
2 000 000
1 373 000
100 000
40 000
22 000
15 000
BUDGET
2016
R
8 694 000
2 100 000
1 458 216
100 000
40 000
22 000
16 000
11 830 000
12 430 216
Administrative expenses make up the balance as follows:
Alcohol & Drug Concerns
All Africa Council of Churches
Auxiliary grants
Bishops administration allowances
Centralised Accounting Organisation
Botswana Council of Churches
BUDGET
2015
R
2 500
12 000
3 000
192 000
300 000
3 000
BUDGET
2016
R
2 500
12 000
3 000
195 000
0
3 000
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2016
Christian Council of Lesotho
3 000
Christian Council of Mocambique
3 000
Christian Council of Namibia
3 000
Christian Council of Swaziland
3 000
Church Unity Commission
58 000
Conference Printing
35 000
Connexional Executive and Conference
Planning
415 000
Connexional Committees
730 000
Connexional Chaplaincy Committee
40 000
Connexional Office expenses
6 240 000
Connexional IT
50 000
Connexional Marriage Registrar
2 000
Doctrine Ethics and Worship Committee
75 000
Ecumenical Affairs
160 000
Connexional Schedules
15 000
Dept. of Archives
2 000
Minutes of Conference
235 000
Bursary Fund Assessments
1 000
Dept. of Public Relations & Communications 300 000
Legal expenses
810 000
Office of the Presiding Bishop
1 036 200
Presiding Bishop’s travel costs 320 000
Office of the Lay President
92 500
Office of the Secretary of Conference
856 800
Sec of Conference Travel Costs
220 000
Sec of Conference Elect
0
Human Resources
400 000
Youth President
10 000
School Chaplain
10 000
Children’s Desk
250 000
Overseas Conferences
200 000
Regional Meetings
15 000
South African Council of Churches
90 000
SA Institute of Race Relations
3 000
Sundry funeral grants
4 000
World Council of Churches
240 000
World Methodist Council
90 000
Church Investors Trust
0
3 000
3 000
3 000
3 000
58 000
35 000
425 000
830 000
50 000
6 926 400
50 000
2 000
75 000
160 000
15 000
2 000
245 000
1 000
300 000
850 000
1 099 143
334 400
97 500
917 397
225 000
0
600 000
10 000
10 000
250 000
200 000
15 000
90 000
3 000
5 000
250 000
100 000
0
Total of all other Connexional expenses
13 530 000
14 458 340
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
25 360 000
26 888 556
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2016
5.3.1.6
Without Agency (paragraph 9.44)
Where a Circuit is without agency the Circuit assessment
is one-third of the assessment payable on the stipend of
a Probationer Minister and if no Minister is stationed in
the Circuit for more than 5 consecutive years the Circuit
should be disbanded and attached to a neighboring
Circuit.
Assessments of Ministers with Permission to Labour,
on Leave of Absence or Seconded (paragraph 9.45)
Ministers and Deacons who are granted permission to
labour or who are on Leave of Absence, appointed to
Chaplaincies or Seconded, shall contribute each year
the assessed cost of Supernumerary Fund contributions,
Supernumerary Fund Reserve/Church Reserve
contributions, Extraordinary Affliction grants, Furlough
allowances, Removal reimbursements, and any other
grants, if such benefits apply to them.
5.3.1.7
Where a Minister or Deacon has contributed the assessed
cost to the Extraordinary Affliction Fund for less than 10
years immediately prior to retirement, that Minister or
Deacon may, from retirement date, apply for grants from
the Extraordinary Affliction Fund, limited to the same
number of years for which such assessed cost was made.
Assessments for Non-Stipendiary Personnel
(paragraph 9.46)
Where a non-stipendiary Minister, Probationer,
Supernumerary or Deacon is appointed to a Circuit, the
Circuit Assessment is 50% of the stipend assessment
payable on the minimum stipend of an ordained
Minister. This would apply after the normal two years
waiting period.
5.3.1.8
5.3.1.9
Assessments of Ministers Stationed in United
Churches (paragraph 8.47)
Ministers serving in United Churches shall contribute
each year, if such benefits apply to them, the assessed cost
of Supernumerary Fund contributions, Supernumerary
Fund
Reserve/Church
Reserve
contributions,
Extraordinary Affliction grants, Furlough allowances
and Removal reimbursements, together with an annual
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2016
amount of approximately 50% of the residual assessment
per Minister.
The amount of 50% of the residual assessment per
Minister is R12 200 for 2016.
5.4 Ministers’ Stipend Allowances
5.4.1 Stipend Augmentation Fund
Conference 2009 endorsed the proposal which addressed the issue
of ‘parity of stipends’ by implementing a Stipend Augmentation
Fund to enhance the stipends of those Ministers who are paid
the least in order to bring them up to a minimum overall income
package.
The Fund is administrated by the Finance Unit but managed by
Trustees appointed by Conference.
From 2016 this package is R17 600, before tax. Based on a formula
the SAF is financed by a Stipend Augmentation Assessment levied
on Circuits who pay stipends and allowances higher than R17 600
before tax, based on the 2016 package for ordained ministers.
There is no intention to limit stipends to a maximum but the
requirement is that all income received by Ministers is disclosed
to the MCO. A policy of transparency and trust is the objective of
the proposal.
5.4.2 Voluntary Stipend Fund
In view of the successful implementation of the Stipend
Augmentation Fund, CE approved that the Voluntary Stipend
Fund be amalgamated with the Stipend Augmentation Fund and
that the one Fund attends to both the needs. Where a minister does
not receive a stipend, the District Bishop will be required to send
a written application (including an outline of measures taken to
assess the situation) to the trustees requesting augmentation for
the minister. The minister will be augmented for 3 consecutive
months.
The granting of a minimum stipend, or part thereof, to any
Minister who does not receive a stipend is dependent on funds
being available. Thus every Minister who receives more than
the minimum stipend is encouraged to voluntarily contribute to
the Stipend Augmentation Fund and is invited to indicate to the
Finance Unit if they want to contribute, subject to a minimum
of 1% of Basic and Additional Stipend. All Organisations are
encouraged to contribute to the Fund on a voluntary basis.
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2016
The Trustees of the Voluntary Stipend Fund: Refer to Appendix 3
5.4.3 Stipends for 2016
The recommended total Stipend increase for 2016 is 8.0%.
CPI is expected to be approximately 5.2% in January 2016. The
Connexional Executive recommends that:
The Minimum Stipends and stipend assessments for 2016 be
increased by 7.05% to R9 420 per month and that Total Stipends
increase by not more than 8.0% for 2016. We request that this be
complied with as far as possible.
Minimum stipend allowances for 2016 shall be:
Ministers:
Monthly
Ordained Probationers Annually
R9 420.00
R8 007.00
R113 040.00
R96 084.00
Deacons:
Ordained Probationers R7 065.00
R6 005.00
R84 780.00
R72 060.00
R3 895.00
R3 310.00
R46 740.00
R39 720.00
Evangelists and Biblewomen: Commissioned Probationers 5.4.4 Combining Statements and Payments
All assessments and payments due by circuits shall be reflected
on a monthly statement. The circuit shall make a single combined
payment to the Finance Unit or pay via monthly debit order by the
th
15 of each month.
5.4.5 Payment of Stipend Allowances
The amount of stipend paid shall relate to the total amount received
by the Finance Unit in respect of the combined charges in terms of
par 9.53 and subject to the allocation priority in terms of paragraph
9.54.
5.4.6 Research Regarding Non-Payment of Stipends and Viability of
Circuits.
The Connexional Executive mandates that in regard to stipends:
a. Each District shall be required to appoint a qualified taskgroup to research and study the problem of some Ministers not
receiving stipends, including the costing of options they may
seek to recommend;
b. The recommendations of the District task-groups be sent
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2016
to their own Circuits and Synods for discussion in February
annually;
c. The work of Districts be submitted to the Executive Secretary
and combined into a definitive discussion document to be
considered by the Connexional Executive in September
annually.
5.4.7 Travelling Allowance (Book of Order paragraph 9.58)
The Travelling and Depreciation Allowances have been combined
with effect from 2007 in order to conform to the South African
Revenue Service (SARS) Travelling Allowance Table. The
Travelling Allowance for 2016 is based on the Value of the Vehicle
being between R160 000 and R240 000 and calculated on the basis
of travelling 1 400 km per month in line with the 2015-2016 SARS
tax directive. The recommended Travelling Allowance for 2016 is
R7 800 per month.
Where the distance travelled exceeds 1 400 km per month, the
excess mileage may be claimed at R3.80 per km.
5.4.8 Extraordinary Affliction Grants (See paragraph 9.70)
5.4.8.1 In terms of par 9.70, various benefits and limits are granted
under the TopMed Methcare Medical Plan for hospital
costs as well as major conditions requiring treatment,
subject to pre-authorisation having been obtained and the
terms and conditions of the Medical Schemes Act and
agreements concluded between TopMed Medical Plan
and the Church from time to time.
a. In-Hospital Benefits
• From 2009 the upper limit is R500 000 per incident
per annum;
• The co-payment required by the member in 2016
is:
50% of the first R4 650, thereafter
10% of the amount over R4 650, up to a maximum
of R10 000.
• Any hospital treatment that forms part of the
Prescribed Minimum Benefits at State and
Provincial Hospitals is fully paid for by TopMed
Medical Plan.
b. Out-of-Hospital Benefits
Ministers and Supernumeraries are required to pay
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2016
doctors and other out-of-hospital accounts up-front
and will be refunded 80% thereof by the TopMed
Medical Plan. Prescription medicine may be obtained
from a pharmacy by paying the 20% co-payment upfront. The pharmacy will submit the balance of the
account to TopMed electronically.
5.4.8.2 The conditions and limits referred to in par 9.15.2 are as
follows:
“Members of the Order of Evangelism qualify for
extraordinary affliction grants, if they are paid the
minimum stipend through the MCO; retired Evangelists
and Biblewomen also qualify if they had at least 10 years’
service immediately prior to retirement, having been paid
the minimum stipend through the MCO. All such grants
remain subject to a limit of R4 000 per family per year.”
5.4.8.3. With effect from January 2007 the required contribution
from Ministers towards the medical expenses of Ministers,
Supernumeraries, Deacons, Evangelists and Biblewomen
will be 6% of their Basic plus Additional Stipend with a
maximum of R1 072 per month in 2016 ( 2015: R975 per
month).
5.5
Due to pension increases, with effect from January 2016
the required contribution from Supernumeraries who
receive a Pension greater than R5 500 per month will
be R165 per month towards the medical expenses of
Ministers, Supernumeraries, Deacons, Evangelists and
Biblewomen.
Funeral Grants (See paragraph 9.73)
The limit for 2016 remains R2 500.
5.6 Children’s Education
5.6.1 School Uniforms (See paragraph 9.74.2)
The amount for 2016 is R500.00
5.7 Supernumerary Fund
5.7.1 Stipend Groups, Contributions and Basic Benefit Rates
5.7.1.1 The following basic benefit rates of pensionable service
are recommended with effect from 1 July 2015 being an
increase of 10.74 %:
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2016
Group
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Basic Benefit per year being 2% of Annual Pensionable Stipend
R
269.76 809.28 1 438.80
2 248.08 3 147.36 4 046.40 4 945.68 5 844.96 6 744.24 7 643.52 8 542.56 9 441.84 10 341.12
11 240.40
The following annual pensionable stipend and contributions in each group are
recommended from 1 January 2016:
Group
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Monthly
Stipend Range
2249
4497
7495
11241
14989
18733
22483
26227
29977
33721
37469
41215
44963
2248
4496
7494
11240
14988
18732
22482
26226
29976
33720
37468
41214
44962
& over
Annual
Stipend Range
1
26977
53953
89929
134881
179857
224785
269785
314713
359713
404641
449617
494569
539545
26976
53952
89928
134880
179856
224784
269784
314712
359712
404640
449616
494568
539544
& over
Annual Personal
Circuit Contrib.
Pens'able Contributions
SF/ SF Reserve
Stipend Monthly Annual Monthly Annual
13488
113
1356
339
4068
40464
337
4044
1011
12132
71940
600
7200
1800
21600
112404
938
11256 2814
33768
157368
1311
15732 3933
47196
202320
1687
20244 5061
60732
247284
2061
24732 6183
74196
292248
2435
29220 7305
87660
337212
2812
33744 8436 101232
382176
3185
38220 9555 114660
427128
3559
42708 10677 128124
472092
3935
47220 11805 141660
517056
4309
51708 12927 155124
562020
4684
56208 14052 168624
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2016
5.7.1.2 The contribution from the Circuit towards the
Supernumerary Fund, Supernumerary Fund Reserve/
Church Reserve shall be three times the personal
contribution and shall be paid directly to the MCO
by the Circuit. The distribution of the contribution
will be variable as between the Supernumerary Fund,
Supernumerary Fund Reserve and the Church Reserve.
The estimated contribution for 2016 will be 1 times to the
Supernumerary Fund, 2 times to the Supernumerary Fund
Reserve and zero times to the Church Reserve.
5.7.1.3 Ministers will receive an annual benefit statement
which will indicate their Individual Member Balance in
the Supernumerary Fund and also an indication of the
Church minimum benefit (at current benefit rates) they
will receive from the Supernumerary Fund at retirement
and in the event of death, to enable them to arrange their
personal finances.
5.7.1.4 Amendments to the rules of the Supernumerary Fund
shall be made as and when necessary by the Board of
Trustees and submitted to the Registrar of Pension Funds
for approval.
5.7.1.5 The Rules of the Supernumerary Fund are available on
request from the Methodist Connexional Office.
5.7.1.6 In terms of the rules the Church representatives of the
Supernumerary Fund shall include the Ministerial
General Treasurer and the Lay General Treasurer ex
officio.
5.7.1.7 The 2015 Connexional Executive appointed Rev Z D
Siwa, Mrs M Hildyard and Mrs J Trytsman as Church
appointed representatives of the Supernumerary Fund
for the term 2016-2020.
5.7.1.8 The 2015 Connexional Executive noted the election
by members and pensioners of Rev V Nyobole, Rev
P Oosthuizen, Rev S G Jones and Rev C H S Bell as
Elected Trustees of the Supernumerary Fund for the term
2016-2020.
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2016
5.8
Lay Staff Pension Fund and Provident Fund Trustees
5.8.1 The 2001 Connexional Executive appointed the Ministerial
General Treasurer and the Lay General Treasurer as ex officio
Church representatives of the Lay Staff Pension Fund.
5.8.2 The 2013 Connexional Executive appointed Rev Z D Siwa
and Mrs J Trytsman as Church representatives of the Lay
Staff Pension Fund for the term 2014-2016. 2015 Connexional
Executive appointed Ms Ankie de Boer as Trustee for the term
2016-2020
5.8.3 The 2013 Connexional Executive noted the election by members
and pensioners of Mesdames H A Fleming, M Hildyard, B E Jubber,
B Moyo-Bango and Mr J Gouws as Member-Elected Trustees of
the Lay Staff Pension Fund for three years (2014-2016).
5.8.4 The 2001 Connexional Executive appointed the Ministerial
General Treasurer and the Lay General Treasurer as ex officio
Church representatives of the Provident Fund.
5.8.5 The 2013 Connexional Executive appointed, Rev Z D Siwa and
Mrs J Trytsman as Church representatives of the Provident Fund
for the term 2014-2016. 2015 Connexional Executive appointed
Ms Ankie de Boer as Trustee for the term 2016-2020.
5.8.6 The 2013 Connexional Executive noted the election by members of
Mesdames H A Fleming, M Hildyard, B E Jubber, B Moyo-Bango
and Mr J Gouws as Member-Elected Trustees of the Provident
Fund for three years (2014-2016).
5.9
Property Protection Fund (See paragraph 9.79)
5.9.1 Circuits may recover from Ministers the premium on that
portion of the Ministers’ furniture which is insured for more than
R180 000.
5.9.2 The minimum Sum Insured on any manse building is R600 000
and R480 000 for any Church building.
5.10 Ministerial Students’ Fund
5.10.1Contributions to the Ministerial Students’ Fund (See paragraph
9.34.2)
5.10.2Ordained Ministers are invited to contribute a voluntary amount
to the Ministerial Students’ Fund for deduction from their stipend
payment by the Connexional Office.
5.10.3 Donations from Districts to the Ministerial Students’ Fund
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2016
The following donations were received from the Districts:
ACTUAL
2013"
R
Cape
204 978
Grahamstown
38 478
Queenstown
NIL
Kimberley, Namibia & Bloemfontein
NIL
Northern Free State and Lesotho
56 824
Natal Coastal
76 553
Natal West
80 450
Central
172 303
Highveld and Swaziland
97 376
Limpopo
103 504
Mocambique
NIL
Clarkebury
NIL
Miscellaneous
25 111
TOTAL
855 577
ACTUAL
2014
R
142 212.65
84 584.85
NIL
36 000
57 833
79 894.70
90 685.70
197 189.70
NIL
139 452.89
NIL
30 745.80
9 430.93
868 030.02
5.10.4Ministerial Students’ Fund Cost of Ministerial Training (See Laws
and Discipline, paragraph 9.34.3)
The cost of Seminary Training to be met by any Minister or Student
who does not complete 5 years of ordained service to the Church is
remains R60 400 for the study year 2016.
The cost of In Circuit Training for Probationers to be met by any
Minister who does not complete 5 years of ordained service to the
Church is R18 000 for the study year 2016
The cost of Ministerial Training to be paid by Ministers in respect
of 2016 is 30% of the Seminary Training Cost per Seminarian for
2016 and for In Circuit Training 30% of the In Circuit Training
Cost per Probationer for 2016, as follows:
Training Cost
Prob. at Seminary
Prob. In Circuit
Minister’s 30%
R60 400
R18 000
Portion
R18 120
R 5 400
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5.11 Removals (See, paragraph 9.81)
nd
5.11.1 Where travel is by private transport, the reimbursement from 2
July 2015 shall be R3.80 per kilometre upon submission of a claim
th
form by the 30 March of each year
5.12 Loans
5.12.1Building Loan Interest Rate (See Laws and Discipline, paragraph
9.82.1)
The Connexional interest rate on building loans will be an
appropriate rate as determined by the General Treasurers from
time to time.
5.12.2Outside Housing Loans (See Laws and Discipline, paragraph
9.82.3)
There is no formal agreement with banks to make property
housing loans available to Ministers and full-time employees of
the Church. The MCO does not stand surety with any of the banks.
However, all the banks are willing to assist with housing loans, but
preferential interest rates and options will be negotiable between
the bank and each applicant.
5.13 Investment of Funds (See Laws and Discipline, paragraph 9.83)
The interest rate on money invested at call will be an appropriate rate as
determined by the General Treasurers from time to time.
5.14 Banking Accounts (See Laws and Discipline, paragraph 9.84)
The Finance Unit conducts a number of bank accounts all of which have
been approved by the Finance Unit Executive Committee.
5.15 Bursaries for Tertiary Education for the Children of Ministers and
Laity
An amount of R40 000 is allocated for bursaries for Ministers’ children
from the Circuit Assessment Account. Such bursaries are:
School
R2 000
Tertiary
R7 500 per annum for a maximum of 4 years at an
approved tertiary education institution.
5.17 Bursary Fund Levy (See paragraph 9.91.4)
The Bursary Fund levy on Circuits remains R400 per annum per Minister
for 2016.
5.18 Connexional Bursary Secretary
Private Bag x11, Gardenview, 2026
Tel: 011 615 1616
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2016
CONNEXIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES
The following paragraphs should be read in conjunction with the
th
12 Edition of the Laws and Discipline- Book of order, Chapter 9)
1. Vesting and Administration
(See paragraph 10.1)
2. All members of the Trust Properties Committees are urged to declare any property
interest in so far as it may relate to any property of the church. Refer to paragraph
10.31 of the general regulations.
3. The District Trust Properties Committee must refer all schemes, contracts,
purchases and sale agreements etc. in excess of R1 million to the Connexional
Trust Properties Committee for approval.
4. No building contract exceeding R250 000 in value may be entered into without
the District Trust Properties Committee’s approval.
5. A Registered Architect, or an approved Building Design Consultant, is to be
appointed where expenditure is between R70 000 and R250 000. A Registered
Architect and a Registered Engineer must be appointed where expenditure
exceeds R250 000. When Societies wish to owner-build, the permission of the
District Trust Properties Committee must be obtained.
6. At least two tenders are required for schemes where expenditure will exceed
R250 000. “Contractors All Risks and Public Liability Insurance” must be
arranged for all erections, alterations, additions or renovations to buildings.
7. An organ costing more than R75 000 shall require the approval of the Quarterly
Meeting and the District Trust Properties Committee before being purchased.
Organs costing less than R75 000 and other Church furnishings may be purchased
without District Trust Properties Committee approval, provided that no debt is
incurred.
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Appendix 1
POLICY ON EFFECTIVE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
THIS POLICY IS MANDATED FOR All SOCIETIES, CIRCUITS,
DISTRICTS, INSTITUTIONS, ORGANISATIONS, TRUSTS,
CONNEXIONAL UNITS
(Approved by the Connexional Executive Committee –
August 2001 and updated to August 2015)
PREAMBLE
1 CORINTHIANS 4:2 states “It is required of stewards that they be found
trustworthy.” We are required to be accountable to God and to each other for the
proper care of money and possessions that God has entrusted to us. No aspect of
Church involvement has greater potential for creating doubt, suspicion or disunity
than money. So we need to be wise in leadership by offering full disclosure to
as many people as possible and comply with standards of good governance and
accountability.
Please note the requirement for each Institution, Organisation, Trust and Unit to
also complete annually an Institutional Competency Assessment (to check if viable,
ethical and effectual) and submit such together with the 4C & 4S Schedules to
Synods, Connexional Executive or the Board of Mission Meeting and the Finance
Unit of the Methodist Connexional Office.
OBJECTIVES
The main objectives are to provide:
1. A clear statement of the financial affairs of the Society, Circuit, District, Unit,
Organisation, Institution, Trust or Fund;
2. Regular and prompt quarterly and audited Annual Financial Statements;
3. Simple accounting records which can be taken over by new people without
difficulty when Treasurers or Officials move; and
4. Management information to facilitate decision-making by the respective
Executive Committees as well as the Synod, Methodist Connexional Office
Finance Unit and the Connexional Executive.
REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO FINANCIAL REPORTING
In accordance with the regulations it is required that the respective Executive
Committees of Societies, Circuits, Districts, Units, Organisations, Institutions and
Trusts adequately manage all their funds, keep proper accounts of income and
expenditure and submit them to their respective Executive Committee.
The Methodist Book of Order, para. 7.21 states that it is the duty of the Circuit
Stewards to manage all the Circuit funds on behalf of the Quarterly Meeting,
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2016
keep proper accounts of income and expenditure and submit them to the Quarterly
Meeting. The Circuit Treasurer, where appointed, shall operate under the direction
of the Circuit Stewards. Superintendent Ministers must ensure that Circuit Stewards
do exercise this management duty.
The Superintendent Minister has the power and duty to ensure that all monies held
by organisations or departments in the Circuit are reported to the Quarterly Meeting
and the accounts audited before being presented to Synod. (Para.7.18.13);
It is a crucial requirement therefore that ALL monies received and spent by Circuits,
Societies, organisations and departments, including ALL Rhona, fundraising and
projects be accounted for and reported to the Quarterly Meeting. No Circuit or
Society income or expenditure of whatever nature is exempt from being disclosed
and accounted for in this way. To give effect to this requirement, Organisations,
departments projects etc. may continue to produce their own separate audited
Financial Statements but such must be submitted to the Society Steward/Treasurer
(or Circuit Treasurer if there is one) as the case may be, who will ensure that this
information is disclosed in Section 8 of the 4C or 4S Schedule.
The year-end of all Societies, Circuits, Districts, Units, Organisations, Institutions
st
and Trusts is the 31 December. Financial Statements, Schedules 4C and 4S shall be
audited.
A registered Accountant or Auditor (registered with the Independent Regulatory
Board for Auditors (IRBA), South African Institute of Chartered accountants
(SAICA), South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA)) or Chartered
Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) can both prepare and audit Financial
Statements. Connexional and District Financial Statements must be audited by a
person registered with the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) or
South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
Financial Statements prepared for Societies and Circuits by a person other than a
registered Accountant must be audited by a person with an accounting qualification,
whose qualifications shall be stated in the audited Annual Financial Statements.
This Appendix 1 document should be made available to the Auditor to assist him
with the audit.
Where the services of qualified persons are not available, there should be consultation
with the District, Circuit or the Finance Unit of the Methodist Connexional Office so
that the accounts are handled by a firm of Accountants.
The audited Annual Financial Statements are submitted, in the case of a Society, to
the Church Council for approval, and in the case of a Circuit, to the Circuit Quarterly
Meeting, and thereafter to the Synod, via the District Treasurer (L&D 6.28.8). The
District Treasurer will then submit a copy to the Finance Unit of the Methodist
Connexional Office within two weeks of Synod. All income and all expenditure of
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whatever nature must be accounted for in the books of the Circuit/Society and shown in
the Annual Financial Statements so that there is proper accountability to our members,
Synod and the Connexion. Similarly monies may not be hidden in various bank
and other accounts. All account balances must be disclosed in the audited Financial
Statements. A serious view will be taken of any attempts to withhold full and honest
disclosure of all income and expenditure (including stipends, allowances, honorariums
and gifts to Ministers) as well as bank, savings and investment balances at year end.
The audited Annual Financial Statements of District Units, Organisations, Institutions
and Trusts are required to be submitted first to their respective District (Controlling)
Executive Committee and then the District Treasurer for reporting to and inclusion
in the Synod Blue Book and for consideration by the Synod. Thereafter the District
Treasurer will submit all audited Financial Statements to the Methodist Connexional
Office Finance Unit.
The audited Annual Financial Statements of Connexional Units, Organisations,
Institutions and Trusts are required to be submitted first to their respective Connexional
(Controlling) Executive Committee and then to the Methodist Connexional Office
Finance Unit for consideration by the Connexional Executive Committee. These
requirements also apply to special funds collected, invested and expended such as
Building, Rhona or Special Effort funds.
The MCSA wishes to retain its Tax Exempt status in terms of the Income Tax Act.
In terms of the Tax Act all Public Benefit Organisations (PBOs), (which includes
religious organisations) are required annually to submit a consolidated Financial
Report to SA Revenue Services reflecting accurate details of all Circuit and Society
Income and Expenditure. This statutory requirement highlights the crucial and
urgent necessity to ensure that Circuits are structured into viable units which
are effectively managed and comply with good governance in terms of our Laws
& Discipline but also the laws of the Land.
CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT OF FINANCES IN ACCORDANCE WITH
GENERALLY ACCEPTABLE ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
1. All money collected is banked immediately or on the next business day. Money
held overnight must be locked away in a safe or strong room.
2. Receipts are issued for money collected and handed from one person to another,
prior to banking. If it is not feasible to issue receipts, proper records are to be
kept to substantiate the source of all money received with at least two persons
signing such record.
3. All payments should be made by either cheque or electronic transfer using
Business Online Banking and every payment must be authorised by the Unit
Leader or relevant responsible person. Salary registers must be authorised by
the Unit Leader or relevant person, other than the person responsible for the
actual payment thereof.
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4. Electronic payments are only permissible where dual control of authorisation
on a payment instruction is a requirement of the banking system and separate
confidential password codes are used.
5. Cheques, payable to any payee for goods or services, must be signed by two
authorised signatories one of which must be the Unit Leader or a relevant
responsible person. Cash cheques may NOT BE ISSUED. DO NOT SIGN
BLANK CHEQUES. Cheque books must be kept in a safe place to prevent
unauthorised access thereto. Unused cheques that are stolen/lost must be
reported to the Bank and SAPS immediately and a ‘stop payment’ must be
placed on these cheques with the bank.
6. Wherever possible invoices must be obtained to substantiate payments made
and recorded on a Payment Requisition Form.
7. At year end, all vouchers, receipts, invoices, receipt records, bank deposits,
paid cheques and bank statements together with the cash book and other
bookkeeping records are given to the auditor.
8. Each expense must be allocated, in the financial records, to the relevant budget
item it relates to.
9. For any large items of expenditure, e.g. repairs or maintenance, three quotes
must be obtained prior to going ahead with the work. The most reasonably
priced quote must be accepted and authorised by the Unit Leader, Finance
Committee or person responsible.
10. Extra staff may not be taken on if not budgeted for.
11. No unbudgeted item of expenditure shall be purchased or commitment made
to purchase without the prior approval of the appropriate Finance Committee
or Connexional authority. The General Treasurers must be consulted when
appropriate.
12. The issue and use of Credit cards is strongly discouraged. In designated
instances credit cards may be authorised by the MCO provided their use is only
related to budgeted items or emergencies.
13. Accounting data, in respect of Connexional Units must be sent timeously to
the Finance Unit of the Methodist Connexional Office according to the agreed
deadlines.
14. In accordance with paragraph 7.31 and 9.91.1 of the Laws and Discipline, no loan
from Circuit or Connexional Funds may be made to any private person or body.
15. It is essential that Lay persons with business and accounting skill and knowledge
are represented on Executive Committees or Boards to assist management.
BUDGETING
1. Accurate and realistic annual budgets for all income, expenditure and capital
expenditure should be compiled. The prior year’s budget, and actual data should
be used as a guide to determine what budget is required for the following year.
Refrain from simply adding a percentage to the previous year’s actual figures
but calculate accurately and be able to justify each budget item.
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2. Budgets should be submitted to and approved by the controlling Executive
Committee by previously agreed deadline dates.
3. Capital Expenditure must be budgeted for. The purchase of Capital Expenditure
items such as vehicles, equipment, furniture and properties where necessary
must be regarded as an expense in the annual budget.
4. Any Grants normally received, which are part of the budgeted income, must
be confirmed with the relevant sponsor prior to preparation and approval of the
budget.
5. Expected Ministerial Stipends and allowances for the budget if relevant, must
be verified with the General Treasurers.
6. Student expenses, if relevant, must be calculated on the number of students
expected for that year.
7. If students are housed while studying, careful consideration must be taken as
to whether there is sufficient accommodation for them to avoid unbudgeted for
acquisition or renting of properties.
8. Where necessary inflation increases must be budgeted for, i.e. municipal
electricity, postage, telephone costs.
9. Travel expenses need to be calculated on the basis of the number and
destination of any trips required for the purpose of the administration of the
unit or organisation.
10. The budget exercise should result in an excess income or breakeven situation
for the year but definitely not an excess of Expenditure over Income.
COMPARISON OF BUDGET TO ACTUAL INCOME AND EXPENSES
1. A Financial Statement shall be prepared by the relevant Accountant/Treasurer
on a quarterly (or monthly) basis, as agreed, by a specified deadline.
2. The Financial Statement shall show the full Budget for the year, the Budget
apportioned on a year to date basis for the period involved, the Actual Income/
Expenditure on a year to date basis for the period involved and the variance
between the Budget and Actual year to date figures.
3. Any details required by the responsible person with regard to this report shall
be supplied timeously by the Accountant/Treasurer.
4. Any major variances may be highlighted by the Accountant/Treasurer for the
attention of the relevant responsible person.
5. The Financial Statement described above and details of major variances must
be referred to the relevant body for discussion and approval.
6. Should a major variance occur, an explanation will be expected from the
Unit Leader/responsible person at the Leaders Meeting or relevant Executive
Committee?
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7. At the year end, 31 December, the Annual Financial Statements including
Balance Sheets shall be prepared, audited and approved by the Leaders
Meeting or relevant body in accordance with the previously agreed deadline
date.
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OVERSEAS and DOMESTIC TRAVEL
1. Any travel on official and authorised MCSA business should be part of the
budget and shall not cause annual expenditure to exceed annual income;
2. Overseas trips must be approved by the Presiding Bishop in the case of
Connexional Units or the Controlling Executive Committee in all other cases
and an itinerary should be handed to him/the Committee;
3. As part of the expenses of the trip an Out of Pocket Allowance should be paid
for incidental expenses. This allowance is intended to cover meals, bus, train
and taxi fares, tips and similar incidental costs. It is assumed that the relevant
Unit of the MCSA or overseas host would pay for airfares, accommodation,
conference registration and related expenses. The Out of Pocket Allowance
will depend on circumstances. The maximum such allowance is US$120 per
day for overseas travel (outside the Connexion) and R100 for domestic travel
(inside the Connexion) for which prior motivation to and approval by the
Presiding Bishop in the case of Connexional Units or the Controlling Executive
Committee is required. If this amount is actually exceeded, vouchers need to be
provided to account for such expenditure to a maximum of US$150 and R286
respectively. As a benchmark, accommodation will be covered at the tariff rate
charged by a three star hotel establishment where this cost is for the Church.
st
Where domestic travel is by private transport the reimbursement, from 1 June
2015, shall be R3-80 per kilometre. (This rate changes from time to time – see
Yearbook).
4. On return from the trip a brief report needs to be presented to the Presiding
Bishop or Controlling Executive Committee giving observations and
recommendations arising from the trip and giving account of;
a. Traveller’s cheques, foreign currency and Out of Pocket Allowance issued
to the individual for the trip;
b. Details of expenses actually incurred on the trip together with supporting
vouchers where possible;
c. Unused Travellers cheques and foreign currency not spent. These need to
be immediately banked back into the Unit or Organisation’s bank account.
5. A copy of the report specified in 4 above needs to be sent to the Lay General
Treasurer.
CASH RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
1. Any surplus funds held by any Society, Circuit, District, Institution,
Organisation, Trust or Unit which will not be required in the near future should
be either transferred into a Bank Call account or another Investment account.
2. All Bank account balances, be they Call or Current, must be reported to the
relevant authority whenever appropriate.
3. Quarterly administration grants to Units need only be paid if cash resources
will not be sufficient for the forthcoming quarter. A partial quarterly grant need
only be paid if cash resources are left over from the previous quarter.
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4. Continually look for ways of saving on costs and avoiding unnecessary
expenses.
5. Carefully monitor all expenses.
6. Ensure where possible that all budgeted income is received.
CAPITAL INCOME AND EXPENSE MANAGEMENT
1. Any proceeds from the sale of properties administered by any Society, Circuit,
District or Unit may not be used for the normal day to day “running” expenses,
unless this had been specifically provided for in the budget and approved by the
Connexional Trust Properties Committee.
2. Careful planning is required for the purchase of capital items of equipment,
furniture and vehicles in view of the magnitude of such purchases and the
possible impact on Circuit Assessments.
3. Careful forward planning needs to be done, where necessary, regarding the
acquisition or development of properties.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
In terms of Chapter 10 of the Laws and Disciplines of the Methodist Church of
Southern Africa no contract for the purchase, exchange, lease or disposal of movable
or immovable properties may be exercised by anyone other than the Presiding Bishop
or Secretary of Conference acting on behalf of the Presiding Bishop.
BANK OVERDRAFTS
No bank overdraft may be operated on or applied for without first obtaining
permission from the Methodist Connexional Office Finance Unit. Overdrafts will
only be approved if the facility is for a short time and there is matching collateral to
support the overdraft e.g. 32 days’ notice deposit. Please do not operate overdrafts
without approval.
....................
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Appendix 2
INSTITUTIONAL COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT
THIS QUESTIONNAIRE IS MANDATORY AND IS TO BE COMPLETED
AND SUBMITTED ANNUALLY BY ALL CONNEXIONAL AND
DISTRICT ORGANISATIONS, UNITS, TRUSTS, FUNDS,
INSTITUTIONS, SCHOOLS, CHILDREN’S HOMES,
HOMES FOR THE AGED
(REFERRED TO AS “INSTITUTIONS”)
(Approved by the Connexional Executive Committee
– August 2001 and updated to August 2015)
PREAMBLE
1. To ensure that the above Institutions are viable, ethical and effectual, it is
required that the undermentioned assessment be completed by 30 April each
year.
2. All “Institutions” are referred to the Methodist Church of Southern Africa
Policy on Effective Financial Management which must be adhered to.
3. It is the responsibility of the leader of each “Institution” to ensure that this
assessment is completed by the Board or Executive Committee by 30 April each
year and submitted together with the audited Annual Financial Statement
for the previous year to:
i. The Connexional Executive (attention Lay General Treasurer)-in the
case of all Connexional “Institutions” which are required to report to the
Connexional Executive;
ii. The Connexional Board of Ministries (attention Lay General Treasurer)in respect of all Connexional Units;
iii. District Synods (attention District Treasurer)-in the case of all “Institutions”
in such District which are required to report to Synod.
....................
NAME OF ORGANISATION, UNIT, INSTITUTION, HOME
...............................................................................................................................
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Answer
Yes or No
Management
Does the Board/Executive Committee operate under its own
constitution?
● If Yes, attach copy of Constitution.
Does the Board/Executive Committee have a sufficient diversity
of age, talent, skills, experience, gender, ethnic and racial groups
and have geographic representation?
Does the Board/Executive Committee meet at least quarterly with
agendas received prior to the meeting and minutes distributed after
the meeting?
Do Board/Executive Committee members receive all appropriate
information necessary for guidance and decision making?
Does the Board/Executive Committee review the organisation’s
past performance and future plans annually?
Does the Board/Executive Committee have a formal method of
appraising the performance of the executive director?
Plan
Does the Board/Executive Committee have a current strategic plan
which includes:
● Values, vision and purpose statement?
● Identification of the internal and external weaknesses?
● 90 day, 1 year and 2 year goals?
● Are the 90 days goals reviewed by the board every 90 days and
new 90 days goals established?
Financial
Does it have a current 2 year funding plan?
Is there a trustee committee in place that regularly monitors
investor performance of funds?
Do we have a yearly independent financial audit?
Are we complying with the Policy on Effective Financial
Management for Connexional and District Departments,
organisations, institutions, trusts and funds as set out by MCSA?
Are we staying within the SARS requirements?
Are all donations receipted in a timely fashion?
Are accounts being paid within 30 days?
Staff
Are all essential tasks identified and assigned to staff?
Are staff records in place including employment contracts?
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Are appropriate disciplinary, grievance procedures in place and
are they being observed?
Do the staff have up-dated job descriptions?
Do the staff have at least yearly performance evaluations?
Is the Executive Director, Unit Leader, Chairman, President etc.
[still] suited for the job?
● Does he/she have a clear vision and enthusiasm for the work of
the organisation?
● Is he/she staying on task with strategic thinking/planning;
fund development, staff management/development; financial
controls; board relations?
Technology/Systems
Are there systems in place which assist staff, the organisation and
help to maximize effectiveness?
Governance
Have all necessary registration documents been attended to?
Have the registrations and lodgings been made to ensure
incorporation of Section 21 Company?
Has the constitution been recently reviewed?
Reporting
In accordance with Methodist Church of Southern Africa policy
for all “Institutions” which are required to report to Synod:
Are arrangements in place, to ensure the inclusion in the blue book
for Synod, the following:
● A narrative report, signed by the authorised representative of
the institution concerned, indicating the caring, missional and
pastoral goals achieved during the past year, how funds were
effectively used, plans and needs for the future, the Strengths,
Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats of the institution, and
the names on the management committee, which should include
people with management, accounting and other appropriate
skills. Is this in place?
● In certain instances Government regulations or healthy trading
practices require that business plans be drawn up. Where
appropriate, are such business plans in place?
If so, are they submitted to Synod?
● Are audited annual financial statements, reflecting income from
all sources, all expenditure, excess income over expenditure
and a balance sheet of assets and liabilities and funds at yearend submitted to Synod?
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Ethics
Is there at least 75% attendance at each board meeting?
Does a board member meet with the executive director monthly to
review how he/she is doing professionally?
● Spiritually [Is he/she growing spiritually or pursuing growth]?
● Financially [Is their salary placing undue pressure/burden on
their family]?
● Maritally [How often is he/she away from home? How does
his/her spouse feel about their job?]
● Physically [Is their life style putting them at risk]?
● Has the board determined what is unethical, imprudent and
immoral and set corresponding policy?
● Are financial/contractual obligations being met in a timely
fashion?
Risk Areas
Are there any potential or real areas of litigation?
Are there any other risk areas that need to be noted?
NAME OF PERSON COMPLETING THIS REPORT
_____________________________________________________________
DESIGNATION OF PERSON COMPLETING THIS REPORT
_____________________________________________________________
TELEPHONE NUMBER
_____________________________________________________________
SIGNATURE OF AUTHORISED OFFICIAL
_____________________________________________________________
DATE
_____________________________________________________________
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Appendix 3
STIPEND AUGMENTATION FUND
Bishop L Mothibi
The Stipend Augmentation Fund Trustees met once during May 2014, to discuss
the pertinent issues facing the sustainability of the Fund. Meetings in 2014 were
postponed until the MCO Finance Unit had settled in Johannesburg.
In response to a resolution adopted by Conference 2010, a Stipend Augmentation
Fund Handbook has been developed and distributed to Districts. This handbook
was updated in 2014 to incorporate the increased minimum stipend (which includes
basic stipend, additional stipend, travelling allowance, various other allowances,
annual bonus and any housing allowance above R 4 500) of Ordained Ministers to
R 16 700 and also the amalgamation of the Voluntary Stipend Fund into the Stipend
Augmentation Fund.
The implementation of the SAF is managed by the Methodist Connexional Office,
Finance Unit. The Finance Unit reports that the SAF is stable.
The main difficulty facing the stipend augmentation process is late submission of
stipend authorisation and allowance forms. Without these forms, Ministers who
require financial assistance, are overlooked. Due to additional tax implications
relating to non-submission of these forms, MCO has reported that forms not submitted
by 15 January 2016, will result in Ministers/Deacons/Biblewomen/Evangelists not
being paid until such time as the forms are received by the Office. Please ensure that
stipend authorisation and allowance forms are submitted timeously.
The Trustees would also like to highlight that all categories of stipend (i.e. Ministers,
Deacons, Biblewomen and Evangelists) may benefit from the ‘Voluntary Stipend
Fund’. The maximum period that this Fund will pay benefits is three months, within
which a Pastoral Commission report must be submitted to the MCO. The Trustees
will decide if an applicant may then continue to receive a stipend through the Fund,
but this will only be in exceptional cases. Bishops are requested to make application
to Joanne Trytsman at the Finance Unit in writing when requesting assistance from
the Voluntary Stipend Fund.
The Trustees are happy to report that R 1 000 will be paid to Ordained Mocambique
Ministers per month during 2016 in order to augment these Ministers who are
working in very difficult circumstances. It is important to note that these Ministers
earn on average a quarter of what South African Ministers earn per month. The
financial impact on the Stipend Augmentation Fund will be R 108 000 for the year
of 2016.
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The Trustees of the Stipend Augmentation Fund and the Voluntary Stipend Fund call
on Conference to reaffirm the importance of these Funds in:
1. Ensuring that a minimum stipend is paid to Ordained Ministers;
2. Ensuring that a basic stipend is paid to Ministers, Deacons, Biblewomen
and Evangelists, in the event that they are not paid, for a period of up to
three months.
The Trustees request that Ministers, Deacons, Biblewomen and Evangelists
remember these Funds and contribute 1% of their stipend to assist these Funds
in meeting their objectives.
In addition to this resolution, the Trustees further request that Conference applies
its mind to a situation where a Minister is unable to work due to ill health and the
Circuit is not in a position to pay a stipend during this period. The likelihood is that
the Minister will recover. Conference must decide if Stipend Augmentation Fund
Trustees have authority to administer Funds for this type of request, or if another
Committee and/or Fund must be set up.
The Board of Trustees to continue will be: Rev Jacob Freemantle, Rev Litaba
Mothibi, Mrs Joanne Trytsman (Finance Unit representative), Mrs Lwethu Madi
(HR representative) and the General Secretary (ex-Officio). Bishop Gary Rivas
(Chairperson).
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CHAPTER 6
EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY AND MISSION UNIT
Rev. Norman Raphahlela
Seven years have come and gone like it was only yesterday. In the words of Charles
Dickens, “It was the best of times and it was the worst of times.” It was indeed the
best of times as the Unit turned strategic corners needed for the MCSA at this time
regarding ministerial formation and lay training. It was the worst of times as such
work does not come without a cost. A word of gratitude goes to Rev. Morapedi
Diutlwileng for work well done during his tenure as Coordinator of Lay Training,
and a word of welcome is extended to Rev. Stemela as he took over the baton from
his predecessor. The year under review has seen drastic change and adjustments in
our ministerial formation and lay training environment.
MINISTERIAL FORMATION
CANDIDATURE
This area continues to be a site of struggle as selection and discernment processes
grow to be more complex, complicated and conflicting-complex in the sense that
more of our candidates come through SMMS as private seminarians. After being
successful through our screening process they continue to be at SMMS and cannot
be counted as new entries to the Seminary. This then becomes a complicated issue
as numbers of new entries dwindle and leave the Church vulnerable with possible
stationing issues in future. It becomes a conflicting matter as more of our candidates
find this route more attractive and rewarding. The most disquieting and conflicting
matter is that this low intake of seminarians has a negative impact on the life of the
Seminary. Contrary to this is the fact that it is not acceptable to play a numbers game
for the sake of filling the Seminary with people not pastorally ready for the vocation.
This will be a recipe for systemic challenges for the church in the near future. It is
pleasing to report that efforts to work on this pattern are underway to help alleviate
the challenge.
CANDIDATES ENTRANCE EXAMINATION
Following the 2013 Conference Resolution on the review of the candidature
TH
process, it is again pleasing to report that the 28 November 2015 is set aside for
all nominated candidates to sit for the entrance examination across the length and
breadth of our Connexion.
It is recognised that the resolution of Conference 2013 which stipulates that Student
Ministers will not be collared or given the title “reverend” until completion of seminary
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formation at SMMS has created two distinct types of Student Ministers. The EMMU
General Committee noticed that non-collared, non-titled student ministers do not fit
the distinction of “minister on probation” (or “probationer”) as it has been used in
the tradition of the MCSA. The General Committee resolved that this type of Student
Minister be officially called “Seminarians” and that Student Ministers serving in
Circuit, having been collared and titled, be referred to as “Probationer Ministers”
(Probationers). “Seminarians” shall have the seminary cassock as their official dress
and shall retain their secular title. As a consequence, until edits can be made, where
regulations use the term “Probationer” it should be read as “Student Minister”.
EMMU Board of Examiners for Candidate Theological Screening Examination
1. Rev Vusi Vilakati (Systematic Theology)
2. Rev Dr Pete Grassow (Systematic Theology)
3. Dr Eraste Nyrimana (Biblical Studies SMMS)
4. Rev Lauren Matthew (Wesley Studies)
5. Rev Faith Whitby (Contemporary MCSA matters)
Moderators:
1. Rev Dr Ndikho Mtshiselwa
2. Rev Dr Wessel Bentley
3. Mr Jon-Mark Olivier (Educationist)
PROBATIONERS’ INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME
The eMseni Training Centre has now become home for the January Probationers
Seminar and the 2015 seminar was successfully held there. The week’s programme
focused on the following learning areas: (1) Visiting and re-shaping our theology of
healing, following the collapse of the Synagogue Church of all Nations in Nigeria. (2)
Journal of experiences for all first year probationers in Circuit, in practical ministry
skills. (3) Socio-Economic Justice focused on the growing gap between the rich and
poor in the countries of our Connexion, with special reference to the story of Lazarus
and the rich man in Luke`s Gospel. (4) Theology and the Spirituality of Leadership
with special focus on personal and vocational leadership, leading the congregation
toward discipleship and developing teaching material and leading events. A word of
gratitude to all facilitators, Revs Louis Williams, Vusi Vilakati, Mbuyiselo Stemela,
Morapedi Diutlwileng.
NON-ITINERANT PROBATIONERS’ TRAINING
This training has found a home at Lumko Retreat Centre in Brentwood Park,
Benoni, and the 2015 training session was led by Rev. Brenda Timmer. A total
of nine probationers attended as the EMMU had received the Presiding Bishop’s
approval for the withdrawal of one of the probationers in this category. EMMU
General Committee also noted the challenge facing some of the probationers in this
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category regarding the Conference decision on age and superannuating. Conference
2014 reinforced its long standing decision that all ministers in our Connexion retire
at age 65. This affects some of our probationers in training as they are already near
that retiring age whilst in training. A plea is placed before Conference to allow such
to be ordained and then retire in the subsequent year.
SUPERINTENDENTS’ TRAINING PROGRAMME
This programme has now found a standing curriculum which will require further
development in future. The following serves as current curriculum: Biblical,
Theological and Wesleyan Understanding of the Office of a Superintendent,
Selection and Discernment of Prospective Candidates, Effective Church
Governance, Superintendents as Mission Leaders, Superintendents and Accounts,
and Superintendents and Systems Thinking. A Word of gratitude to all regular
facilitators in the programme, Rev. Michel Hansrod (Bishop Cape of Good Hope)
Rev. Dr Mehana (HR Director MCSA) Rev. Dr Ketshabile (Mission Unit Director),
Mrs. Thini Ngonyama (Lay General Treasurer) and EMMU Staff. This work needs
development and relevant accreditation with an institution of higher learning.
ORDINANDS’ RETREAT
The Ordinands’ Retreat was successfully held at eMseni Training Centre in January
under the guidance of Rev. Nomvuyo Mhlongo assisted by Rev. Mbatu Bosman and
a Senior Deacon. As usual the retreat focused on the individual Ordinand’s sense
of preparation for Ordination: Reflection on the Theology of Ordination, Spiritual
Readiness, Preparation for Synod Oral Examination and Witness Service. The final
Retreat in this programme will be held in Port Elizabeth in the week of Conference.
POST ORDINATION TRAINING/CONTINUED LEARNING
EMMU has come a long way with the struggle to structure, develop and implement
a model suitable for Ministers in our Connexion. Discussions with the Presiding
Bishop in this area are at an advanced stage regarding models that the Presiding
Bishop has seen in his travels in other Methodist Connexions. Time will be set aside
to plan a bench-marking exercise to map out a clear and workable approach to this
kind of long-outstanding issue in the life of our Church.
6.1 RECEIVED INTO FULL CONNEXION
6.1.1 Conference 2015 received the following PROBATIONERS into Full
Connexion and resolved that they be ordained:
SURNAME
Cutane
De Jaar
Goniwe
Gxamza
Hall
NAME
Izidro
Sam
Lusindiso
Akhona
Ronald
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Keva
Kganyape
Mabaso
Mabilu
Matsididi
Mbozanani
Modise
Mogale
Mokuena
Mokuena
Mphithi
Ncobeni
Ndaba
Ngxekisa
Ninneman
Nolingo
Ralo
Sabalele
Sebolao
Tolashe
Zombe
6.1.2 Conference 2015 received the following DEACONS and resolved that
they be ordained:
SURNAME
Tembe
Mziwethu
Galetlhokwe
Londeka
Masedi
Tebogo
Madinisa
Mosioa
Karabo
Mahlomola
Ayanda
Mandisi
Sanele
Jane
Mpumelelo
Bryan
Thembelani
Solomzi
Similo
Vuyelwa
Jalamba
Pumeza
NAME
Monica
6.1.3 Conference 2015 received the following ORDAINED MINISTERS
into Full Connexion
SURNAME
Mathenjwa
Hlongwane
NAME
Philemon
Phineas
6.2 PREPARING FOR ORDINATION 2016
6.2.1 Subject to satisfactory results as indicated in the Handbook for
Probation the following PROBATIONERS are to prepare for
Ordination in 2016
SURNAME
Gana Gqomfa
Gumenke
NAME
Nomaroma
Luxolo
Thobeka
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Kedama
Khumalo
Letsoko
Mabusela
Madwe
Mbaza
Mehlomakulu
Mhaleni
Mkhonta
Mlaba
Mwanda
Ndlangamandla
Ntola
Qengwa
Ralo
Seitisho
Songo
Tiroyabone
Vergueiro
Zatu
6.2.2 Subject to satisfactory results as indicated in the Handbook for Probation
the following DEACON is to prepare for Ordination in 2016
SURNAME
Kajane
Dali
Bheki
Motlatsi
Xolisa
Mfan’Tholakele
Ayanda
Tamnci
Nomatyala
Dumisile
Mbongeni
Manelisi
Mduduzi
Nomvuyo
Sisanda
Bongani
Storia
Vusi
Obusitswe
Nuno
Getty
NAMES
Abraham
6.2.3 Subject to satisfactory results as indicated in the Handbook for Probation
the following ORDAINED MINISTER is to prepare for Reception into
Full Connexion in 2016
SURNAME
Mngcita
NAMES
Zandisile
6.3 PROBATIONERS
6.3.1 The following PROBATIONERS will continue their ministerial training
in circuit in 2016
SURNAME
Breytenbach
Buthelezi
Cele
Chibindje
Ciliza
NAME
Johan
Mevana
Nosipho
Abel
Sakhi
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Cira
Cole
Diba
Dipali
Du Bazane
Fumba
Gaarekwe
Gaven
Gertze
Gertze
Kameya
Kulu
Legodi
Lehlongoane
Lilokoe
Lubbe
Maine
Makgalane
Mandla
Martins
Luvuyo
Matthews
Mbelebele
Mdubeki
Mhlomi
Mlombi
Mlotana
Mngomezulu
Moloabi
Mosia
Mosiane
Mothupi
Mouton
Msibi
Mtapane
Mtiki
Mzamo
Ndlovu
Nel
Ngcayisa
Nomxego
Ntshinga-Yawa
Olivier
Thembeka
Philippa
Bennet
Sam
Katy
Zuks
Sethunya
Kholeka
Colin
Davy
Evaristo
Sivuyise
Gift
Sechaba
Thapelo
Carol
Lakabane
Sonamzi
Siyabonga
Linda
Masentse
Bulelani
Lwandiso
Sipho
Nzuzo
Zole
Monwabisi
Thembi
Kagiso
Peter
Rebekka
Mamsi
Reggie
Msizi
Lesizi
Xolelwa
Jabu
Senzo
Nardus
Thembani
Mazwenkosi
Vuyelwa
Wesley
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Qamba
Qhampa
Quluba
Rose
Saki
Senakgomo
Silosini
Socatsha
Thekiso
Thulo
Thwala
Tshangela
Xulu
Yelverton
Zitha
6.3.2 The following NON-ITINERANT PROBATIONERS will continue
their ministerial training in circuit in 2016
SURNAME
Gape
Gobingca
Ketshabile
Ndumela
Neveling
Nombombo
Wernich
Zono
Ndileka
Mlungisi
Luba
David
Mvusi
Kenneth
Kunjulwa
Xabiso
Mantima
Serame
Annah
Thoko
Londiwe
Ralph
Shirley
NAME
Tshegofatso
Zobongile
Reginald
Welcome
Carol
Sylvia
Louise
Kholly
6.3.3 The following will continue their ministerial training at SMMS in
2016
SURNAME
Dlamini
Galela
Gujulwa
Gumede
Lethale
Mbewu
Mcinga
Mkhunyana
Mthembu
Mtshaulana
Ngwendu
NAME
Philani
Mihlali
Milile
Muzomuhle
Solly
Nombulelo
Thabiso
Viwe
Thokozani
Thembelani
Madodonke
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Njameni
Nkosi
Nkosi
Nokwe
Pillay
Seitshiro
Senti
Songwiqi
Thabethe
Tongo
Windvogel
6.3.4 The following DEACON PROBATIONERS continue training in 2016
SURNAME
Alcock
Berrange
Brink
Habgood
Kgosana
Ngomane
Aviwe
Tshepo
Noloyiso
Lindela
Wesley
Kelebogile
Mohau
Lifa
Theophilus
Liyanda
Juliet
NAME
Pulane
Manie
Francois
Tony
Philip
Simi
6.3.5 The following ORDAINED MINISTERS Continue On-Trial in 2016
SURNAME
Cita
Magadla
Nshimbi
NAME
Zolani
Nandipha
Alain
6.4 CANDIDATES FOR THE ORDAINED MINISTRY
6.4.1 FULL TIME ITINERANT candidates received on trial who will
commence/continue training at SMMS in 2016
SURNAME
Gwaxaza
Lukhozi
Maquena
Memeza
Moyake
Mphatsoe
Ngwabeni
Ntombela
Qamata
NAME
Michael
Sipho
Noeleen
Monde
Luzuko
Dumisani
Mandisi
Siyabonga
Ntombise
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6.4.2 FULL TIME ITINERANT candidates received on trial as
PROBATIONER MINISTERS who will commence training in circuit
in 2016
SURNAME NAME
Mbelebele Lwandiso
Mngomezulu Thembi
6.4.3 Candidates for the ORDER OF DEACONS received on trial who will
commence training in 2016
SURNAME
Boekhouer
Dugmore
Marlin
Mchunu
Mdaka
NAME
Margaret
Wendy
Michelle
Smanga
Nonnie
6.5 ORDINATION
On successful completion of ALL the requirements of training as set out in the
yearly updated Handbook for Probation, and if the Superintendent of a Student
Minister judges the Student Minister
•
Of sound moral and religious character,
•
As believing and teaching sound Christian doctrine as held by the
Methodist Church,
•
As observing and enforcing our doctrine,
•
And as having competent abilities for the work of an Ordained Minister
in the MCSA, and
•
The Student Minister has served at least the minimum years on
probation,
the Superintendent appoints a small listening committee made up of at least one
ordained minister, a circuit steward, a local preacher and one other member to
engage the student minister and make a recommendation to the Quarterly Meeting. The April QM then forwards its recommendation to Synod and EMMU,
through the DSS, commenting on the suitability of the student minister’s readiness to move to the next phase of their training, viz. the ordination year.
The District Supervisor of Studies convenes a Screening committee before the
District Synod including members of the District EMMU Committee. This
evaluation should include:
•
devotional discipline,
•
social, mental, emotional and physical health,
•
educational achievements,
•
preaching and pastoral competence.
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This Committee makes recommendations to Synod. If recommended, Synod
will conditionally advance to the final phase of training, which is preparation
for Ordination.
•
All prospective ordinands shall submit a written Self-Assessment of how
probation has influenced his/her development by the due date to EMMU
to report the outcome to the General Committee.
•
The EMMU General Committee, taking all requirements into
consideration, will make a final decision on advancement to ordination.
6.5.1 PREPARATION FOR ORDINATION
•
All candidates for Ordination shall write two assignments set by the
EMMU in the year of their Ordination, attend a Seminar and prepare a
presentation for the Ordination Retreat.
•
Ordinands shall undergo Synod Oral Examinations on the floor of
Synod, which are set by the EMMU annually and forwarded to the
Bishops prior to Synod.
6.6 STUDENT MINISTERS
6.6.1 DISCIPLINE GUIDE AND RUBRICS FOR
MINISTERS-IN-TRAINING
Basic Disciplinary Scale
Caution
Warning
Final Warning
Discontinuation
System Design
A minister-in-training’s disciplinary record is reflected on two
independent scales:
1. Academic/Skills Formation Discipline Scale
2. Character Formation Discipline Scale
Ministers-in-training’s discipline records begin when they enter
seminary and continue until ordination. If a Minister-in-training has
incurred disciplinary action while at seminary – i.e. he/she has received
a caution or warning – SMMS will report this to the DSS at the end
of the seminary semester for reporting to the next EMMU General
Committee meeting for noting.
Upon completion of 3 years at SMMS the Minister-in-training’s records
continue with EMMU from the point they exit; the SMMS and EMMU
discipline systems and scales have been aligned to enable seamless
transition:
• The “Academic” discipline record at SMMS aligns with the “Skills”
record at EMMU;
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• The “Formation and Conduct” record at SMMS aligns with the
“Character Formation” record at EMMU.
Note: In cases where a Minister-in-training has completed years at
SMMS prior to becoming a Minister-in-training, the disciplinary
record continues from the point it is at. In other words, the
disciplinary record at seminary prior to the start of training
counts as part of the disciplinary record for the training period.
Note: Exclusion from SMMS on any grounds results in automatic
discontinuation from training. (Official communication will be
sent to the discontinued Minister-in-training from the Church).
Note: A comprehensive document on the disciplinary processes is
available on our website www.methodisttraining.co.za and in the
yearly updated “Handbook for Probation”.
6.6.2 SYNOD EXAMINATIONS
Required reading
Tim Attwell and Dion Forster, Exegesis for Preachers and Scholars.
(Four page pamphlet available from your DSS, EMMU or download
from www.methodisttraining.co.za.)
Preparation for the Examination
Read the 4 page pamphlet Exegesis for Preachers and Scholars/Teachers
of the Bible. Following carefully the exegetical method detailed in the
pamphlet, prepare a 500 word exegesis on each of the following two
passages.
ISAIAH 61:1 3
GALATIANS 3:28
In each exegesis you must use each one of the three “points of focus” in
the pamphlet, and show how these three points work together. Most especially, you must show how the “living word” in the two readings relates
to your own context and to the broader context in Southern Africa.
These exegeses must be sent to the District Supervisor of Studies at
least 4 weeks before the examination. The examiner will distribute
copies to the members of the examining committee. Failure to meet
this deadline will be recorded as a failure in the Synod Oral
Examination.
The Examination:
This will be in the form of a discussion among a group of Student
Ministers and the committee. Student Ministers will be asked to explain
how they did their exegesis, and then respond to the positions of others
in the group. Marks will be awarded on the basis of:
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i. Preparation for the examination, as evidenced by the exegesis and
the oral response.
ii. The Student Ministers’ understanding of their own position.
iii. Understanding and flexibility of response to the positions of
others.
6.7 GENERAL REGULATIONS
Internship:
All itinerant Student Ministers in circuit, Ordained Ministers on Trial and
Deacon Probationers shall be part of Internship Training. This involves 5 days
in January (January Seminar) and 5 or more days during the year.
Trial Services:
It shall be standard practice for the Trial Service Committee to meet with a
Student Minister or candidate to give constructive and helpful comments and
for this to take place immediately, or as soon as possible, after the service.
6.7.1 TRAINING YEARS REQUIRED PRIOR TO ORDINATION
Full Time Itinerant – a minimum of 5 years. MAXIMUM 7 YEARS
Full Time Non Itinerant – a minimum of 6 years. MAXIMUM 7
YEARS.
Part Time Non Itinerant – a minimum of 8 years. MAXIMUM 10
YEARS 6.7.2 NON-ITINERANT TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Please Note: Conference 2009 resolved that should a Non-Itinerant
Student Minister wish to change status to Full Time Itinerant,
recognition of prior learning will determined by EMMU.
a. Attend January Connexional 5 day seminar for first 4 years of
probation
b. Full IST participation of 5 or more days per year and the associated
projects for first 4 years of probation. Thereafter 2 days of
formational training at yearly district IST.
c. All compulsory District Events such as Retreats, Seminars,
Consultations and Synods as determined by the District Bishop.
d. One week formational training per year for period of probation.
6.8 CANDIDATING PROCESS
•
No candidate aged 50 or beyond in the year of acceptance will be
accepted.
•
Conference 2015 resolved that the Non-Itinerant category of the
ordained ministry be discontinued in its current form and no new
candidate will be received.
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6.8.1 NOMINATING PROCEDURE
In order to be a CANDIDATE FOR THE MINISTRY OF WORD
AND SACRAMENT one needs to:
• Be a practising Christian, committed to Jesus Christ;
• Feel a clear call to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament;
• Be a member in full standing of the Methodist Church of Southern
Africa for at least 2 years;
• BE A FULLY ACCREDITED LOCAL PREACHER in order to
be nominated;
• Hold a COMPLETED Higher Certificate in Theology or
Ministry (120 credits, NQF 5) from TEEC or an MCSA approved
Institution) with Proclamation as an elective and Wesley Studies
with EMMU.
OR
• A COMPLETED Higher Certificate in Theology (120 credits,
NQF 5) from SMMS
OR
• Have completed required credits at Diploma or Degree level
from an MCSA approved institution with Proclamation as an
elective and Wesley Studies with EMMU;
• Have attended District School of Vocation for a minimum period of
1 year.
The MCSA requires the following academic courses from TEE College.
Please note: Candidates must have completed these courses before
being nominated.
DEGREE:
• Engaging with people pastorally and ethically (7002)
• Growing spiritually, thinking theologically (7003)
• Interpreting Texts. (7004)
• Exploring our Christian Foundation (7155)
• Proclaiming our Faith (7372)
• Wesley Studies with EMMU
OR
DIPLOMA IN THEOLOGY AND MINISTRY
• Engaging with people pastorally and ethically (6002)
• Growing spiritually, thinking theologically (6003)
• Interpreting Texts. (6004)
• Exploring our Christian Foundation (6155)
OR
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DIPLOMA IN THEOLOGY
• Getting to know the Bible (85100)
• Church History 1 (85230)
• Systematic Theology 1 (85240)
• Spirituality 1 (85250)
• Ethics 1 (85260)
• Practical Theology 1 (85270)
6.8.2 ORDAINED MINISTERS WISHING TO TRANSFER FROM
OTHER CHURCHES
• All applicants for transfer must be able to serve the MCSA for at
least ten years, including their years of training as MINISTERS on
TRIAL.
• No application will be considered of people above 65 years of age,
who apply to be considered Supernumeraries in the MCSA.
• The applicant’s denomination must be part of the traditional mission
churches.
st
• Bishops send the names of applicants to EMMU no later than 31
July.
• The EMMU will send to the applicant the necessary forms to be
st
completed and submitted to EMMU no later than 31 October.
All other procedures and requirements are the same as for candidates for
Word and Sacrament and Word and Service
Successful applications for transfer are required to complete a
minimum of two years but not more than 4 years on trial and have to
complete and participate in all aspects of probationer training.
6.8.3 CANDIDATING FOR THE MINISTRY OF WORD AND
SERVICE.
See Chapter 11 (Methodist Order of Deacons) for academic requirements. All other candidating procedures are the same as for Word and
Sacrament.
6.9 CANDIDATE NOMINATION PROCEDURE
•
The Circuit Quarterly Meeting recommendation shall be in accordance with
the provided Circuit Quarterly Meeting guide AND the Superintendent’s
evaluation report (both these documents can be downloaded from www.
methodisttraining.co.za or obtained from EMMU.)
•
“INTENTION TO NOMINATE A CANDIDATE” (can be downloaded
from www.methodisttraining.co.za or obtainable from EMMU) must be
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
submitted by Superintendent Ministers to reach EMMU before 31 July.
Candidates’ forms
Personal information and ALL required attachments
Detailed Self-Evaluation
Superintendent’s Report
Society Minister’s Report
Doctor’s Evaluation of candidate’s health
Psychologist’s Evaluation
Police Clearance
st
These documents must be submitted to EMMU not later than 31 October.
Documents received after this date will not be considered.
Theological competency and academic ability will be assessed in the form
of a written examination and will include some language and academic
components to be assessed by both EMMU and SMMS.
Vocational Readiness assessed through screening done by a panel that
comprises nominated individuals appointed by the District Bishop. It is
mandatory that a person with experience in the field of Psychology or
Social Work be present within this panel together with a representative
or representatives from the Connexional EMMU.
Applicants appear before their Synods to give testimony. The Synod
recommends acceptance to EMMU General Committee and Connexional
Executive.
Connexional Executive to approve the acceptance based on the
recommendation from Synods and EMMU General Committee.
In the case of seminarians being excluded from Seth Mokitimi Methodist
Seminary following the rubrics that govern the Academic, Skills and
Character Formation as laid down by Regulatory Bodies on Higher
Education, such exclusion shall result in automatic exclusion from the
whole process of formation for the ordained ministry.
Individuals who candidate having completed a period of study at Seth
Mokitimi Methodist Seminary prior to candidature, may be awarded
a maximum of one year reduction period from the years of probation.
This would result in a candidate serving a minimum period of four years
on probation before being received as an ordinand, subject to having
completed all EMMU requirements as stipulated in the Yearbook from
time to time.
Individuals who have successfully satisfied the candidature requirements,
including screening, with completed academic qualifications from other
registered and accredited theological institutions, shall be required to spend
the first three years of their training at Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary
to satisfy the Spiritual, Character Formation and Skills Development
requirements for the ordained ministry.
The Rubrics governing the formation of probationers who have exited the
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Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary after successful completion of their
seminary training, shall be published in the Yearbook on a yearly basis.
Such rubrics may change from time to time in order to align with the
Seminary practice; changes are to be tabled at Conference a year prior to
implementation.
6.10 DISTRICT SUPERVISORS OF STUDIES FOR 2016
Cape of Good Hope
Rev Mervin Williams
Grahamstown
Rev Rod Burton
Queenstown
Rev Thamsanqa Mdingi
KNB
Rev Ian Wridgway
N. Free State & Lesotho
Rev Trevor Hingle
Natal Coastal
Rev Chris Mokone
Natal West
Rev Zakhele Radebe
Central
Rev Phillip Serwalo
Highveld & Swaziland
Rev Stephen Barry
Limpopo
Rev Pumla Mtshiselwa
Mozambique
Rev Maria Mucamba
Clarkebury
Rev Kereng Matlawe
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LAY TRAINING
Rev. Mbuyiselo M. Stemela
(Co-ordinator for the Training of Lay Ministries)
6.11 Introduction
The Lay Training portfolio of the Education for Ministry and Mission Unit
continues to ensure that training of the Local Preachers and the Order of
Evangelism is in line with policies and doctrine of the Methodist Church of
Southern Africa.
Local Preachers
The Local Preachers remain an important component in the life of the Church.
The portfolio continues to outsource the training of Local Preachers from the
Theological Education by Extension College (TEEC). There is also continued
work with regards to restructuring of the Local Preachers training. The
Connexional Secretary of the Local Preachers Department has been appointed
and is in a process to consolidate the District Secretaries of the Local Preachers
department.
Progress In the Restructuring OF Local Preacher’s
Training
As per the 2014 Conference report on page 137 of the 2015 Yearbook, the
Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary (SMMS) has and is continuing to explore
the possibility of providing training for Methodist Local Preachers through
a distance learning model. The Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary has been
accredited to offer a Higher Certificate in Christian Ministry (NQF 5) via
distance learning. SMMS will be offering the programme to a limited number of
students from 2016. EMMU will accept qualifications/credits from TEEC and
SMMS for Local Preacher training purposes. EMMU would still have to make
a decision with regard to the lower categories of studies, i.e. the Certificate of
Competence, the Award and Mature Age Courses.
Programme implementation
All aspects of the actual implementation of the programme are being thoroughly
thought through by both EMMU and SMMS, and there is constant modification.
This includes, inter alia, the staffing requirements and functions within SMMS
to run the programme; the personnel requirements within the Connexion for
functions such as materials distribution, tutoring and marking; the relationships
between SMMS, EMMU and the Local Preachers Department (LPD); the
possible use of digital technology to provide additional student support, as well
as the financial aspects of the programme.
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Lower Categories of Local Preachers studies
In the spirit of restructuring and development of the training of Local
Preachers, Ministers and Circuit Supervisors of studies are urged to encourage
all Preachers on-trial, with a Grade 12 (Matric) qualification, to register and
study either towards the Higher Certificate in Christian Ministry, Diploma or
Bachelors of Theology.
Certificate of Competence, Award and Mature Age
Courses
Consultations and conversation with the stakeholders, has indicated a wide
consensus for the retention of these categories of studies. This means that
EMMU would continue to be in conversation with TEEC to find common
ground with respect to the content and quality of academic courses being
offered by TEEC. Also the role of the Circuit in the training and preparation
of competent preachers will have to be interrogated, and relevant structures
empowered to assist in the development of preachers.
THE ORDER OF EVANGELISM
The training of Bible Women and Evangelists is going smoothly, although
numbers have gone down, due to the age limit of candidates of the Order of
Evangelism and the scrapping of the part-time category. Eighteen (18), out
th
of twenty-one (21) probationers graduated on the 13 June 2015, at the St.
Thomas Society, Bloemfontein – KNB District. We are grateful to the Rev XJJ
Gedezana and the St. Thomas Methodist Society for continued support of the
work of the Order of Evangelism. Rubrics for the Order have also been put in
place after consultation. There are currently four (4) first year probationers and
twelve (12) second year probationers.
st
A training manual for the Order of Evangelism has been developed for 1 and
nd
2 year training and it covers the following aspects:
ST
1 Year
• INTRODUCTION TO METHODIST DOCTRINE, VISION AND
MISSION
• INTRODUCTION TO CHURCH PLANTING
• INTRODUCTION TO EVANGELISM (NEW WAYS)
• INTRODUCTION TO SMALL GROUPS
• INTRODUCTION TO PASTORAL COUNSELLING AND CRISIS
COUNSELLING
ND
2
•
•
•
Year
PASTORAL COUNSELLING AND CRISIS COUNSELLING
EVANGELISM (FAITH SHARING)
METHODIST DOCTRINE
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• CHURCH PLANTING
• SMALL GROUPS AS TOOLS OF EVANGELISM
CONCLUSION
A word of gratitude goes to the Director of EMMU Rev Norman Raphahlela and
EMMU staff, Anne Burmeister and Melanie Kasselman for the warm welcome
and guidance as the new Lay Training Coordinator. We thank the facilitators who
continuously support the training programme of the Order. A word of gratitude goes
to the Chairperson, Warden and the District Secretaries of the Order of Evangelism
for their cooperation.
6.11.1 LOCAL PREACHERS
It is important to note that a person wishing to apply to become a Local
Preacher in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa must be a member of
the church in good standing for at least two years.
We strongly urge circuits to appoint Supervisors of Studies to liaise with
EMMU and also to initiate learning events for the preachers in the circuits.
EMMU relies on the integrity of the individual and the circuit for
preachers to register according to their academic qualifications.
6.11.2 LOCAL PREACHERS ON TRIAL
Local Preachers on Trial are registered with TEEC. The probation period
is at least two years but not, except in very special circumstances, more
than three (3) years. Refer Methodist Book of Order p.148, para 12.6.3.
PLEASE NOTE: THE AWARD COURSE AND CERTIFICATE OF
COMPETENCE COURSE WILL BE PHASED OUT, MEANING
THAT NO NEW REGISTRATIONS FOR EITHER OF THESE
COURSES WILL BE ACCEPTED IN 2016.
6.11.3 AWARD
First Year
TEEC course 102 (God and God’s People)
TEEC course 172 (Preaching)
Second Year
TEEC course 121 (Jesus Christ and His People)
TEEC course 141 (Basic Christian Doctrine) + Wesley Studies through
EMMU
6.11.4 CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE
First Year
TEEC course 201 (Introduction to the Old Testament)
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Second Year
TEEC course 221 (Introduction to the New Testament)
TEEC course 241 (Christian Doctrine) + Wesley Studies through
EMMU
6.11.5 HIGHER CERTIFICATE
These courses have assignments and examinations and can give certain
credits towards Diploma courses
First Year
TEEC course 45111 (Introduction to the Old Testament)
TEEC course 45378 (Christian Proclamation)
Second Year
TEEC course 45121 (Introduction to the New Testament)
TEEC course 45241 (Introduction to Theology) + Wesley Studies through
EMMU
A HIGHER CERTIFICATE CAN ALSO BE OBTAINED BY
DISTANCE EDUCATION FROM THE SETH MOKITIMI
METHODIST SEMINARY. PLEASE NOTE: THIS QUALIFICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY AND NOT
JUST SELECTIVE COURSES.
6.11.6 DIPLOMA COURSES
These courses have assignments and examinations
First Year
TEEC course 85260 (Ethics)
TEEC course 85270 (Practical Theology)
TEEC course 86378 (Proclaiming our Faith)
Second Year
TEEC course 85240 (Systematic Theology 1)
TEEC course 85250 (Spirituality 1)
TEEC course 85100 (Getting to know the Bible) + Wesley Studies through
EMMU
6.11.7 DEGREE
These courses have assignments and examinations
First Year
TEEC course 7002 (Engaging with people pastorally and ethically)
TEEC course 7372 (Proclaiming our faith)
Second Year
TEEC course 7003 (Growing spiritually, thinking theologically)
TEEC course 7004 (Interpreting texts: Biblical & other sources) + Wesley
Studies through EMMU
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Wesley Studies registration with EMMU only FROM JANUARY with
a CLOSING DATE of 28 February each year. Registration forms
obtainable from EMMU in January each year or can be downloaded
from our website www.methodisttraining.co.za
6.11.8 MATURE AGE PREACHERS
For mature age preachers WHO HAVE LESS THAN STANDARD 3
(Grade 5) AND ARE OLDER THAN 55 YEARS (to be verified by Identity
Document), the following arrangement applies:
• The circuit registers Mature Age candidates with EMMU FROM
JANUARY TO MARCH each year at an annual cost of R80 each
and an additional R30 for each preacher doing Wesley Studies in their
second year. The Circuit must arrange tutoring for:
First Year (R80)
TEEC course 102 (God and God’s People)
Second Year (R110)
TEEC course 121 (Jesus Christ and His People)
TEEC course 141 (Basic Christian Doctrine)
Wesley Studies
• Wesley Studies material must be ordered from EMMU at a cost of
R100. Only one set of material from EMMU is needed by the circuit.
This material can be kept as a permanent resource in the circuit.
• Oral examination question papers are sent (in October) to those circuits
that have registered their Mature Age candidates with EMMU.
This is a two-year programme as for all Local Preachers.
Registration forms available for download at www.methodisttraining.co.za
or from EMMU in January of each year.
6.11.9 REGISTRATION WITH TEEC (www.tee.co.za)
Registrations at TEEC open in October/November for the following year.
Registration forms are obtainable from TEEC.
6.11.10 LOCAL PREACHERS CERTIFICATES
To be received on Full Plan (Accredited)
The following documents need to be submitted to EMMU by the Circuit
Superintendent:
• Assessment of preacher to be received onto Full Plan (obtainable from
EMMU or download from www.methodisttraining.co.za)
• Assessment of Trial Service (obtainable from EMMU or download
from www.methodisttraining.co.za)
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• Copy of ID document
• Copies of results for ALL Local Preachers’ studies
There is no cost involved for the first issue of a certificate. Certificates are
posted to the Circuit Superintendent. EMMU does not issue certificates
on the request of individual preachers.
Long Service Certificate
EMMU only issues certificates of Long Service for 25 years and 40
years. The following information must be submitted to EMMU by the
Circuit Superintendent for these certificates to be issued:
• Copy of ID document
• Copy of LP Certificate or a copy of the inscription in the Bible given
to a preacher when accepted onto Full Plan.
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CHAPTER 7
ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS REPORT
Rev Purity Malinga
The Ecumenical Affairs Unit has the task of encouraging the Methodist people
towards ecumenical engagement and co-operation. In this task the unit is guided by
the fifth transformation call of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, namely, “a
commitment to be one so that the world may believe”. To carry out this task the Unit
Director works together with the Districts’ Ecumenical Affairs Secretaries, who have
the task of championing and encouraging ecumenical co-operation in the districts
together with their District Bishops.
OVERVIEW
The reports of the District Secretaries indicate growth in ecumenical and inter-faith
co-operation in the Connexion. One notes that Christians and people of other faiths
easily come and work together when there is a crisis e.g. service delivery protests,
Xenophobic attacks etc. It is however, encouraging to see growth in ecumenical
co-operation around mission and ministry that are proactively addressing the needs
of communities. Methodists throughout the Connexion participate in the following
ecumenical activities:
• Ministering to child-headed households.
• Programmes to alleviate poverty and other social ills such as farming projects,
Women empowerment programmes, dealing with drug abuse etc.
• Ministry to schools.
• Involvement in the National, Regional and Provincial Councils of churches.
• Efforts towards building peace and reconciliation e.g. between protesters,
between political parties etc.
• Prayers on special days, e.g. Women’s World Day of Prayer, Church Unity Week
of Prayer etc. and also whenever is necessary.
HIGHLIGHTS
There is an obvious overlap between the Mission Unit and the Ecumenical Affairs
Unit which results in co-operation between the two units at Connexional level. There
was a need to cascade this co-operation down to the Districts and Circuits. At the
joint session of the Consultations of the two units, the need for working together at
District and Circuit levels was discussed and agreed upon. The strength and impact
of doing mission ecumenically cannot be overemphasised.
It has come up in various forums that there are people who are not sure what
“Ecumenism” means. This arises in conversations and also when presentations and
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reports of the unit are made. The Unit has succeeded in compiling a small booklet
entitled, “Ecumenism Defined”. This is a simple, easy to read explanation to inform
the MCSA membership and encourage them to commit to unity. There are plans to
produce a book that will record the history of Ecumenism in all the countries of the
Connexion by 2016.
As requested by the Church Unity Commission (CUC), Rev Dr Donald Cragg,
on behalf of the MCSA, has compiled all the resolutions taken by Conference on
Church Unity. These go as far back as 1963 and they are evidence of the MCSA’s
commitment to unity. This compilation can be obtained from the Districts Ecumenical Affairs Secretaries, from myself and from the General Secretary.
It is appreciated that the Ecumenical Affairs Unit is now documented in the Book of
th
Order (Laws and Discipline: 12 Edition: 8.5). With the functions and duties spelt
out, the role of the District Ecumenical Affairs Secretary in the district will no longer
be questioned.
CHALLENGES
District Ecumenical Affairs secretaries continue to struggle to get reports from some
Circuits on what is taking place at a society/Circuit level. It has been observed that
ecumenical co-operation at society or Circuit level depends on ministers. Many of
the Methodist ministers are leading in ecumenical work, but we encourage all to take
ecumenism seriously. It is also concerning that there are Synods where Ecumenical
Affairs matters are neither presented nor considered. We rely on the Bishops to put
ecumenical issues on the agenda of the districts.
THE COUNCILS OF CHURCHES
The MCSA is represented on national councils of churches in all the countries of
the Connexion. It has been agreed in the unit that the Director will be notified when
there are General Conferences of Councils in various countries so s/he or the Chair
of the Advisory Committee can visit where possible.
Emanating from last year’s report on the South African Council of Churches (SACC)
it is pleasing to report that the renewal agenda is progressing well. The Council is
restoring the sense of ownership and presence of member churches in its life and
ministry. Various initiatives have been undertaken namely,
• Creating the National Church Leaders’ Forum as a governance and accountability
structure.
• Ongoing income-generation to ensure sustainability.
• Revitalising the Provincial structures and offices
• Implementing Rolling Church Action for Social Change Programme-the issue
of concern in 2015 is Poverty and member churches are asked to pray and take
action to eradicate it.
• Calling for Prayers for the Nation.
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• The renewed, united voice of the SACC was again audible and visible during the
xenophobic attacks that erupted in South Africa in April. There was a united “No”
and also commitment to work with government to avoid this in the future. SACC
was encouraged in being supported by the World Council of Churches in condemning this violence, re-affirming the churches’ position against all acts of violence.
THE CHURCH UNITY COMMISSION
The CUC continues with its work of encouraging relationships across denominations
around the five Trajectories of Unity. Last year the General Secretary, Rev Keith
Griffiths, visited conferences, synods and assemblies of member churches. He made
an observation about a lack of ecumenical presence in these meetings particularly
in the MCSA Conference. We are encouraged to invite our partners in Christ to our
Synods at district level and to Conference. Our unity is to be visible. As a member
church of the CUC, we are also encouraged to distribute the Word and Worship
ecumenical liturgical resource to which we contribute. Resolutions to be endorsed
by each member church are at the end of this report.
CONCLUSION
We are encouraged by the good works of mission and ministry happening in the
societies, Circuits, and regions of the Connexion. We salute the organisations,
especially Women’s organisations, for continuing in inter-denominational prayers and
service in the communities. Let us all continue to cross the divides of denominations
and religions and work together for justice, peace and dignity in our communities.
The unity for which Christ prayed is missional. As the ones sent, let us continue in
this united mission “so that the world may believe” in the One who sends us.
ACTION LIST FOR CUC MEMBER CHURCHES
It is recommended that:
1. The MCSA Conference urge the General Secretary to keep the CUC apprised of
changes in office bearers at Connexional and district levels.
2. Conference welcome moves to make the inter-denominational prayer chapels
at OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport and Cape
Town International Airport more accessible to travellers and their families.
3. Conference acknowledge the collection by Dr Donald Cragg, of all the resolutions
adopted by Conference on various proposals put forward by the Church Unity
Commission. The collection is recommended as a resource for all new leaders to
avoid loss of collective memory regarding the steps already taken with regard to
Church Unity. 4. Conference urge its regional (Bishops) leadership to ensure that all covenanting
churches are fully involved in the constituting of United Churches within their
areas.
5. Conference urge its regional leaders to ensure that all United Churches within
their regions are included in all items of communication within their areas.
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6. Conference agree to take steps to ensure that the Mutual Acceptance of Ministries
Agreement is:
i. Enacted in the denominational legal framework that regulates the appointment
of ministers; and
ii. Brought to the attention of all regional leaders for implementation in their
regions.
7. Conference welcome the development of United Churches in rural areas as a
strategic means of providing ministry to people in those areas.
8. Conference welcome the CUC initiative to support the Theological Education by
Extension College as the remaining sign of co-operation in training students for
the ministry and continuing ministerial education.
Centres of Hope
Conference rejoices over the work being done by churches in areas of conflict
resolution, education, peace mediation and poverty alleviation and urges regional
structures to engage with all Member and Observer Churches in such endeavours.
Doctrinal Issues including Questions of Oversight
Conference encourages the Doctrine Committee of the CUC to present creative new
alternatives that might bring to resolution the issues around the Ministry of Oversight
and the Question of Full Communion.
Conference pledges to support the National Consultation planned by the CUC in
2016 on a theme “What will the church look like in 2040?”
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CHAPTER 8
COMMUNICATIONS UNIT
Introduction
The vision of the Communications Unit continues to be the effective communication
of the MCSA vision of a Christ Healed Africa for the healing of nations, a call which
rings more loudly and urgently in the wake of continued xenophobic violence and
growing ethnic divisions. The transformation call “to be one so that the world may
believe” that draws from the 1958 resolution of a one and undivided church demands
that the church stops and takes stock of what we are communicating to the world.
CONNEXIONAL COMMUNICATIONS
The New Dimension
There has been a continued struggle to keep the whole Connexion up to date with all
that is happening within the 6 countries. Although the New Dimension has continued
to serve the Connexion well, the low print run of 6 000 does not justify the high costs
of producing and posting the paper monthly. The importance of the history carried
in the New Dimension cannot be dismissed and all of this history is safely stored in
the Corey Library in Grahamstown.
The following are some thoughts we will consider as possibilities for the way forward.
• Perhaps reduce the production of the New Dimension to once every quarter with a
possibility to re-evaluate the actual presentation of the ‘official mouth-piece’ of the
MCSA and consider other options such as a magazine with feature articles etc.
• To expand the website as communication tool and equip it to carry MCSA News;
Video & Audio; Blogs and Commentaries from within the Connexion; and have a
press centre for all media statements that are released. This however means that we
also need more committed volunteers in the 12 districts willing to keep the MCO
informed of the latest ‘on the ground’ news etc. so that the website can be kept
updated and relevant. Clearly defined district communication networks that report
to the Communications Unit will need to be established. The presence in our office
of Bonge who provides IT support, is an added advantage as she will work closely
with the Communications Unit to build a more interactive website that we can be
proud of. We will continue to lean on the support and help of Rev Michael Bishop,
whose technical knowledge has been invaluable over the last few years.
• We also envision the possibility of greater use of social media and the development of MCSA specific Apps that will make greater use of cell-phone technology. For instance an MCSA App that has the following features would be very
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strategic: Daily Bible studies, suggested books and resources from the publishing
house; Lectionary readings and suggested hymns to help with planning worship;
latest news; podcasts; videos of major services like ordination, conference etc.;
interaction on Facebook and Twitter; prayer request section and a find your nearest church section.
• E-newsletters on various issues of interest such as a ‘Mission in Focus’ Women’s
Work, Methodist Publishing etc. can also be introduced and anyone interested
can subscribe on line.
• A communications advisory team of about 5 individuals to be appointed to help
brainstorm around the process as well as drive it.
For this initiative to be a success greater liaison between units will be necessary.
Radio
Community radio stations have served us well by carrying prophetic messaging on
issues that the church made pronouncement’s on. The Communications Director is
a board member of the Association of Christian Media a resource that includes networks with over 30 radio stations, 4 TV stations and several print media. Closer
ties need to be made with Christian media so as to amplify the churches voice in a
secular world.
Branding
We are pleased to report that the registration of our church insignia is almost finalised and as such the attached policy comes into full effect with regards the use of
all church logos, emblems etc. Any unauthorised use of church emblems will lead to
some punitive action being taken. Please familiarise yourselves with the rules governing the use of church emblems on products for fund raising etc.
Namibia
The Mission visit to Namibia was a highlight this year and enabled the scripting of
the work, growth and challenges of the church in Namibia which will be of historical
significance to generations to come.
Visits to Minister's Retreats
The Communications Director visited 5 District Ministers’ Retreats in February at
which she was able to share a bit about the work of the unit, collate contact information,
and take photographs of all ministers. The visits were very fruitful and several ministers
have started to write articles for the New Dimension. A minister’s monthly E-Newsletter was launched in January and has been successfully used to keep the ministers up to
date with information from the MCO, General Secretary and Presiding Bishop.
Staff
The unit continues to subsist with one full time member of staff. The Unit is still in
dire need of volunteer district communications officers that can provide district news
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feeds on a regular basis. We also encourage organisational communications officers
to constantly submit news reports.
Conclusion
The sharing of our stories is not an option considering the wide geographical space
we cover- it is through this sharing that we invite each other into our varied narratives and create koinonia-a community of believers that can identify with one another through shared witness; a united community that is testament to the Holy Trinity;
a church that can honestly present as being one and undivided.
The Methodist Church of Southern Africa
Communication Policy
Aim
This communication policy is geared toward the facilitation of the effective
participation by the MCSA in various media activities, giving due consideration for
pursuing opportunities and countering possible threats. In so doing, this policy further
aims to assist the leadership of the MCSA-the Presiding Bishop and the General
Secretary-to respond to public, doctrinal and national issues of a controversial
nature.
Guiding Principles
1. The vision of the Communications Unit is the effective communication of the
MCSA as it prayerfully seeks to be an example of healing and transformation
for Southern Africa, Africa and the World. To this end the Unit shall provide a
service of communication information to the Office of Presiding Bishop and to
all Units of the MCSA.
2. As per our Methodist usage the Presiding Bishop is the only spokesperson
permitted to release statements and/or to speak to the media on behalf of
the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. The Presiding Bishop may, at his
discretion, designate the General Secretary or other person/s to speak or to
release statements on behalf of the MCSA. Such designation shall be applicable
on a case by case basis.
3. Any media statement drafted by any person other than the Presiding Bishop or
General Secretary must be approved for release by the Presiding Bishop.
4. The General Secretary has the authority and the responsibility-after consultation
with the Presiding Bishop-to participate in media conferences, where such
conferences involve public, doctrinal or sensitive matters.
5. All members of the MCSA-lay or ordained, and serving the MCSA in any
leadership capacity whatsoever – are prohibited from releasing any statements
in the name of the MCSA that may call the Church’s doctrinal and/or policy
decisions into question. Further, such members are prohibited from commenting
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7.
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10.
11.
12.
13.
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in the public media on matters that may jeopardise the image of the Church.
This includes social media platforms. Anyone, who on social media platforms
claims allegiance to or to work for the MCSA automatically puts themselves
and everything they publish online under the governance of the MCSA.
While District Executive Committees may decide to engage the media it is
imperative that their communications accurately reflect the Connexional
policies and decisions as the source. The District Bishop in his/her specific and
designated district has the responsibility for accurate representation of MCSA
policies, decisions and resolutions. The District Bishop shall, however, consult
with the Presiding Bishop especially on contentious issues and any other
matters that may invoke uncertainty through engagement with the media.
Whenever statements and/or media representations are made it is important
to consider the consequences the statement and/or such representation may
have on the Connexional image of the Church and its relation with other
Christian denominations, the ecumenical family of Churches and other faith
communities.
Every effort shall be made to avoid statements that contradict earlier statements,
resolutions or public pronouncements from the MCSA.
Media statements shall at all times promote both the Connexional and national
interests of the MCSA.
Where differences of opinion exist between the Connexion and any of the
Districts, the matter will be addressed through the traditional and Connexional
(Circuit-District-Connexion) channels of communication and decision
making. Should this method prove unsatisfactory for urgent communication
responses, the Presiding Bishop has the sole discretion in deciding alternative
approaches.
The Presiding Bishop and/or the General Secretary may use their discretion to
refrain from commenting on any issue/s.
The Presiding Bishop maintains the prerogative to decide on any panel for
MCSA representation at media conferences.
The Communications Unit operates under the auspices of the Office of the
Presiding Bishop.
The use of any church insignia (including but not limited to the official Shell
Logo and organizational badges and emblems) to produce items to sell for
fundraising shall now only be done after authorization has been sought and
received in writing from the MCO. 10% of earnings will be charged each time
church insignia are used.
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CHAPTER 9
MISSION UNIT
Rev Dr K F Ketshabile
INTRODUCTION
We are grateful to God for having enabled us once again to be in mission with God
since the last Conference. Through working alongside circuits and Districts across
the Connexion, we have witnessed the life-changing and liberating presence of God
in our churches and communities – restoring hope and dignity to many of God’s
people even in the most remote parts of the Connexion. An overview analysis of
mission engagement in its broader sense shows that more societies (local churches),
circuits and Organisations are increasingly grasping what it means to be a missional
church. This is demonstrated in part through involvement in missional activities in
the life of many local churches. Truly, “Together as a Discipleship Movement” we
can achieve more towards a “Christ healed Africa for the Healing of the nations”.
It is our prayer that our missional actions evident around the Connexion are
undergirded by a passionate desire to serve the Kingdom of God and missional
living rather than self-gratification.
While we rejoice in the positive understanding and growth in missional involvement,
we are cognisant of the challenges that face mission endeavours around the Connexion.
The resourcing of mission is one among many of the daunting challenges for many
churches and the Mission Unit. These challenges are evident in the inability of most
churches to sustain mission projects. In some instances the challenge is manifested
in the lack of ability by some circuits to meet their assessments. We appeal to those
societies, circuits, Organisations and individual Methodists who have the means, to
support our Connexional Mission Funds namely the Pula Fund and the Methodist
Relief and Development Fund. These Funds have been established to support mission
work in the Connexion. We are grateful to all those who continue to contribute
faithfully and generously to these mission funds.
Our thanks also go to societies, circuits and individuals who responded to the
Connexional call towards Nepal disaster relief following the earthquake in April
2015. The contribution of R30 000 has been sent through our partner, the Methodist
Church in Britain whose Relief arm, All We Can, is on the ground in Nepal.
This year, the Mission Unit embarked on a strategy to become more aware of the issues
in all the countries of the Connexion. By 2017, the Presiding Bishop with the MCO
team will have visited all of the countries of the Connexion. The purpose is to:
• Provide an opportunity for the Presiding Bishop and MCO to gain an understanding
of the life and ministry in each context
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• Meet with the relevant government departments to enhance relationships and
understanding of the MCSA
• Participate in frank reflective sessions on the work, development and challenges
of each context
• Address some of the concerns
• Enable MCSA structures to develop strategies of response.
The Connexional Mission Unit Consultation in March 2015, held a joint session with
the MCSA Ecumenical Affairs District Coordinators for the first time. The purpose
was to establish areas of work that overlap, determine ways of addressing issues of
social justice jointly and to strengthen the witness of the church through ecumenical
cooperation at the local level. We hope to continue this collaboration as well as build
collaboration with the other Units.
With the support of our partner, the Methodist Church in Britain, the Justice &
Service Desk has been able to strengthen its work in the areas of gender justice
and human trafficking through research, consultations and stakeholder partnerships.
Through the activities of these portfolios the Unit has been able to reach more of our
local communities, stakeholder organisations and the ecumenical body. The Justice
and Service Desk welcomed the appointments of Mr Siyabulela Tonono as J & S
Desk Field Officer, who deals with human trafficking, gender-based violence and
abuse of children and the elderly and Rev Jane Day who coordinates the gender
justice portfolio. Rev Jane Day is a Baptist minister who has been seconded to the
Methodist Church of Southern Africa, via the Methodist Church in Britain. She
spends some of her week serving at Germiston Central Methodist and the rest of her
time in the Mission Unit.
The capacity of the Unit has also been strengthened with the appointment of Mr
Morgan Raboshaga as Mission Unit Field Worker, Mrs Wivine Kabongo as Assistant
Office Administrator and Mr Siphumeze Ndlela as Mission Unit Data Capturer. The
MCSA Education and Spiritual Formation pillar has become an integral part of
the Mission Unit through the Education and Spiritual Formation Desk. Its work is
coordinated by Rev. Prof. Stephen Hendricks. He is in this role on a part-time and
non-stipendiary basis.
The Unit continues to be funded mainly through our partners – the HIV/AIDS and
Childcare Desks by Evangelisch Methodistische Kirche (EmK) and the Global
Fund (GF), the Justice & Service Desk Coordinator and J & S Field Officer by the
Methodist Church in Britain, the Global Fund Programme Coordinator and Data
Capturer by the GF and the Finance Officer in part by the GF.
HIV AND AIDS DESK
In the MCSA’s effort to join together all those who are involved with fighting the
scourge of HIV/AIDS, we applaud the districts, regions, circuits, societies/local
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churches, individuals, organisations and their stakeholder partners for the humble
work they do and the support they give to their communities.
The leadership demonstrated by our church through the years has gone a long way
towards releasing the people called Methodists to make this ministry an integral
part of their Christian calling. We are witnessing an increasing numbers of different
formations within the life of our church which do all in their best to care for those
infected and affected amid challenges of financial resources. The interfacing of the
Connexional Coordinator of the Desk with organisations of the MCSA continues to
be a critical platform for information sharing and encouragement.
As we approach the end of 2015, which marks the end of the Millennium Development
Goals, the Southern Africa Region in its ‘2014 Global AIDS Response Report’
cited improved school attendance amongst Orphaned and Vulnerable Children
(p95). Methodists across the Connexion have continued yearly to provide school
uniforms to deserving children in our communities and this response impacts greatly
on improved school attendance. There has been improvement towards removing
stigma and discrimination towards People Living with HIV & AIDS (PLWHA) and
strengthening HIV integration into health and other programmes e.g. ‘gender-based
violence’(p 101).
United Nations calls us all to “Fast Track Ending the AIDS Epidemic by 2030.” How
do we plan to get there? Through targeting the Three 90s, that by 2030:1. 90% of PLWHA know their status
2. 90% PLWHA who know their status are accessing treatment
3. 90% of PLWHA who are on treatment have suppressed viral load
Methodists are called upon to revive or upscale the culture of having HIV Counselling
and Testing (HCT) as part of the ‘full battery of tests’ at every gathering and making
sure these are accessible to the community as well. Over the years this has been the
practice at MCSA Synods, some of our Conventions and at World AIDS Day events.
However, we need to revisit the practice with more purpose than before and engage
the District Departments of Health as much as possible for these services.
NAME CHANGE TO HEAlTH AND HIV/AIDS DESK
The Mission Unit Advisory Board and the 2015 Mission Unit Consultation have
been in discussions on the suggested change of name from the HIV & AIDS Desk to
Health & HIV/AIDS Desk. District Mission Coordinators took the recommendation
to their district Synods and consensus has been reached so far. We therefore request
Conference to endorse this recommendation.
WORLD AIDS DAY (WAD) COMMEMORATION 2014
During November and December 2014, the Connexional HIV Desk represented the
Mission Unit at six events in five Districts which made a remarkable impact on the
communities in which they were held. These were all well-attended events where
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deserving people from participating communities were given material and nutritional
support. PLWHA, Community Home-Based Care-workers, Orphaned & Vulnerable
Children, HIV & Women Abuse Activists were embraced, equipped, acknowledged
and assured of the church’s support. We are encouraged by the resilience of those
infected and affected and the selflessness of the volunteers who bring hope and
dignity to the neglected.
“TOWARDS AN HIV AND AIDS COMPETENT CHURCH” TRAINING OF
TRAINERS PROGRAMME
The training has been implemented over the years throughout the Connexion to
laity, ministers, evangelists and biblewomen. Over the past year participants from
the following Districts were trained: Northern Free State and Lesotho, Kimberley
Namibia and Bloemfontein District, Central, Highveld & Swaziland and Limpopo.
The only District which is still to be trained is Mozambique. It is hoped that this
training will take place before the end of 2015. We thank all districts of the Connexion
that responded to this valuable programme and are cascading the training within
their areas of work. This has resulted in a commendable ‘cadre of trainers in HIV &
AIDS’ who have become an asset to the Connexion.
GLOBAL FUND ATM PROGRAMME PHASE 2: We are currently in the last
year of Global Fund Round 9 Phase 2 funding. The programme covers five MCSA
Districts in eight municipal districts in the five inland provinces of South Africa.
The emphasis of the AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria (ATM) programme is “Treatment
Adherence”. This has given the MCSA a golden opportunity to strengthen its
response to HIV through strengthening our data-collection skills and use of reporting
tools. The programme supports a total of 32 sites. It has offered accredited training
for project managers and 64 home based and OVC caregivers, licensed volunteers
(both care-workers & retired nurses) to counsel and test. The following benefits
have also been made available through the programme: stipends for 87 care-givers
and management; material support for 1419 OVCs e.g. school uniforms, blankets &
toiletries, nutritional support for 2886 PLWHA on treatment and needy households
with 2428 OVCs. Through the programme 88 active Treatment Adherence Support
Groups have reached 4325 and improved patient retention on treatment. 371 OVCs
received HTC (16 of them tested positive and were referred to local clinics). Quarterly
monitoring and evaluation visits are paid by the team to all implementing sites and
quarterly on site data verification meetings are held with the monitoring team from
the principal recipients. The monitoring and evaluation tools and process has created
an invaluable experience for the Connexional team which will be used even after the
Global Fund term with the MCSA.
As a result of this year’s mission visit to Namibia and consultations with Namibia
Council of Churches, the circuits in Namibia have been introduced to the country’s
Global Fund programme and have been identified as possible beneficiaries in their
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programme. We urge all sovereign countries of this Connexion to approach the
Global Fund agency in their respective countries for potential participation in their
programmes.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE DESK
The Presiding Bishop, General Secretary, KNB District Bishop District, Mission
and Communication Unit Directors and Coordinators of all MU Desks conducted
a mission week and reflective session in the Namibia region of the KNB District.
The team was exposed to the work, development and challenges of the church in
Namibia. Among other activities, the team met with the Departments of Trade and
Industry and Home Affairs to address concerns pertaining to registration of land and
work permits. They also met with the Council of Churches of Namibia to discuss,
amongst others issues, the participation of the MCSA in ecumenical activities in this
region. The Presiding Bishop was able to share the extent of the work of the MCSA
in Southern Africa (including Namibia) on Namibia Television. Conversations on a
strategic mission approach in Namibia are ongoing.
The mission week to Mozambique will be conducted in March 2016 and the Lesotho
reflective session in April 2016.
Liberating engagement by local churches during upsurge of xenophobic violence
was a good example of pastoral and prophetic action. Churches continue to work
with local partners and government agencies to address outstanding matters.
In August last year a massive study by the Gauteng City-Region Observatory, a
joint project involving several universities and city municipalities, found that 35% of
all respondents wanted “all foreigners” sent packing. Meanwhile, an early-warning
intelligence system, created in the wake of the 2008 bloodshed to alert authorities of
brewing trouble, seemed to not have functioned at all ahead of the Soweto looting.
The overwhelming response of the MCSA constituency to the Presiding Bishop’s
call is commendable. Gratitude and appreciation for contribution in various forms
goes to the entire MCSA Family. We are deeply touched by your outpouring of
compassion, commitment and generosity in the situation.
The report of the Farlam Commission on the Marikana massacre “raises many
serious questions relating to the mining industry as a whole” says the Bench
Marks Foundation. (BM Foundation is a leading research organisation involved in
evaluating the mining industry and assessing the impact of the Marikana Massacre
on South African Mining). It conducted a detailed review of the Farlam Commission
Report and the subsequent government response. In the light of the outcomes,
churches are calling on government to go beyond the recommendations of the
Farlam Commission and address the structural realities that led to the violent strike
and massacre of August 2012.
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We believe that the issues such as the widening wage gap between the workers and
the executives, the poor working and living conditions of mine workers, and other
related labour matters need to be attended to in order to avoid similar occurrences.
We commend the ongoing efforts of churches and NGOs to provide support for the
families struggling to find healing and closure.
The evictions experienced in Cape Town, Kwa Zulu Natal, Free State and Gauteng
last year have been largely resolved. In the Free State a joint effort with the South
African Human Rights Commission and local societies of the MCSA in QwaQwa
led to the Bokamoso community winning their case against the Maluti-A-Phofung
Municipality. Residents were granted plots and assisted with materials to rebuild
their homes in a neighbouring community. The MCSA continues to monitor and
provide support where required.
Statistics indicate increased levels of substance abuse, human trafficking,
child abduction, gender based violence and sexual offences in the countries of
the Connexion. Abuse continues to ravage communities and destroys the lives of
individuals including the moral and ethical fabric of society. It is encouraging to
witness the increasing involvement and joint efforts of government and community
organisations in tackling the scourge. The churches have a key role to play in
combating and restoring communities. Sadly, we note the lack of participation by
local churches in forums that confront these issues. All members of the Methodist
Movement at all levels are called to participate in activities and programmes that
seek to eradicate these evils and to restore human dignity. It is appropriate to
applaud the tireless efforts of the few local societies and organisations involved in
the fight against these social ills. MU commends the recommendations from the
Reflective Session on abuse held in 2014 involving members of MCSA and other
stakeholders:
• The church at all levels needs to enter into intentional conversations about sex
and sexuality, child and women abuse, abuse of the elderly and people living
with disabilities and substance abuse.
• Methodists should be encouraged and empowered to be more pro-active and
action-orientated in addressing abuse.
• Church buildings and facilities should be used to empower communities to deal
with social ills confronting them.
• Churches should be life-giving spaces where people can freely tell their stories
without fear of rejection.
• Clergy and local preachers (including the Presiding Bishop and District Bishops)
should be encouraged to preach on the topic of abuse.
• Abuse of financial resources and the environment, amongst others, should also
become focus areas.
• Involve the Youth more in combating social ills.
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PALESTINE/ISRAEL:
The Palestine/Israel conflict is a matter of continued concern and we are aware that
there are opposing views on what are the causes of conflict. We also note that reports
of violent attacks have increased in recent months in the region. A reflective session
was held to gain deeper insight and discern the MCSA’s prophetic response. The
reflective session also served to identify critical areas of concern that will inform
our strategy, and identify and enhance relationships with relevant stakeholders. This
th
event was conducted at the Methodist Connexional Office on 27 November 2014.
The delegates at the reflective session made the following recommendation:
• An urgent independent pilgrimage to Israel be conducted consisting of no more
than 15 people from the districts, organisations and Units, to
• Meet with all parties involved in the conflict to establish facts,
• Develop a strategy of pastoral engagement for the MCSA with those concerned.
As we continue on the path of understanding the complexity of the conflict and to
find ways to discern a prophetic action, we note the call of the AU at its meeting in
2015 for the International community to:
1. Exert pressure on Israel to stop all settlement activities, release Palestinian
prisoners in Israeli jails and, and EQUALLY DEMAND that Israel refrains from
arbitrary arrest of Palestinians including children and women which is an act in
violation of international laws and human rights norms, including the Geneva
Convention of the Rights of Women and Children,
2. Exert pressure on Israel to lift the blockade on the GAZA Strip and open the
border-crossing for the movement of people and goods and respond immediately
to the humanitarian situations due to the siege.
3. Boycott Israeli products from Palestinian occupied territories and
4. Encourage member States and other States that have not yet done so, to recognise
the State of Palestine and support its admission into Regional and International
Organisations.
VIOLENCE AND ABUSE OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN
The 16 Days of Activism against violence and abuse of women and children was
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launched on 21 November 2014 in Central District. Rev Dr Libuseng LebakaKetshabile, the Guest Speaker, presented challenges confronting the church and
its lack of appropriate response. In response the Presiding Bishop raised concerns
of increasing levels of abuse experienced in clergy homes and reminded those in
attendance that this is a day of mourning. Districts are encouraged to include this
campaign in the District diaries and develop strategies at all levels to address Gender
Based violence, Sexual Offences and abuse of children. Sonke Gender Justice, a
well-known and recommended NGO dealing with Gender Justice, conducts training
workshops and has been to Methodist Churches in several Districts.
Lesotho has been unstable in recent months. The situation remains volatile following
the death of a prominent figure in the military a few months after the country’s
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democratic elections. It is hoped that the SADC initiative will lead to stability and a
peaceful resolution. We commend the role of the Lesotho Council of Churches during
the said elections and participating in efforts to bring about a peaceful solution.
Mozambique has been severely affected by flooding in which many people were
killed and left destitute. The efforts of the local churches in Mozambique cannot
go unnoticed and must be supported. Much appreciation goes to Connexional
Organisations and local churches who contributed towards assisting the flood
victims.
The Swaziland Kairos Document which is a reflection of the Swaziland Concerned
Church leaders has been received and circulated to all bishops and J&S Coordinators.
The J&S Desk has requested a consultative session with the Swaziland Kairos
th
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delegation at Global Kairos in Johannesburg from 17 -19 August 2015.
We note that for the first time since 1966 the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP),
won less than 50% of the vote but it retains a majority in the 57-seat parliament.
Botswana is held up as a model of African governance. We commend all the political
parties and civil society for accepting the outcomes of the elections and cooperating
in the interest of the nation. On the economic front we note the economic challenges
of the country. For the first time its economic growth, which between 1966 and
1999 was running at 9% a year on average, has slowed to about 4% a year. This
decline does require the church to ponder what it means for our witness in a world
that continues to see growing numbers of people who experience extreme levels of
poverty.
Methodists are called not to forget that John Wesley reminds us that ‘there is no
holiness without social holiness.’
CHILDCARE DESK
This report marks the sixth year of the existence of the childcare desk since its
inception in 2010. During this period the childcare desk has highlighted concerns
about the state of children, calling all Methodists to put children at the centre of all
designs and plans and programmes of the church.
The Childcare Desk Coordinator has visited every District to explain the work of
the desk and to encourage Districts to strengthen the work of children and facilitate
safeguarding of children in all programmes offered by the church. The Coordinator
is also busy with setting up structures to collect and collate all information of childfocused services in the Districts. The Desk has worked toward sensitizing members
of the church to make all churches secure and safe for children and to ensure spaces
for ministry to children.
During the past five years, the Coordinator has participated in Inter-homes meetings
where heads of Children’s Homes gather to share their hopes, experiences and
challenges associated with managing and operating children’s homes under the new
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legislation. According to new legislation in South Africa, Methodist Homes are now
referred to as “Child and Youth Care Centres”. This is the umbrella term which
includes what were previously referred to as Children’s Homes, Places of Safety,
Schools of industry, Reform Schools, Secure Care Centres and Shelters. The current
group of principals of Methodist Children’s Homes is still to have a conversation
about how they understand their role when they bring on board heads of other CYCs
at District level who fit into the new legal definition. Other exciting news is the
efforts made by the heads of homes to review the individual home’s protocols and to
design and agreed to standards of the functions and roles of Social Workers employed
in Methodist Institutions. The most urgent need is capacity building and training of
staff to qualify as CYC workers. This is one of the urgent requirements toward full
registration. There are 50 under-qualified staff who will need to be trained or be
in a training programme by April 2016. The cost for training needed to meet this
expectation is R485 000 and we plead for support to assist our homes to subsidise
this training so that people who have years of experience of working in our homes
can be retained.
The children’s homes are also expected to comply in terms of safety requirements
according to the health and city safety protocols. Some of the requirements need
building and town planning expertise especially related to fire hydrants and separate
connections to water supply. The assistance of District Trust Properties and their
expertise is needed; the Districts include Highveld and Swaziland, Natal Coastal,
Cape of Good Hope, Central, Natal West, Limpopo and other Districts that are aware
of the CYCs in their Districts.
EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
Early Childhood Development care and support includes programmes that operate in
centres, afterschool care, home based care, non-centre based care and play groups. In
most Districts this ministry is clearly under-reported. Some churches rent out space to
private operators of ECD programmes. All churches across the Connexion need to
ensure that requirements are met in terms of screening of staff during recruitment,
the correct child to adult ratio is maintained, and that the correct indoor and
outdoor space is provided for the numbers of children who are enrolled.
Like the Children’s Homes, Early Childhood programmes must adhere to specified
regulations and standards as set out by the Departments of Health, Education and
Social Development and are aligned to the local municipality by-laws. In this regard,
the involvement of District Trust Properties, safety stewards and childcare desks
within the Districts play a fundamental role. The first priority is the registration of
these programmes with the relevant departments as well as notifying District Mission
Coordinators. The data collected can guide the childcare desk to support and assist
Districts in priority areas for purposes of compliance. The Childcare Desk is in the
process of compiling information from the five member states of the Connexion
regarding areas of safeguarding enumerated above and relate more to South Africa.
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During 2014/2015 the childcare desk has promoted, encouraged and subsidised the
screening of all members of the church working with children or representatives
of boards and staff members of Children’s Homes in South Africa. Screening was
also opened to the Youth Units at the Children’s Indabas in the KNB and Central
Districts. The Childcare Desk continues to call on all staff members, volunteers,
ministers and Bishops working with children and around children to get clearance
certificates. Both South Africa and Namibia expect staff working with children to
have their backgrounds checked. Once the process has been introduced in your
programme, you are encouraged to ensure that the process becomes a recruitment
protocol of your programme. It would be prudent for enrolment of ministers and
seminarians or preachers to include submission of their clearance certificate as a
recruitment protocol.
Often our Methodist women bemoan the fact that children today miss out on the
teachings of Christianity and belief which were provided at schools and enjoyed
20 years ago, when schools were allowed to hold morning assembly with children.
This outcry is an indication that lay leaders and adults in the Christian family
including Methodists are leaving spiritual growth and formation to be carried out
by somebody else. Yet, in conversation with children and youth at their gatherings,
young people and children are crying out for role-models, nurturers and spiritual
parents. Abdicating our responsibility as spiritual parents at a time when children
need our guidance and mentorship bodes badly for the future of Methodism.
UNICEF has stated that 2014 was the worst time for children globally; citing abuse
in trusted institutions, in particular schools and homes. The church notes sadly that
some of these abuses are carried out in our churches. The child’s wellbeing is at
risk due to poor nutrition as studies show that today rural children and children
from informal settlements are more likely to be stunted than urban children; 47% of
children under the age of 18 live in extreme poverty, poor children are more likely
to drop out of school; young girls are more likely to grow up illiterate; one in nine
children under 5 years from poor household will die; poor women are unlikely to get
skilled professional support when giving birth; girls account for two thirds of new
HIV infections; 90% of people in rural areas still use surface water.
All these challenges and inequalities indicate the extent to which childcare services
are pivotal in supporting the well-being and for facilitating the needs and rights
of children. These are safeguarding issues impacting all our children’s lives on a
daily basis. As Methodists, we are in a position to remove all barriers of inequality.
All children need support and care; all children need protection; all children can
participate; all children can develop and learn; all children need good education
for life. All children are spiritual beings, and, in their purity, are God’s gifts with
potential and dignity.
Let us be reminded that children are born into a world in a “state of sin”, as reflected
by most theologians. The world they are born into does not function as God intended
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for it to operate. Children model the behaviours of people they love and admire. The
potential for change is possible when the church becomes central and deliberate in
giving children support, guidance, institutional development, spirituality, emotional
maturity, social capacity and moral values. The church has a responsibility to ensure
that the child’s character is formed and that Jesus Christ is central in their lives.
EDUCATION AND SPIRITUAL FORMATION DESK
The objective of the Education and Spiritual Formation Desk is to facilitate and
coordinate the MCSA initiatives in the area of Education in particular. There is full
recognition that the Spiritual Formation arm of the pillar is an overarching one and
rests mostly with EMMU but not to the exclusion of others Unit and organs of the
church.
The work of the desk will continue to be supported by the Education Task Team that
was established in 2011 by the Presiding Bishop (Yearbook 2009, p.94). The team
will support MCSA efforts to focus on matters relating to education. The Task Team
consists of laity and clergy who have expressed an interest in the field of education.
In order to inform and strengthen the work at District level, the Desk has begun to
appoint District coordinators. Some of the main objectives of the desk are:
• To advocate for quality education accessible to all children
• To strengthen the work of Methodist schools in Lesotho and Swaziland per the
resolution of Conference (Yearbook 2011, p100).
• To encourage and support local Churches to establish after school care centres
and schools and/or programmes of excellence
• To support Districts in their efforts to revive the use of Historic Methodist Schools
in the Connexion
• To establish and strengthen partnership with stakeholders
• To encourage Methodist Schools where they exist, to adhere to Methodist Ethos
of Education to be prepared by DEWCOM
• To encourage churches to observe Education Sunday which is on the first Sunday
in February
Education Sunday Liturgies have been developed by Rev van der Laar and Rev
Luvuyo Sifo for Education Sunday which Conference has resolved will be the first
Sunday in February. Churches can be innovative and customize such liturgies to
suite the local needs. Ministers are encouraged to visit the local schools and avail
spiritual support and counselling to principals and teachers, in particular at schools
where there is violence, gang related activities and drug abuse among pupils.
The work of the Desk will be closely inter-linked with those of other Desks of the
Mission Unit, other Units and organs of the MCSA at all levels.
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PARTNERS IN MISSION
METHODIST CHURCH IN BRITAIN (MCB)
Mission Partner, Rev Malcolm Oliver and his wife, Gina, continue to do mission
work in Mozambique. We are grateful for the work of Rev Stephen Day, a minister
from the Methodist Church in Britain who is stationed in the Germiston Mission
Circuit in the Highveld & Swaziland District.
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, GERMANY
Evangelisch Methodistische Kirche (EmK) regularly assists projects of the MCSA
with volunteers from Germany. Birte Seelow, arrived early in 2015 to work at the
John Wesley Child Care Centre in Kempton Park in the Highveld and Swaziland
District.
In 2014 we reported on the successful Connexional choir (Malihambe Melodies)
tour to Germany. We are grateful for the completion of the editing and printing of the
CDs which will soon be ready for distribution. We appeal to all Methodists to buy
these CDs as a way of supporting mission in the Connexion.
CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS
The Unit has noted the resolutions referred to it by the last Conference. The Desks
of the Unit continue to work on the areas of human trafficking, education, abuse of
women and children and issues of gender justice. Progress made in these areas will
continue to be reported at ensuing Conferences. Teaching material on the missional
importance of the Mission & Extension Fund will be made available at the beginning
of 2016 (Resolution 2.6, 2015 Yearbook, p84). As a work in progress, we have
recommended the book by Rev Dr Mgojo and Rev George Irvine “Let the Flame
Burn” as a good resource for transforming discipleship, missional leadership and
church growth. The book is being distributed at this Conference with a new foreword
by the presiding Bishop.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FOR 2016 AND BEYOND
The Unit conducts strategic planning sessions towards the end of each year. The
following items are on the agenda:
• Develop an MCSA training manual on human trafficking.
• Develop food security programmes
• Implement reflective sessions for Mozambique & Lesotho
• Work towards implementing some aspects of the MCZ/MCSA partnership
protocols
• Implement the Ministers Exchange Programme between the MCSA and EMK
• Spearhead planning for the Mission Congress
• Develop a church revitalization strategy in consultation with Districts
• Develop a Connexional accompaniment plan for ministers stationed in new or
revitalized mission areas.
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APPRECIATION
A special vote of thanks goes to all Methodists for holding the fort over the years. We
could not have done this without our partners. EMK Germany has steadfastly funded
the HIV & AIDS Desk since its inception. They have also been funding us in part for
the work of the Childcare Desk.
The Motsepe Foundation, which makes us proud as Africans, has been funding us
for three years. The Global fund has never hesitated to fund us in its Round 9 ATM
Programme. We appreciate the commitment and contribution of the Nationals in
Mission programme of the Methodist Church in Britain (MCB) to the work and
progress of the Connexional Justice and Service Desk. MCB continues to support two
students in Namibia through the SALT Scholarship programme. Some preschools in
Rundu have also received financial support from the MCB.
THE MISSION UNIT ADVISORY BOARD for 2016 is to consist of:
Bishop Themba Mntambo (Chairman)
Bishop Mike Vorster
Deacon Dr Vernon van Wyk
Rev. Faith Whitby
Ms Yolisa Tashe
Mr. Mbongeni Magagula
Mr. John Schorn
Rev. Dr Kenaleone Ketshabile
Shalom.
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Appendix 1
MISSION & EXTENSION FUND
District Totals
Cape of Good Hope
Grahamstown
Queenstown
KNB
NFS & Lesotho
Natal Coastal
Natal West
Central
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 2013
Return
2014
Contributions 2014
Return
2015
1 057 350
264 985
24 050
51 000
51 000
43 900
122 456
49 262
58 992
36 820
259 885
95 000
0
634 410
158 991
14 430
30 600
30 600
26 340
73 474
29 557
35 395
22 092
155 931
57 000
0
317 205
1 189 209
264 198
101 125
70 000
98 885
38 550
47 900
59 912
49 872
74 936
233 830
150 000
0
713 525
158 519
60 675
42 000
59 331
23 130
28 740
35 947
29 923
44 962
140 298
90 000
0
356 763
30 000
140 000
56 763
140 000
50 000
60 000
47 205
50 000
50 000
105 735
50 000
118 921
1 057 350
1 189 209
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Appendix 2
PULA FUND 2015
Income:
Grants Paid:
Grants to Units:
Presiding Bishop’s Contingency Fund
Mission Area Grants: Lesotho
Mozambique
Angola & Malawi
Namibia
Allocated to projects:
1 178 921
1 064 300
310 000
81 000
72 000
100 000
36 000
28 000
581 921
The following projects were granted assistance from the Pula Fund for 2015:
Sizanani Academy of Sewing and Design, Siyakhula Sonke Trust, Bulawayo
Twinning Project (Natal Coastal District), Moronngwe Feeding Scheme, Big Hearts
Children’s Outreach, Gopolong Creche (Limpopo District), Empilweni House of
Hope, St Paul’s High School (Highveld & Swaziland District), Coronationville
Evangelistic Campaign (Central District), Thembelihle Children’s Care Centre,
Inkosi Inkhoma Creche (Natal West District), Rundu Circuit, Namibia Mission
Congress (KNB District)
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CHAPTER 10
HUMAN RESOURCE UNIT
CONFERENCE REPORT 2015
Rev Dr Vukile Mehana
INTRODUCTION
Noting the mandate of the Human Resources Unit as provided in the Methodist
Book of Order, page 94 paragraph 8.8, this report notes the work of the Human
Resources Unit which continues to evolve as the Unit continues to undertake tasks
that are in accordance with this mandate.
In preparing this report, consideration has been taken to give an overview of the
work of the Human Resources Unit by looking into the four strategic objectives and
or focus areas in accordance with sub paragraph 8.8.3.2. Such strategic areas include
the following:
• Selection and Discernment
• Alignment
• Development
• Retention
SELECTION AND DISCERNMENT
As employees of the church are an important part of its life and its functionality, the
Unit has reviewed and updated the existing Contractual Staff, Employee Handbook
, ensuring that it complies with all the labour and employment laws. A recruitment
policy has also been drafted to ensure that the recruitment and selection of the said
employees across MCSA is fair, open, transparent and professionalised.
It is also worth noting that EMMU has done tremendous work in ensuring quality
in the candidature processes in relation to the incoming Candidates for ministry,
resulting in better preparation of the said Candidates.
ALIGNMENT
Noting that the Methodist Church is enriched with very talented people, some with
special gifts which they volunteer to the church, bringing with them leadership
and management acumen, the Unit, working closely with EMMU, has emphasized
that these Methodists should be properly aligned to the ethos, theology, doctrines
and strategic direction of the church and its mission. To this end, the Unit will
continuously work with EMMU to ensure that all Methodist people working through
the approved structures and positions are prepared for such tasks.
The Unit has therefore seen the importance of preparing a checklist to be used in
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the appointment of lay leaders and this will provide a guideline to ensure that all
appointed lay leaders are aligned to the MCSA.
DEVELOPMENT
One of the major tasks of the Unit is to develop a succession plan for future leadership
of the church. To this end, the Unit is working closely with EMMU and all other
relevant stakeholders in developing a pipeline for various leadership positions. In
so doing relevant training and development becomes an important intervention. The
Unit with the help of EMMU is currently looking at the existing training provisions
and ensuring that the training is informed by the strategic intent for succession
planning and operational excellence within the church. One of the members of the
HR committee with special skills and experience in the training and development
discipline is currently putting together a strategic training proposal that will be
relevant to the life of the church and progress in this regard, which will be reported
in the 2016 Conference.
RETENTION
Review of Ministry: In response to 2013 Conference Resolution (page 93, 2014
yearbook): “Conference resolves to implement the review of ministry and directs the
HR Unit to revise the existing instruments and guidelines for implementation”, the
Unit is currently reviewing the existing Review of Ministry documents to ensure that
there is a standardized Review of Ministry policy for the Ministers in the Connexion
and a performance management tool for the contractual workers of the church.
Wellness Programme: The Unit has noted with great concern, the wellbeing of Ministers
of the church. Therefore, it has embarked on an exercise that will culminate in a
proposal that will give a holistic approach and process that will assist in the wellbeing
of Ministers and Lay staff of the church. The main purpose of the proposal will be to
ensure that the church cares for all the people who work in the delivery of its mission.
A progress report in this regard will be presented in the 2016 Conference.
CONFERENCE 2014 RESOLUTIONS:
Sexual Harassment: Conference 2014 resolution 2.17 states:
“Conference notes the continued reported cases of sexual harassment within the
life of the church and directs the Human Resources Unit to make the policy on
sexual harassment available. The policy must be aligned to the existing disciplinary
processes and procedures.”
In response to the resolution the HR Unit has prepared a draft policy on sexual
harassment. The policy affirms the church’s commitment to creating and maintaining
a Community that upholds the dignity and mutual respect values among all the
Methodists. All people called Methodists and all persons associated with MCSA
should be aware that the church is strongly opposed to sexual harassment and that
such behaviour will never be acceptable.
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The policy forms part of the Conference Bluebook for delegates to peruse and
prepare for discussion accordingly during this year’s Conference.
Stationing Proposal: Conference 2014 resolution 2.24 states: “Conference directs
the HR Unit to develop a working document as informed by the responses from
Circuit Quarterly meetings and Synods to be used as a guide in the proposed 2015
Connexional Workshop”.
In response the Unit has prepared a working document on a proposed alternative
stationing proposal. This proposal formed the basis of the Connexional workshop that
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was held on the 31 January 2015 with almost all Districts represented. The outcome
of this workshop was a principle document that was sent to all the Synods for further
deliberations. The task team that was appointed by the Connexional workshop
received and refined the responses from the Synods and a final proposal document
will be presented at Conference for further direction. A separate presentation will be
made during Conference.
APPOINTMENT AND RE-APPOINTMENT OF
CONNEXIONAL HR COMMITTEE
The Human Resources Director convenes the Connexional Human Resources
Committee, which comprises individuals who are experts and professionals in the
field of Human Resources Management, who have voluntarily offered their time and
expertise to the MCSA. The Unit therefore proposes that Conference appoints and/
or reappoints the following members for a three (3) year term:
1. Rev Prof Stephen Hendricks
2. Rev Mbuyiselo Stemela (Lay Training)
3. Rev Vusi Vilakati (DEWCOM)
4. EMMU Unit Director
5. Mr Simphiwe Mthwisha
6. Ms Nombasa Hlathi
7. Ms Nambita Mekane
8. Ms Joanne Trytsman
9. Ms Felicia Van Rooi (Labour Lawyer)
10. Ms Lumka Funani
11. Ms Laurie Less
OTHER ACTIVITIES
During the period under review, the HR Unit has appointed Mrs Lwethu Madi, the
fulltime Human Resources Administrator, who looks after the day to day functions
of the Unit.
The Unit continues to assist in a number of legal matters, dispute resolution activities
and governance related matters including participation in the revision committee. The
Unit also services all the Units at MCO on operational Human Resources matters
including representing the church in arbitrations and CCMA matters.
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STATIONING PROPOSAL ADOPTED BY CONFERENCE 2015
INTRODUCTION
th
The Methodist Book of Order (12 Edition 1.8.5) reaffirms the New Testament truth
of the universal priesthood of all believers. The Methodist Church, therefore, holds
that while certain of its members are called of God and are ordained and separated to
the holy office of the Ministry within the Church, these hold no priesthood differing
in kind from that which is common to the Lord’s people, and have no exclusive title
to the preaching of the Gospel or the care of souls. These ministries are shared with
them by others, men and women. “It is one and the same Spirit who does all this; as
the Spirit wishes different gifts are given to each person.”
As stated in the Book of Order (1.10.4) Christ’s Ministers in the Church are stewards
in the household of God, and shepherds of his flock. Some are called and ordained
to this sole occupation, and have a principal and directing part in these great duties.
Again the Book of Order (1.10.6) states: Those whom the Church recognises as
called of God, and therefore received into its Ministry, shall be ordained by the
imposition of hands with prayer to the Holy Spirit for authority for the office and
work of a Minister in the Church of Christ, thus expressing the Church’s recognition
of the Minister’s personal call.
The question arises as to how those who are called and ordained are located in
the geography of the Connexion they serve. The Methodist structure of itinerant
ministry originates from John Wesley’s vision of spreading scriptural holiness across
the land. Reflecting on the work of early Methodists, Wesley commented: “We have
found, by long and consistent experience that a frequent exchange of preachers is
best. This preacher has one talent, that another; no one whom I ever yet knew has
all the talents which are needful for beginning, continuing and perfecting the work
of grace in a whole congregation”.
Itinerancy values the virtues of obedience, a loosely-held connection with this world
and possessions, the value of Connexion – or as Wesley would phrase it, the worldas-our-parish, the understanding that not all clergy have all gifts, and that a Circuit
or Society would be best served by a careful and deliberate change in clergy from
time to time. The success of such time periods is determined by both the partnership
of the congregation and the Minister (and not only by the Minister).
We in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa hold to the practice of itinerancy, in
which we believe in being sent. “Sending” in our context refers to both the system
of “invitation” under the direction of the Bishop and District Stationing Committee
as well as the Conference which has the final say as to the stations of its Ministers,
and also the system of appointments effected by the Church Stationing processes for
the ensuing year.
This two-fold system has served the church well and, with some modification, will
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continue to serve the Church for the 21 Century.
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• Itinerant Ministers are always accountable to the Connexion and Conference,
and not only to the local Circuit or Society.
• The Minister is not the focal point of the local Church – the People of God,
Community and the Mission of God, are.
• Itinerant clergy can be deployed where the need is greatest-itinerancy is able to
be missionally flexible.
• Although ministers may express a call to a certain context or mission area in
general through their Bishops as well as their personal profile, Itinerant clergy
never take the initiative in arranging an invitation. Through the grace of God and
the guidance of the Spirit they may respond to invitations (still understanding
that it is ultimately the Conference which makes the final decision).
• Itinerancy is based on the theological foundation that call is not an individualistic,
private experience, but the discernment of the community of faith, as seen in
passages such as Acts 15:22.
• An itinerant system is not bound to stationing according to race, gender and other
factors that could be discriminatory in a system that seeks clergy-that-look-justlike-the-congregation.
• Itinerancy, Call, Mission, Sending are key words in the way Methodists
understand the system by which clergy are organised throughout its Connexion.
Through consultation in the various levels of decision making in the church
structures, issues were raised which are taken into account in the preparation of the
final proposal, including:
The centrality of the Authority of Conference; the co-existence of the “Sending”
principle and “Invitation” System; profiling of Ministers and Circuits was affirmed, as
well as taking into account the need to continue considering the Financial Resources
for Stationing; and sensitivity to Racial, Gender, and transformational issues.
th
The following is proposed to replace L&D (12 Ed) para. 7.15:
Laws and Discipline:
7.15 Stationing of Ministers
The Methodist Church of Southern Africa holds to the practice of itinerancy,
whereby we believe in being sent. “Sending” in our context refers to both the system
of “invitation” under the direction of the Bishop and District Stationing Committee
as well as the Conference which is the final authority regarding the stations of all its
Ministers; and also the system of appointments effected by the Church Stationing
processes for the ensuing year. This two-fold system of “sending” and “inviting” has
served the church well, and will continue to serve the Church for the 21st Century.
Itinerant Ministers are always accountable to the Connexion and Conference, and
not only to the local Circuit or Society.
Itinerant clergy can be deployed at the wisdom of Conference to where the need is
greatest– itinerancy is able to be missionally flexible.
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An itinerant system is not bound to stationing according to race, gender and other
factors that could be discriminatory in a system that seeks clergy-that-look-just-likethe-congregation.
Profiles prepared and regularly updated by Ministers shall be retained by the Human
Resource Unit of the Methodist Connexional Office and Profiles of Circuits and/or
Societies shall be prepared by Superintendent Ministers and retained by the offices
of District Bishops.
7.15.1 Stationing through Invitation:
The Circuit Quarterly Meeting may invite a Minister to labour in the Circuit in a duly
recognised appointment. The following regulations must be observed but nothing
shall derogate from the authority of the Connexional Executive to decide the annual
appointments of all Ministers.
7.15.1.1 When an invitation is to be extended, whether for an initial or a subsequent
period, the Circuit Stewards shall report to the Bishop. The Circuit
Stewards shall then convene a Circuit Stationing Committee comprising
the Superintendent and Circuit Stewards. If the invitation relates to the
Superintendent then the Circuit Stationing Committee shall comprise the
Bishop and the Circuit Stewards.
The Circuit stationing Committee shall always begin its work by calling
a meeting of all Society Stewards who are affected by the invitation
to consult them on principles (not names) such as budget, profiles and
the mission needs of the Societies. The Society Stewards’ Consultative
meeting shall not vote at any stage other than at the Quarterly Meeting.
No less than three and no more than five Society Stewards shall be elected
by the consultative meeting described above, to be members of the Circuit
Stationing Committee for the duration that a particular invitation is
considered.
7.15.1.2 Before the Circuit Stationing Committee may list names of possible
ministers, they shall have a conversation with the Bishop or the person
mandated by the Bishop who may add names to the list created by the
Circuit Stationing Committee for their consideration. The Bishop will
engage the committee on transformational issues such as gender and
race. The Consultative meeting, Circuit Stationing Meeting and Circuit
Quarterly Meeting shall not proceed with any invitation (or re-invitation)
without the agreement of the Bishop.
7.15.1.3 Before taking any steps to replace a Minister the Circuit Stewards shall
advise that Minister.
7.15.1.4 The Circuit Stewards shall all sign a Letter of Enquiry, asking whether
the Minister selected by the Committee would accept the appointment
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concerned. A copy of this letter shall be forwarded to the local Bishop
as well as the Bishop of the District in which the Minister is currently
stationed.
7.15.1.5 A Minister shall not consider such an enquiry before advising the local
Circuit Stewards and Bishop.
7.15.1.6 The Minister shall reply in writing within two weeks of receiving the
letter of enquiry. If the reply is affirmative neither the Minister nor the
Circuit Stewards may consider other enquiries.
7.15.1.7 After an affirmative reply has been received, the matter shall be
introduced at the next Quarterly Meeting. The Circuit Stewards shall
propose and second the invitation. There shall be no debate but questions
for clarification shall be allowed. No amendment may be proposed by the
Meeting, which shall vote for or against.
7.15.1.8 Should the Meeting resolve to make the invitation, the Circuit Stewards
shall convey this information to the Minister and the local Bishop within
seven days. The Minister and the Circuit are then committed to each
other in terms of the invitation but always subject to the authority of the
Conference.
7.15.1.9 Should the Meeting resolve not to make the invitation, the Circuit
Stewards shall convey this in writing to the Minister and the local Bishop
within seven days. If time permits for the procedure to be repeated in
respect of another Minister the Circuit Stewards may begin again as in
para. 7.15.1.1. Otherwise the matter shall be referred through the Synod
to the Connexional Executive.
7.15.1.10 An invitation may not be extended later than the April Quarterly Meeting
or earlier than two years before the beginning of the period to which the
invitation relates.
7.15.1.11 An invitation is for an initial period of five years. It may be extended by
the Quarterly Meeting as per the procedure above, by up to five years at a
time, as the Circuit Quarterly Meeting may decide.
7.15.1.12 Under exceptional circumstances where it appears that the current period
cannot be sustained, the Circuit Stationing Committee and the Minister
concerned shall meet to discuss the matter. The Circuit Stewards shall
submit a report to the Bishop who shall place the matter before Synod.
7.15.1.13 No Minister shall entertain an enquiry concerning an invitation neither shall
Circuit Stewards extend such an enquiry, where the Minister concerned
has served for less than three years in the present appointment (except as
provided for in para. 7.15.1.12). An Ordinand, however, may receive and
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accept an invitation for the year following ordination regardless of the
period of service in the present Circuit. Probationers are not eligible for
invitation.
7.15.1.14 A District Stationing Committee consisting of the District officials as
well as five Synod-elected lay people and five Synod-elected clergy shall
meet at least once before the annual Synod. They will present the draft
of Stations for interrogation by the Synod, and meet at least once more
before Conference. The Committee shall invite the Superintendent and
one Circuit Steward of any Circuit affected to be present. The committee
is elected by Synod for a renewable three year term.
7.15.1.15 A Pastoral Commission Report shall be provided by the Bishop of the
District from which a Minister is left without a station for the ensuing year.
This report shall be submitted to the General Secretary within 21 days of the
rising of Conference for the consideration of the Presiding Bishop.
7.15.1.16 Connexional Stationing is the work of Conference as delegated to
the Preliminary Stationing Meeting by Bishops and the Connexional
Executive, and final reading of stations shall take place at Conference.
7.15.2 Stationing by Conference:
7.15.2.1 Noting that Methodist Ministers are always under annual review in
accordance with para. 4.64, a Minister stationed without invitation to a
Circuit shall remain in the appointment for at least three years. In the
second or third year the Circuit may invite the Minister to complete
the remainder of an initial period of five years. Such a Minister may,
alternatively, accept an invitation to serve (after three years) in another
Circuit. Failing either such invitation, the Connexional Executive shall
decide where to station the Minister.
7.15.2.2 Under exceptional circumstances where it appears that the current period
cannot be sustained, the Circuit Stationing Committee and the Minister
concerned shall meet to discuss the matter. The Circuit Stewards shall
submit a report to the Bishop who shall place the matter before Synod.
CONCLUSION
We thank God for all the work done as the Unit participates in the broader mission
of the church and the extension of God’s Kingdom. We wish to express our heartfelt
gratitude to the Presiding Bishop, General Secretary, Bishops and all colleagues
at MCO and the church in general for your prayerful support as we discharge the
responsibilities given to us by the Methodist people.
To God be the Glory.
Rev Dr. Vukile Mehana, Director, Human Resources Unit
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The Methodist Church of Southern Africa
HARASSMENT POLICY (2015)
1. POLICY STATEMENT
1.1 God, our creator and redeemer, has called each of us to a basic and deep
respect for all humankind. We desire to give leadership in holding each
other accountable to this call, as well as calling society to this standard.
Sexual harassment and abuse violate this sacred call, as does all harassment
based on race, gender, religion, national origin, disability or any other
class protected by discrimination laws. We seek to apply our values of
communication, community, diversity and integrity to our work in a
harassment-free environment.
1.2 The MCSA subscribes to the provision on harassment as set out in section 6
of the Employment Equity Act (“the EEA”). This policy will be applied with
due regard to the Book of Order, the MCSA staff policies and procedures
and the provisions of the EEA.
1.3 The MCSA is committed to creating and maintaining programmes,
facilities and a community in which members, friends, staff and volunteers
can worship, learn and work together in an atmosphere free from all forms
of discrimination, harassment, exploitation or intimidation. All persons
associated with the MCSA should be aware that the MCSA is strongly
opposed to Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Harassment and that such
behaviour is prohibited by church policy.
1.4 Sexual harassment or any form of harassment in the work place and or
church will not be permitted or condoned in any way.
2. OBJECTIVES
2.1 To eliminate sexual harassment or any other form of harassment and to
provide an environment where all may pursue their studies, careers, duties
and worship free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment constitutes
serious misconduct, and will result in disciplinary action.
3. SCOPE
3.1 This policy applies to the following persons in the working environment
and anywhere else as a result of employment responsibilities, employment
relationships or church relationships:
• Paid employees at all levels
• Church Members
• Volunteers and or lay leaders elected or appointed to the MCSA
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• Clients, suppliers and contractors who are sourced for specific tasks or
services by the MCSA
• Visitors to the Church
• All Ministers, Deacons, Evangelists, Biblewomen, persons in elected
and appointed positions, Seminarians, student Ministers or any other
person employed or Covenanted, representing the MCSA in any way
(hereafter called Covenanted staff)
• Any other persons who have dealings with the MCSA.
3.2 No employee, volunteer, member or Covenanted staff member may harass
and abuse any adult or child. In addition to employee, volunteer and visitor
relationships within the MCSA’s offices, staff members and volunteers also
have contact with people outside the office that may present a potential
arena for sexual or other kinds of harassment to occur. This includes
the MCSA’s employees and volunteers working from remote locations,
travelling together, as well as staff and service relationships with other
people. The same standards and expectations apply to these situations as
apply within the office or church among employees, volunteers, leaders,
Covenanted staff and visitors.
3.3. Any individual within or outside of the Organisation can use these guidelines
to register a complaint of harassment against a person falling under the
jurisdiction of the MCSA as listed above.
3.4 Complaints against service providers or church visitors: The MCSA also
recognises that its employees, Covenanted staff, members, leaders and
volunteers may be subjected to harassment by its vendors, constituents and
office visitors. In these cases MCSA has a duty to support the complainant
and assist in resolving these situations wherever possible.
4. POLICY
4.1 Definition – Sexual Harassment begins with behaviour that is unwelcome, personally offensive and that is directed against a person because
of his or her sex.
4.2 Harassment may include the following type of behaviour:
a. threats, intimidation or verbal abuse;
b. unwelcome remarks or jokes about a person’s ancestry, nationality
or ethnic origin, colour or perceived race, religion, disability, gender
determined characteristics, marital or family status, sex, or age;
c. displaying or circulating sexist, racist or other offensive pictures, posters
or written jokes;
d. unnecessary physical contact such as touching, patting, pinching or
punching;
e. physical assault.
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4.3 The MCSA recognises two areas of sexual harassment:
4.3.1 A quid-pro-quo type of harassment-where sexual favours are
expected or requested from or offered in exchange for some benefit,
or where discrimination or where discipline or sanctions is imposed
or threatened if requests for sexual favours are not met. This kind of
conduct generally involves a person in a position of authority.
4.3.2 Maintaining, condoning or contributing to an offensive work
environment which may include, but is not limited to, a variety of
unwelcome behaviours (listed below) which may create a hostile or
intimidating atmosphere.
a. Unusual and overly friendly attention, including such things
as gifts, frequent social telephone calls, letters, private visits,
etc.;
b. Persistent shadowing or following, repeated or prolonged
staring;
c. Sexual talk and innuendo, dirty jokes and offensive gestures;
d. Sexual or intrusive questions about the individual’s personal
life;
e. Use of familiarities or diminutives such as “honey”, “baby”,
“dear”, etc.;
f. Whistling, catcalls, leering;
g. Unsolicited or unwelcome flirtations, romantic gestures,
advances, propositions, manner of dress or display of body;
h. Graphic, degrading, excessive or unwelcome comments about
another individual’s appearance, dress or anatomy;
i. Display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures;
j. Explicit descriptions of the employee’s own sexual
experiences;
k. Unnecessary, unwanted physical contact such as touching,
hugging, pinching, patting, kissing;
l. Verbal and emotional manipulation and control;
m. Exposing genitalia;
n. Physical or sexual assault;
o. Sexual intercourse or rape.
4.4 Victimisation: For the purposes of this policy, retaliation against an
individual for having invoked this policy, for having participated in the
investigative process or for associating with a person who has invoked this
process will be treated as harassment.
4.5 False Accusations: Because of the seriousness with which the Church
views sexual harassment and because of the severity of the penalties which
may be imposed on offenders, false accusations will not be tolerated.
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However, this statement is not intended to discourage individuals from
coming forward with any complaints. The Church recognises and expects
that some claims may be difficult to prove or support, or may not in fact
be found to rise to the level of seriousness deemed necessary to constitute
sexual harassment. These are not the types of claims which are considered
to be false accusations. Rather, anyone found to have purposefully and
intentionally brought allegations which he or she knows to be untrue will be
deemed to have made false accusations, and will be subject to disciplinary
action.
5. PROCEDURE
5.1 All employees, Covenanted staff, members, leaders and volunteers of
the MCSA have a responsibility to ensure that the MCSA is free from
harassment.
5.2 Structure
Each Circuit Executive in the Connexion as well as the MCO shall establish
with immediate effect a three-member Anti-harassment team, two women
and a man with some professional experience, e.g. teaching, nursing, and
social work. The members of this team shall all be screened according to
the Child Protection Register, as per the Regulation 44, Section 126 of the
Children’s Act 38 of 2005 in South Africa. This is done through the local
police station. Residents of the sovereign states in the Connexion are to
check their local protocols in this regard.
The team shall be appointed annually and may be re-appointed.
Circuits shall inform all their members of the availability of the Circuit
Anti-harassment Team.
Superintendents shall report annually to the Bishop, the names of their
team.
The work of the team shall be confidential and they shall not be required to
report to the CQM, other than that they are available at all times to assist in
cases of harassment or abuse.
5.3 Processing Complaints
5.3.1 Any employee, Covenanted staff member, member, leader or volunteer
of the MCSA who believes that he or she has been the subject of sexual
harassment (as defined in para. 4 above) should report it immediately
in accordance with the following procedure. All information disclosed
pursuant to this procedure will be held in strictest confidence, and will
only be disclosed on a need to know basis.
5.3.2 Any employee, Covenanted staff member, member, leader or
volunteer of the MCSA who has a concern, grievance or complaint
about sexual harassment in the workplace or church or place where
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the church is represented (such as field work etc.) should report it
directly to the Anti-Harassment Team.
5.3.3 Persons experiencing harassment within the MCSA are urged to
report harassment to the Anti-Harassment Team. This may be done
in person or in writing. It may be reported to one member of the
team, who will then inform the rest of the team in order to proceed
with seeking to understand the complaint and the circumstances
surrounding it. The complainant may be accompanied by a person in
a supportive role who may remain with the complainant throughout
the process if needed.
5.3.4 The Anti-harassment Team shall:
i. Listen to the individual reporting the harassment,
ii. Establish the circumstances and ascertain the severity of the case
as far as possible, in order to find the best way of resolving the
complaint. This shall be done by listening to the complainant.
iii. Embark on an informal procedure of finding resolution if this
is appropriate, in which case the respondent is called and shall
comply with the process as determined by the team, and agreed
to by the complainant.
Informal Procedure:
a. Where a person might reasonably be unaware that his or her comments or actions
are unwelcome, the complainant may first clearly make known to the other
person that such comments and conduct are unwelcome and ask that they cease.
It is often helpful to write down such conversations and actions.
b. Facilitated Assistance: It will not always be possible for the offended person to
directly confront the perpetrator, often because of power dynamics. In such a case,
consultation with another member of the MCSA may be helpful in facilitating a
resolution. If such persons should agree to act, they should do so as an impartial
third party and assist the complainant and the respondent to explore resolution of
the conflict. Facilitators cannot and should not promise complete confidentiality
in matters that may constitute harassment, since in certain situations they may be
required by this policy to file a report to a member of the Investigative Team.
Formal Procedure:
i. In cases that require such action, the Anti-Harassment Team shall draft a
complaint (with the permission of the complainant) to the District Disciplinary
Registrar.
ii. Normal disciplinary procedures will follow as set out in the Laws and Discipline
th
(in the 12 Edition, chapter 11). In addition, if the case is heard by the District
Disciplinary Convener, a member the Anti-Harassment Team may accompany
the complainant throughout the hearing.
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iii. Seek pastoral care or counselling for the complainant with the permission of
the complainant.
iv. In the case of an employee (or volunteer) of the Methodist Connexional Office
whose case needs to be taken to a formal procedure, the Anti-Harassment Team
shall refer the case to the formal Employee Disciplinary Procedure as set out in
the Employees Handbook of the MCO.
6. FURTHERMORE
6.1 Throughout the investigation, communications between the Team and the
concerned parties will be conducted in a balanced and impartial manner.
Care will be taken on the part of the Team not to let a person who has
more ready access to the Team unduly influence the investigation or to take
advantage of closer relationships with the investigators.
6.2 Any person wishing to contest the outcome of the process is entitled to
appeal to the Connexional Disciplinary Committee.
6.3 Criminal and Civil Charges
A victim of sexual harassment has the right to press separate criminal and/
or civil charges against an alleged perpetrator, and the legal rights of the
victim are in no way limited by this policy.
6.4 Confidentiality
6.4.1 All complaints of harassment will be investigated with reasonable
confidentiality.
6.4.2 The Anti-Harassment Team will determine what information and
documents obtained through the examination will be shared with
the parties involved. Throughout the process, the Team will ensure
that the complainant and the respondent receive timely updates
about the progression, when appropriate, of the investigation and
the sharing of information, copies of the written allegations and
written response, and any other documents or summary documents
as necessary. Information sharing will be done with prudence
and discretion, balancing the desire for open communication and
reconciliation with the importance of maintaining the safety of all
parties. In instances where the safety of a party is jeopardised, a
summarised form of the information may be given.
6.4.3 During the proceedings of the Team, no party should make any
public comment.
6.5 Personal Support
6.5.1 Although not required, the parties to the complaint are welcome to
bring a personal supporter of their own choosing to any interview
proceedings to provide emotional support and act as an observer.
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6.5.2 Acknowledging that the investigation of harassment is a stressful
event, the MCSA understands that both the complainant and the
respondent may need help to identify the necessary and appropriate
pastoral supports to be put in place. If these supports are not easily
identified through discussion with the Human Resources Department,
the Denominational Minister may be asked to assist.
6.5.3 In cases of serious sexual harassment where a person, on medical
advice, requires trauma counselling but where his/her existing
sick leave entitlement has been exhausted, due consideration
will be given to the granting of additional sick leave.
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CHAPTER 11
METHODIST ORDER OF DEACONS
Deacon Dr Vernon van Wyk (Warden)
“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)
THE ROLE OF A DEACON
The Vision of the Methodist Order of Deacons is “To share Christ’s love through
service and to help the Church respond to the needs of the wider community.”
(Methodist Book of Order: 13.1)
Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, apparently thought the world of his assistants, the
Deacons, and he did not mind telling people. As he journeyed to martyrdom in
Rome in the year 107 CE, he wrote seven letters that reflect his high regard for
deacons. Writing to the Magnesians, Ignatius calls Deacons ”my special favourites”;
in his letter to the Philadelphians, he names them “my fellow slaves”. He explains
to the Tralians that the Deacon’s service to the local church clearly shows them to
“represent Jesus Christ…” (Early Christian Fathers, ed. & trans. Cyril Richardson;
New York, The Macmillan Company, 1970 pp 95, 108-9, 99)
Deacons are ordained ministers in the MCSA whose ministry “…may include working
in a pastoral context in a Society or Circuit, or working in secular employment e.g.
education, health care, welfare (social development) and upliftment organisations
…Apart from local pastoral ministry or church planting projects, some practical
aspects of service that the Order of Deacons could engage in are: poverty alleviation;
care of the sick and dying; care for the aged or youth; evangelism and mission
outreach; para-church organisations.” (MBO: 13.1.1)
On becoming a Methodist Deacon
NOMINATING PROCEDURE
In order to be a Candidate for the Ministry of Word and Service prospective
candidates need to:
• Be a practicing Disciple of Jesus Christ;
• Be a full members in good standing of the MCSA for at least two years;
• Have a sense of a divine calling to a Ministry of Word and Service;
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• Have spiritual and intellectual gifts and the graces and fruits of a Christian
character;
• Have a Senior Certificate or Matriculation (or equivalent);
• Be an accredited Local Preacher or a Local Preacher on Trial;
• Have completed the following academic courses:
o BASIC CERTIFICATE IN THEOLOGY (Khovo Bible School) [Mozambique
st
nd
only]: Introduction to New Testament (1 & 2 Part); Introduction to Old
st
nd
st
Testament (1 & 2 Part); Homiletics (1 part); Christian Life.
o HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN THEOLOGY (TEEC): Introduction to New
Testament (45121); Introduction to Old Testament (45111); Introduction
to Theology (45241) and Pastoral Care (45371). (Note: It is envisaged that
SMMS will also be able to present this qualification through distance learning
in the near future)
o DIPLOMA IN THEOLOGY (TEEC): Getting to Know the Bible (85100);
Systematic Theology 1 (85240) and Practical Theology 1 (85370)
o BACHELOR IN THEOLOGY (TEEC): Developing Skills for Theological
Study (7000); Interpreting Texts (7004) and Engaging with people pastorally
and ethically (7002)
o A completed qualification from a South African Qualifications Authority
registered institution acceptable to MCSA.
CANDIDATING PROCEDURE
• Prospective Candidates should approach their society minister and Circuit
superintendent minister, early in the calendar year, stating their wish to enter the
Diaconate.
• 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 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 analysed and translated
into specific aims and goals for the diaconal appointment.
• Prospective candidates are required to attend the District School of Vocation
which focuses on areas for discerning the Call as a Methodist Deacon.
• Having ensured that the Candidate qualifies to Candidate, the Superintendent
submits the name of the Candidate to the Circuit Quarterly Meeting, which shall
give special attention to his/her suitability as a Minister in Word and Service.
(The CQM recommendation shall be in accordance with the provided CQM
Guide and the Superintendent’s evaluation report which can be downloaded from
www.methodisttraining.co.za or obtained directly from EMMU.)
• The Superintendent also forwards the ‘Intention to nominate a Candidate’
form (can be downloaded from www.methodisttraining.co.za or obtained directly
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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from EMMU) to both the EMMU offices and the Warden of the Order before 31
July each year.
EMMU will forward the stipulated documents to the Superintendent of the
Candidate.
Candidate’s forms (including Circuit Report) and ALL relevant attachments must
be submitted to EMMU not later than 31 October. Documents received after
this date will not be considered.
From 2016 eligible candidates shall be examined and pass a written entrance
examination according to a syllabus published by EMMU. This will include
some language and academic components to be assessed by both EMMU and
SMMS.
Vocational readiness is assessed through screening done by a panel that comprises
nominated individuals (including a person with experience in Psychology
or Social Work) appointed by the District Bishop. Representatives of the
Connexional EMMU shall also be in attendance.
An Oral Exam will be conducted on the same day as the Screening and will be
focused on the person’s ability to apply the theology they would have studied, to
real life situations.
The EMMU District Screening Committee forwards the approved applications
to the Methodist Order of Deacon’s Convocation. Successful candidates have to
attend the Convocation to share their testimony and call to the diaconal ministry.
The Convocation may make additional recommendations to Synod where
necessary.
Successful Candidates shall conduct at least two trial services in the presence of a
panel of four persons, comprised of at least two Deacons, or one Deacon and one
Presbyter, or two Presbyters AND two lay members. One of these trial services
has to be conducted in the candidate’s home Circuit and one in another Circuit.
The Candidate gives her or his testimony to Synod, which votes on receiving the
Candidate.
The names of those who are accepted by their respective Synods are forwarded
to the EMMU General Committee, whereafter they are sent to the Connexional
Executive/Conference for acceptance.
PROBATIONER’S INTERNSHIP
• A successful Candidate who has satisfied all requirements shall commence
probation and Internship training in January of the following year and each January
during the term of probation. They shall be designated “Probationer Deacons”.
• All Probationer Deacons are required to complete a minimum of 4 years’
probation/internship training. The purpose of Internship training is to integrate
academic, spiritual and character formation in service in Circuits during regular
meetings with Probationer Presbyters under direction of the District Supervisor
of Studies. One further year will be allowed to enable a probationer to complete
certain academic requirements and/or internship projects not yet completed.
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• Probationer Deacons shall preach one Trial Service, in the presence of a panel
of three persons, comprised of at least two Deacons, or one Deacon and one
Presbyter or two Presbyters AND one lay member prior to Convocation/Synod
annually.
• Probationer Deacons do a Synod Exam (Exegesis) [refer to Chapter 6: EMMU
report]
• Probationer Deacons who have not completed their minimum qualification, are
required to continue their studies within the period of four years (maximum
five years) during their period on probation. EMMU will annually reimburse
Probationers on receipt of proof of study fees paid and courses passed (Probationers
over 55 years of age are however required to cover their own tuition costs and are
billed by EMMU).
ORDINATION
In the fourth year of Probation, having completed ALL of the requirements
(including ALL academic requirements in the third year) to exit from probation to
ordination and having obtained the approval of the Diaconal Order’s Convocation,
a Probationer may be considered by the MCSA for Ordination the following year,
following EMMU prescribed procedures in the Circuit and District. If a Probationer
has not completed all academic requirements, s/he need to complete them in the
fourth year and will be considered for ordination in the fifth and final year of
probation.
To be accepted by the MCSA for ordination at the annual ordination service, all
Deacons shall:
• Complete either the Basic Certificate in Theology (Khovo Mozambique only); or
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
• Have completed at least 4 years of probation
• Be a Local Preacher on full plan.
• Conduct at least one trial service in the presence of at least two Deacons, or one
Deacon and one Presbyter or two Presbyters AND one lay member and give a
written report to the Convocation/Synod.
• Successfully pass an oral examination by the Convocation. (Note: Deacons are
not examined by Synods)
• Appear before the District Ordinands’ Screening Committee to evaluate
devotional discipline, social, mental, emotional and physical health, educational
achievements (including IST Assignments), preaching, service and pastoral
competence.
• Complete two assignments set by the EMMU in the year of their Ordination,
attend a Seminar and prepare a presentation for the Ordination Retreat.
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Deacons in Ministry
Deacons are recognised by the MCSA as called of God, and trained and Ordained for
service in the Church. They are colleagues on the staff of the Circuit to which they
are appointed, responsible to the Superintendent, and thus share in the work of the
Circuit. (MBO: 13.30)
The measure in which progress has been made in the Order is reflected in the growing
numbers of candidates.
Five (5) Deacons were ordained in 2014, and the Convocation has recommended three
(3) Deacons for ordination in 2015. One (1) Probationer Deacon is recommended for
ordination in 2016. Five (5) Candidates (4 females and 1 male) will be admitted to
the Order in 2016. One Ordinand Deacon resigned in May 2015. Two (2) Ordained
Deacons retired.
The profile of the 45 members of the Diaconal Order are as follows:
• Eighteen (18) ordained Deacons (12 females and 6 males.) (whose names appear
in the Church Directory)
• Ten (10) Supernumeraries (8 females and 2 males) (whose names appear in the
Church Directory)
• Three (3) Ordinands (2 females and 1 male) (whose names appear in Chapter
6:EMMU)
• Seven (7) Probationer Deacons (2 females and 5 males) (whose names appear in
Chapter 6:EMMU)
• Five (5) Candidates (4 females and 1 male) (whose names appear in Chapter
6:EMMU)
The Order is currently raising funds to give all new probationers a pendant cross to
indicate their membership of the Order, as they will in future only be “collared” in
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their 4 year of probation.
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, as an Order, to foster and develop their calling as servant-ministers
and to receive training relevant to their ministry.
The Convocation was held from Monday 23 March 2015 to Friday 27 March 2015
at eMseni Christian Conference Centre. On Monday, 23 March 2015 Convocation
transacted the business of the Order (MBO Appendix 7) and three (3) Ordinands
of the Order were examined by Bishop Rev Jonathan Anderson (who stood in for
Bishop Rev. Andrew Motswenyane who was ill). On Tuesday, 24 March 2015
the main business of the day was a discussion on the Conference request for the
Order to consider the retirement and admission age for members of the Order and
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a resolution was drafted for Conference. On Wednesday, 25 March 2015, the Order
visited the John Wesley Community Centre at Etwatwa. On Thursday, 26 March
2015 Rev Dr Cedric Poole conducted a Workshop on “Discipleship” and we shared
a meal at the Northfield Methodist Church. Convocation adjourned on Friday 27
March 2015.
FINANCES
Most of the expenses incurred for the Convocation are covered by Circuits
contributing to the accommodation of their Deacons (See Conference Resolution on
page 90 of Yearbook 2014). There is a small fund to assist Supernumeraries to attend
Convocation. The Warden’s travelling costs, Conference fees, etc. is largely covered
by donations received from the District Women’s Auxiliaries. The Connexional Cash
Management Scheme has contributed to the Order’s funds for the past two years, but
was unable to do so in 2015. Tuition fees for Probationer Deacons (under 55 years of
age) have been taken over by EMMU. 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 organisations of our Church to consider
supporting the work of the Order.
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
2015:
Bishop:
Bishop Andrew Motswenyane-Northern Free State and Lesotho
District
Warden: Dcn Dr Vernon van Wyk – Alberton Mission Circuit (Highveld
and Swaziland District)
Ministers: Rev Dr Cedric Poole – Alberton Mission Circuit (Highveld and
Swaziland District)
Rev Ina Guy – Alberton Mission Circuit (Highveld and
Swaziland District)
Deacons:
Deacon Gloria de Klerk –South Rand Circuit (Central District)
Deacon Fozia Madjoe – Moreleta Circuit (Limpopo District)
Lay members: Mr Percy Howroyd – Alberton Mission Circuit (Highveld and
Swaziland District)
Mrs Mary Ellerbeck-Representing Women’s Auxiliary; Highveld
and Swaziland District
Mrs Teresa John-President of Women’s Auxiliary: Central
District
RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
The Convocation forwarded a resolution to Conference on the Age of Candidacy and
Retirement for Ministers.
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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.
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CHAPTER 12
METHODIST ORDER OF EVANGELISM
Rev Jacob Freemantle
WELCOME TO NEW GENERAL SECRETARY
The Order of Evangelism extends a warm welcome and prayers to our new General
Secretary Rev Charmaine Morgan who assumed work from January 2015. More
importantly, the Order has been extremely blessed to receive the following affirming
and supporting message from her.
“A word to the Order of Evangelism
It is my pleasure to write a brief note recognising the work and the sacrifice of
the Biblewomen and Evangelists in our Connexion. These servants of God are
among the most dedicated members of our church. They serve the most needy and
vulnerable people of our communities, and they do it one-by-one as the hands
and feet of Jesus in the homes, at the sick beds and preaching places throughout
widespread lands of our Connexion. We salute you! With much appreciation,
Charmaine Morgan”
Rev Morgan replaced Rev Vuyani “Vido” Nyobole whose treasured love and passion
for The Order of Evangelism will also remain our mission legacy to build on for
many generations to come.
GRATITUDE TO OUTGOING OFFICERS
The same gratitude should be extended to the following ministers who stepped down
after serving the Order either in their District or Connexional capacity.
Rev Morapedi Diutlwileng who stepped down as Connexional Lay Coordinator to
be replaced by Rev Stemela.
Rev A.M. Dondashe Rev N.R. Gowana Rev H.M. Mngadi Rev S.A.Toolo Rev R.J. Mabidikama - Queenstown District
- Natal West District
- Natal West District
- Highveld and Swaziland District
- Limpopo District
The new phase of the Order of Evangelism
The 2014 Conference, meeting in Durban, passed the 12th edition of Laws and
Discipline now referred to as “Book of Order,” whose Chapter 14 contains the
following rules to be carefully observed about The Order of Evangelism;
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Candidature 14.4-4.5
This section deals with who should be accepted as candidate and how such candidate
is nominated; when and how the candidates should be screened; when those new
applications must be processed by the Warden in collaboration with EMMU; age and
educational grade/standard accepted; transfers from other churches to The Order of
Evangelism (in MCSA).
Registration of Biblewomen and Evangelists with MCO
As soon as they are accepted by Conference and start work in the Circuit, Biblewomen
and Evangelists must be registered with the Methodist Connexional Office so that
they will be properly remunerated (14.7.1-2)
Leave (14.7.3-5)
In terms of this Clause, Circuits should note that Biblewomen and Evangelists are
entitled to leave.
For Robing and Commissioning refer to14.6
Disciplinary processes are indicated for all members as per Chapter 11 of L & D.
Any resignation, incapacity, death or any unforeseen circumstances affecting the
working performance of Biblewomen and Evangelists are covered in clause 14.8.4-7.
General Rule
Chapter 14 should be read in the context of Clause 8.3.2 stating that “Order(s)...shall
operate in terms of (its) Constitution (but) subject to the Laws and Discipline and
all other policies, decisions, practices and usages of the Church, and that in case of
conflict of interpretation, the Laws and Discipline takes precedence.”
The Rubrics from EMMU
The training of laity for effective Mission work, particularly, Biblewomen and
Evangelists has always received secondary preference and attention, and yet,
members of this Order are sitting at the threshold and strategic points of mission of
the MCSA.
Both the EMMU and District/Circuit have not been able to circumvent the problems
that come with both the academic and formation streams of our training. Issues of
discipline with regards to the duration of training, robing and conduct of probationers
need to be streamlined.
Some areas of attention:
EMMU ADMINISTRATION:
All prospective candidates shall complete in full, application forms obtainable from
the District Secretary of Evangelism, and upon completion and District screening,
the forms of those successful shall be forwarded to the Warden of the Order of
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Evangelism. The Coordinator of lay training cannot accept application forms which
have not been processed by the Warden.
TRAINING PROCESS
Candidates who have gone through screening, been accepted by Conference and
do not attend their first year training, would have to produce a legitimate proof and
reason why they couldn’t be available for training.
• A five days training session for all probationer Evangelists and Bible Women is
compulsory for all probationers. No probationer will be given dispensation from
training, unless the circumstances demands otherwise.
• The Coordinator will assess, and deal with every case in accordance witho its
merits.
• The circuit through its Superintendent, shall be responsible for all issues relating
to mentorship and or spiritual direction, who would facilitate the probationer’s
spiritual formation programme.
• All issues of discipline, with respect to the Evangelists/Biblewomen probationer
will be handled normally by the Superintendent and the CQM to which they are
held accountable.
• The training period for all probationers shall be equivalent to the trial period of
two years, not exceeding three.
• Failure to attend the first or second year session of training, will result in a formal
written warning to the probationer. The final warning shall be communicated
to the Circuit Quarterly Meeting through the Superintendent and the District
Secretary of the Order
• In the event of a probationer having failed either the first or second year of training,
or couldn’t avail themselves for any session of training, the stationing circuit,
to which the probationer accounts, will send to EMMU, a formal submission
confirming the circuit’s willingness to continue support for the probationer.
Financial support with respect to training is a matter between the Circuit and the
probationer concerned.
• Plagiarism and or copying each other’s work, or section of the work is highly
unethical and therefore unacceptable. Parties involved in copying each other’s
work, will be completely disqualified, and cannot be advanced to the second
year of training, or even graduation. The Superintendent and the Secretary of the
Order shall be kept informed regarding offenders and punishment meted-out.
GRADUATION AND COMMISSIONING.
All probationer Evangelists and Bible Women who have successfully met the training
requirements, shall attend the graduation ceremony as per EMMU notification and
invitation.
Probationers who are unable to attend their graduation ceremony, shall notify EMMU
not less than seven days before the graduations. Certificates shall be forwarded by
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post to all graduating probationers who have indicated their inability to attend the
ceremony.
Commissions of those who have adequately met the requirements, remains the
responsibility of the District Bishop and the Superintendent to which the Evangelists/
Bible Women will be labouring.
TRAINING AND SYLLABUS
The training will be in one centre and the syllabus will be as follows;
1st Year
• Introduction Methodist Doctrine; Vision & Mission
• Introduction Church Planting
• Introduction Evangelism (New Ways)
• Introduction Small Groups
• Introduction to Pastoral Counselling & Crisis Counselling
2nd Year
• Pastoral Counselling and Crisis Counselling
• Evangelism (Faith Sharing)
• Methodist Doctrine
• Church Planting
• Small Groups
Candidates:
1. Tom Nocawe
2. Velebhayi Vilakazi Patricia
3. Modise Gouta
4. Ngundze Lungile Hardier
2nd YEAR Students
Circuit Surname
0653
Balete
000
Franisi
0605
Mahlatsi
1324 Matshoba
0502 Molaolwa
1006
Motsei
000
Mtimka
1121
Ngwenya
1102
Nkumanda
1006
Poo
1006
Ramocoedi
First Names
Lucas Monaheng
Nomthandazo
Ramaleshoane Joel
Siyabonga Templeton
Lawrence Keloabetswe
Kgwakgwane Magdeline
Pheliwe Mavis
Sidudhla Norah
Nomaroma Margaret
Lorraine Lebogang
Bantsi Evelyn Aria
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0515
1124
2016
Taaibos
Zulu
Neziswa
Sibongile Bettie
2015 Graduands in Bloemfontein on the 13 June
Circuit Surname
First Names
0906
Bandla
Nontobeko Gladys
0911
Bula
Mavis
0339
Gqoboka
Mzwabantu
0301
Hokolo
Xoliswa Sybil
0128 Jekwa
Elizabeth Popie
0830
Kumalo
Jabulani Thimothy
0128
Lynch
Oswald Graham
0902
Macingwane
Sabelo Xolile Vusumzi
0128
Magcoba
Nosipho Gladys
1105
Manamela
Johanna Motsei
1024
Masuku
Tsakasile Abigail
0322 Mbanga Adonijah Sebenzile
0703
Moolisa Malesole Elizabeth
0330
Ngceba Notemba
0813
Radebe Thembalihle Donatus
0211
Rossouw Katie Daphne
0330 Sixinti
Nzame
0330
Sodladla Zwelitsha
0122
Sokanyile Zukile
0901 Tom
Bulewa Nomasomi Gena
0322 Vumazonke
Nokuzola Letitia
0803 Zuma
Simon Musawenkosi Boni
THE GENERAL COMMITTEE (14.1).
The members of The General Committee are indicated in this Clause. This Committee
will meet in Durban, Natal Coastal District on the first Tuesday of June.
BIENNIAL CONVENTION 2016
The Biennial Convention operates in terms of the Constitution as per Clause 8.3.2
and second paragraph of Chapter 14 of Laws and Discipline. The 36th Biennial
Convention will be held in the Queenstown District, Circuit 313 from 19-22 May.
Rev Fikile Makananda, President of the Biennial Convention, will be stepping down
and a new president will be elected.
The challenges facing Mozambique District are being pastorally handled at
Connexional level but a special visit will take place in 2015 by the Warden,
Coordinator of Lay Ministry and the President of the Biennial Secretary of General
Committee.
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STATISTICS BEING SUBMITTED FROM ALL DISTRICTS
The Order is collating the Data for all Biblewomen and Evangelists in the connexion.
District Secretaries should ensure that all Biblewomen and Evangelists records are
sent to the Warden.
Stipend and Travelling in 2016
The stipend for Commissioned is R3895-00
The stipend for Probationers is R3310-00
The travelling is R1400-00
Medical Assistance is R4000-00
Circuits should note: As soon as Biblewomen and Evangelists begin to work in
the Circuit, they must be paid through MCO. To be paid this way enables MCO
to register them with pension and medical assistance. Furthermore, all registered
Biblewomen and Evangelists do qualify for extra-ordinary grant (a portion of
claim for spectacles) if they are paid minimum stipends through the Methodist
Connexional Office. Similarly, the retired Biblewomen and Evangelists who were
full time, qualify for the above mentioned grant provided that they had at least 10
years’ service and were paid minimum stipend through MCO. This extra-ordinary
grant and medical assistance is subject to the limit of R4000-00 per family per year.
The 2007 Conference agreed that 6% from their Basic plus additional stipend would
be their contribution towards this grant. So the Circuit which does not pay through
MCO is grossly disadvantaging our Biblewomen and Evangelists. To this end, we
thank Circuits who continue to remunerate our Biblewomen and Evangelists.
Honouring those who have been called to Higher Service. “Who are these arrayed
in white robes, and where did they come from?” (Revelation 7; 13). The Conference
honoured the following Biblewomen and Evangelists who have since passed on and
prayed for their families. May their souls rest in peace and rise in glory!
Biblewoman Phetshiwe N. Nkotso
Evangelist Mxolisi Silolo (Connexional Vice President)
Biblewoman Dora Majavu
Biblewoman Gladys Munyu
BiblewomanAida Ntsamai
Biblewoman Lilian Matabane
Biblewoman Martha Block
Evangelist Steven Maraba
Evangelist Mthuthuzeli Thinta
Biblewoman Claina Dlamini
Biblewoman Mabel Dobe
Evangelist Enoch Zothwa
Biblewoman Nogate Pantshwa
Evangelist Mzimkhulu Mvunelo
Evangelist Mahala
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Evangelist Thandi Kunene
Biblewoman Lindiwe Qiqimane
Evangelist John Khuma
District Secretaries of the Order of Evangelism
Rev Fikile Makananda is the President of the Biennial Convention
Cape of Good Hope Rev N. A.Nomqolo
Grahamstown Rev T Klaas
Queenstown
Rev A. Landu
Northern Free State & Lesotho
Rev T.J. Kgotle
Kimberly, Namibia and Bloemfontein
Rev S. J. Kobuoe
Natal Coastal
Rev N. Sibhidla
Natal West
Rev A. M. Gwala
Central
Rev T. S. Sibi
Highveld and Swaziland Rev B. M. Manne
Limpopo
Rev R. M. Machola
Mozambique
Rev R. Massango
Clarkebury
Rev T. H. Ntuli
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CHAPTER 13
CONNEXIONAL COMMITTEE ON CHAPLAINCY
INTRODUCTION
The Methodist Church of Southern Africa appoints ministers to various areas
of ministry and allows them to exercise their call in areas not usually regarded
as church, but nevertheless as important as the general understanding of what
ministry is all about. These ministries are conducted on behalf of the church,
and all appointed to such ministries are expected to maintain the church’s ethos
and values, and are expected to be the church’s representatives in “the world”.
One might regard this as specialised Ministry, or as one chaplain pointed out, “it
is ministry in the market place”. The most important guiding principle for the
appointment of chaplains is that they are called to this ministry, and whether they
are able to represent the church and minister in an environment outside of the
regular church.
REVIEW OF PREVIOUS REPORT
Local Church Involvement
All our chaplains report that they have been well received in the Circuits within which
they reside, mainly because they have taken the initiative to take up membership
within the Circuit, and offer their services and increase involvement within the local
church.
Reviewing Chaplaincy
Attempts to connect with authorities within the Metro Police and Emergency Services
have not yet yielded fruit. We will continue to maintain contact and hopefully the
wheels that have been grinding very slowly will pick up speed from the services
concerned.
PASTORAL COMMITTEES AFTER 10 YEARS OF SERVICE
A Pastoral Commission has been held for one chaplain who has completed 10 years
of service within the Department of Correctional Services. The chaplain expressed
the desire to be stationed in a Circuit and the Pastoral Commission recommends that
he be stationed as soon as possible. The Connexional Committee on Chaplaincy
supports the recommendation provided that a station is available; meanwhile the
chaplain concerned should remain within the Department until he is notified that he
is to be stationed in a Circuit.
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APPLICATIONS FOR CHAPLAINCY
The Committee received 7 requests for permission to apply for posts available in
the chaplaincy. These were referred to the ministers’ respective Districts for Pastoral
Commissions. Of the seven applicants, 1 was recommended, 2 were not available to
meet with the commission, 2 were not recommended and 2 are still in the process of
meeting with the commissions. In the year under review none of our ministers were
appointed to the chaplaincy.
AGE LIMIT FOR APPLICANTS
Historically the Security Services with which the church has a relationship, have
stipulated the age at which they can receive chaplains; “The Security Services do
not accept chaplains over the age of forty” (L&D p.162 par. 15.5.2.) It has been
brought to our attention that in certain cases this provision is not applied as some
chaplains have been appointed even when they are over the stipulated age. The chair
of the Connexional Committee on Chaplaincy has taken this matter up with the
security service concerned, and with the Security Services Christian Advisory Board
to enquire whether their policy has changed and to find out the circumstances under
which this policy can be reviewed. A report will be presented once clarity on this
matter has been found.
While this matter is being discussed, we request Conference to give permission to
ministers over the age of forty to apply for chaplaincy, after having followed the
church process for application.
CHAPLAINS DEPLOYED OUTSIDE THE BORDERS OF COUNTRIES OF
RESIDENCE
Defense Force Chaplains are from time to time deployed beyond the borders of
their country of origin to support members of the army serving particularly as
part of the African Union or United Nations Peacekeeping Forces. Every chaplain
so deployed must inform the committee of such deployment. The Rev. Stephen
Matsaneng was to be deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo for the period
April to November 2015. We have since been informed that the deployment was
withdrawn, and instead he was deployed internally to serve members of the SANDF
in the Matatiele area.
RESERVE CHAPLAINS
The Committee has received a number of inquiries from ministers wishing to apply
for appointment as Reserve Chaplains, particularly in those command areas where
the full time chaplain cannot service the area meaningfully. Thus far the church
has not had any regulations to govern the appointment of Reserve Chaplains. The
Committee has drafted regulations and procedures for the appointment of such
chaplains and will present these to the Revision Committee for consideration and
inclusion in the Laws and Discipline.
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LETTERS OF GOOD STANDING
All Methodist Chaplains receive letters of good standing from the church annually.
This is specifically required by the South African Police Service but letters are given
to all chaplains in every service as a matter of course. All our chaplains have had
these letters submitted to the Human Resources Departments of their respective
security service.
REV. NOEL MAGERMAN
th
It is with regret that we report the death of the Rev. Noel Magerman on the 16 July
2015 after a short illness. Rev. Magerman served the church within the SANDF
with distinction and was highly spoken of by his colleagues in the chaplaincy.
The Chaplain General particularly expressed regret at having lost one of his best
chaplains. We continue to hold his family in our prayers.
PRINCIPAL CHAPLAIN AND LIAISON CHAPLAINS
The Rev. Nzingo Noto serves as Principal Chaplain since January 2014 and the
Revs. Molefi Matsane and Morake Finger as Liaison Chaplains for the Department
of Correctional Services and the South African Police Service respectively.
CONCLUSION
Our Chaplains continue to represent the church within a stressful and difficult
environment. It is here that they bring grace, care and love, not only to those within
the Security Services but also to their families. The Committee on Chaplaincy
continually receives very good reports about the work and dedication of most of
the Methodist Chaplains, and this is due largely to our stringent procedures of
appointing them to this work. The Connexional Committee on Chaplaincy continues
to hold them accountable and provide support which will enable them to minister as
the church requires.
Shalom, Grace and Peace
Themba Mntambo
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CHAPTER 14
CONNEXIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES
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The following paragraphs should be read in conjunction with the 12 Edition of
the Laws and Discipline – Book of Order, Chapter 10:
1. Vesting and Administration
(See paragraph 10.1)
2. All members of the Trust Properties Committees are urged to declare any property
interest in so far as it may relate to any property of the church. Refer to paragraph
10.31 of the general regulations.
3. The District Trust Properties Committee must refer all schemes, contracts,
purchases and sale agreements etc. in excess of R1 million to the Connexional
Trust Properties Committee for approval.
4. No building contract exceeding R250 000 in value may be entered into without
the District Trust Properties Committee’s approval.
5. A Registered Architect, or an approved Building Design Consultant, is to be
appointed where expenditure is between R70 000 and R250 000. A Registered
Architect and a Registered Engineer must be appointed where expenditure
exceeds R250 000. When Societies wish to owner-build, the permission of the
District Trust Properties Committee must be obtained.
6. At least two tenders are required for schemes where expenditure will exceed
R250 000. “Contractors All Risks and Public Liability Insurance” must be
arranged for all erections, alterations, additions or renovations to buildings.
7. An organ costing more than R75 000 shall require the approval of the Quarterly
Meeting and the District Trust Properties Committee before being purchased.
Organs costing less than R75 000 and other Church furnishings may be purchased
without District Trust Properties Committee approval, provided that no debt is
incurred.
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CHAPTER 15
METHODIST PUBLISHING HOUSE
CONFERENCE REPORT 2015
For the period July 2014 to June 2015
Mr Deon Swanepoel
BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW
During June of 2014 I made the most important decision of my life, to join the
Methodist Publishing House, after being appointed as General Manager, following
the retirement of my predecessor. It was, and still is, the most important and profound
decision I have made, as it presented an opportunity to serve our Lord Jesus Christ,
our Church and to be involved in Retail and then in Christian books, a passion of mine
since I can remember, and a field in which I have some 30 years of experience.
It certainly has been a time of change at MPH and Christian Connexion. Not only
did a new General Manager arrive, but so did new ideas, new and different ways of
thinking and doing business. The strategy to be followed was clear. Learn how the
business operates, take your time in fact-finding, gain people’s trust and commitment,
and then start to implement a new Strategic Plan.
Although many of our Retail Stores, Christian Connexion, are poorly located, there
was no intention to relocate them as soon as possible, as we simply did not have the
funds to do so. Neither was there an intension to rock the boat to such an extent that
we all had to get out and “walk on water”.
The primary function of MPH and Christian Connexion was, and still is, to share in
the Mission of the Church, to spread the Gospel. We will continue to do so, and by
doing so we have to ensure quality products and excellent books at reasonable prices
whilst gaining market share.
Unfortunately a decision was made to close the Soweto store prior to my appointment.
It was in fact a good decision as this store was in a very bad location and would never
have been able to yield the necessary returns.
The Benoni store will be closed as soon as we have reached an agreement with
the landlord. Unfortunately the store has performed extremely poorly and is not
financially viable.
OBJECTIVES
It was of the utmost importance to establish the following:
• Effective administrative functions
• Workable and achievable procedures
• Introduce a balanced scorecard (Performance Appraisal System)
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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Increase gross profit margins to between 52% and55%
Find new suppliers and source new products
Reduce stock holding
Increase stock turn
Enhance replenishment
Introduce new weekly and monthly reports
Training of all staff
Upgrade the IT system and software
Develop a new website
Introduce a merchandising policy
Re-establish and reposition the publishing division.
Create a sense of pride and passion amongst all staff
Set realistic, achievable and measurable goals
Replace redundant computer equipment
Relocate at least two existing stores
If at all possible open one new store.
It was further of vital importance to do away with practices and systems that did not
work. Some of these were;
• Do away with the concept of “mark-ups”
• Stop the practice of reducing cost prices of sale items to R0.01
• Do away with an annual sale
• Ensure that all administrative tasks were up to date
It was, and is obvious that growth in sales will not come from an increased gross
profit margin alone, but that real growth will only be achieved by gaining market
share, by opening new stores.
Although the growth in turnover for the period under review has been substantial,
the best news is that our net profit has increased considerably. This is mainly due to
stabilising the gross profit margin and ensuring that replenishment is done correctly
(although this has improved, a lot of work still needs to be done), and that stock turns
are monitored on a weekly basis.
New administrative procedures have been implemented and we can already see the
difference just in turnover and gross profit margins.
Most procedures were changed and new ones introduced to ensure that stock turns
improve, stockholding reduced and that replenishment cycles are implemented
and working. This has been successfully done, although replenishment can still be
improved on.
The introduction of the balanced scorecard together with job descriptions have made
a huge difference in that staff are now clear as to what is expected and it has boosted
moral. Clearly defined key performance indicators make it easier to motivate and
measure people’s performance.
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Training of all staff remains a priority and a substantial amount has been spent on
Training. This will continue in the new year.
We have made immense progress in finding new suppliers and product lines and
exciting times are ahead.
We have upgraded our IT system. Where our server was operating on outdated
software, it is now operating on Windows 2010. Similarly AccPac, the accounting
(financial package) was upgraded from the 2005 version to the 2014 version.
We will also be installing a new Point of Sale system in August of 2015.
Our new website will be live within the next few weeks and the design and
functionality is exciting, fresh and is sure to draw attention.
We are grateful to announce that our total turnover for the period under review has
increased from R16 502 501 to R18 543 160 and our net profit from R631 221 to
R2 362 279. (Figures quoted are not yet finally audited.)
The stabilising factor has been our strict adherence to a healthy gross profit margin
as well as the passion and hard work of our whole team, in the stores and at head
office.
ACHIEVEMENTS
• We have successfully changed the look, feel, design and layout of our stores and
have redesigned our logo and we can now truly market our stores as the “third
place from home”.
• We have successfully relocated our Port Elizabeth store to the Bridge Shopping
Centre and the store is meeting expectations in terms of sales.
• We have done substantial renovations at our head office in Salt River and we are
proud of the fact that it is starting to actually look like the offices of a successful
company.
• Most importantly we have increased our gross profit margin and sustained higher
sales than last year, which resulted in a higher net profit.
• We have increased the drive and passion of our people.
• Looking forward, we will be opening a second store in Mthatha in August 2015
and relocate both Bryanston to Epsom Downs Shopping Centre, as well as
Johannesburg CBD store to a new location within the CBD.
• Ideally we would want to relocate Bloemfontein as well as Pretoria, and open a
new store on the West Rand in Johannesburg, and a new store in Soweto.
• The publishing division needs a lot of hard work and repositioning and a lot of
work needs to be done. Both in terms of publishing but also obtaining rights to
print, translate and publish books from the major publishing houses in Europe
and the United States of America.
• The following works were published during the period under review;
o Local Preacher's Association constitutions in 6 indigenous languages
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o Mr President by David Sadler
o 2015 MCSA Yearbook
o The new Methodist Book of Order (12th edition)
o Some Thoughts on the Ten Commandments by Simon Gqubule
o Sawdust and Soul (under a co-publishing agreement with Wipf and Stock in
the USA)
• Although the wholesale division has been under pressure, this was largely due
to poor decision making and selection of whom we supply to. This has been
addressed and we look forward to a more stable year.
• Franchising will be a focus in the new financial year as many opportunities exist
and need to be explored. We are looking at areas like Nelspruit, Polokwane,
Ladysmith, Secunda, etc.
• We will also actively investigate locating in neighbouring countries like Namibia,
Lesotho and Swaziland, before taking it further north.
In the final analysis we are proud to say that we are being noticed as a serious player
in the Christian book industry and we will continue to drive and work hard to become
the Book Store of Choice to all believers who are serious about their relationship
with the Lord Jesus.
Yours in Christ, Deon Swanepoel, General Manager.
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CHAPTER 16
WOMEN’S WORK
WOMEN’S MANYANO
Mrs Sonia Tlhakanye
PREAMBLE
Despite the fact that we entered 2015 with the excitement of having celebrated 20 years
of a Democratic South Africa in 2014, our country is still experiencing the challenge of
women and children abuse; children who are addicted to drugs; crime; poverty; a high
rate of unemployment and violence against nationalities of other countries within the
African Continent. We strongly oppose these atrocious social and spiritual ills.
We, being guided by our MCSA Connexional and Women`s Manyano themes,
commit ourselves to fight against all kinds of ills by stretching our arms (Mark 3:1-6)
to educate and transform our community
OVERVIEW OF THE MANYANO WORK
SPIRITUALITY
Manyano understands Spirituality as an on-going endeavour to grow in our
relationship with God. Every District has programmes of Spiritual upliftment
activities such as revivals, retreats, workshops, prayer meetings, Bible Studies and
ecumenical services. Furthermore, Districts hold Conventions once a year where
they have a full programme which includes amongst other things, a Healing Service,
Bible Study and prayers.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH
As Women’s Manyano we have a responsibility to ensure growth in the organisation.
This is done by preaching the Gospel, conducting revivals and Bible Studies. We do
not ignore the ‘ceased to meet’ members and conduct home visits to win them back
to the organisation. To sustain the membership we hold workshops on issues that
affect women directly.
JUSTICE, SERVICE AND RECONCILIATION
Women’s Manyano is a transformative organisation. In terms of justice we do
Outreach programmes, for example observing Madiba Day, cleaning for elderly and
disabled people, visits to orphanages as well as hospitals. Other services include
cleaning campaigns, giving destitute families clothes, groceries and furniture.
Protest marches are conducted in different Districts in recognition of Women and
Children abuse, 16 Days of Activism, Human Trafficking, Xenophobia and HIV and
AIDS awareness.
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Some Districts visited Marikana in support of the tragedy that befell families who
lost their loved ones. They planted olive trees as symbol of hope reconciliation. Over
and above that, in collaboration with the Department of Housing they built 5 houses
which were handed over to the beneficiaries.
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
Women are equipped with basic skills such as knitting, baking, sewing and planting
vegetables. Through the initiation of fundraising and gala dinners, they build or
renovate houses for the destitute. Uniforms and learning aids are donated to schools
and centres.
EDUCATION
Programmes such as ‘’Back to School’’ are run. Reading Corners, reading books,
stationery and educational toys are donated to schools. Parents of the learners in Grade
R are trained on how to use the educational toys. This training will empower them
to help their children with homework. A Girl Child development workshop aiming
at opening communication between mother and daughter is conducted. Teachers in
our Organisation conduct afternoon classes to assist learners with Maths and Science.
Nurses on the other hand teach learners basic Life Skills. Education Sunday is held to
dedicate special prayer for learners who will be writing their final examinations.
HIGHLIGHTS
• As per the decision of the Triennial we assisted SMMS with the an amount of
R100 000.00 for meals
• Donated R30 000.00 towards Mozambique floods disaster.
• Donated R25 000.00 for Nepal Disaster earthquake victims
• As Women’s Manyano we witnessed handing over of Renovated Classrooms by
Anglo Gold Ashanti at Healdtown Historical Institution.
• We also donated R20 000.00 to BMC for their 40 years Celebration.
• Financing tertiary students, one from each District.
FUTURE PLANS
We continue to do the following:
• Continue financially supporting SMMS for meals
• Continue paying bursaries for Tertiary Students throughout the Connexion.
• Fundraising for building of conference centres in Districts
CHALLENGES
The Women’s Manyano membership is gradually dropping. The major challenge
is that we are not getting accurate stats from the Districts because of the current
numerically based assessment system. The tendency is for Districts to reduce their
numbers. The socio-economic situation poses a challenge as some women are not
able to meet their dues. Despite these challenges we will continue to Evangelise.
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CONCLUSION
We wish the Presiding Bishop and the Executive a Blessed spirit filled Conference
and best wishes for upcoming Methodist World Conference.
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CONNEXIONAL WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION
Mrs Eunice Gomez
INTRODUCTION
The Biennial Convention held in July 2014 introduced a new theme for the period
2014-2016: “Come drink deep from the fountain of Living Water, to be a transformed
Discipleship movement.” As we drink deep from the fountain of living water, we
are able to shepherd God’s people to experience God as the fountain of living
water. Coming to the realisation that the deeper we drink of Christ as the fountain
of living water, we are enabled to become a transforming discipleship movement,
which encapsulates the theme of the Presiding Bishop “Together a transforming
discipleship movement”.
OUR VISION AND MISSION FOR THE 2014-2016 TERM
We believe that as the Women’s Association, we are called in humility, service and
obedience to be bolder, more courageous and determined about being true Methodist
disciples in today’s challenging contexts, by:
• Drinking deep into the Fountain of Living water so as to deepen our spirituality.
• Being guided by God’s mission to use our lives to bring others into the Kingdom
of God – we will no longer live for ourselves but will live for God, follow God’s
command and fit into God’s plans.
• Rediscovering in the Women’s Association that every member has a ministry,
calling and discipleship to fulfil.
• Re-emphasising servant-leadership, by embracing the humility of Jesus and in
love serving one another and all with whom we come into contact.
• Committing to environmental justice by making all aware of the scarcity of
water, the need to protect it, to assist those who still have no running water in
their homes and to observe water week.
MISSION
In conjunction with the broader church, we identify ourselves with the following
four imperatives of mission: Evangelism and Church Growth; Spirituality; Justice
and Service; Human and Economic Development and Empowerment.
SPIRITUALITY: “A woman’s heart should be so hidden in God that a man has to seek
Him just to find her” (Max Lucado). There is a deep sense of Spiritual and Evangelical
commitment among the Women’s Association members as consistent prayer and fasting
takes place every Wednesday. This is a time for intercessory prayer and introspection.
The social media is also used as a tool whereby prayer requests are posted. Wonderful
testimonies of answered prayers by women throughout the Connexion are given.
Spiritual retreats are held by the leadership of Districts. Through these retreats women
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are spiritually fed and their biblical knowledge increased. A retreat with the theme ‘the
Power of Prayer’ is but one such retreat held. Prepared Bible Study books serve as a
resource on how to praise God, as God has chosen to manifest Himself or reveal Himself
in the praises of people. Monthly interaction with Districts through our platform of
work on Spirituality has been a great source of encouragement to Districts.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH: A church building was built in
Pescodia, Kimberley, through the tireless efforts and financial contributions of the
Women’s Association of that Society. The church was officially opened by Bishop
Mothibi on Sunday, 12 October 2015
The Cape of Good Hope District’s sisters assisted with the preparations and
organisation of a very successful Southern and East Africa Seminar which took place
during October 2014 in Cape Town.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE: Proverbs 31:20-21 “She opens her hand to the poor and
reaches out her hands to the needy.” Providing dignity to poverty stricken communities
throughout the Connexion with food parcels, soup kitchens and assistance to learners
with stationery, school uniforms, etc. is ongoing. The campaign against domestic
violence has women at the forefront rendering assistance to the affected. Hence we
adhere to the “Thursdays in black” call. The Women’s Association readily assists
shelters for abused women, police forums and anti-drug forums.
Teenage pregnancies remain a pandemic and it has come to light that girls are
becoming pregnant at an alarmingly younger age. Education of girls and boys
regarding teenage pregnancy is highlighted and ongoing. Blankets for teenage
pregnant girls, are being knitted by the Women’s Association for distribution with
toiletries to both mother and baby. This is an ongoing project.
HUMAN AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT:
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Successful
talks and workshops were held on how to write out a last will and testament and the
following workshops were held to empower women: Child labour, involvement in
International Literacy Day, how to conserve water and sanitation.
HIGHLIGHTS
The Connexional Women’s Associated hosted a women’s consultation during the
week-end of 15-17 May 2015 in Kimberley. By the grace of God well over a hundred
women were able to attend. The following past Connexional Presidents graced
the Consultation with their presence: Mesdames Bridget van der Merwe, Bernice
Theron, Cynthia Bimray, Julia Mottie and Pet van der Straat. These past presidents
will be of assistance in the writing of the history of the Women’s Association and the
amendments to the Constitution.
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The 28 Biennial Convention will be held from Wednesday, 29 June 2016 until
Sunday, 3 July 2016, at the Aldersgate Methodist Church, Kimberley.
CONCLUSION
All honour, praise and glory to our Heavenly Father for His mercies and grace which
are new every morning, for His hand of protection and guidance over the Women’s
Association.
EUNICE GOMEZ
Connexional President
EUREKA BOIKANYO
Connexional Secretary
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WOMEN’S AUXILIARY
Mrs Linda Gerrand
Theme 2014 – 2016 “Our Father’s Love” based on John 3-6.
“Our Father’s Love” is not only the theme for the newly commissioned executive of
the Women’s Auxiliary, but a reminder to all members that our Father continues to
reach out to all, and that His love is our inspiration as we serve Him through word
and deed. This is evident as members continue to reach out to the needy, the lonely
and the frail – being instruments in the hands of a mighty God, “Knowing Him and
making Him known”.
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The 98 Connexional Meetings were held at Aliwal North, a small town on the
border of the KNB District. The meetings confirmed what can be done by a few
members who work together with their sisters from other denominations, and
functioned like a well-oiled machine for the benefit of all who attended the meetings.
A resolution was put forward to change the name of ‘Social Concerns’ portfolio to
‘Justice and Service’ and was unanimously accepted by all delegates. This brings the
Women’s Auxiliary into line with the 5 pillars of the Methodist Church. On Friday
22 August 2014 Presiding Bishop Siwa commissioned General President elect,
Linda Gerrand and her executive. In his address, Bishop Siwa challenged the ladies
to remind him, and others in leadership, of the needs of the hurt and marginalised
people around us.
SPIRITUALITY: We would not live up to our motto if Spirituality was not the
foundation of all that we do. Devotions precede meetings and are done on a rotational
basis allowing all members to grow in their spiritual journey. Novel ways of making
devotions more interesting are used, such as studying one verse at a time of Psalm
23. It is often at times of sharing that members are able to open up and share a
concern or need and have others pray for them. When it comes to ‘Prayer Warriors
’our ladies are hard to beat. Modern technology ensures that needs are circulated and
upheld in prayer even as a catastrophe is taking place anywhere in the world. All
members are involved in the daily life of our Church through Bible studies and other
Church related activities.
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH remains very evident in the reports of
our ladies sharing with all denominations and Organisations. The annual Women’s
World Day of Prayer is an opportunity not missed for all sisters in Christ to come
together and share in the programme. From reports received, Women’s Auxiliary
Services, Mother’s and Father’s day services are celebrated.
Unfortunately membership has again decreased and can definitely be attributed to
the modern lifestyle of isolated living and security concerns. We believe that all
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mainstream Churches have dropped in numbers with the modern tendency of people
believing that they are masters of their own destiny and having denied God in all
walks of life, with disastrous results.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE is what our Women’s Auxiliary is all about and involves
every member in some service or other. Over the years these women have stood
for what is good and right and voiced their opposition to corruption and wrong
doing. In recent years they have been a strong voice against the escalating abuse of
women and children. They have wholeheartedly adopted the “Thursdays in Black”
campaign and lead in many practical outreaches to those abused. Rape victims are
provided with necessary articles of clothing, gifts of toiletries and an encouraging
verse from Scripture. Prayer is shared on a regular basis by branch members with
these victims. Biblewomen are not forgotten, and are given food and clothing which
can be distributed to those in need. Children continue to be the focus of attention
and many hundreds of knitted toys and jerseys bring comfort and joy to those in
need. Literally hundreds of litres of soup are made and distributed to needy folk in
informal settlements and soup kitchen venues.
HUMAN AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT has become a priority for
many Branches as people realise that education means freedom from poverty. There
have been several collections of pencils, books and other items needed for children
starting their school careers. Members witnessed the transformation of a young child
from being half-starved, dirty and homeless, to becoming confident and able to recite
passages of Scripture. She now delights in sharing what she has learnt with others.
Assistance is not only for the young, but beneficiaries of a feeding scheme were
shown how to make garden furniture from used tyres to be self-sufficient.
WORLD FEDERATION OF METHODIST AND
UNITING CHURCH WOMEN.
During this year, our General President, Mrs Linda Gerrand and the General PRO, Mrs
Edna Wentzel as well as the previous general PRO, Mrs Jeanette Stretton, attended
the Southern and East Africa Area Conference of the WFMUCW in Cape Town. A
very good relationship has developed between ourselves and this organisation over
the last few years and many joint meetings are held. Women from all over the area
were present and topics such as women in leadership, education and environmental
sustainability were presented in between very moving and sincere worship sessions.
Several generous gifts of boxes of toiletries, computer equipment and furniture items
were donated by the women’s organisations to other needy projects.
FINANCES continue to be blessed by the personal dedication and hard work of
every member of our Organisation. All Districts contribute generously to Methodist
Church funds, local missions and Methodist homes for children and the elderly. In
several instances, the WA Branches assist substantially in the finances to maintain
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their Church, especially in the rural areas. The ladies have a gift for making all
fundraising efforts into fundraising ‘events’ for the whole family.
Thanks as always, must first go to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for calling
us, equipping us, and sending us out to be His hands, feet, voice and often ears to
be used in His service as we share our motto “To know Christ and to make Him
known”. Members of the District Executives are not forgotten and appreciation for
their support and availability are expressed.
Our future is in God’s hands, and as we approach our Centenary in 2016, we believe
that we still have much work to do in outreach and support of our local Churches.
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YOUNG WOMEN’S MANYANO
Mrs Zime Nyembezi
PREAMBLE
2014-2015 has been an eventful year of celebration of a decade of independence as
a Manyano. With a loud voice we have all agreed that we shall continue to stand and
attest that God has been good and we shall dwell in His house as anointed disciples.
This report is a reflection of our continued pursuit of re-imagining our existence
and defining our purpose. Under the theme “Save and Heal the Promised Seed”, we
constantly engage in activities that contribute to our fulfilment of God’s mission.
OBJECTIVES
• Promoting literacy (reading, writing, use of technology) amongst children by
creating reading spaces in churches and schools throughout the Connexion.
• Speaking against the abuse of women and children through observing ‘Thursdays
in Black’, holding marches and engaging in relevant and progressive conversations
in all our gatherings.
• Entering and participating in government and other spaces where decisions about
education are made.
• Building a strong Junior Manyano.
OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF DISTRICTS
YWM members across the Connexion have carved creative ways of spiritual
upliftment and sustainability in themselves and their surrounding communities.
In all Conventions, weekly, monthly and quarterly meetings and through retreats,
fasting and prayer chains, the Manyano puts Bible reading and prayer at the forefront
of its programmes.
Evangelism and church growth has to a large extent shifted focus from merely preaching
to and praying for the needy, to giving. All Districts have donated in various ways, and
prayed for the destitute. The KNB District held a community prayer and candle lighting
service at Ntsafatso. Highveld and Swaziland District supported the Tebogo Home for
the disabled. Central District visited the Mofolo Home Based Care (Centre for HIV/
AIDS) and the Communicable Disease Hospital in Lombardy East (Sizwe Hospital)
where they donate food parcels, toiletries and warm clothes for the children.
Some Districts have seen a marked increase in Junior Manyano numbers. The
Connexion has embarked on developing guidelines for the Junior Manyano, with
Mrs Nkhumise (KNB YWM District President) leading the process, with the first
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sitting of her team on the 20 June 2015.
YWM has formed a Connexional Task Team to review the YWM Constitution and
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the first meeting of the Task Team was held from the 19 to the 21 of June in
Bloemfontein.
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There is a notable collaboration with other Organisations within our Church to
promote growth. Joint services like revivals, retreats and bible studies have been
conducted. A Circuit YWM in the Central District is collaborating with the YMG
in the YMG “EDUCATE A CHILD” project. KNB YWM has built a house in
collaboration with YMG and WM.
In line with our “Drop Everything and Read” focus for 2013-2016, the Connexion and
Districts have undertaken to improve literacy levels and respond to general educational
needs of children in our churches, schools and communities. The Connexion donated
100 school bags and writing sets to Junior Manyano of the Limpopo District during
the 2015 Extended General Committee Meeting. All Districts annually donate a
range of goods and services to local schools and churches in support of the education
of 6-10 year old children. Reading corners have been established, uniforms, shoes
and toiletries have been given. KNB is collaborating with the Free State Provincial
Library Services. YWM members of a Circuit in Grahamstown have established
extra classes in Afrikaans for primary school children. Queenstown District annually
contributes R35 000 towards the Districts’ Bursary Fund. The Cape of Good Hope
has established the Elihle Fund.
All Connexional events have provided YWM with the opportunity to be educated
and empowered on gender, social and economic issues through speakers from within
and outside the Manyano. The impact of social media (positive and negative) has
been an area of focus.
Small to medium-scale initiatives continue to form part of Connexional and District
programmes to provide justice and service to communities. The Connexional
YWM invited residents from the Potter’s House in Pretoria to come to the 2015
Extended General Executive Committee Meeting, to share their stories as a way
of empowering its members and re-affirming the road to recovery for the abused.
In 2014 Highveld and Swaziland District gave donations to the Tebogo Home for
Disabled children. The KNB YWM has formed a partnership with Kgaugelo Ya
Sechaba-Drop-in Centre. NFS &L assisted a family to obtain legal documents as
new South African citizens. KNB District bought a walker for a member who has
become incapacitated.
In 2014, Districts observed Mandela Day by visiting old age homes and informal
settlements, orphanages and shelters and participating in cleaning campaigns in the
communities.
A number of projects to empower YWM members and to raise funds for the Manyano
are underway in all Districts. Of note are the Cape of Good Hope sewing project
and the KNB Archbell and Tweespruit Circuit garden projects. Three members of
KNB YWM have formed a partnership and registered a company “Lesang Boroko
Multipurpose Primary Cooperative” which has secured the tender to supply three
schools around Thaba Nchu with groceries for lunch for learners.
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MEMBERSHIP
Districts have seen a drop in numbers due to the increasing attrition rates as a result
of the scourges of HIV/AIDS, TB and cancer. A marked increase in Junior Manyano
membership is noted largely due to the Connexional drive to “save and heal the
promised seed”.
FINANCIALS
The financial status as reflected in the attached audited financial statement is not a
true reflection of the YWM’s financial muscle but an indication of lack of compliance
by some in terms of membership subscription. The statement was presented and
adopted at the 2015 Extended General Executive Committee meeting.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Established reading corners in all Districts.
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• 1 meeting of the YWM Task Team to review the YWM constitution and to
formulate Junior Manyano guidelines.
• Magazine: Volume 3 of our Tri-Mag which sets the Young Women’s Manyano as
a unique organisation was published and circulated in May 2015.
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• 10 Anniversary: The Connexion and individual Districts have celebrated 10
years of independence.
• Launch of the KNB website (https://sites.google.com/site/youngwomensmanyanoknb) and logo.
CHALLENGES
• Inadequate knowledge of the YWM Constitution.
• Lack of understanding or perceived ignorance of the fact that the first allegiance
is to membership in the Church before the Manyano.
• Lack of commitment by YWM members to support initiatives which contribute
to the growth of the organisation.
• Unemployment.
• Increased attrition rates due to HIV/AIDS.
• Co-existence of the various age groups within the Manyano.
It is encouraging to note that the YWM has moved away from merely identifying
the challenges, to seeking ways of addressing some of them through empowerment
initiatives and the creation of safe spaces of engagement.
FUTURE PLANS
• Finalise the review of the YWM Constitution with the intention to present the
final document at Triennial Convention 2016.
• Purchase a vehicle for the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary
Compiled by:
General President
Z.E. Nyembezi (Mrs)
General Secretary
N.Z. Jonas (Ms)
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WORLD FEDERATION OF METHODIST
AND UNITING CHURCH WOMEN
SOUTHERN AND EAST AFRICA AREA: 2011-2016
Mrs Gretta Makhwenkwe
INTRODUCTION
This has been an eye-opening, adventurous and most importantly Spirit-filled quinquennium. We did all things through Christ who has been strengthening us. The
units supported us as the executive prayerfully and in many other ways. Women are
really a formidable force. We really are a rock especially seeing that we rely on “The
Rock”, Christ Himself.
SUCCESSES
• Thanks to the Unit Presidents and their Correspondents for their cooperation and
the formation of the Extended Executive The Meeting which meets annually on
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the 2 Saturday of November in Johannesburg helped in taking decisions that gave
direction and meaning to the Area. Thanks to Mrs Carol Hill for organising the
venue and catering.
• Establishment of a functional office: Area Secretary and Area Treasurer.
• A successful Area Consultation held in Durban with a heart-warming outreach
to Addington Primary School (most learners are children of nationals from other
African countries)
• Visits and presentations at various District and Connexional meetings of units.
• Federation Day Celebrations in some Districts. Those that were not visited by
executive members, showed proof of their celebrations by sending a collection
from the day to the treasurer.
• Federation Executive included in the Joint Women’s Meeting, which has now
extended to include all organisations and departments of the MCSA, with the
Office of the Presiding Bishop.
• The Area has a seat at the MCSA Annual Conference.
• Cape Of Good Hope Ladies you are REMARKABLE! – Thank you so much
for your outstanding preparations and organisational skills for the Area Seminar.
You are an A-team.
• A successful Area Seminar with an outstanding outreach yet again (outreach to
3 projects) – though we still owe scientific calculators to one project (they were
assigned to the AME and they failed us).
• Zimbabwe was visited by the executive in 2013, another visit will be in November
this year at their Regional Meeting.
• Advocacy about the Federation has been done, and as a result many members are
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looking forward and eager to attend the 13 World Assembly in Texas, USA.
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• Before 20 April the Area will be submitting The Study Day Material on MDG
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6 for 2016 to the Vice World President (acknowledging help of the units, Mrs
Lorraine Solomon and Mrs Enid Fourie).
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
• Subscriptions are only received from organisations within the MCSA except for
a small amount that was paid in by AME Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
• Submission of statistics – Unit Presidents fail us in this regard.
• Prompt response to correspondence.
• Promotion of the Federation in our societies.
• All-inclusive Federation Day Celebration (not only one denomination, include
other Wesleyan denominations).
WORK IN PROGRESS
• The proposed project for the Area – to have a crop of women of the younger
generation who bond beyond their own; who break down the barriers of culture,
racial groups, organisation and serve God as women of the Federation, women
who can learn from one another, enrich one another and serve God and the
continent. Even if it is only taken forward by women of the MCSA, it will be
seen to come to fruition. A Leadership and Development Training for them will
be of benefit to communities and the Church.
• After all the District meetings, we hope subscriptions will be paid and we
will send a contribution to Mozambique in aid of the floods that ravaged the
country.
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13 WORLD ASSEMBLY
• Theme: “Chosen People: Called to Proclaim”.
• We proclaim through 3 areas – worship, relationships and social action. There
will be 6 workshops on each of the three areas – 18 workshops in total.
• Total Registration will include payment for: venue (conference facilities); federation
(conference package and costs of guest presenters); hotel (bed and breakfast and
lunch box provision); outing costs (variable depending on one’s choice).
• Outings will be to 5 places; you choose when you register where you want to go.
They are:
o NASA Space Centre
o Galleria Shopping Centre
o Museum District
o Bayou Bend Gardens
o George Ranch Historical Park
• Hotel Registration is as follows at the Hilton Hotel:
o $140+ tax per room.
o $ 35 + tax for 4 in a room
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o A room has 2 queen beds or 1 king bed and a sleeper couch.
• Registration is not open yet. Immediately it opens the Area Secretary will inform
all unit presidents to inform the Districts.
• Suggestion – Though one registers online, it will be good for know who has
registered so that we can arrange a block booking, if possible.
• Don’t delay for visa applications, ladies.
PRAYER NEEDS
• Kenya massacre.
CONCLUSION
She who leads but has no followers, is just taking a stroll. Thanks for beefing up our
leadership as the Area Executive. May God bless you, your households and your
Ministries.
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WOMEN IN MINISTRY
Rev. J Nomvuyo Mhlongo
“… I will pour out my spirit on all people
Your sons and daughters will prophesy.” (Joel 2:28)
INTRODUCTION
CELEBRATING THE 40-YEAR MILESTONE
It took a few years after Rev. A.J. Cook, the then warden of the Deaconess Order,
put forward proposals at the Methodist Conference for the admission of women
to the ministry that this became a reality. This year we celebrate forty years since
it became policy in the MCSA to admit women in the ministry of Word and
Sacrament. We give God all the honour and glory for the grace that is always
sufficient for us!
OVERVIEW OF WORK
At the 2014 WiM Consultation I was tasked to meet with the Presiding Bishop
to discuss the possibility of Celebrating forty years of Women in Ministry in the
MCSA. We met with him; he welcomed the idea and undertook to assist in making
it a reality.
Achievements
• Established a committee to work on a book outline, collect women ministers
stories, edit and publish the book.
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• A fund raising committee for the 40 Celebration in 2016 was established, viz
Revs. Lumka Sigaba, Jabu Mhlophe, Nompithizelo Sibidla – with powers to coopt.
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• Women in Leadership Launch on the 5 August 2015 at MCO by Rev. Jane
Day.
• A Celebratory Committee was appointed by the Presiding Bishop with Rev. D.
van der Laar as its convenor.
• Women in Ministry made more visible e.g. The COGH Synod chaired by the
Vice-Chair who is a woman Minister, hosted by Stellenbosch Circuits under the
superintendency of a woman minister, assisted by other women Ministers for the
smooth running of the Synod.
• There are now 2 women who are District Vice-Chairpersons, and with more
women in the Leadership structure we hope that the voice of women will be
audible.
• Placing WiM on the permanent agenda of DEWCOM, where ethical issues
pertaining to women ministers are discussed.
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WiM District Reps:
Revs: Olivia Le Roux (COGH), Dora Ngcakani (Queenstown), Winnie van RooyenBaumann (KNB), Pumla Mtshiselwa (Limpopo), She Rampa (NFS & L), Nomathemba
Mnanzana (H & S), Maria Mucamba-Mahota (Mozambique), Tshidi Mlaba (Central),
Nompithizelo Sibidla (Natal Coastal), Nomfanelo Bayi (Clarkebury).
CHALLENGES
There are times when women clergy still experience, in relation to individuals or
the Church structures, issues of injustice including gender and race discrimination
as well as gender based violence. The Church needs to continue examining practices
and structures that perpetuate injustice and address these with urgency.
CONCLUSION
I conclude by expressing my heartfelt gratitude for the support received in the eleven
years that I have been leading the women in ministry in the shadows, from the office
of the Presiding Bishop; my male and female colleagues, Laity in our church, EMMU
and DEWCOM. Your support made the journey a place of Spiritual growth and the
affirmation of my faith. May you be truly blessed!
My hope is that when the book we are presently working on is finally published, and
when read, the stories from WiM will reflect that, in the words of Tissa Balasuniya,
O.M.I., sexism, racism, and classism are of human social making. That as women
within the body of Christ, we seek liberation from sexism and not from sex; from
racism, not from race; class, however, is in itself undesirable. Therefore we desire a
classless society, Biological, Historical, Cultural, and Functional differences must be
acknowledged and recognised but these should not make for the inequality of persons
or groups. In this the weak, the poor, and the dominated can raise the consciousness
of others through their struggles for identity, dignity and equality.
SHALOM!
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CHAPTER 17
YOUNG MENS’ GUILD
Rev Motlalepule Petrus Leseba
INTRODUCTION
The report will address ten aspects, viz.: the above stated introduction, Connexional
executive committee, membership/statistics, Connexional meetings, Mission imperatives (related to DDSR), finances, constitutional matters, resolutions, Triennial
roster, and conclusion.
CONNEXIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
The following are the current Connexional Executive Committee that is submitting
its third report to the MCSA Conference:
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.
MEMBERSHIP/STATISTICS
Membership of 15 848 good standing members and 276 deceased members is made
out as follows:
District
Number
N/A
0100
0200
0300
0500
0600
0700
0800
0900
1000
1100
1200
1300
District Name
General Executive
Cape of Good Hope
Grahamstown
Queenstown
Kimberley, Namibia and
Bloemfontein
Northern Free State and
Lesotho
Natal Coastal
Natal West
Central
Highveld and Swaziland
Limpopo
Mozambique
Clarkebury
GRAND TOTAL
2013
2014
2013
2014
Good Standing
8
8
712
652
1244
2260
2396
0
894
0
0
0
0
102
31
Deceased
0
0
0
0
0
0
710
0
43
2000
1478
1737
0
2279
0
3100
15 848
1800
1566
1514
1250
2220
0
3200
15180
0
74
69
0
0
0
0
276
37
70
61
09
10
0
0
160
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CONNEXIONAL MEETINGS
Operational meetings for the functioning of the Organisation were held as follows:
Connexional General Executive Committee (CGEC)
05-08/02/2014 The Executive held its first successful CGEC meeting at Queenstown
District.
05-07/02/2015 The second CGEC meeting was held in Parys, in Northern Free
State & Lesotho District.
04-06/02/2016 The third CGEC meeting is to be held in Cape Town, in Cape of
Good Hope District.
EXECUTIVE MEETINGS
10/01/2015
The first meeting was held at Welkom.
10/05/2015
Was supposed to be held at Welkom as well, however, held at
Bloemfontein on the 17/07/2015
14/11/2015
Scheduled for Pretoria.
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Related to the theme for the 26 YMG Triennial Convention which read thus: “The
Role of Christian Men (YMG) in Reclaiming Humanity in a Broken Society: The
nd
2 Century Outlook”; districts responded to the mission imperatives as follows:
MISSION IMPERATIVES (RELATED TO DDSR)
Queenstown: Evangelism and Church Growth: Circuit visits, even beyond the
district in the quest for evangelism and spiritual growth are conducted. Visits to
hospitals, old age homes, and door to door campaigns take place.
Spirituality: Circuits are trying to answer the call and spread the Gospel. Bible
studies are held.
Development and Economic Empowerment: Visits to various Circumcision
schools by members to capacitate traditional nurses and initiates. District Bursary
Fund.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: YMG and the DDSR desk’s budget had been
allocated R50 000.00 to seek ways and means of stretching beyond the current
limitations of economic meltdown manifested the world over to address inequalities
within our societies. A kind donation was made to Thuthuzela Centre.
Christian formation and Education: The organisation’s ‘adopt a school legacy’
project has grown in leap and bounds. Donated furniture received as an organisation
(YMG) from First National Bank to the tune of some of R60 00.00 worth and four
brand new computers with a printer given to Msundulo Primary School, a Rural
School in East London.
Clarkebury: Evangelism and Church Growth: The Evangelical Campaign took
place at Mt White Circuit (1300).
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Spirituality: Healing Services always take centre stage. Street revival (uhlaselo)
with the banners.
Development and Economic Empowerment: The Food Garden Project remains an
overarching major campaign of the YMG. Food gardens and an Orchard (Umyezo
weziqhamo) was identified.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Dress-a-child programme materialised. The
district continued to donate blankets to our grandmothers and grandfathers.
Christian formation and Education: Education remains and will always continue
as a sine qua non as a transformation determinant of the South African citizenry.
District Bursary Scheme for needy children exists.
Highveld and Swaziland: Evangelism and Church Growth: The YMG is still
utilising old nets like street revivals for fishing for new members.
Spirituality: The action plan adopted in 2012 remains a perfect tool for assessment
and cultivation of a deepened spirituality of YMG members.
Development and Economic Empowerment: Shoes campaign completed. A house
built for a widow, and another homeless person. Adopt a Boy and School Campaign
exists.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Orange Farm Section adopted a family headed
by a minor after mother passed away. Marches are staged.
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Christian formation and Education: On the 29 of June 2013, St Matthews Society
(Kwa Thema) in Springs hosted our first ever Men’s Summit.
Central: Evangelism and Church Growth: In 2014 we visited the following
Organisations during their annual conventions: Woman Manyano, Young Woman
Manyano, Music Association, Local Preachers Association, BMC, Wesley Guild
Consultation. Bring a Boy Child campaign on 24 September 2014.
Spirituality: We had a zonal Inkanyamba hosted by HISWA District (Highveld
& Swaziland). Rev Gary Rivas led the workshop for Central District on how to
evangelise.
Development and Economic Empowerment: The District Exco joined the Soweto
Region in an outreach Programme held at the Mofolo Home based Care for HIV and
Aids. An amount of R5000 was donated towards this programme.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: There is an annual R100 000 grant for each
(Vryburg 2015and Matlosana 2016) project. Project houses built.
Christian formation and Education: YMG Treasury Workshops under the Theme:
Financial Stewardship was conducted.
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Northern Free State and Lesotho: Evangelism and Church Growth: Cross
District visits with KNB done by the district for church growth. Inter District visits.
Spirituality: The level of spirituality in this Organisation is very high. Birth of
regions like Central and Lesotho, in addition to the Goldfields.
Development and Economic Empowerment: Painted, and repaired a house. “The
House of Hope Centre.”
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Central region had its second meeting at
circuit 606 (Bothaville) during February where outreach was undertaken to a local
place of safety.
Outreach where 3(three) large pots and uncountable groceries were donated.
Christian Formation and Education: Circuits are encouraged to adopt schools,
sponsor needy learners with school needs.
Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein: Evangelism and Church Growth: Doorto-door evangelism helps the church to grow. As it is part of a recruitment strategy.
Spirituality: Circuits also doing exceptionally well on this with the view of
empowering and developing each other spiritually. Bible study groups
Development and Economic Empowerment: Some Circuits are at a planning
stage. An established website. An electronic version and hard copy of the Convention
business delivered to each circuit the day when the annual convention closed.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Community participation on crisis mattersdialogue forums dealing with drugs and alcohol etc.
Natal West: Evangelism and Church Growth: Revival and prayer services are
held on a regular basis on streets, locations, prisons.
Spirituality: The revival services are able to preach the Gospel of God accordingly.
Bible studies.
Development and Economic Empowerment: Celebrations are held at all levels
to honour the older people and some who are members of YMG. 12 children who
benefitted with school uniforms in the year 2014.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Workshops conducted on HIV/AIDS,
Christians and politics, Journey from Male-hood to Manhood.
Limpopo: Evangelism and Church Growth: The YMG continues to be the vehicle
for evangelism and church growth. 4 Regions are active and rigorously implement
street revivals.
Spirituality: Bible studies were conducted during District and Regional
Conventions.
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Development and Economic Empowerment: Financial Management workshop
was conducted. Mr Setshedi, a student at Seth Mokitimi and two schools at Botswana
were assisted with a Bursary.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: The Francistown Convention took a resolution
to fight the abuse of women and children.
Cape of Good Hope: Evangelism and Church Growth: We continue to spread the
word of God to all people. Night vigils, Street revivals are held.
Spirituality: Spirituality remains the fundamental aspect in the life of Young Men’s
Guild. Bible studies.
Development and Economic Empowerment: The District intends to strengthen
their strategy on “Bursary Fund”.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Involved in community marches at SAPS,
Taxi ranks and clinics.
Grahamstown: Evangelism and Church Growth: Circuits continuously evangelise
with street revivals, amahlaselo and visits to other Circuits within and outside the
District.
Spirituality: Prayer and visits during happy and difficult times continue to strengthen
the spirituality of the Organisation. Bible studies are held.
Development and Economic Empowerment: Workshops at regional level are the
source of development to our members. Regions are alive.
Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Minimal work has been done in this section.
Christian Formation and Education: The campaign “Back to School” is the
flagship and niche of the YMG.
Natal Coastal: Evangelism and Church Growth: YMG will have to work hand
in hand with Unzondelelo to consolidate evangelisation objectives and maximise
impact of the gospel in the district. In future conventions we plan to work with
Unzondelelo in the hosting Circuit.
Visited 17 families and shared God’s Word with them.
Spirituality: The evening’s revival service was like a whirlwind storm with various
sister organisations. Bible Studies are conducted. SIYABADUDUZA programme
exist whereby its primary purpose is to visit YMG senior citizens.
Development and Economic Empowerment: We donated toys, chairs, tables,
sponges, plates, dishes, trays and educational materials to Wela Crèche during
Convention’s outreach programme. 30 children of Wela Crèche were assisted.
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Justice, Service and Reconciliation: Amadodana have participated in men’s marches
against women and children abuse prevalent in our society. Participated in the 16 days
of activism against the abuse of women, children and people with disabilities.
Christian Formation and Education: We have raised money for a bursary fund
in order to sustain our bursary scheme. Provide bursary to Mr Phiwayinkosi Gina
who is pursuing electrical engineering degree at Durban University of Technology
(DUT), Berea campus.
FINANCES
Annual Financial Statements (AFS)
Statement of balances as at 10 January 2015 for the year ended 31 December 2014
was tabled by the General Treasurer, Brother Vuyani Ngcatshe to the CGEC of
05-07/02/2015 held at Parys in the Northern Free State and Lesotho district. The
statement was approved by the house and submitted to the MCO.
Institutional Competency Assessment (as per 2014 Yearbook, pages 120 to 130)
The YMG assessment was made and submitted to the Conference Secretary, Rev C.
Morgan and Lay General Treasurer, Mrs Thini Ngonyama by the 30/04/2015.
CONSTITUTIONAL MATTERS
The document for “Constitutional Amendments” that was not approved in the
MCSA Conference of 2014 at Durban is officially attached to be received by the
2015 MCSA Conference. These amendment form part of the resolutions.
TRIENNIAL ROSTER AND GP-ELECT
The CGEC of 05-07/02/2015 resolved and approved the roster to change (Zone 3.
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Cape of Good Hope, Grahamstown and Queenstown) for the 27 Triennial to be led
by the General President-Elect, Rev S. Nhlapo of Limpopo District as follows:
Date: 2016, 31/05/2016-05/06/2016
Host: Zone 1. Limpopo District, Central, Highveld and Swaziland, and Mozambique.
RESOLUTIONS
Critical resolutions raised by the 2015 CGEC held at Parys were as follows:
The Conference is to receive “Philani Clinic Project” which is within the two Districts
namely, Clarkebury and Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein. This project is in
partnership with YMG Connexionally and with Local Government, Eastern Cape
Province, at Ndofela.
The Connexional Executive Committee should institute “Financial Investigation” for
YMG-Mozambique District by March 2015. Report should be tabled at the CGEC
04-06/02/2016 in Cape of Good Hope District.
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All Districts are to submit their Audited Financial Statements 2014 by the
30/06/2015.
CONCLUSION
Submissions of the Districts were a challenge for the 2014/2015 Conference report.
A notable fact from reports confirmed by Grahamstown, Kimberley, Namibia and
Bloemfontein, and Clarkebury is that such lack of submission both in statistics and
report fails the Organisation. However, thanks go to the efforts of newly elected
district secretariats that did their best in terms of submission. Lastly, we wish the
incoming Connexional Executive the best in their endeavours because 2016 report
shall be submitted to the committee led by the GPE-Rev S. Nhlapo. For the outgoing
Connexional Executive in 2016 led by GP Rev M.P. Leseba, Generals, bravo! You
did your best to steer the ship. Amen!
This is the spirit in the Connexion – “One heart, One way!” Bakaulengwe.
Yours in His Service
Selogilwe Petrus MOKOBE
General Secretary
Rev Motlalepule Petrus LESEBA
General President (079 554 8225)
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CHAPTER 18
DOCTRINE, ETHICS AND WORSHIP COMMITTEE
It is good to be able to report on another year of fulfilling and productive work from
this Committee. The Committee generally enjoys its work, considering it a privilege
to serve the Church in this way. Our principal service is to respond to matters of a
theological and liturgical nature referred to us by Conference. Most of this work
is interesting and the Committee has good capacity to deal with it. In addition to
Conference referrals we occasionally attend to requests by other organs or structures
within the MCSA. The Committee also takes on itself the role of initiating thinking
and offering resources of a theological and liturgical nature.
THEOLOGICAL MATTERS REFERRED
TO DEWCOM BY CONFERENCE
SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS
We continue to commend the Conference approved, and DEWCOM produced,
book “In Search of Grace and Truth” to our people. The book now needs to be
reprinted as the original print run is almost sold out. We anticipate that MCO will
make arrangements for a second print run shortly (as directed by Conference) and
request that the Profession of Faith adopted by the Conference of 2014 be included.
We also hope that the reduced cost of a second print run will make it affordable for
the Church to ensure that every Minister of the MCSA receives a copy of the book.
The Committee also believes that the resource should be distributed to our Schools
throughout the Connexion.
It is pleasing to note that the British Conference has made extensive use of DEWCOM
and MCSA produced material on this subject. DEWCOM remains deeply committed
to provide necessary theological leadership and material as the Church’s conversation
on this matter continues.
FAMILY LIFE AND MARRIAGE
The extensive work being done on Family Life and Marriage continues and is on
track to be concluded by the 2016 Conference deadline. Defining what is meant by
marriage in our present context is not as easy or obvious as some may assume but the
MCSA may look forward to enlightening material to engage with. The material will
include material on sexual ethics as directed by the Conference of 2014 (Resolution
2.2, Yearbook 2015, page 83). Some material which may be of assistance to those
seeking to enhance awareness of sexual ethics and spirituality will be posted on our
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website by Conference 2015. To completely fulfil our brief in this regard, however,
funds for publication would need to be made available.
CHURCH AND STATE RELATIONSHIPS
Having provided material to assist Conference to make its decision with regard to
Chaplaincy to Political Parties (2014) DEWCOM recommends the book “Between
Capital and Cathedral” (edited by Bentley and Foster) as a necessary resource to assist
our members in their response to Church State relationship within our Connexion
at this time. We call on the MPH to ensure that this resource becomes available at
Christian Connexion stores.
LABOUR RELATIONS, BUSINESS AND MINING
Research is presently underway in response to the Conference request for material
on these matters following the Marikana tragedy (Conference 2014, Resolution
2.13, Yearbook 2015, page 86). At our meeting (in June) it was considered that the
Marikana Report (not yet available at that stage) would be of necessary assistance to
those who are doing this work. Providing material on the ethics of Labour, Business
and Economics is considered an ongoing and necessary part of our work.
NON-ITINERANT MINISTRY
DEWCOM has concluded its work in assisting the Committee that has been
considering the future of this category. We recognise that the likely decision
of Conference to phase out the category will in many ways be a good one. Yet,
we also recognise that the original incentive of finding more affordable ways of
offering Ministry of Word and Sacrament to communities which struggle to afford a
stipendiary Minister, remains an issue.
MATERIAL ON HOLY DAYS, LITURGICAL CONCERNS
AND LEADING WORSHIP
In response to several and diverse requests from Conference, DEWCOM is in the
advanced stages of preparing wide ranging material to assist people in understanding
and insightfully using the Church calendar, liturgical colours and symbols. We hope
that funding will be available for a booklet to be published within the next year. A
section on Leading Worship (in response to Conference directive 2013, Yearbook
2015, page 86) may become part of this publication.
OTHER WORK REQUESTED OF DEWCOM
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ORDER OF DEACONS
AND ORDER OF EVANGELISTS
We have responded to a request of the Limpopo District Synod by providing
material. This includes work on comparing the meaning of Ordination (Deacons
and Presbyterate Ministry) and Commissioning (Lay Ministry such as Order of
Evangelism).
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BAPTISM AND RE-BAPTISM
What was an issue for a small minority of our Church in previous times remains a
matter on which clear teaching of our position is needed. With the growing influence
of Churches who advocate re-baptism in most of our countries we recognise that this
may become an issue for a larger number of people. DEWCOM and other researchers
are committed to continue to further research on this matter.
WOMEN IN MINISTRY
It is a real privilege to have been invited by the Women in Ministry Group to assist
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them with their preparation for next year’s 40 Anniversary of the first women to be
ordained within the MCSA. Assistance is being offered with the preparation of an Oral
History Journal to celebrate the role of women in the MCSA. DEWCOM commits
itself to be an agent in the elimination of gender bias in our policies, and assisting
in producing study material in the Church’s quest to eliminate gender injustice. As
a token of the Church’s commitment to eliminate gender inequality DEWCOM
recommends to Conference that the appointment of Bishops, District Secretaries,
Vice-Chairpersons, Statistical Secretaries and Lay Leaders be representative of both
men and women in fair representation. It may be a good initiative for Conference
to require that, where Districts have no female office bearers in these positions, a
woman be appointed as soon as any vacancy occurs.
ASSISTANCE TO THE BMC
DEWCOM has also been privileged to offer assistance to members of the BMC in
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preparation of papers for the 40 Anniversary of the Organisation’s existence.
DEWCOM INITIATIVES
DIVERSITY AND THE INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE
A Study Group continues to prepare material that will critically reflect on how we do
theology and use scripture in the face of diversity. The hope is to supply Ministers
and Leaders with critical tools to engage more beneficially with each other in aspects
of theological discourse.
AFRICAN TRADITIONAL PRACTICES AND THE PLACE OF SANGOMAS
DEWCOM has undertaken research into the relationship between Traditional
Healers and other African traditional practices to consider how and if these should be
accommodated and valued within the Church. Part of the motivation for this research
is that many of our people revert to such practices but are unable to reconcile their
beliefs and behaviour to their Christian practices.
OTHER WORK
As a Committee we seek to broaden our engagement in relevant Theological and
Ethical issues. Conversations and research on the following issues continue:
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•
•
•
•
•
2016
Poverty
Issues of economic justice
Science and religion
Post-modernisation
Lifestyle and Ministry
LITURGICAL WORK
The Ndzilo Liturgical hub, launched at the 2014 Conference, remains the most
important initiative in respect of our liturgical work. While activity on the site has
been slow and the use of it disappointing, the site is now established. The material
developed by the previous Liturgical Committee is now available. Ndzilo needs to
be promoted if its potential and usefulness is to be realised. Our Liturgy Committee
recognises the need to revise some of our very dated vernacular liturgies. Yet we
realise that such revisions will be difficult to introduce in some of our communities
where the early liturgies have become sacrosanct.
It has also come to DEWCOM’s attention that there is an inconsistency in the
marriage vows expressed in the vernacular services. In all but English, Afrikaans and
SiSwati liturgies the vow made by the Bride to the Groom includes her commitment
to “honour and obey” her husband. We recommend that liturgies be amended in the
different languages to present a mutual balance of relationship between husband and
wife as expressed in the expression of the marital vows.
CONCLUSION
As Bishop Peter Witbooi and Rev Neill Robinson both retire from DEWCOM duties
it is fitting that we express our gratitude to them for many years of faithful service.
DEWCOM material may be accessed, viewed and downloaded from our blogsite
www.mcsa.dewcom.blogspot.com. Limited access to material in printed form is
available through Rev Dr Wessel Bentley. People who wish to engage with the
Committee on theological issues are welcome to contact us.
Proposed DEWCOM Committee for 2016:
Bishop Jonathan Anderson (Convenor)
Bishop Dinis Matsolo
Rev Diane Worringham (Secretary)
Rev Vusi Vilakati
Rev Jenny Samdaan
Rev Pumla Mtshiselwa
Rev Tim Attwell
Rev Luvuyo Sifo
Rev Roger Scholtz
Rev Phidian Matsepe
Rev Peter Grassow
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Rev Faan Myburgh
Rev Numvuyo Mhlongo
Rev Dr Wessel Bentley
Rev Norman Raphahlela
Rev Dix Sibeko
Bishop Mthobeli Matyumza
Rev Dr. Ndikhokele Mtshiselwa.
Connexional Liturgy Committee:
Rev Luvuyo Sifo (Secretary)
Rev Tim Attwell
Rev John van de Laar
Rev Dr Kenaleone Ketshabile
Rev Mbuyeselo Stemela
Rev Phidian Matsepe
Deacon Margaret Boekhouer
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CHAPTER 19
METHODIST ARCHIVES
Meg Hartzenberg
During the period July 2014 to June 2015 the following requests were attended to
by the Archivist:
Marriage records 35
Baptismal records
16
Burial records 3
Family tree information 9
Historical research 18
Most of the marriage and baptismal records that are requested are needed for legal
purposes where original certificates have been lost. The number of requests from
people needing records to support their applications for ancestral visas is on the
increase. Unfortunately there are many gaps in the Archives because many churches
have not sent their old marriage, baptism and burial registers to the Archives. These
registers are an invaluable research tool and ideally all available registers should
be kept in the Archives where they are accessible to everyone. In a letter dated 12
June 2014 to all Marriage Officers, the Connexional Marriage Registrar says: “We
have set up a Church Register, at the Archives, of all marriages conducted by our
Marriage Officers and ask that you assist in keeping it up-to-date and in order ... As
with immediate effect, ALL MARRIAGE REGISTERS (Used Section Only) MUST
be lodged at the Archives Office.”
Numerous requests for information pertaining to family trees are received by the
Archivist as well as by the Genealogist at the Albany Museum and the church
registers are a major source of information in this field.
There has been a noticeable increase in requests for historical information related to
churches and Circuits celebrating anniversaries and wanting to produce brochures
for the occasion. This often includes requests for a list of ministers who have served
at a specific church, and fortunately the Archives has a set of Minutes of Conference
dating back to the early 1800s. Obituaries appearing in the Minutes of Conference
have been indexed so it is easy to trace the obituary of any specific minister when
information about his or her life and ministry is required. There is a scarcity of
information available about individual churches and any brochures or pamphlets that
are produced should be sent to the Archives to be added to the stock.
Requests are also received for information on specific topics for researchers who
are writing a book or thesis. Back numbers of Dimension and The Methodist
Churchman are sometimes a valuable source of information here. Churches should
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be encouraged to send to the Archives marriage, baptismal and burial registers;
pamphlets, brochures and leaflets giving the history of a society or Circuit and any
documentation pertaining to the history of a society or Circuit.
Please do not send to the Archives financial records such as bank statements, old
cheque books, financial reports etc. as they take up a lot of space and are not of
general interest. Only financial records of specific or unusual interest will be kept.
Churches should encourage the writing down of their history by those who have
been members for a long time, before such institutional memory is lost.
Requests for information come from all over South Africa as well as overseas. Many
visitors from overseas visit the Archives themselves and make use of the material
available there to do their own research into family histories. Thank you to the staff
at the Cory Library for their friendly assistance in accessing material and finding
information.
CONVENER:
Ms Meg Hartzenberg
7 Mosdene Close
Grahamstown 6139
Tel. 046 622 3658
Email: [email protected]
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CHAPTER 20
METHODIST YOUTH UNIT
Rev Luxolo Mantini
In 2012 we articulated a three year strategy which we would seek to implement. The
strategy is called the Mission-Plan under the theme “Dare to Dream”. The M-Plan
contained five key strategic objectives:
• To facilitate and implement sustainable economic development and poverty
alleviation.
• To promote Child-Development and capacity building of Children’s Ministry
practitioners in all facets of this ministry.
• To promote Unity and Cohesion.
• To enhance the Unit’s image and visibility.
• To promote Institutional Transformation and accountability.
These five imperatives formed the basis on which we would build our Operation
Plan which would subsequently be cascaded down the structures and ultimately to
Society level.
As part of the Unit repositioning, the MYU Connexional Executive undertook a
detailed Connexional strategic review. The review covered the following areas:
• Ensuring a consistent “working definition” of youth
• MYU strengths and weaknesses
• Environmental and situational analysis
• Environmental challenges and opportunities
• Refining the focus areas (Five strategic objectives)
• Articulating a clear Vision and Mission
• Ensuring a uniform operating plan with clearly defined priority areas.
This process revealed the following:
• MYU entities are generally vibrant, relevant and offer a platform for youth to
showcase their talents, gifts, skills and expertise.
• It is also a platform that teaches independence and helps youth to be liberal.
• There was an overwhelming recognition that MYU represents a group of people
who are adaptable and generally good at adopting new forms of technology.
• As a Unit of young people, there is a growing view that the MYU appeal is
gradually moving towards an inclusive and non-racial outlook (beyond
“traditional” African youth church formations)
The evaluation process also exposed some weaknesses within the Youth Unit. Below
are the non-exhaustive limitations:
• It was noted that youth are generally under led, exposing them to manipulation and
in most instances being used as tools for sowing division and sponsoring conflicts.
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• There is a common trend that when electing leaders, there is no sincerity. This
often leads to misaligned objectives and vision, compromised execution and
impact of youth programmes.
• As part of leadership challenges, there is an observed tendency of poor handover
processes, which impact on the continuity of organisational programmes and
mission. It was observed that this was further worsened by poor governance
structures and financial management controls.
• As a consequence of changing social priorities, youth are increasingly becoming
more materialistic and secular-minded.
• Cultural irritation and dominance sometimes impede the rate of social inclusivity
and integration. This manifests itself in language dominance amongst others.
• The thrust of most MYU programmes has tended to focus on “South Africa” as a
proxy for the Connexion.
The environmental context:
• In terms of national and geo-political issues, there is a view that the overall levels
of political instability in the continent, compounded by the extent of wars (civil
and otherwise) creates higher levels of youth refugees.
• This tension has created heightened levels of xenophobic intolerance, which
extends to racial and other forms of prejudice.
• From a family unit perspective, the youth have noted a growing number of
dysfunctional family units, absent parents, lack of role models and greater levels
of external influence (peer pressure).
• The youth also live in a society that is characterised by unemployment, poverty,
drug and substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, child-headed homes, racism, abuse and
emotional trauma.
• There is a general decline in patriotism, political consciousness and morality
attributed to indifference in the current political landscape within which they
live.
• The youth are also grappling with the concept of multiculturalism, often trapped
in traditional ways that negate the benefits of integration across class, race and
culture.
• The introduction of “social” support programmes (particularly in South Africa)
is creating a dependency syndrome, where certain sectors of youth have
become dependent on the social security grant system, with its unintended
consequences.
Some of the threats facing our Youth Unit relate to:
• Position hogging.
• Pentecostal churches challenging our ability to attract and retain new members.
• There is a general view that youth have adopted lifestyles that are not in keeping
with Christian values e.g.; multiple concurrent partners and general levels of
morality.
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• There are high numbers of youth who flock the big cities either as migrant
students or workers which leads to weakened rural-based Districts.
An attempt to understand what the external/internal stakeholders perceive the MYU
entities and the impact of its programmes elicited the following broad responses:
• Spiritually accredited.
• Community outreach advocates.
• Exuberant Youth Ministry.
• A lost generation.
• Generally lacking in cohesive direction and vision.
• Unruly and undisciplined young people.
• The “invisible hand” in most conflicts.
• Unreliable patrons of the church.
In light of the aforementioned, a more focused response had to be derived. We then
populated the five key imperatives:
Khoza Elliot Mgojo Investment Enterprise
It was necessary that we engage the office of the Presiding Bishop in order to ascertain
if such a venture would be in conflict with the ethos of the Church. A concept paper
was developed in this regard and presented to all District Youth Synods.
Broad objectives:
• To empower young people economically
• To capacitate our office through investment returns
• To produce active economic participants and discourage consumers
• To assist in mission activities of the YU
• To assist the Unit to have its own financial resources and not continuously depend
on western donors
• To create a platform for launching sustainable youth programmes
• An establishment that will be centred on Godly values, thriving economically
• To redress the economic imbalances of the past by producing entrepreneurs
• To Formalise and fund youth training and development
• To spearhead a new model in the church for sustainable economic empowerment
(fresh generational expressions).
Capital Raising:
• Savings Pooling/Mobilisation (R10 annual subscription)
• Donations from individuals who have an interest in youth development
• Tithe from youth members who are economically active
• Donations from abroad (Churches or Companies)
• Donations from Locally based organisations and agencies
The rationale behind this concept was that, before the funds from Global Ministries
(underwriters of Youth Economic Empowerment) are depleted, our own resource
base would have been established. In terms of KME governance, we have devised
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a Governance Document that will amongst other things, regulate the Khoza Mgojo
Enterprise in its day to day running and retain some of the profits for mission work and
allow distribution to Districts in line with their proportionate capital contributions.
CYC 2015 has endorsed this Governance document and we will be commencing
with the registration and Business Plan formulation processes.
The Youth Economic Empowerment programme has benefitted five young
entrepreneurs in the last term. It is our prayer that their business ventures thrive
and inspire other young people to endeavour into enterprise development. We
have engaged the Executive Director of NYDA about the enhancement of the
Memorandum of Understanding with the Methodist Youth Unit and it is our hope
that this will yield favourable outcomes.
We are forever grateful to God for the assistance we received from Global Ministries
towards the YEE programme.
Enhancing our Image and Visibility
The aims of this strategic objective were:
• To project an image of God as the Healer and Embracer of Diversity.
• To explore creative ways to advance the Good News and improve communications
through our official website, social networks and print media.
• To adopt and implement clearly articulated guiding “values” for the MYU.
We have observed a growing trend, whereby entities within the Youth Unit profile
their activities, thus reinforcing what we stand for through social media, Wesley
Guild Newsletters and The New Dimension. The impact of our programmes in terms
of mission work remains impressive as we continue to witness more Districts and
Circuits establishing Mission and Bursary Funds.
Youth/Child Development and Leadership
Stated Intent:
• To resuscitate the National Youth Leadership Training Program which gave birth
to many Clergy, Political, and Social Activists.
• To redefine the Children’s Ministry Indaba by enhancing our relationship with
the Mission Unit (Childcare Desk).
• To implement programmes that expose youth to value-based leadership.
• To implement programmes that impart specific skills which are relevant to
children and youth development.
The resuscitation and review process intended to offer the programme in a different
format that appeals to today’s youth did not come to fruition. It was established
that there is a lack of coherent Youth Leadership Development Programs in the
MCSA. The silo approach in developing and equipping youth leaders and workers is
prevalent in different sectors of the church. Financial resources will always dictate
the capacity to have full time youth pastors/workers in the local church.
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A contemporary NYLTP was envisioned to broadly cover the following nonexhaustive content:
Spiritual Growth
Personal and Relational development
Christianity and Religion
Understanding our socio-economic and political realities (consciousnessraising)
Youth Ministry
Leadership development
Enterprise Development
Social activism
Planning creative, contemporary worship
Leading Bible Studies
Administrative and Organisational skills
Evangelism
Wesleyan history, doctrine, theology, policies and structures
In the interim, we formed a relationship with the Hennops River Circuit in the
Limpopo District which offers an intensive training programme for Youth Pastors/
Workers, called 4G Training. We have always encouraged Districts to pass on this
information to their respective local churches and we constantly notify Districts
when space for a new intake is available. A strategic linkage with the Mission Unit,
in particular the Childcare Desk, was formed. It is through this relationship that
we have seen the fingerprint-screening of CM Practitioners who attended the CM
Indaba. We have agreed in that forum that this needs to be rolled out to District
where everyone who has a relationship of trust with children in church must have a
clearance certificate as the laws of countries and church dictate. The Childcare Desk
has moreover offered to assist in sharing child-centred programmes and activities for
local churches throughout the year and we are very excited about this venture.
Education
The main objective for this pillar was to:
• Establish a Tsietsi Mashinini Education Fund, through which we would facilitate
support and funds for schools, their maintenance and conservation.
• Partner with like-minded organisations/institutions and ensure that we channel
our youth to access currently available interventions.
• Organise youth within the MYU entities to deliver meaningful educational
interventions in support of the younger learners at school (tutoring and
mentoring).
We are delighted that this Mission Fund was launched at Port Edward in the
inaugural Wesley Guild Connexional Gathering. We fully credit the success of the
launch to all Districts who worked tirelessly towards mass mobilisation of young
people to rally behind this revolution of better learning conditions. We are delighted
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to announce that CYC 2015 has adopted a policy that will govern operations of this
Education Fund.
We are witnessing a growing trend of Youth Formations donating school shoes to
needy children within their respective Districts. Youth in the Queenstown District
contributes R65 000.00 annually towards Bursaries that are currently funding 26
youths, 11 of whom are in their final year of studies at various Institutions of Higher
Learning. The Natal Coastal District Youth Unit has embarked on a process to build
at least one permanent classroom for the John Wesley School in Kosi Bay, where
kids still learn in an old, crumbling classroom.
The Connexional Executive organised a June 16 Commemoration Service which
was held at Jabavu Methodist Society, dubbed “The Education Sunday”. This event
was attended by most Districts in the Northern region of the Connexion. We have
initiated talks with the Office of the MEC for Education in Gauteng with an intention
to collaborate with them in the planned 40 Year Commemorations of June 16 in
2016. We would like to thank all the young people who were part of this Service and
those Districts who organised events during the month of June.
Mission and Spirituality
On this pillar, we aimed at finding ways of:
• Deepening the spirituality of young people
• Enhancing discipleship in young people
• Shaping a mission-oriented youth
• Becoming responsive to local causes
We are proud of Formations within the Youth Unit who continue through their
various mission-focused programmes to promote Godly values which is evident in
the District Reports we receive and adopt at CYCs.
Following a directive from the Methodist Church of Southern Africa 2005 Conference,
there has been a huge need for a youth focal person to coordinate and champion a HIV
and AIDS response for young people throughout the Connexion. The Connexional
Youth Conference (CYC) saw fit to elect a young person in the 2012 Youth Conference
in the Queenstown District to implement and coordinate programmes to ensure that
young people actively participate in HIV & AIDS and Health work.
The objectives of this Desk are:
1. To contribute to the church response to HIV and AIDS work with OVC in
communities, responding to the current situation in the countries making up the
Connexion.
2. To produce a team of facilitators who are young and relevant to their peers.
3. To engage and encourage youth in open debate forums on life issues.
The Youth Health Desk has done wonderfully in identifying the focus areas and
finding solutions to challenges facing youth. As part of responding to the local
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causes, the Highveld and Swaziland District Youth organised a District Prayer Walk
against drug and substance abuse in collaboration with the Mission Unit.
National Youth Policy 2020
The Youth Unit was privileged to have been invited by the Presidency to participate
in the formulation of the National Youth Policy 2020. We represented the Faith
Based sector of our community in making sure that the voice of youth was complete
and well-articulated in the final National Youth Policy Document. We remain proud
that the MCSA footprint is extended to such public participatory programmes in the
quest to becoming a transformative discipleship movement.
We are thankful that the Youth Unit has been offered office space at the Methodist
House for our day to day operations. It still is our hope that as part of capacitating
our office, we can employ a young person.
CONCLUSION
This Report would not be complete if it does not acknowledge that even though
we reached many milestones together like hosting the very first Wesley Guild
Connexional Gathering, there were challenges along the way. Financial limitations
have somewhat crippled our operations and realisation of some of our dreams as
pronounced in the M-Plan.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the entire Office of the Presiding
Bishop, District Bishops and District Executives who continue to show support
towards Youth and Children’s ministry initiatives and programmes. We also
congratulate and pray for the newly elected leaders in various spheres of the Youth
Ministry, that the One who calls us may equip them spiritually, mentally and
physically in order for them to be true representatives of Christ in the Transformative
Discipleship Movement and the world.
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CHAPTER 21
SETH MOKITIMI METHODIST SEMINARY
Rev Dr Mvume Dandala
SEMINARY COMMUNITY LIFE
The year 2014 has been a satisfactory year. The general quality of the Seminarians has
been a source of satisfaction. We have seen a greater enthusiasm for proceeding with
academic studies with six third years showing a desire to proceed to honours with
UKZN but unable to do so without permission from Conference. Greater emphasis
must be maintained and continue to be put on academic excellence, spiritual solidity
and compassionate but determined practical engagement.
SPIRITUAL FORMATION and COMMUNITY LIFE
The worship life of the Seminary is showing a sense of growing maturity every day,
with the Seminarians showing greater spontaneity and depth in participation in a
diverse portfolio of liturgies. More work is being done to prepare them for worship
leadership. We had hoped that this year we would initiate more programmes for
greater participation in the life of the seminary by the spouses of the seminarians.
The distance between the seminary and the residences continues to be a stumbling
block to the realisation of this important vision towards formation.
The SMMS Formation Programme is one of the key aspects of seminary training.
All Seminarians are required to participate in credit bearing and non-credit bearing
integrated programmes. This practical training is an integral part of the SMMS
curriculum and completion requirements. Work Integrated Learning occurs in two
settings: Fieldwork placements with various partner agencies (Field Education and
Ministry) and Church Placements.
AWARDS:
PETER STOREY AWARD: Alan Musonda
This prize is given at the Valedictory Service to the seminarian who, during his/her
stay at SMMS, exhibited the highest calibre of devotion to duty, diligence towards
academic rigour, moral character, courage and leadership potential.
EFFORT AWARD: Thembi Mngomezulu and Sipho Mdubeki
This prize is given at the Valedictory Service to the seminarian who, at the end of
his/her stay at SMMS is found to be the most improved in character and attitude, and
the seminarian who displays greater growth towards assimilation of SMMS values.
Consideration is made to the seminarian’s progress in FEM, Church placement,
academics and community life.
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ACADEMIC PROGRESS
Our programme for 2015 commenced on 21 January 2015 with registration and
orientation. The total number of new intake for 2015 was noted as the largest ever
with 44 seminarians accepted and registered. Among these 33 are private and 11
probationers (including 2 Non-Itinerants). Currently, the seminary community
comprises 59 males and 24 females. The average age is 37.
Our total registration is as follows:
73 in the SMMS academic programme (BTh and Diploma)
13 BTh and 19 Diploma first years
12 BTh and 6 Diploma second years
21 BTh and 3 Diploma third years
2 in the FIP programme
7 Postgraduates at UKZN (4 in the Honours programme and 3 in the Masters
programme)
Year of intake: 2013-24; 2014-17; 2015-41.
LIBRARY
The SMMS continues to appreciate the financial contributions to its library, which
are utilized to keep the library as current as possible. We are also thankful for the
donated books by various individuals from across the Connexion. These books are
a valuable resource to us. To date, the library has processed 18 000 acquisitions,
including books, journals and DVDs.
NEW PROGRAMMES
The Higher Certificate in Christian Ministry has been accredited by the Council
on Higher Education and we were aiming to have our first registrations for this by
nd
the 2 semester 2015. This has since been moved to the 1st semester of 2016. The
SMMS has resolved that this course will start with a small number not exceeding
30 for the purpose of finetuning all aspects related to the course. This is meant to
enhance various aspects of service to the Circuits and Societies.
PUBLICATIONS: The following publications have been made by full-time
academic staff:
Dr. Rowanne Marie:”Across the Kala Pani: Untold stories of Indentured Indian
Women of Christian Origin in South Africa” Published in: The Oral History Journal
of South Africa Volume 1 Number 2, 2014.
Rev. Dr. Mvume H. Dandala: “Relations between Church and training institution:
a symbiotic association?” in Marilyn Naidoo (Editor): Contested Issues in Training
Ministers in South Africa (Published by Sun Press 2015).The Seminary full time
faculty continue to work on publishing and some of the 2015 input in publication
will only be available later this year.
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GOVERNANCE
The meetings of the Governing Council Executive were all held according to
schedule during the year. The Finance and Administration Committee and the
Human Resource and Remuneration Committee were appointed by the Governing
Council. The Governing Council has initiated a process of review that is giving
consideration to tightening the governance procedures and structures while at the
same time securing the ownership of the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary in the
hands of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa.
GOVERNANCE REVIEW
A firm of attorneys, Cox and Yeats, were appointed to study the SMMS governance
structures and determine their alignment with both the requirements of the Department
of Higher Education as well as the requirements of Corporate Governance. The
major concerns they have raised relate to:
• The weak connectedness of the SMMS to its mother body the Methodist
Conference. They appreciate the need for the SMMS to hold its independence
for the integrity of its work, but on the other hand they fear that as is the case
now this responsibility is held by seven individuals seemingly in their individual
capacities. They caution against this situation.
• A lack of inter-connectedness between the various committees in the
governance structure of the SMMS. Their view is that this can compromise the
legitimacy of the decisions of the SMMS before the law. In turn they have made
their first suggestion as to how this can be corrected. This information is being
put before Mr John Allwood (a Strategic Review person engaged by SMMS) for
incorporation and processing through the ongoing review process.
• The absence of processes to monitor independently the quality of the SMMS’s
academic work: In this regard they are making a strong case for a Senate that
will have more independent educators than the internal teachers at the SMMS.
It seems clear that the review process is timely and must be speedily pursued to its
logical conclusion.
FINANCIAL PLANS
FEE STRUCTURE
A new schedule for the fees for 2015 and 2016 was accepted by the Governing
Council Executive. We have accepted 80 Seminarians in full residence for 2015 and
two as non-residential Seminarians. We are greatly encouraged by this. This says
to the SMMS that there are many people out there waiting to take advantage of the
SMMS formation programme.
INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
The Conference of the MCSA approved the appointment of the Rev. Philippa Cole
to serve as the Institutional Development Office Manager for the SMMS. Rev. Cole
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has attended a training programme with the Duke University and has understudied
the IDO of Duke University. She also used that time to rekindle partnership relations
with the Uniting Methodist Churches in the USA. As a probationer minister, she was
attached to the Pietermaritzburg Circuit for further probation requirements.
CONCLUSION
We ended the year 2014 on a good note. The illness of the President slowed down
the progress in some aspects of the work, but the SMMS President’s Executive
Committee offered rock solid leadership to the Seminary and ensured that nothing
lagged behind. To them I doff my hat and express my most sincere gratitude. I
also wish to express my esteemed appreciation to the Presiding Bishop’s office for
availing their support unreservedly at this time. We thank God for what has been
achieved thus far and trust Him for the future. For myself I wish to thank Conference
for trusting me with this responsibility, even if it was for a short period of time.
HM Dandala
President, SMMS
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CHAPTER 22
CONNEXIONAL MUSIC ASSOCIATION
Mr. Itumeleng Motingoe
Motto: “One voice; one song!”
OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF THE ASSOCIATION
God has called the Music Association to humbly serve as agents of His Love and
Healing Transformation through songs. We are grateful to the Almighty for all the
good work He has allowed us to do and for allowing all the Ministers and Church
leaders to be guardian angels to the Connexional Music Association. This report calls
for God’s Name to be praised as we report the work of the Music Association from all
eleven Districts of the Connexion which are participating in Connexional activities,
although there is still cause for concern with Districts that are not fully participating.
OBJECTIVES OF THE CONNEXIONAL MUSIC ASSOCIATION FOR THE
PERIOD UNDER REVIEW
• To involve Youth and other organisations in the great work of Evangelism and
Mission through music
• To ensure that the Music Association’s Amendment to the Constitution is
approved by the Conference
• To ensure full participation of all Districts in Connexional activities
• To support and assist Mozambique, Lesotho and Namibia to be part of the
Connexion as far as the Music Association is concerned
• To support SMMS financially
• To unify music and singing in the Connexion (bring back Methodist chants in our
Divine services), especially Liturgy.
IMPERATIVES OF MISSION
SPIRITUALITY
Church Choirs maintain and promote Christian Fellowship by continuing to lead
worship in all forms of services. All special services are honoured; Conventions
of different organisations, Synods, Triennials, Rhona, Funeral and Divine Services,
as the growth and life of the choir is based on preaching through church music. As
a Spiritual organisation, our music is an act of worship. Unity in the Connexion
is evidenced by the presence of delegates from Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland
and Lesotho during both District and Connexional Conventions, and we see our
Conventions growing from strength to strength every year. Reviving inactive Circuits
and Districts is a priority for the Districts and the Connexion in order to deepen the
sense of spirituality.
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EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH
Music is one of the instruments that call people to the grace of God, as church choir
music and singing is a powerful tool for evangelising. However, many Districts
report minimal signs of growth in membership, especially males. The choirs aim
at focusing their energies in utilising music as the key driver of a transforming
discipleship movement. Most Districts have established intermediate and Youth
choirs to ensure continuity in the gospel of music. In some Districts, Circuit choirs
organise ‘stage exchange’, thus promoting best practices and benchmarking by
learning from one another. Some Districts have started with development of a
choristers’ database and this will assist the Connexion to have a database for the
choristers in the Connexion.
JUSTICE AND SERVICE (Humanitarian Service)
There is a good relationship with other organisations, as choir members come
from different organisations of our church. Mission outreach during Conventions
(Districts and Connexion), is much supported by the choristers, as identified needy
institutions are visited, donations offered in the form of groceries, blankets, bedding
and school uniforms. 2014 Connexional Convention saw the Connexion handing
over special Awards to Music Legends from different Districts for their contribution
towards the development of church choir music in the Districts and support in
the Connexion. (Each District had to identify two people who qualified for this
prestigious award. Nine of the eleven Districts in the Connexion have heeded the
call from the Connexion to assist the Methodist School in Lesotho. Each District
has donated a Computer/laptop to assist the school. Other Districts included the
printers too. This donation will be given to the identified school in Lesotho on the
first weekend of August 2015.
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
Most Districts are striving to preserve our Music heritage. The following Districts
have CDs; Cape of Good Hope (False Bay and Dumisani Circuits), Grahamstown,
Queenstown, Natal West, Highveld & Swaziland (Kwa Thema and St Pauls Circuits)
and Northern Free State & Lesotho (Qwaqwa Circuit). We are awaiting the recorded
CD for Malihambe Melodies which toured Germany in May 2014. These projects
have also assisted the choirs to be viable financially and our music heritage will
continue to be preserved. These initiatives also assist the church choirs to be able
to support the Church programme initiatives like the Mission Fund, SMMS Fund,
Revival Crusades and District Reserve Funds. Music workshops are held every year
both Connexionally and at District level, and these are facilitated by experienced
Musicians who are also our Connexional Adjudicators.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
The Connexional Music Association has committed itself to assisting with education
of our Ministers. Every year there is an amount with is donated by each District towards
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the SMMS fund. The Districts are supporting District Methodist Bursary Funds by
donating substantial amounts to assist learners from disadvantaged communities to
pursue their studies. During Convention, our Ministers lead Convention Schools
and Commissions. Workshops are also held during Conventions where specialists
in different schools are invited to empower choristers, especially on Music and
Evangelism and worship.
ACHIEVEMENTS
• The Connexional Music Association held its third Biennial Connexional
Convention which was hosted by the Cape of Good Hope District, under the
theme, “A Call to be in Communion with God for His Purpose.”
• Our Ministers are actively involved in choir matters. They lead schools and
facilitate workshops during Districts and Connexional Conventions. They also
assist in maintaining discipline during deliberations and elections.
• Intermediate and Youth choirs are established in most Districts.
• The Connexional Music Association has responded to the Connexional call
to assist the High School in Lesotho. Nine (9) Districts have each bought the
computer/Laptop for the school and these will be delivered on the first weekend
of August 2015.
• Malihambe Melodies recorded the CD/DVD in Germany in 2014.
CHALLENGES
• The Music Association in all Districts is still battling to recruit more male voices
to join the choirs.
• In other Districts/Circuits/Societies church choir members are still not taken
seriously like other Organisations in the church, and as a result, do not get the
support required.
• There is no data base for Music Association due to lack of statistics from Districts,
Circuits and societies.
• Some Districts are still not viable financially.
• Northern Free State and Lesotho District is still struggling to get the structure
constituted despite repeated assistance from the Connexional Music Association.
Only one Circuit (Qwaqwa) is active; as a result, the District struggles to meet
the financial requirements of the Connexion.
FINANCIAL POSITION
The financial status of the Connexional Music Association according to the audited
financial statement as at 31 December 2014 was as follows:
Income:
Expenditure:
Balance: R804 306.57
R750 476.51
R 53 830.06
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FUTURE PLANS
• To request District Bishops to ensure that the Music Association in their respective
Districts is alive. In turn the Ministers in their Circuits and Societies to give
necessary support.
• To seek the intervention of the office of the Presiding Bishop with reviving the
Music Association in the Northern Free State & Lesotho District.
• 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.
• To have our own Music Academy, where we are going to train Conductors and
Pianists and also teach our choirs the approach to good singing.
BEREAVEMENT
At the time of writing this report, 47 members were reported to have been called to
higher service. May their departed soul rest in eternal peace!
CONCLUSION
People are not converted by music, but by the song, hence choristers need to have a
song within them so as to give life to others. We extend our sincere gratitude to all
Districts for supporting the Connexional choir financially and sustaining them with
prayers. It is because of God’s grace and Power that the Association manages to
overcome obstacles and the storms of life. May God continue to help us to participate
in His worship through music! Let every congregation be a choir member, every
steward a conductor and every church a singing paradise!
DISTRICT STRUCTURES
DISTRICT
NAME
PORTFOLIO
CONTACTS
Cape of Good Hope
Rev Maseti VG
Ms Tyutu J
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Grahamstown
Mr Meke H
Ms Msizi Norooi
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Queenstown
Mr Plaatjie Madoda
Ms Bam N
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Kimberly, Namibia &
Bloemfontein
Rev Stuurman S
Ms Makate P
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Northern Free State &
Lesotho
Rev Moeketsi ME
Ms Molibeli L
Task Team Co-ordinator
Task Team Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Natal Coastal
Mr Themba Sangweni
Mr Sbonga Ntshangase
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Natal West
Prof Reggie Ngcobo
Ms Mthiyane N
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
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Mr Monyane TL
Mr Phasha E
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Highveld & Swaziland Ms Lukhele Bakhile
Ms Maritz J
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Limpopo
Ms Kgabi G
Ms Marlena Moopelwa
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
Clarkebury
Rev Mahe MR
Ms Tolobisa P
District President
District Secretary
[email protected]
[email protected]
MATTER REQUIRING CONFERENCE DECISION
Approval of the Music Association Constitution amendment submitted so that it can
be formally put into operation.
Compiled by:
Me Tshabalala Khosi
General Secretary
[email protected]
082 743 5416
Mr. Motingoe Itumeleng
General President [email protected]
082 805 3906
Mr Mhlaba Sisa
General Treasurer
[email protected]
082 448 1199
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CHAPTER 23
CONNEXIONAL LOCAL PREACHERS ASSOCIATION
Rev Tanduxolo Sikotoyi
INTRODUCTION
th
The Association of Preachers was invigorated in 2014 during the 7 Triennial
Convention in Durban, Westland Hotel, when the guiding theme for the next three
years was enunciated which says; “SEEK, TEND MY FLOCK AND FOLLOW
ME”. The Triennial Convention witnessed the service of replacing the stole with the
Medallion which signified a new direction in the LPA in line with the Conference
resolution and this was very much commended.
The members of this Association have re-aligned themselves with the social ills
of the community because the Government is looking at the church to address
some of these cries. Preachers are champions of worship who play the role of
a midfielder in a football game who create opportunities for people to score
goals.
The LPA members directed by the Holy Spirit are enthused to seek, tend God`s
flock and follow the one who called them through the five imperatives and the DRD
Model.
EXECUTIVE
General President: Ex General President: General President Elect: Vice General President: General Secretary: Assistant General Secretary: General Treasurer: Committee Members:
Rev. P.T. Sikotoyi
Mr J.M. Nkosi
Mr M. Hlatshwayo
Mr F.S. Skweyiya
Ms F.P.S. Mageleni
Mr J.M. Ncinane
Mr G. Rulumeni
Rev. O. Rasonti
Mrs. N. Bongoza
Mr N Kave
LPA Overview
The number of accredited preachers who have affiliated to LPA come from twelve
Districts of the MCSA’s Connexion and has increased from 9194 to 9946, despite
the loss of 621 preachers who have been called up yonder. All these preachers have
affiliated to LPA and are in good standing with their local churches, Districts and the
Connexion. The available data revealed a total of 787 preachers on trial. Our records
show no member of the Association has been called for a disciplinary hearing in
their local church, a proof of good conduct.
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2016
OBJECTIVES FOR PERIOD UNDER REVIEW
Preachers are called to be shepherds to God’s flock. A good shepherd:
• Guides his flock to good pastures, feeds the sheep and provide for all their
needs.
• Guards and protects his flock from wild animals, thieves or dangers even if this
will put his life in danger.
• Takes a deep personal interest in the welfare of the flock as a whole and of each
individual sheep in the flock.
• It calls for strength, courage, patience, self-sacrifice and encouraging those who
are weary.
• Promotes fellowship among all preachers in the MCSA.
• Arranges appropriate training for those who have responded to the call of preaching.
ACHIEVEMENTS, HIGHLIGHTS, CHALLENGES AND FUTURE PLANS
As the Association we echo John Wesley’s sentiments that “Grace is the real activity of God in the human heart; it is the actual influence of God’s love in human
existence.” The Association is in the process of reviving the Projects so as to teach
people how to fish instead of giving them fish. Clarkebury, Queenstown and part of
Grahamstown Districts will come together and resuscitate Mooiplaas Centre for skill
development, Gauteng Province for Mana project, KNB and Northern Free State &
Lesotho for Itsoseng Day Care Centre in Wepenaar and Natal West and Coastal for
Ekuthuthukeni Special School. Then Mozambique as our Connexional project, in
the words of Matt 25:35-36 which says: “for I was hungry and you gave me food; I
was thirsty and you gave drink; I was a stranger and you took me in. I was naked and
you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me”
will be fulfilled. The Association is planning a trip to Rome in 2017.
ACTIVITIES PERFORMED WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK
OF THE FIVE IMPERATIVES
st
Spirituality: Some Districts observe the Local Preachers Sunday on the 1 week of
th
July, as was adopted in the 6 Triennial Convention of the Local Preachers in 2011.
The advantage of this LPA Sunday, being closer to the conventions’ months, is that
the themes of conventions can be cascaded down to the church, being still fresh in
the minds of preachers. Positive impact is vigorous as Preachers are reminded of
their calling and responsibility.
DRD Model is perceived by the Districts. Bible Studies and Workshops are conducted at all levels starting from Connexional, District, Regional and Circuits level.
Evangelism and Church Growth: Members of the LPA partake in evangelising in
their Districts, regions and Circuits working together with sister Organisations. The
th
Association has successfully conducted its 7 Triennial Convention on 16-19 2014
at Coastland Hotel, Central Durban.
276
2016
The Districts will be hosting their Regional Crusade this year as the Association is
preparing for the third Triennial Connexional Crusade which will be held in Queenstown District on 22-23 2016.
Justice and Service: The Association donates to needy centres and people during
th
the conventions and scheduled periods. The 7 Triennial Convention that was held
in Durban in 2016 witnessed the Association donating a cheque to Ekuthuthukeni
Special School.
Human and Economic Development and Empowerment: One District has already partnered with the Department of Agriculture in their project called “Revive
vegetable gardens in our back yards” whereby preachers donate seedlings to the
needy families and assist with planting during their outreach.
Education and Training: In its expedition to be an educational movement the Association takes time to empower and inspire the Preachers through EMMU and SMMS
programmes: “Restructuring and Reconfiguring Local Preachers Training’. Preachers are empowered at District, regional and Circuit levels.
FINANCIAL POSITION
The Association submitted its books to the MCSA Central Association Organisation
for auditing. They showed that as at 31 December 2014 the position of the finances
of the Association was to have a balance of R125 321.00 after all expenses had been
paid.
CONCLUSION
To God; our works cannot be good before justification and the doctrine of justification cannot be constrained to a mere imputation of righteousness, not occurring in a
single moment but in a lifelong process of sanctification, we trust that God Almighty
will journey with us as we ensure our roles as ambassadors guided by the theme
“SEEK, TEND MY FLOCK AND FOLLOW ME”.
Rev. PT Sikotoyi
General President
Ms FPS Mageleni
General Secretary
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2016
CHAPTER 24
ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
PRESIDING BISHOP
Previous Term: 2012-2014
2015-2017 Rev Ziphozihle Daniel Siwa
LAY PRESIDENT 2015-2017 Mr James Nkosi
GENERAL SECRETARY/MINISTERIAL GENERAL TREASURER
2015-2019 Rev Charmaine Morgan
LAY GENERAL TREASURER/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
2015-2019 Mrs Thini Ngonyama
DISTRICT BISHOPS
Cape of Good Hope
Previous Term: 2011-2013 2014-2016 Rev Michel Hansrod
2017-2021
Grahamstown
2015-2017 Rev Andile Mbete
Queenstown
2014-2016 Rev Mthobeli Matyumza
2017-2021
Kimberley, Namibia, Bloemfontein
2016-2018 Rev Lesiba Nkhumise
Northern Free State & Lesotho
2016-2018 Rev Andrew Motswenyane
Previous Terms: 2010-2012 & 2013-2015
Natal Coastal 2015-2017 Rev Michael Vorster
Previous Terms: 2009-2011 & 2012-2014 Natal West
Central
2016-2020 Rev William Dlamini
Limpopo
2016-2020 Rev Gary Rivas
2015-2017 Rev Jonathan Anderson
2016-2018 Rev Themba Mntambo
278
2016
Moçambique
Previous Term: 2012-2014 2015-2017 Rev Dinis Matsolo
Clarkebury
2016-2018 Rev Thembinkosi Fandaleki
Warden of the Order of Deacons
2015-2016
Deacon Dr Vernon Van Wyk
Warden of the Order of Evangelism
2015-2016 Rev Jacob Freemantle
UNIT LEADERS
Communications Unit Director
Mrs Bonginkosi Moyo-Bango
Appointed 2009
Ecumenical Affairs Unit Director
Rev Musi Losaba
2016-2020
Education for Ministry and
Mission Unit Director
Rev Purity Malinga
2016-2020
Finance Unit Director
Mrs Joanne Trytsman
Appointed 2012
Human Resources Unit Director
Rev Dr Vukile Mehana
2015-2019
Mission Unit Director
Rev Kenaleone Ketshabile
SMMS President
Prof S Kumalo
Appointed 2016
Youth Unit Director
Rev Luxolo Mantini
2013-2016
COMMITTEES
Arbitration Panel
Chaplaincy Committee
Committee on Marriage & Family Life
Connexional Disciplinary Committee
Doctrine, Ethics and Worship Committee
Heritage Committee
Local Preachers Department
Mediation Panel Revision Committee
Structures Committee
To be appointed
Bishop Ziphozihle Siwa
Adv Lee Anne de la Hunt
Rev Morapedi Diutlwileng
Mr Pat Mkhize
Bishop Michel Hansrod
279
2016
CHAPTER 25
CONFERENCE AWARDS
The Methodist Conference Award for Excellence in Service to Church and Society
is awarded to the following:
Year
2014
2014
2015
2015
Conference
District
Durban
Durban
Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth
Awarded to
Mrs Hluphekile Gladness Ntuli
Mr David Wylde
Mrs Jabu Mngomezulu
Mr Artur Julião Mukhatchua
Category
For Excellence in Education
For Excellence in Agriculture
280
2016
Methodist Connexional Diary 2016
JANUARY
1
New Year’s Day
4
MCO Reopens
9
Young Men’s Guild Connexional Executive
Committee Meeting
Welkom
12-14
Ordinands’ Retreat
Lumko
18-23
Probationers’ Seminar
eMseni
19-20
EMMU General Committee
eMseni
26-28
New Bishops’ Orientation
KZN
28-30
Bishops Meeting
KZN
29-30
Children’s Ministry Indaba
Germiston
31
Installation of SMMS President
SMMS
1-7
Education week
FEBRUARY
2-3
DEWCOM
Lumko
4
Pensions Roadshow
District 1
4-6
Young Men’s Guild Connexional General Executive
Committee Meeting
Cape Town
5
Heritage Committee Meeting
District 1
7
Education Sunday
9
MJR Meeting
MCO
10
Ash Wednesday
11
Unit Leaders Meeting
MCO
11-14
Womens’ Manyano – General Extended Executive
Meeting
NFS & Lesotho
12-13
Local Preachers Association General Meeting
eMseni
15
Mission Unit Advisory Board meeting
16
Order of Evangelism-Secretaries Consultation
eMseni
16
MCO
17
Finance Unit Investment & Advisory Committee
MCO
18
Revision Committee
MCO
18-19
Pensions Roadshow
District 10
22-23
Pensions Roadshow
District 7
24-25
Pensions Roadshow
District 8
25-26
District Mediation Teams’ Training
MCO
281
2016
27
Education Summit
East London
27
Womens’ Federation Area Extended Executive
Meeting
Bedfordview
MARCH
2-3
Pensions Roadshow
2-6
Young Men’s Guild Visit District Central by the
Connexional Executive Members
District 9
5
Music Association Connexional General Executive
Meeting
Natal West
7-9
Bishops’ Leadership Capacity Building
JHB
9-11
Mission Unit Consultation
JHB
9
Finance Unit, Marsh Insurance
MCO
13-20
Presiding Bishops’ Office and Mission Unit Visit to
Mozambique
Mozambique
20-24
Holy Week
20
Palm Sunday
21
South Africa Human Rights Day
21
Independence Day-Namibia
25
Good Friday
26
Human and Economic Development Summit
Durban
27
Easter
28
Family Day
29
District Treasurers’ Consultation
MCO
30
Pensions Roadshow
District 2
APRIL
1
Pensions Roadshow
District 3
6-7
Pensions Roadshow
District 11
7-10
Young Men’s Guild Visit Queenstown District
Annual Convention by the Connexional Executive
members
TBA
8
Joint Womens’ Meeting
MCO
12-13
Pensions Roadshow
District 5
14
MCO
14-17
Young Men’s Guild Visit Clarkebury District
members
18
Pensions Roadshow
District 6
282
2016
19-24
Presiding Bishops’ Office & Mission Unit Visit to
Lesotho
21
Stipend Augmentation Meeting
25-29
Convocation of Deacons
27
South African Freedom Day
Lesotho
eMseni
MAY
1
Workers’ Day
5
Ascension Day
5-8
Young Womens’ Manyano 5th Triennial Convention
Welkom, NFS and
Lesotho
11
MCO
12
Pension Fund Meeting
MCO
13
SMMS Full Governing Council Meeting
SMMS
14
SMMS Graduation
SMMS
14
Young Men’s’ Guild Connexional Executive
Committee Meeting
Pretoria
15
Pentecost Sunday
17
Pensions Roadshow
District 13
18
Medical Aid Committee
MCO
19
Finance Unit, Marsh Insurance
MCO
19-22
Order of Evangelism Biennial Convention
East London-Circ 313
22
Aldersgate Sunday
26-29
Cape of Good Hope Synod
26-29
Grahamstown District Synod
26-29
Queenstown District Synod
26-29
Kimberley, Namibia & Bloemfontein District Synod
26-29
Northern Free State and Lesotho Mission Synod
26-29
Natal Coastal Synod
26-29
Natal West Synod
26-29
Central District Synod
26-29
Highveld & Swaziland Synod
26-29
Limpopo District Synod
26-29
Mozambique District Synod
26-29
Clarkebury Synod
27
Presiding Bishops’ Election
31
Trinity Sunday
Namaqualand
Thaba Nchu
ALL Synods
283
2016
JUNE
th
2-5
27 Triennial Conference of the Young Mens’ Guild
Pretoria City Mission
7
Order of Evangelism-General Committee Meeting
Durban
9
Finance Unit Executive Meeting
MCO
11
Youth Unit-Policy & Strategy Symposium
Central Methodist, JHB
12-13
Youth Unit – June 16 Commemorations
(40 Year Celebration)
Central Methodist, JHB
14
MCO
16
South Africa Youth Day
21-22
23-26
Young Men’s Guild Visit Natal Coastal District
Members
28
MCO
29-3 Jul
Women’s Association 28th Biennial
Aldersgate, Kimberley
JULY
1-2
Order of Evangelism – Visit to Mozambique by
Warden, President of Biennial, Secretary of General
Committee and Connexional Lay Co-ordinator
District 12
5-6
DEWCOM
Lumko
7-10
Connexional Youth Executive & Connexional Youth
Conference
Mthatha
6-8
Preliminary Stationing Meeting-Bishops
MCO
9
Order of Evangelism Graduation
Bloemfontein
9
Music Association Connexional General Executive
Meeting
Natal West
13-17
Non-Itinerant Formational Training
16-17
Young Men’s Guild: All Districts DDSR and
Connexional Executive
Sterkspruit
18
Mandela Day
19
Resolutions Committee Pre Conference 2016
Meeting
MCO
21
Stipend Augmentation Meeting
MCO
25
MCO
25
Independence Day Mozambique
25-26
Lumko
AUGUST
1-5
Superintendent’s Training
eMseni
284
2016
9
South African Women’s’ Day
10
MCO
10-13
Women in Ministry Consultation
eMseni
19-21
Womens’ Federation-MCSA Women’s Witness
Districts
28-29
International Methodist Young Leaders Seminar
Houston, Texas
30-5 Sep
World Methodist Council & Conference
USA, Texas
SEPTEMBER
6
Independence Day Swaziland
7
MCO
7-10
Womens’ Manyano-CCS Workshop
Clarkebury
19-21
Pretoria
21-25
Ordinands’ Retreat
Lumko
21-25
Conference 2016
Pretoria
24
South African Heritage Day
30
Botswana Day
OCTOBER
4
Independence Day Lesotho
4
Order of Evangelism – Warden’s Visit to SMMS
SMMS
7-8
Young Men’s Guild: All Districts DDSR and
Emfundisweni/Bungeni
Sec
10
MCO
11
MCO
12
Pension Funds Meeting
MCO
13
Unit Leaders’ Meeting
MCO
13-16
Womens’ Manyano-District President’s Retreat
Central District
17
10-15
Biblewomen/Evangelist Training
Lumko
19
MCO
20
Stipend Augmentation Fund Meeting
MCO
21
Organisation Presidents’ and Unit Leaders’ Imbizo
MCO
22-23
Connexional Evangelical Crusade
Queenstown
29
Womens’ Federation- Federation Day
Districts
3-6
Connexional Music Association Convention
8-9
District Secretaries’ Meeting
MCO
9-13
Bishops’ Meeting
MCO/Gaborone
NOVEMBER
Natal West
285
2016
st
14-19
Biblewomen/Evangelist Training 1 Year
eMseni
16
Finance Unit Executive Meeting
MCO
19
Young Men’s’ Guild Connexional Executive
Committee Meeting
Nelspruit
24-27
Mission Congress
SMMS
27
1st Sunday of Advent
DECEMBER
1
World Aids Day
16
South African Day of Reconciliation
25
Christmas Day
26
Day of Goodwill
286
2016
287
2016
ANNUAL
FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
288
2016
289
MILLENNIUM MISSION RESOURCE FUND
ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Year Ended 31 December 2014
2016
290
2016
291
2016
292
2016
293
2016
294
2016
295
2016
296
2016
297
2016
298
2016
299
2016
300
2016
301
SUPERNUMERARY FUND
FINANCIAL SERVICES BOARD
REGISTRATION NO. 12/8/2604/2
SOUTH AFRICAN REVENUE SERVICES APPROVAL
NO. 18/20/4/030055
For the 12 Months ended 31 December 2014
2016
302
2016
303
2016
304
2016
305
2016
306
2016
307
2016
308
2016
309
2016
310
2016
311
2016
312
2016
313
2016
314
2016
315
2016
316
2016
317
2016
318
2016
319
2016
320
2016
321
2016
322
2016
323
PROVIDENT FUND
NO. 18/20/4/030508
2016
324
2016
325
2016
326
2016
327
2016
328
2016
329
2016
330
2016
331
2016
332
2016
333
2016
334
2016
335
2016
336
2016
337
2016
338
2016
339
2016
340
2016
341
2016
342
2016
343
2016
LAY STAFF PENSION FUND
NO. 18/20/4/030777
344
2016
345
2016
346
2016
347
2016
348
2016
349
2016
350
2016
351
2016
352
2016
353
2016
354
2016
355
2016
356
2016
357
2016
358
2016
359
2016
360
2016
361
2016
362
2016
363
2016
364
2016
365
METHODIST CONNEXIONAL OFFICE
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014
2016
366
2016
367
2016
368
2016
369
2016
370
2016
371
2016
372
2016
373
2016
374
2016
375
2016
376
2016
377
2016
378
2016
379
2016
380
2016
381
2016
382
2016
383
2016
384
2016
385
2016
386
2016
387
2016
388
2016
389
2016
390
2016
391
2016
392
2016
Revised Common Lectionary 2016
New Year’s Day
January 1, 2016
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13
Psalm 8
Revelation 21:1-6a
Matthew 25:31-46
January 31, 2016
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Psalm 71:1-6
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Luke 4:21-30
January 3, 2016
Jeremiah 31:7-14
Psalm 147:12-20
Ephesians 1:3-14
John 1:(1-9), 10-18
Presentation of the Lord
February 2, 2016
Malachi 3:1-4
Psalm 84 or Psalm 24:7-10
Hebrews 2:14-18
Luke 2:22-40
Epiphany of the Lord
January 6, 2016
Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
Ephesians 3:1-12
Matthew 2:1-12
Transfiguration Sunday
February 7, 2016
Exodus 34:29-35
Psalm 99
2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2
Luke 9:28-36, (37-43a)
Baptism of the Lord
January 10, 2016
First Sunday after the Epiphany
Isaiah 43:1-7
Psalm 29
Acts 8:14-17
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
Lent
Ash Wednesday
February 10, 2016
Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12
Psalm 51:1-17
2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
January 17, 2016
Isaiah 62:1-5
Psalm 36:5-10
John 2:1-11
First Sunday in Lent
February 14, 2016
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16
Romans 10:8b-13
Luke 4:1-13
January 24, 2016
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10
Psalm 19
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
Luke 4:14-21
393
2016
Second Sunday in Lent
February 21, 2016
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Psalm 27
Philippians 3:17-4:1
Luke 13:31-35 or
Luke 9:28-36, (37-43a)
Holy Week
Monday of Holy Week
March 21, 2016
Isaiah 42:1-9
Psalm 36:5-11
Hebrews 9:11-15
John 12:1-11
Third Sunday in Lent
February 28, 2016
Isaiah 55:1-9
Psalm 63:1-8
Luke 13:1-9
Tuesday of Holy Week
March 22, 2016
Isaiah 49:1-7
Psalm 71:1-14
John 12:20-36
Fourth Sunday in Lent
March 6, 2016
Joshua 5:9-12
Psalm 32
Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
Wednesday of Holy Week
March 23, 2016
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Psalm 70
Hebrews 12:1-3
John 13:21-32
Fifth Sunday in Lent
March 13, 2016
Isaiah 43:16-21
Psalm 126
Philippians 3:4b-14
John 12:1-8
Palm Sunday
March 20, 2016
Sixth Sunday in Lent
Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29
Luke 19:28-40
Liturgy of the Passion
March 20, 2016
Sixth Sunday in Lent
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Psalm 31:9-16
Philippians 2:5-11
Luke 22:14-23:56 or Luke 23:1-49
Maundy Thursday
March 24, 2016
Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Good Friday
March 25, 2016
Isaiah 52:13-53:12
Psalm 22
Hebrews 10:16-25 or 4:14-16; 5:7-9
John 18:1-19:42
Easter
Resurrection of the Lord
March 27, 2016
Acts 10:34-43 or Isaiah 65:17-25
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
1 Corinthians 15:19-26 or Acts
10:34-43
John 20:1-18 or Luke 24:1-12
394
2016
Easter Evening
March 27, 2016
Isaiah 25:6-9
Psalm 114
1 Corinthians 5:6b-8
Luke 24:13-49
Ascension of the Lord
May 5, 2016
Acts 1:1-11
Psalm 47 or Psalm 93
Ephesians 1:15-23
Luke 24:44-53
Second Sunday of Easter
April 3, 2016
Acts 5:27-32
Psalm 118:14-29 or Psalm 150
Revelation 1:4-8
John 20:19-31
Seventh Sunday of Easter
May 8, 2016
(If Ascension not observed here)
Acts 16:16-34
Psalm 97
Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21
John 17:20-26
Third Sunday of Easter
April 10, 2016
Acts 9:1-6, (7-20)
Psalm 30
Revelation 5:11-14
John 21:1-19
Fourth Sunday of Easter
April 17, 2016
Acts 9:36-43
Psalm 23
Revelation 7:9-17
John 10:22-30
Fifth Sunday of Easter
April 24, 2016
Acts 11:1-18
Psalm 148
Revelation 21:1-6
John 13:31-35
Sixth Sunday of Easter
May 1, 2016
Acts 16:9-15
Psalm 67
Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5
John 14:23-29 or John 5:1-9
Day of Pentecost
May 15, 2016
Acts 2:1-21 or Genesis 11:1-9
Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
Romans 8:14-17 or Acts 2:1-21
John 14:8-17, (25-27)
Season after Pentecost
Trinity Sunday
May 22, 2016
Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31
Psalm 8
Romans 5:1-5
John 16:12-15
May 29, 2016
1 Kings 18:20-21, (22-29), 30-39
Psalm 96
Galatians 1:1-12
Luke 7:1-10
June 5, 2016
1 Kings 17:8-16, (17-24)
Psalm 146
Galatians 1:11-24
Luke 7:11-17
395
2016
June 12, 2016
1 Kings 21:1-10, (11-14), 15-21a
Psalm 5:1-8
Galatians 2:15-21
Luke 7:36-8:3
July 31, 2016
Hosea 11:1-11
Psalm 107:1-9, 43
Colossians 3:1-11
Luke 12:13-21
June 19, 2016
1 Kings 19:1-4, (5-7), 8-15a
Psalm 42 and 43
Galatians 3:23-29
Luke 8:26-39
August 7, 2016
Isaiah 1:1, 10-20
Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23
Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16
Luke 12:32-40
June 26, 2016
2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14
Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20
Galatians 5:1, 13-25
Luke 9:51-62
August 14, 2016
Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19
Hebrews 11:29-12:2
Luke 12:49-56
July 3, 2016
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Galatians 6:(1-6), 7-16
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
August 21, 2016
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Psalm 71:1-6
Hebrews 12:18-29
Luke 13:10-17
July 10, 2016
Amos 7:7-17
Psalm 82
Colossians 1:1-14
Luke 10:25-37
August 28, 2016
Jeremiah 2:4-13
Psalm 81:1, 10-16
Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16
Luke 14:1, 7-14
July 17, 2016
Amos 8:1-12
Psalm 52
Colossians 1:15-28
Luke 10:38-42
September 4, 2016
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18
Philemon 1:1-1:21
Luke 14:25-33
July 24, 2016
Hosea 1:2-10
Psalm 85
Colossians 2:6-15, (16-19)
Luke 11:1-13
September 11, 2016
Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28
Psalm 14
1 Timothy 1:12-17
Luke 15:1-10
396
September 18, 2016
Jeremiah 8:18-9:1
Psalm 79:1-9
1 Timothy 2:1-7
Luke 16:1-13
September 25, 2016
Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15
Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16
1 Timothy 6:6-19
Luke 16:19-31
October 2, 2016
Lamentations 1:1-6 or 3:19-26
Psalm 137
2 Timothy 1:1-14
Luke 17:5-10
October 9, 2016
Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7
Psalm 66:1-12
2 Timothy 2:8-15
Luke 17:11-19
October 16, 2016
Jeremiah 31:27-34
Psalm 119:97-104
2 Timothy 3:14-4:5
Luke 18:1-8
2016
All Saints Day
November 1, 2016
(Sometimes observed on first Sunday in
November)
Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18
Psalm 149
Ephesians 1:11-23
Luke 6:20-31
November 6, 2016
Haggai 1:15b-2:9
Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 or Psalm 98
2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17
Luke 20:27-38
November 13, 2016
Isaiah 65:17-25
Isaiah 12
2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Luke 21:5-19
Reign of Christ
November 20, 2016
Jeremiah 23:1-6
Luke 1:68-79
Colossians 1:11-20
Luke 23:33-43
October 23, 2016
Joel 2:23-32
Psalm 65
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
Luke 18:9-14
Advent
First Sunday of Advent
November 27, 2016
Isaiah 2:1-5
Psalm 122
Romans 13:11-14
Matthew 24:36-44
October 30, 2016
(If All Saints not observed on this day)
Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4
Psalm 119:137-144
2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12
Luke 19:1-10
Second Sunday of Advent
December 4, 2016
Isaiah 11:1-10
Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19
Romans 15:4-13
Matthew 3:1-12
397
Third Sunday of Advent
December 11, 2016
Isaiah 35:1-10
Psalm 146:5-10 or Luke 1:46b-55
James 5:7-10
Matthew 11:2-11
Fourth Sunday of Advent
December 18, 2016
Isaiah 7:10-16
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
Romans 1:1-7
Matthew 1:18-25
2016
January 1, 2017
Numbers 6:22-27
Psalm 8
Galatians 4:4-7 or Philippians 2:5-11
Luke 2:15-21
New Year’s Day
January 1, 2017
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13
Psalm 8
Revelation 21:1-6a
Matthew 25:31-46
Christmas
December 24 & 25, 2016
Isaiah 9:2-7
Psalm 96
Titus 2:11-14
Luke 2:1-14, (15-20)
Epiphany
Baptism of the Lord
January 8, 2017
Isaiah 42:1-9
Psalm 29
Acts 10:34-43
Matthew 3:13-17
December 24 & 25, 2016
Isaiah 62:6-12
Psalm 97
Titus 3:4-7
Luke 2:(1-7), 8-20
January 15, 2017
Isaiah 49:1-7
Psalm 40:1-11
1 Corinthians 1:1-9
John 1:29-42
December 24 & 25, 2016
Isaiah 52:7-10
Psalm 98
Hebrews 1:1-4, (5-12)
John 1:1-14
January 22, 2017
Isaiah 9:1-4
Psalm 27:1, 4-9
Matthew 4:12-23
First Sunday after Christmas Day
January 1, 2017
Isaiah 63:7-9
Psalm 148
Hebrews 2:10-18
Matthew 2:13-23
January 29, 2017
Micah 6:1-8
Psalm 15
Matthew 5:1-12
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
Conference
Cape Town
Grahamstown
Durban
Queenstown
Kimberley
King Williams Town
Port Elizabeth
Cape Town
Pietermaritzburg
Cradock
Queenstown
Bloemfontein
Grahamstown
Durban
King Williams Town
Cape Town
East London
Pietermaritzburg
Port Elizabeth
Kimberley
Queenstown
Durban
Grahamstown
Cape Town
Bloemfontein
East London
Pietermaritzburg
Year
1883
1884
1885
1886
1887
1888
1889
1890
1891
1892
1893
1894
1895
1896
1897
1898
1899
1900
1901
1902
1903
1904
1905
1906
1907
1908
1909
President
Rev John Walton, MA
Rev John Walton, MA
Rev Richard Ridgill
Rev Fredrick Mason
Rev Robert Lamplough
Rev Henry Tindall
Rev J Smith Spencer
Rev S Evans Rowe
Rev Peter Hargreaves
Rev James Scott
Rev James Thompson, MA
Rev Theophilus Chubb, BA
Rev Erza Nuttall
Rev Philip Tearle
Rev James Scott
Rev William Wynne
Rev William B Rayner
Rev Alfred T Rhodes
Rev Nendick Abraham
Rev Ezra Nuttall
Rev Arthur P Chaplin
Rev Richard F Hornabrook
Rev William J Hacker
Rev George Weaver
Rev Wesley Hurt
Secretary
Rev J Smith Spencer
Rev J Smith Spencer
Rev James Scott
Rev James Scott
Rev James Scott
Rev Theophilus Chubb, BA
Rev Philip Tearle
Rev Philip Tearle
Rev John E Parsonson
Rev Alfred T Rhodes
Rev Alfred T Rhodes
Rev Ezra Nuttall
Rev Ezra Nuttall
Rev Ezra Nuttall
Rev Arthur P Chaplin
Rev Charles Pettman
Rev Charles Pettman
Rev Charles Pettman
Rev Charles Pettman
Rev Charles Pettman
List of Conferences, Presidents, Presiding Bishops, Lay Presidents and General Secretaries
398
2016
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
Conference
Grahamstown
Kimberley
Queenstown
Durban
Port Elizabeth
East London
Cape Town
Bloemfontein
Pietermaritzburg
Queenstown
Grahamstown
Kimberley
Durban
King Williams Town
Cape Town
Port Elizabeth
East London
Bloemfontein
Pietermaritzburg
Queenstown
Grahamstown
Cape Town
Johannesburg
Durban
Port Elizabeth
East London
Pietermaritzburg
Pretoria
Year
1910
1911
1912
1913
1914
1915
1916
1917
1918
1919
1920
1921
1922
1923
1924
1925
1926
1927
1928
1929
1930
1931
1932
1933
1934
1935
1936
1937
President
Rev Charles Pettman
Rev Joseph Metcalf
Rev Albert H Hodges
Rev William Pescod
Rev T Edward Marsh
Rev Robert Matterson
Rev Griffith W Rogers
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev Samuel Clark
Rev James Pendlebury, BA
Rev George Robson
Rev Arthur J Lennard
Rev Charles S Lucas
Rev John W Househam
Rev John W Watkinson
Rev Frederick Holmes
Rev Andrew Graham
Rev Theo R Curnick BD
Rev William Flint DD
Rev Geo H P Jacques
Rev Allen Lea
Rev Ernest Titcomb
Rev John A Allcock
Rev William Meara
Rev Henry W Goodwin
Rev Thomas Stanton, MBE; DD
Rev A Arthur Wellington
Rev William Meara
Secretary
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev Henry Cotton
Rev James Robb
Rev James Robb
Rev James Robb
Rev John W Househam
Rev John W Househam
Rev John W Househam
Rev William H P Clulow
Rev Alfred A Stile
Rev Thomas Stanton
Rev Arthur C File
Rev Arthur C File
Rev Arthur C File
Rev Arthur C File
399
2016
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
Conference
Cape Town
Grahamstown
Queenstown
Durban
Johannesburg
Bloemfontein
Port Elizabeth
Pretoria
East London
Pietermaritzburg
Cape Town
Grahamstown
Johannesburg
Bloemfontein
Durban
Port Elizabeth
Queenstown
Pretoria
Cape Town
East London
Pietermaritzburg
Kimberley
Uitenhage
Johannesburg
Durban
Port Elizabeth
Queenstown
Pretoria
Year
1938
1939
1940
1941
1942
1943
1944
1945
1946
1947
1948
1949
1950
1951
1952
1953
1954
1955
1956
1957
1958
1959
1960
1961
1962
1963
1964
1965
President
Rev Edwin Bottrill
Rev Lorenzo S H Wilkinson
Rev William Eveleigh
Rev William B Allcock
Rev Arnold Nichols
Rev William W Shilling, BSc
Rev William R Whalley
Rev William Meara
Rev Cecil C Harris
Rev E Lynn Cragg, BA; BD
Rev Edward W Grant
Rev Joseph B Webb, MA; DD
Rev Stanley Le Grove Smith
Rev Alison E F Garrett
Rev J Wesley Hunt
Rev Herbert W Rist, MA
Rev Stanley B Sudbury, DD
Rev William Illsley
Rev Clifford K Storey
Rev C Edgar Wilkinson, MSc
Rev Leslie A Hewson, MA
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Deryck P Dugmore, MA
Rev Stanley G Pitts, BA
Rev Seth M Mokitimi
Rev Wilfred W Hartely, BCom
Secretary
Rev William H Irving
Rev Arthur C File
Rev Edward W Grant
Rev F J Rhead Marsh
Rev F J Rhead Marsh
Rev Stanley B Sudbury
Rev Stanley B Sudbury
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Frank H Edmonds
Rev Lloyd G Griffiths
400
2016
Conference
Cape Town
Pietermaritzburg
Bloemfontein
East London
Johannesburg
Durban
Port Elizabeth
Pretoria
Cape Town
Kimberley
Pietermaritzburg
Benoni
East London
Cape Town
Welkom
Grahamstown
Johannesburg
Durban
Pretoria
Bloemfontein
Pietermaritzburg
Benoni
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
1987
1986
1985
1984
1983
1982
Year
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
Rev Dr Khoza E M Mgojo, BA; BD;
MTh; MA; PhD
Rev John P Scholtz, BA
Rev Ernest N Baartman
Rev Peter J Storey, BA
President
Rev Robert C Bellis
Rev Lloyd G S Griffiths
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Derrick W Timm
Rev Dr C Edgar Wilkinson, MSc; DD
Rev Dr Alex L Boraine, MA; PhD
Rev Stanley G Pitts, BA
Rev Jotham C Mvusi
Rev Vivian W Harris, BA; BD
Rev Abel E Hendricks
Rev C R Stephenson, MA; BD
Rev Abel Hendricks
Rev Dr Donald C Veysie,
Rev Andrew M Losaba
Rev Howard F Kirkby, BA;BA Hons
Rev Dr T Simon N Gqubule, BA; BD;
MTh; PhD
Rev Dr Khoza E M Mgojo, BA; BD;
MTh; MA; PhD
Rev Fremont C Louw, BA; MA
Rev M Stanley Mogoba, PhD; DTh;
MA (Bristol) Hon; AFTS; LL.D
Secretary
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
Rev Cyril Wilkins
401
2016
1994
Year
1995
Welkom
Port Elizabeth
Pinetown
Benoni
Umtata
Conference
Johannesburg
Durban
Port Elizabeth
Pretoria
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
1998
2001
2003
1993
1992
1991
1990
1989
Cape Town
107
Year
1988
Conference
Queenstown
106
President/Presiding Bishop
Rev H Mvume Dandala, MA
Rev H Mvume Dandala, MA
Rev Ivan M Abrahams, BA (Hons);
BTh, CSS (California)
Rev John P Scholtz, BA (Rhodes)
Rev Dr Donald G L Cragg, MA
(Oxon); DPhil (Oxon)
President
Rev Ross A J Olivier, BA (Hon), BTh
Rev Ross A J Olivier, BA (Hon), BTh
Secretary/General Secretary
Secretary
Mr Colin Wilacott (1999-2001)
Ms Lindeni Madlala (2002-2005)
Ms Lindeni Madlala (2002-2005)
Lay President
Mr Zandile Jakavula (1996-1998)
402
2016
Conference
Johannesburg
Cape Town
Bloemfontein
Pietermaritzburg
East London
Maseru Lesotho
Ezulwini Swaziland
Mthatha
Durban
Port Elizabeth
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
Year
2005
Rev Zipho D. Siwa, BTh (Rhodes);
BA Hons (UPE); BTh Hons (Rhodes)
President/Presiding Bishop
Rev Charmaine Morgan, BLog (UP)
BTh Hons (UNISA)
Rev Vuyani G Nyobole, BTh Hon
(Rhodes); BEd (Natal); MEd (UWC)
Secretary/General Secretary
Mr Fungile Dotwana, LL.M
(Unisa); LL.B (Unisa); B.Luris
(UFH)
(UFH)
(UFH)
(UFH)
(UFH)
(UFH)
Mr James M Nkosi, MBA, BA Cur,
(UNISA) BTh, (UNISA)
Ms Bakhombisile Mkhwanazi
(2006–2008)
Ms Bakhombisile Mkhwanazi
(2006–2008)
Lay President
403
2016
404
2016
405
2016
In Memoria
For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence,
for my hope is from him.
He only is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
On God rests my salvation and my glory;
my mighty rock, my refuge is God.
Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your heart before him;
God is a refuge for us.
Psalm 62:5-8
406
2016
Ministers who have passed away September 2014-September 2015
Rev. Ernest Baartman
Rev. Kenneth Carstens
Rev. Luke Dlangisa
Rev. Margaret Dlamini Rev. Oreah Ginindza Rev. Beverly Hill ** Rev. Philip Lekhatlanya Rev. Mbusiswa Madlala ** Rev. Noel Magerman
Rev. Captain Manona
Rev. Dom Mokoto Rev. Sweetness Nodlela
Rev. Ben Nsimbi ** Rev. Gabriel Rathaba Rev. Vivian Seethal Deacon Bernice van Boom
Rev. Wellington Xazana**
Rev. Desmond Bussey
Rev. VakeleDandala **
Rev. Trevour De Bruyn
Rev. Admiral Dondashe **
Rev. Canute Goniwe
Rev. Napoleon Kok
Rev. Joseph Lofafa
Rev. Sello Magashule
Rev. Mncedi Majola
Rev. John Meiring
Rev. Mpumelelo Ndlangisa
Rev. Johan Nothnagel
Rev. Neil Oosthuizen
Rev. Stanley Russell **
Rev. Motseothata Sithole
Rev. Harold van Eck
** Obituary not available at the time of going to print
407
2016
REV. CAPTAIN TEMBILE MANONA
th
th
29 January 1929-7 September 2014
Rev Captain Manona was born on the 29th January 1929 at Dhabhana location at
Peddie. He was the first born of a Methodist Evangelist Ofisi and Ruth Manona, nee
Maruwa. He did his primary education up to standard six at Ayliff Lower and Higher
Primary School at Peddie. As a son of the Evangelist he used to bring milk on an ox
wagon to Ministers stationed at Peddie and Ayliff Circuit. Among those Ministers
one may remember prominent figures like Revs Gubevu, Masiza and Pamla. Perhaps
he was influenced by the character of these men of God to join the fold of the
OrdainedMinistry of theMethodist Church.
In 1950 to 1951 he did PH at Lovedale College. He candidated for the Ordained
Ministry in 1954 and was accepted by the Conference held in Queenstown. In1955
he was stationed at Wodehouse Forest. It was in this Circuit where he had contact
with Nontobeko Qongqo, the daughter of Elliot Siyengo Qongqo (uXaba) and
Selina Ntuthela Qongqo (uMaradebe). In their marriage they were blessed with four
children, Mzoxolo, Lubabalo and the late Nombuso and Phila.
In 1959 to 1960 he did his Theological training at the Federal Theological Seminary
at Fort Hare and was ordained in 1962. In his ministry he laboured in the following
Circuits: Durban African Circuit 1961-1962; Nomaheya 1963; Fort Malan 19641967; Molteno 1968-1969; Mount Arthur 1970-1971; Cape Town 1972-1974;
Vryheid 1975; Cwecweni 1976-1977; Thombo in Port St Johns, Thembeni at
Umzimkhulu, Ncambele in Mthatha, Cape Town and Palmerton where he retired
from full time Ministry in 1989.
th
He was called to eternity at his home at Baziya in Mthatha on the 7 September
2014. He is survived by his wife uMaxaba, three children, 13 grandchildren and 9
great grandchildren.
May his soul rest in peace.
Phumla ngoxolo Nala Ndokoseugqatsoulufezile.
408
2016
REV. JOHAN HEINRICH NOTHNAGEL
th
th
8 July 1937-8 November 2014
Johan was born in Bloemfontein on the 8th July 1937. He was the only child of Adam
and Erna Nothnagel. Johan's father was a trader in Lesotho, not far from the border at
Wepener. As an only child his many friends were the local boys from the surrounding
villages. He often recalled with great joy the fun and games they had together. He also
had many dog friends and often, after taking his two dogs for a long walk, he would
return with at least six or eight more. He learned to speak Sesotho fluently.
He attended the Primary School in Wepener as a weekly boarder. His father was strict
and had a very strong work ethic and Johan was fetched each weekend to work in the
trading store. "Forget about rugby. My son must work," were his fathers words, much
to Johan's embarrassment and disappointment.
He was later sent to St. Andrews in Bloemfontein for his High School education and
to "improve his English". Not loving the more sophisticated city life, he longed for his
old familiar surroundings, so returned to Wepener to matriculate.
As a family they attended the Wepener Baptist Church, where Johan attended Sunday
School and always spoke highly of a dear teacher who had a great influence on his
life.
He later felt the Lord's call upon his life to enter the ministry – a disappointment to his
father who wanted him to join his business. After working for 4-5 years with Frasers
Trading Company, he entered the Baptist Theological College in Johannesburg in
1960. While there in 1962 he met his sweetheart and future wife, Adrienne Hitchings
(daughter of a Methodist minister – Rev. E.G. Hitchings), who was studying at the
Johannesburg College of Education. After completing their studies the same year,
Johan began his ministry with the Mahon Mission – an affiliated mission of the Baptist
Missionary Society in 1964. Later that year he was ordained into full ministry.
In 1966 he became fully employed by the Baptist Missionary Society and was stationed
in Kroonstad to superintend the Free State work. In January 1967 Johan and Adrienne
were married, and from this happy union two daughters, Janine and Roanne, were
born. He later felt the call to the Methodist ministry and was stationed at the Victoria
Methodist Church in East London. He was received into full connexion in 1977. He
was a humble, unassuming man and at first found the wearing of a clerical collar very
trying but he was dedicated to his work of ministry and preaching. He was involved in
the hospital ministry and visited his parishioners regularly.
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2016
He also oversaw the work at Pefferville which he enjoyed. After 5 happy years in East
London he was appointed to Cathcart in 1981 where he served faithfully for 10 years.
In 1991 he went to Barkly East and served the area there for 3 years. He also had the
opportunity of conducting services in Sesotho with the farm labourers near the Lesotho
border when visiting his outstations. Being fluent in the three languages, English,
Afrikaans and Sesotho he was equipped for further ministry. His last appointment
was with the Afrikaans community at Leliefontein in Namakwaland. It was a special
joy to him to administer the sacrament of Holy Communion to the shut-ins in his
circuit. He would park his "bakkie" in the centre of the village and with the help of two
communion stewards he would go from house to house, ministering the word, prayer
and sacraments. Unfortunately he had to retire after only 2 years there as a result of
ill health. He and Adrienne retired to Somerset West in 1996 and became members of
the Strand Methodist Church where Johan enjoyed sharing in the Bible Studies, and
conducting the occasional service.
After a few months of deteriorating health, Johan passed gently into the presence of his
Lord on the 8th November 2014.
O love that will not let me go
I rest my weary soul in thee.
I give Thee back the life I owe.
That in Thine ocean depths,
its flow may richer, fuller be.
410
2016
REV. HENRY A VAN ECK
th
th
12 July 1918-17 November 2014
Henry van Eck was born in the small town of Christiana on 12 July 1918. He enrolled
himself at the Methodist School known as Christiana Primary School. For some reason
or other he became the headmaster’s blue-eyed boy and he was constantly sent, during
school time, to the post office to collect mail, or to the local shop to buy a “spool”
(film for the camera), or to buy vegetables for the principal’s wife. He didn’t mind
any of these errands, because he was allowed to use the principal’s brand new bicycle.
Even though he was out of class so often running errands for the principal, he passed
quite well. When he passed Standard 4, he had to leave Christiana to start Standard
5 in Bloemfontein. He stayed in Bloemfontein until he completed Standard 6. After
Standard 6 he went to Kilnerton in Pretoria to start his teachers training course. After
rd
completing his 3 year, he was offered a teacher’s post in Christiana.
He, however, didn’t take up the post, because the resident minister at Kilnerton, who
was also in charge of the college, offered him an administrative position at the college
as an office clerk, head of student affairs. Some of his responsibilities for the 4 years
that he stayed at Kilnerton College included doing the financials, filing and being in
charge of the duplicating machine. With some of his money he bought himself a typewriter, skilled himself and was then appointed into a position where he had to do all
the typing of the college for an extra income. This pushed his salary up to 15 pounds
per month. More responsibilities were loaded onto him when he became the boarding
master and he was responsible for, among other things, the ordering of food for the
boarders. He could, however, stay for free at the hostel.
He became a local preacher in the Methodist church. He took up quite a few preaching
appointments and became friends with Jewell Mojakisane. This same Jewell Mojakisane
planted the first seed of Henry going into the full-time ministry.
One Tuesday morning in 1944, while alone in his bachelor’s room, he had a vision of
the Lord looking down on him and heard Him say: “You’re not serving me the way
you should. What you’re doing is not enough.” 4 days later, on a Friday, the same
words came to him “Jy dien my nie genoeg nie”. That following Monday morning at
around 11H00, he went to Rev Rist and told him what he had experienced. He told Rev
Rist that the office had become too small for him. That same year (1944) he was taken
to Synod and he completed his candidate’s examination. He was immediately assigned
to a congregation in Kilnerton village for one year.
In 1946 he went to Fort Hare University and studied there for two years (1946-1947).
In 1948, fresh out of Fort Hare, Henry married the love of his life, Susan Abrahams
411
2016
on 9 January. That same year, Henry was stationed in Windhoek. Griselda was born
in 1949, and Ronald in 1951. In 1952 Henry was sent to Klipfontein (Cape Town)
where Anthony, Maureen and Barbara were born. In 1969 he was sent to Robertson,
and in 1976 he started in Kimberley. His last station (officially) began in 1980 in
Bloemfontein and ended in December 1984.
After his retirement, having been at home for one year only, Henry went to Rehoboth,
Namibia to minister there for a period of four years. After that, he spent another three
years in Nigel, until he finally came home to Bloemfontein with effect from January
1991. And there he stayed until the Lord called him home.
412
2016
REV. CANUTE MBULELO GONIWE
th
th
17 November 1939-19 December 2014
The Rev Canute Mbulelo Goniwe, minister of the Gospel, father, teacher and role model
th
to many, was born at Ndunge Village, Bizana, Eastern Cape on the 17 November
th
1939 to Mr Lenford and Mrs Mary-Jane Goniwe. He was the 4 of six children. His
parents were committed Christians and staunch Methodists.
Canute started his education at Ndunge Primary School, proceeding to the Palmerton
Secondary School for his Junior Certificate. After matriculating at the Cowan High
School in Port Elizabeth, he started full time employment at Leo Cross Post Office in
Durban. Later he joined the Bizana Magistrate’s Office as a clerk. It was at this time
that he received his calling to the ordained ministry of the Church, candidating through
the Clarkebury District in 1969.
The 1969 Conference stationed him at Mvubukazi in the Ethembeni Circuit, as a first
year probationer minister. He was later sent to John Wesley College at the Federal
Theological Seminary, Alice for further training. There he qualified with a Certificate
in Theology.
The Rev Goniwe served faithfully in the following Circuits: Ethembeni (Mvubukazi);
Grahamstown (Alicedale); Amatole Basin; Ubombo; Empangeni (Mtubatuba);
Cancele; Ndlovu; Ngwaqa and Balasi Circuits. It was at Ngwaqa Circuit that Canute’s
gifts as a Christian educator shone through most vividly. Goniwe was exact in his
approach to the liturgies of the Church, always seeking to ensure that the services
showed marks of serenity and great dignity. He believed in class meetings and small
group Bible Studies. At Ngwaqa he held these faithfully at the manse. He often used
these opportunities also for intercessory prayers for those in need. Rev Goniwe’s
ministry was marked by his commitment to ministering to the poor, often participating
in community projects such as farming.
It was during his last appointment at the Balasi Circuit that his health started to break
down. He retired at the end of 2004 and returned to his home at Ndunge. He died
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peacefully on the 19 December 2014, in his 76 year and 45 year of ministry. He is
survived by his wife of 41 years, Eva (nee Skosana). Together they were blessed with
two daughters, Brenda and Zamatolo and two grandchildren, Mikhulu and Omolemo.
He leaves behind three sisters, Mesdames A.N. Gulwa, M. Nkomo and M. Dlomo.
LALA NGOXOLO TOLO, ZULU, DLANGAMANDLA,
MCHENGE. MABHANEKAZI.
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REV. JOHN BERNARD MEIRING
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30 August 1934-27 December 2014
John was born in Kokstad, the eldest of five boys. He grew up and went to school in
Stanger, leaving school at the age of 16. He became an apprentice electrician, before
doing a correspondence course and going on to work for the Stanger Municipality. It
was during this time that he became involved with Wayside Sunday School and young
people’s guild. He also worked for a year in Verulam as a municipal engineer.
John offered for the ministry in 1958 and in 1959 was sent to his first appointment in
Pinetown. He then moved to the Free State in 1960, lived in Wepener and travelled
to Zastron, Sterkspruit and Smithfield. In his second year in the circuit he moved
to live in Zastron as it was more central. After 2 years in the Free State he went to
Rhodes University in 1962.
John met Joy Morgan in Grahamstown and in November they got married and were
sent to Nababeep in Namaqualand. John was ordained in Queenstown in 1964.
He then moved to Ficksburg in 1965 and once again had many miles to travel to
Clocalan, Marquard, Senekal and Winburg. In 1968 the family moved to Aliwal
North with 2 small children, the youngest just 10 days old. After 4 happy years
and with two growing boys, John needed to slow down with so much travelling, as
the Aliwal Circuit again had many small churches to visit in Jamestown, Zastron,
Sterkspruit and Lady Grey. John also visited the Wittebergen Church once a month
and went to the Bensonvale School for services.
In 1972 John moved to Cape Town to minister to the Woodstock and Observatory
churches. During this time, he was also a Chaplain to Robben Island Prison. While
in Woodstock John was approached about a move to Marsh Memorial Homes, a big
challenge and something totally different. John was always up for a challenge and so
at the beginning of 1975 the family moved to Marsh Homes. John loved it and was
in his element raising money for the children to have a comfortable and stable life.
During this time at Marsh John was Connexional Trust Properties Secretary.
After 11 years at Marsh John wanted to go back to circuit work and so the family
moved to Lombardy East in Gauteng. Six years later he moved to his last station
at Krugersdorp on the West Rand. After 5 good years, he decided to retire and stay
in Krugersdorp. John had 19 wonderful years of retirement. He had his workshop,
fixing and renovating furniture. John was a craftsman of wood as well as a craftsman
of the word of the Lord. He was a “doer” and a “mender”, also a mender of souls.
“Be thou my wisdom, Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee, Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling and I with Thee one.”
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REV. OREAH MANGENA GININDZA
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15 September 1934-18 January 2015
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Oreah Mangena Ginindza was born on the 15 September 1934 at Nkomazi. He was
the son of Absalom Nhloko Ginindza and Edith Lozandla Ginindza. Born from a very
humble family he worked in the farms looking after livestock for a long time not
knowing that he was being prepared to become a shepherd of God’s flock. He was
already old when he began school.
He did his primary education at Black Mbuluzi Methodist School and Nazarene
Primary school and then proceeded to Swazi National High School in Matsapha for
his Secondary Education. He then enrolled at The William Pitcher Teacher Training
College where he did his tertiary education.
On completion of his training he began his teaching career at the Mashobeni North
Primary School, then later transferred to Lutfotja Methodist Primary School. God
revealed His plan for his life at this school to become a minister of the gospel. Unable
to resist the calling, he resigned from teaching and in 1967 began to work for God
as a probationer minister stationed at Tsawela and Hlathikhulu Methodist Church,
Mahamba Circuit.
In 1969 he got married to Kate Sweleni Chiya who devoted herself to assisting him
execute his calling. Subsequently he went to Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) to further
train as a minister of religion at Epworth Theological College.
In 1972 he was fully ordained as the minister of God in the Methodist Church in Port
Elizabeth and was stationed at St Pauls Methodist Church in Manzini until 1975.
In 1976 he was stationed at the Mahamba Circuit where he devoted his whole and
entire life ministering the word of God. He worked in this circuit for 21 years until he
retired from being Circuit Superintendent in 1996 but continued preaching and serving
the Lord. He worked with the church schools as the Manager and was also a gazetted
marriage officer.
He lived a very impactful life with a God-given ability to reach out to all, poor and the
elite, young and old, Christians and non-Christians.
He is survived by his five biological children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews,
cousins and many children in Christ. At the age of 80 he passed on to be with the Lord
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on the 18 January 2015.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Phumula ngekuthula Mamba lendze lesentsokontsokweni.
You have fought a good fight of faith.
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REV. MNCEDI GEORGE MAJOLA
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30 December 1958-15 February 2015
Mncedi George Majola, the fifth child of Mr. Christian and Mrs. Selina Majola, was
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born in Heilbron (Free State) on the 30 of December 1958. He started schooling
at Malakabeng Primary School (Sasolburg). He later proceeded on to Nkgopoleng
Secondary School, where he eventually completed his matric.
Soon after completing his matric, he managed to get employed at the Sasol IEC
Firm, which was situated in Sasolburg. Not long after did he find his calling. In 1985,
under the guidance and leadership of Reverend Mathlatsi, he started his probation at
Kroonstad Circuit in which he stayed until 1987.
In 1988 he was accepted to the Federal Theological Seminary to complete his studies,
which was situated in Pietermaritzburg (Natal). He later got married to Moratwe
Sentumile in 1989. Sadly she died the following year in 1990. He was stationed at
Edendale Circuit, Pietermaritzburg in 1991.
In 1992 the Conference made a decision to send him to the Commemoration Church,
situated in Galeshewe, Kimberley. Here he met with Eugenia Majola (nee Mpitsang).
They entered into holy matrimony in 1993. They were blessed with two children,
Sandile and Mpho. Reverend Majola’s tenure in Kimberley ended in 2005.
2006 marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, when he was called to serve
the people of Kutlwanong, in the Northern Free State and Lesotho district. Here he
served 9 years. He served as the Vice Chairman of the Northern Free State and Lesotho
District. His stay in Kutlwanong ended in 2014.
January 2015 would bring a change of scenery for Mncedi, when he was sent to Ermelo
(Mpumalanga) in the Msukwaligwa Circuit, where he unfortunately only served 6
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weeks. He met his untimely death on the 15 of February, following a short illness.
Mncedi was an avid reader, who encouraged all and believed that education is the key
that opened many doors and broke the shackles of poverty.
• He obtained his AFTS (degree) in ministry 1991.
• He obtained his BA Honors in 2002.
• He completed his MBA (Master’s in Business Administration) in 2004.
He is survived by a brother, sister, wife and two children.
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REV. NAPOLEON BONAPARTE KOK
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25 August 1929-24 February 2015
Nap Kok, as he was known throughout his ministry, was born at Patensie in the Gamtoos
River Valley where his father was a farmer. His unusual and distinctive first names
came about because of his father’s great admiration for historical figures such as the
French military commander and political leader, Napoleon. At Nap’s baptism in Port
Elizabeth the officiating minister at first flatly refused to baptise the child with these
names. However he reconsidered and then proceeded with the baptism as requested. A
delicious irony followed 29 years later when the same minister was one of the seven
appointed ordaining presbyters at the ordination of the Rev Napoleon Bonaparte Kok
at the 1958 Pietermaritzburg Conference.
After completing his schooling, Nap entered the field of accountancy. It was during
this time that he sensed the call to enter the ministry. He then served for two years as
a lay agent in the Uitenhage Circuit under the Rev Douglas Storey, before proceeding
to Rhodes University, where he candidated for the ministry in 1953. The rest of his
probation was served in the New Goldfields Circuit at Virginia (3 years) until his
ordination in October 1958.
Subsequent Circuit appointments were in the Stellenbosch Circuit (6 years), at North
End, Port Elizabeth (11 years), Graaff-Reinet (13 years) and Queenstown (6 years).
He retired at the end of 1994, but then served as an active Supernumerary at Simon’s
Town in the Fish Hoek Circuit (4 years), before finally settling in the Garden Route at
Sedgefield.
Long pastorates were a feature of the ministry of this colourful servant of the Gospel.
He enjoyed his pastoral engagements with the people he served; he loved them, cared
deeply for them, and sang their praises. He was a tireless pastoral visitor, always
available to his people as a good listener and a wise counsellor. He took his ordination
vows very seriously as an energetic, diligent and faithful minister of Christ. He brought
a spirit of renewal not only to people’s souls but also to buildings, gardens, and church
and community programmes. He made things happen. He was forthright and definite
in his opinions, and one was left in no doubt what he stood for and whom he served. He
was almost childlike in his expressions of wonder and delight in God and the glories
of his creation.
Nap Kok was passionate about preaching the gospel in all its urgency that he might
help lead people to faith in Christ and build them up in their discipleship. At the same
time his sermons were invariably accompanied by an impish humour.
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It was during his early ministry at Stellenbosch that he married Ingrid Hartzenberg
of Graaff-Reinet, whom he had met earlier at a Grahamstown District youth camp.
Wherever they served Ingrid was a loving and supportive companion, sharing his life
and his ministry. Theirs was a long and happy marriage, and they were blessed with
three children Judy, Richard and Nicky. Nap loved his family deeply; his children and
grandchildren were his joy and delight.
After living in retirement at Sedgefield for some 12 years Nap and Ingrid moved to
the Stellenbosch area to be closer to members of their family. There they were also
warmly received by the members of the Jamestown Society, which he had first served
as minister over 50 years before.
In the closing years of his life Nap suffered cardiac problems which led to radical
surgery. But the troubles returned, and were later compounded by the frustration of
deteriorating eyesight. The struggle ended when he died in hospital at Somerset West
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on the 24 February 2015, in the 86 year of his life and the 63 year of his ministry.
He is survived by Ingrid, their three children and eight grandchildren.
The great Napoleon left a deep imprint on France and Europe. It may equally be said
that his namesake, Napoleon Bonaparte Kok, has left his distinctive mark both on his
family and on the people called Methodist in many parts of South Africa. As was said
in tribute at his funeral, ‘Nap Kok was here’.
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REV. MONKUTLOATSI DENNIS MOKOTO
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28 September 1927-4 March 2015
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Rev Monkutloatsi Dennis Mokoto was born on the 28 September 1927 in Mahikeng
(Goo-Motlhaku Village), the eldest son of the late Chief Orogo and Kealeboga (nee
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Sedupelela) Mokoto. He entered into holy matrimony on the 21 December 1957 with
the late Kegomoditswe Damaria Maponyane, the daughter of the late Sentlhaga and
Madgeline Maponyane. Damaria was his devoted soulmate throughout his life. They
were blessed with Seven children: Karabo, Motshidisi, Boitumelo, Kealeboga, Lesego
(deceased), Ofentse, Lesedi (Wesley) (deceased). They were also blessed with Five
grandchildren.
He received his higher education at Tshidi Barolong Secondary School, currently
known as Barolong High School. He candidated for the ministry of the Methodist
Church of Southern Africa and attended training at Federal Theological Seminary
during 1972-1974. At the college he was nominated as the best student with two others
to study Theology and Philosophy at Rhodes University and Fort Hare University. He
was appointed as a qualified Librarian at the John Wesley College.
Rev Mokoto was a prolific writer and an avid reader. His cabinet filled with literature
served as a cherry on top to the knowledge that he had accumulated during his life time.
This pool of knowledge gave him the boldness to engage any topic with ease, whether
it was a school subject, societal issues, politics or grand philosophical questions. It is
his authenticity in these dialogues that struck us all the time. Like Aristotle was to the
Greeks, so Dennis was a father in the field of logic. He also wrote various books and
they will be published in due course.
He served God and the Church in the following circuits: Randfontein – Krugersdorp
1969 as a candidate; Vereeniging 1970-1971; Lichtenburg 1974; Mafikeng 1975;
Klerksdorp 1976-1980, the last year as Superintendent Minister; Vredefort-Koppies
1981-1986 as Superintendent; Mafikeng-Lehurutshe 1987-1989 as Superintendent
Minister.
Dennis loved God with all his heart and the Methodist Ministry to the end of his life.
In his books he quoted some of the comments and letters he received from people fond
of him. A letter from a circuit to the then Presiding Bishop includes the following:
“You know very well that when the Conference of 1986 stationed Rev D.O. Mokoto
in Mafikeng circuit, this circuit was worse financially. He is the only man who picked
it up financially and again he is the only man who worked hard to pay off a lot of the
outstanding debts which he found in this circuit. ... He is a man who is extremely good
in administration – a real man of God – who was able to quell the church organisations
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in the circuit. Since he came here in Jan 1987 there is peace in this circuit. Rev
Mokoto is a very busy man who is always aiming to make a lot of progress in this
circuit.” Another letter reads “You have always been an inspiration to us. All of those
barriers which were placed before you did not deter you ... we wish to thank you most
heartily”.
During his retirement he continued helping with the work of God in the Mafikeng
circuit where he resided. He also resumed his Chieftaincy in the Motlhaku Kgotla
in Mafikeng. He was appointed Chairman of School Governing Bodies in various
schools, the founder and Chairperson of Tswelelopele ya Baruti Ba ba Ithaopileng
(TBI) “Pastors Committee” in Mafikeng (Ratshidi Tribal Authority). He was also a
Chairman of Ratshidi Medical Clinic ,a Project Leader of RDP whereby he initiated
‘Apollos’ most flood lights within the area.
Dennis had a great sense of humour and he was a good story teller. His love and
command of the English language was indescribable. His good work, especially good
pulpit work, never escaped his notice. He was often called on Radio and TV talk
shows. He regularly received invitations in different events as a guest preacher. He
was a marriage officer and loved the job with all his heart. From 2009 his ill health
deteriorated and he became completely blind and deaf and relied on God to survive;
more often than not he was seen surrounded by a mist, a sign that the angels were
always with him protecting him.
His wife Kegomoditswe Damaria pre-deceased him in 2013, a year before he passed
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on. He died peacefully at his house surrounded by his family on the 4 March 2015.
May his Soul rest in perfect peace.
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REV. DESMOND HARRY BUSSEY
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22 December 1928-8 March 2015
Desmond Bussey was born and educated in Durban, matriculating from the Mansefield
High School in 1946. He was head prefect at the time. He attended the University of
Natal and graduated with a B.Com degree. He started work at the Durban Municipality
and then joined the Barlows group where he worked for more than 25 years.
Desmond was a Springbok Scout and served as a Scoutmaster for the troop at St.
Thomas Anglican church. He was also involved with the youth work at St. Paul’s
Anglican Church.
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On the 4 of December 1954, Desmond married Shirley, a co-worker in the youth
group. Five children were born from this marriage: Diana, Margaret, Christopher,
Jennifer and John.
Desmond and Shirley became involved in the life of the Methodist Church at
Queensburgh, in particular the Peter Pan pre-school. In 1990 Desmond offered himself
as an emeritus candidate for the Methodist ministry. He was ordained in 1994 and
remained as a non-itinerant minister in the Clerpine Circuit. He assisted the Rev. Ron
Taylor at the Addington Methodist Church for a year and did Pastoral work in the
Klaarwater and Marianridge Societies. In connection with the work at Klaarwater
Desmond studied Zulu to enable himself to preach in Zulu. When Shirley passed away
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on 11 May in 1997, Desmond continued to involve himself in the life of the church
at Queensburgh.
Desmond was “no nonsense“, caring person, and a man of many talents. In response
to an appeal by a colleague from another denomination for help in a school he was
involved in, Desmond taught himself Technical Drawing in order to teach the subject.
During his years as a “layman” he was a part-time lecturer at the Technical College.
He also wrote three books for the family, one of which, “Nutsi”, the story of a pet
Cockatiel, was published.
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On 7 July 2001 Desmond married Mavis Igesund. Both remained actively involved
in the life of the Queensburgh Methodist Church until failing health forced Des to
withdraw.
As his health deteriorated he was constantly watched over and cared for by Mavis. He
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died on 8 March 2015.
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REV. TREVOUR VAN ZYL DE BRUYN
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23 December 1942-9 April 2015
Trevour van Zyl de Bruyn was born the third child of Daniel and Ethnie de Bruyn at
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Lindley in the Orange Free State on the 23 of December 1942. He was one of five
children who grew up on farms and towns in the Free State. Trevour attended the army
gymnasium and studied theology at Rhodes University.
He married Evelyn Ruth Valerie Phipson in 1968 with whom he had two children: Leon
van Zyl de Bruyn in 1972 and Michelle Louise de Bruyn in 1974. He was ordained
into the Methodist Church ministry in 1968 and served in Pietermaritzburg, Sasolburg,
Cape Town, Johannesburg, Edenvale, East London, Johannesburg Northern and
Eastern Suburbs, Graaff Reinet, Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth and finally ColchesterNanaga.
He obtained post graduate Honours Degrees in Theology and Psychology and also
studied at the Chicago Theological Seminary. He was a guest lecturer at the Rhodes
University Department of Divinity in the 1980s.
He served with passion as Convenor of the Connexional non-itinerant presbyter
training as that category of ministry was being developed.
Trevour was Chairman of the Border-Ciskei Peace Committee in the transitional
period of the early 1990s. He was also elected Bishop of the Queenstown District of
the Methodist Church in 1990/91.
He was seconded to the Presbyterian Church at the St Columba`s Counselling Centre
in the mid-nineties before returning to the Methodist Church.
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He unfortunately suffered an aneurism on the 21 of March 2015 and passed away in
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the Greenacres ICU on the 9 of April. He is survived by his son Leon and daughter
Michelle, his sister Lucille and brother Neville, his wife Pam and her children Terri,
Keegan, Jade, Zoe and Hayley.
Trevour was renowned for his principled commitment to the Methodist Church, his
intellectual sermons, as well as his pastoral care and counselling. He also had a lifelong passion for cattle farming.
He is sorely missed by friends, family, colleagues and congregants.
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REV. MOTSEOTHATA JOHN SITHOLE
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28 July 1948-11 April 2015
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Reverend Motseothata John Sithole was born on the 28 July 1948 at Maokeng,
Kroonstad and died on the 11 April 2015. He was the first of six children of the late
Mr. Msebenzi Stoffle and Mrs. Keneilwe Mabel Sithole.
He started his schooling at Maokeng Primary and completed his High School Education
at Bantu High School in Kroonstad. He then worked for Spoornet where through
Abet he managed to complete his Matric. He completed his Diploma in Theology
at Kilnerton, now known as John Wesley College, and later attained a Bachelor of
Theology Honours at the University of Potchefstroom.
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On the 27 July 1975, he entered into Holy matrimony with the late Moleihi Jemina
Sithole. They were blessed with three children, namely Msabenzi, Thandiwe and
Lindiwe.
He accepted a divine call to ministry in 1987 under the leadership of the late Reverend
Manamela and was ordained as a Minister of the Methodist Church of Southern
Africa by the 1995 Conference in Johannesburg. He served as follows: 1990-1992 Mt
Hargreaves Circuit; 1992-1995 Seth Mokitimi Seminary; 1996-1996 Leriba Circuit;
1997-1999 Heilbron Circuit; 2000-2002 Kutlwanong Circuit; 2003-2009 Bojane
Circuit; 2010-2011 Kopano Circuit; 2012-2014 Kgatelopele Circuit.
Mbazo, as he was commonly called by his peers, retired from active ministry at the end
of 2014 in Kgatelopele Circuit, Wolmaransstad. He loved his Lord dearly and always
relied on His inspiration in all that he was involved in. He was always mindful of the
fact that he was called by God to serve His people.
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This humble servant of God was called to higher service on the 11 April 2015 in his
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28 year in God’s Ministry and his 67 year of birth, this after a short illness. He is
survived by his 3 children and grandchild, Kamvalihle.
Lala Uphumule Jobe
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REV. KENNETH CARSTENS
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22 November 1933-4 May 2015
Ken was born in Danielskuil, Northern Cape on 22 November 1933 and was educated
there. But he did not get his matric, perhaps because there may not have been the teaching
staff in this tiny remote dorp. But that fact was to have a profound impact on Ken’s
whole life. After leaving school he spent two years doing his local preachers’ studies
in order to candidate for the ministry and in 1954 he was appointed as a presidentially
appointed prospective candidate for the ministry in the Northern Cape. He candidated
successfully that year and was sent as a first year probationer to Otjiwarongo in the
north of what is now called Namibia. You couldn’t get a more lonely place to be.
(In those days Namibia was regarded as the graveyard of Methodist probationers.)
After serving there for two years he was designated for theological study at Rhodes
University. Here he met with an intense disappointment. Not having that matric he was
unable to register for the degree course and had to do the diploma instead. But he was
a bright student and revelled in the academic life. He was ordained in Grahamstown at
the end of 1959 because the President of the Conference was Professor Leslie Hewson
who did not want the three ordinands at Rhodes to be away from their studies for the
period of Conference, and a special service was arranged for them.
In 1960 Ken was appointed to Walmer in Port Elizabeth where he served for 18 months.
Being disenchanted at not getting the degree (he had been the only Methodist student
that year doing the diploma) he spoke to Professor Bill Maxwell about getting a study
bursary to study in America. This he obtained and off he went to the United States to
the Presbyterian Theological Seminary at Austen in Texas where he obtained his B.D.
degree. In fact he did so well that they awarded him a scholarship to do the Master’s
degree as well. When people in America discovered he was from South Africa they
sought his services as a speaker and he travelled far and wide explaining the meaning
and significance of the apartheid system. Ken was a master of the purple patch and
developed a loathing for the whole apartheid apparatus and the injustice it brought,
and worked this into his lectures. When his Master’s degree was complete he got a
further scholarship to study at Union Theological Seminary in New York. Union is
the most prestigious theological college in the United States, having had on its staff
such luminaries as Reinhold Niebuhr, Paul Tillich and Harvey Cox. In fact Ken knew
Reinhold Niebuhr personally and used to take him for walks in the park when Niebuhr
was elderly. He studied under Harvey Cox and obtained his Master of Sacred Theology
degree – a highly prized qualification. All this time he continued his witness against
the hated apartheid system. He then moved on to Harvard where, presumably, he was
doing a doctorate. All the while he was lecturing about South Africa, the apartheid
government had been listening, and in 1966 they refused to renew his passport. This
means he was stuck in the United States and could not return. Whilst at Harvard he was
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sought out by Canon John Collins of London who was spearheading the organisation
“International Defence and Aid” who asked Ken to be the co-ordinator of its work in
the United States. This Ken took up, being responsible for raising funds to support
the opponents of Apartheid by meeting their legal costs and giving support to their
families. It meant soliciting gifts from churches, individuals and governments. He was
often disappointed at the low level of giving by some of the biggest countries. This
work, which was conducted from an office adjacent to the United Nations building,
meant he often had contact with leaders of the ANC in exile, most of them being on
first name terms with him. One wonders how many of the beneficiaries of this money
ever knew Ken, and indeed how many beneficiaries there were. When Nelson Mandela
was released from prison all donations stopped abruptly, and Ken was out of a job. His
Defence and Aid job had lasted for eighteen years.
He now had to look around for work and eventually secured a pastorate in a small
community in Maine, called Waterford. This was serving a Disciples of Christ
congregation in a rural area. He talked a lot about this period in later years and
obviously enjoyed it once he had endured some initial teething problems. However the
winters there were bitterly cold and he eventually retired and returned to South Africa
with his heath visibly deteriorating.
He even found the winters in Cape Town distressing and moved to Durban in search
of warmer winters some seven or eight years ago. He re-acquainted himself with some
old colleagues and found some new ones. He had, over his life time developed strong
views about many things and was always an interesting conversationalist. In Durban
North he joined a discussion group and enjoyed the stimulating conversations with
others of a like mind. He enjoyed the meetings of the supernumerary ministers group
which came up every couple of months. In this period he had to eke out an existence
on his American Civil old-age pension, since he qualified for neither a church pension
nor the church’s medical aid. He lived a lonely and impoverished life, saddened by the
observation that the democracy he had given his working life to bring about did not
bring the longed-for paradise in South Africa.
The Methodist Church salutes one of its sons whose life and ministry differed widely
from most others. Ken knew what the cost of discipleship was. And he was prepared to
pay the price. In his case the cost was high. But he lived to see the dawn of democracy
and travelled to South Africa as one of the foreign observers at the 1994 election. It
was one of the highlights of his life.
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He died suddenly on the 4 May 2015, in the 82 year of his life and the 61 year of
his ministry.
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REV. DR. ERNEST NKATAZO BAARTMAN
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3 May 1933-26 May 2015
The Rev. Dr. Ernest Nkatazo Baartman was born on 3 May 1933. He was the eldest son
of Tshomi Wilson and Noncede Matilda “MaNdaba” (born Kwatsha) Baartman. He
was born in Touws River and grew up in Kensington, Cape Town. His father, whom
he lost at a tender age, was a railway worker and his mother a domestic worker. He,
together with his siblings, were brought up by MaNdaba, a strict disciplinarian who
nurtured her family in the Christian faith, taught them the importance of education,
proper conduct and proper home management. His poor, humble home and family
background did not stop him from striving to greater heights in life.
He was joined in holy matrimony with the late Doreen Nontuthuzelo Baartman (born
Sotyato) on 23 June 1963 whom he met whilst a probationer at Bojane Circuit. They
were blessed with and are survived by four children – three daughters: Nomathamsanqa,
Nontsikelelo and Busisiwe and one son, Sibusiso.
The Rev Baartman did his primary education at Langa Mission School and obtained
his Junior Certificate in 1950 at Langa High School. He furthered his studies at
Healdtown Training College where he qualified as a teacher during the time when
Rev Seth Mokitimi (the Brown Bomber), was the Boarding Master. Sir B, as he was
affectionately known, was one of many whose lives were influenced by Rev Seth
Mokitimi, the first Black President of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. Father
Seth’s influence and example sowed the seed that ultimately led to Sir B answering a
call to full time ministry. He later obtained a Diploma in Theology in 1966 from the
Federal Theological Seminary, where he did his ministerial training.
He started his working career in 1953 as an Assistant Teacher at Kensington Methodist
Mission School. In 1958 he was appointed as the first Black Principal at Mzamo
(Mseki) Primary School, Nyanga West.
He became a candidate and was accepted into the ministry in 1960. He served as a
probationer minister at Clarkebury (6 months) & Bojane Circuits from 1961 to 1963.
In 1964 to 1966, he was a student minister at the Federal Theological Seminary in
Alice.
After he completed his theological studies Conference stationed him in the Methodist
Youth Department as a Field Worker and later the General Secretary of the Christian
Education and Youth Department in Durban. It was during that period that he offered
to assist in Limehill, which was struggling financially and was faced with many
politically related challenges.
In 1977 he was appointed as the Assistant General Secretary of the Missionary
Department, an appointment which led to some white Circuits withdrawing their
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contribution to the Missionary and Extension Fund as they perceived him to be a radical
and anti-white because of his assertiveness as a Black person and his intolerance of
racism within the Church in particular.
It was in 1978 that he was appointed as a Superintendent Minister of the East London
Circuit (314), where he left an indelible mark. From 1991 to 1996, he served as the
Superintendent Minister at Motherwell Circuit in Port Elizabeth and in 1997 to 2000 at
Bongani Circuit in Cape Town where he ended his 40 years of active ministry.
Sir B throughout his life was an achiever and always strived for excellence. His
leadership skills were identified whilst he was still a school boy as he was appointed
the key keeper (unozitshixwana) for the Feeding Scheme store at his school, something
he always boasted about. It was his intellectual acumen and brilliance that won him a
study bursary to further his studies at Healdtown as he passed both Standard Six and
Junior Certificate with first class. He also received an award as the best performing
student at Healdtown in 1952.
He also liked music and sport. He was the leading vocalist of a group known as “RagTime Brothers” and founder, trainer and manager of Kwezi Rugby Club.
During his 40 years in the ministry, he became:
• The first black General Secretary of the Christian Education & Youth Department
• Founder and one of the Directors of Black Community Programmes
• A Proponent of Black Theology in South Africa
• Exponent of Black Consciousness in Church circles
• Founder and first Chairman of the Black Methodist Consultation
• Patron of the Border Detainees’ Dependents Conference
• Secretary of Synod in the Natal Coastal District, and Vice Chairman in the
Queenstown, Grahamstown & Cape of Good Hope Districts.
• President of Conference (1986)
• YMG General President (1985-98) and President in the Queenstown &
Grahamstown Districts
• Bishop of the Namibia District (1992) and the Queenstown District (1985-1990)
• Recipient of the prestigious Black Methodist Consultation Award
• Honorary Doctorate (Doctor of Divinity) from Interdenominational Theological
Centre
• Author of numerous articles
• Co-author of “Amabal’engwe ngobuKhokeli ne Klasi”
• International Exposure – USA, Europe, Africa
Sir B will be remembered for his unwavering determination to stand for what he
believed in. It is this inner strength and bravery which made him to sometimes swim
against the stream, the populist route. He was one of the few who dared to speak out
against unjust practices both within and outside the church. He had the power of the
mind to overcome fear; conviction and fortitude to stand for the truth. He was not
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easily intimidated even by the constant surveillance of the apartheid and homeland
security forces.
Sir B had always seen his mission priority as that of equipping God’s people for service,
so that the body of Christ may be built up. The success of his ministry can be attributed
to his ability to mobilise and equip people to exercise their ministry. He enabled them
to unearth and nurture their talent thus unlocking their potential. He was ‘knighted’ in
Mdantsane as ‘Sir’ because of his emphasis on teaching ministry.
His passion for mission was demonstrated in him using the Rona drive to make Black
Circuits self-reliant and build their own sanctuaries without borrowing money. Even
during his tenure as Bishop, he was consistent in discouraging Circuits/Organisations
from depending on handouts.
His mastery was not only in ‘empowering’ the people but in instilling a sense of dignity
and ownership (the realisation that they are the Church); a culture of sacrificial giving.
He created space for the people of God to give expression to their God-given gifts and
talents.
Through his interactive, participative approach and sense of humour (which was his
trademark), he inspired, motivated and built confidence in people. He practiced the
Wesleyan call of ‘every member ministry’. He applauded and affirmed God’s people’s
capabilities and efforts.
But above all, what sustained and shaped Sir B’s ministry was his strong sense of call
to serve. He knew that he had been called to serve and he gave his whole life to that to
which God had called him.
We salute this son of the soil as a discerning powerful preacher, a brilliant teacher, a
critical thinker and a pastor par excellence.
Sir B was called into higher service, the Church triumphant, on 26 May 2015 at about
09:15 after a long illness.
He leaves behind his four children, two siblings, nieces, nephews and grandchildren.
Lala ngoxolo Gqwashu, Chwama, ukwenzile obufanele ukuba ukwenzile.
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REV. MARGARET PHETFWAYINI DLAMINI
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24 December1940-27 May 2015
Reverend Margaret Phetfwayini Dlamini was born on the 24th December 1940 at
Mpofu. She was the daughter of John Masiligwane Khoza and Mafanisa Shongwe.
She attended school at Mpofu Primary and Ndzingeni High School. She was married
to the Evangelist Nehemiah Mbuyiswa Dlamini (late), and they were blessed with six
children, of whom four were called to higher service. Reverend Margaret Dlamini
trained at William Pitcher College, and thereafter served for many years as a teacher.
Later, she was promoted to the position of principal at Khalakahle Primary School.
It was during this time that she heard a calling to become a Methodist minister. As a
result, she took early retirement from teaching and became a priest. Before retirement
from teaching, she served as the chairperson for Swaziland National Association of
Teachers (SNAT) women’s wing. Her work and contribution was recognised by the
World Configuration of Organisations of the Teaching Profession. She also served as
a Commissioner in the Swaziland Teaching Service Commission (TSC) while, on the
other hand, serving as the school’s manager at Mahamba Circuit.
In the Methodist church, she became the first ordained female Methodist minister in
Swaziland. She first worked at Siteki section. Later, she was stationed at Mahamba
circuit, where she became the superintendent minister. At Mahamba circuit, she made a
lot of developments. She got grants and revived the Mahamba Church Clinic. She built
the Mahamba new church, known as “Kagogo Khoza”. Then she converted the old
Mahamba Methodist church to a national monument. Reverend Margaret P. Dlamini
also pioneered the now famous Mahamba Gorge – a lodge and tourist attraction. These
entire projects were started and completed during her tenure as a minister in Mahamba
Circuit. Her work was recognised by the Methodist Church of Southern Africa and the
international community. She retired from the church later. Recently, her contribution
to the church was recognised during the 100 Years Celebrations at Mahamba. She
passed away while serving as a school’s manager in central Swaziland. She leaves
behind two sisters, two children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
LALA NGEKUTHULA KHOZA, MAYISANE,
WE SHALL MISS YOU.
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REV. JOSEPH RAMANTHE MPENYANE LOFAFA
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28 August 1955-6 June 2015
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The Rev Joseph Ramathe Mpenyane Lofafa was born on the 28 August 1955 in
Pimville Soweto. He was the first born of five children of William Selogilwe and
Thembakazi Lofafa. He grew up in a very committed Methodist family. As a child he
was raised by his grandfather and grandmother at Parys in the Free State.
After the death of his grandfather he moved back to Pimville where he did his primary
education at Bantu Primary School and his High School Education at Orlando High
School under the Principalship of the late Professor T.W. Kambula. It was whist at
Orlando High School when he became a student activist and was involved in organising
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the June 16 Student revolts in 1976. His miraculous escape and survival under heavy
apartheid police brutality touched his faith and commitment to the Pimville Wesley
Guild where he took a leadership position.
After completing his matric under very difficult circumstances, as the special branch
in those days was always after him, he was employed by one of the filming companies
in Johannesburg where his father was working and it was whilst working in the film
industry that he developed a love of Communication and Jazz music.
In 1979 he joined the United Methodist Church of Southern Africa which originated
after the banning of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa by the then Independent
Homeland of Transkei and continued to lead Wesley Guild of the Pimville Circuit.
In 1980 Joseph Ramathe Lofafa became a candidate for the Ministry of Word and
Sacrament of the United Methodist Church under the late Rev S.J. Mayeza. In 1981
the conference stationed him as a first year probationer at Tsomo Circuit under the
Superintendence of one of the great Methodist Administrators, the late Rev TAZ Bam,
who was affectionately known as UNtambo ziyekeyeke kodwa aziqhawuki.
In 1982 he was sent to the Ncambedlana Theological College which was based at the
Lay Centre and he also registered at the then University of Transkei (UNITRA) for a
B.A. Degree. In his third year he could not write his final examinations due to a big
strike at the University of Transkei where many students were detained and some of
his Lecturers deported out of the Transkei by the Transkei government.
In 1985 he was stationed at Boksburg/Benoni Circuit and at the end of that year he was
ordained. In 1986 he became the Superintendent Minister of Springs Circuit and at the
end of that year he was granted study leave by the church to go back and complete
his degree at Unitra. He completed his B.A. degree at the end of 1987, majoring in
Religious and Biblical Studies, Sociology and SeSotho.
After the unbanning of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa by the Military
Council in 1988. “Joe or Big Joe” as he was affectionately known, was one of the
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Ministers who voluntarily joined the mother church (Methodist Church of Southern
Africa) and his secondment was not interrupted. Even though he was seconded at
Radio Transkei he continued working part-time as one of the Circuit Ministers in the
Umtata Circuit under Rev Jerry Silwanyana and the late Rev Milton Matiwane.
Big Joe possessed many rare gifts that always brought healing in the life of the Church
and many communities. His Preaching, sermons, teachings and revival services have
touched many people across denominational lines. His language command of SeSotho,
Tswana, Xhosa, Zulu, English and Afrikaans has further made him a great linguist.
In 1988 he joined Radio Transkei as Sesotho and English news reader. His pastoral
skills grew and continued to influence many of his colleagues at Radio Transkei as
well as the community: as a result he was moved to head Religious Programmes. It was
whilst running Religious Programmes that he started revival services popularly known
as imvuselelo. These services were so powerful that they increased the listenership of
Radio Transkei.
After the merger of Radio Transkei and Umhlobo Wenene in 1998, he relocated to Port
Elizabeth as a news programme producer. The Management of Umhlobo Wenene also
adopted the imvuselelo programme; again this programme grew and attracted listeners
from as far as the Free State, North West and Gauteng provinces.
Even though he worked for Umhlobo Wenene Joe continued to serve many Methodist
Churches in different Districts of the Connexion of the Methodist Church. Through his
dedication and love of preaching many denominations and communities across South
Africa continued to tap into his wisdom by inviting him as a guest speaker and a guest
preacher.
He met the love of his life, friend and spiritual partner in 1982, Buyelwa Mtwa of
Mqanduli whilst at College and at the University of Transkei. They were married in
1984 by the late Rev FHT Fikeni.
In their marriage they were blessed with three beautiful children, daughter Lereko and
two sons, Lefika and Lentswe. His life in marriage has had its joys and sorrows but
in all those ups and downs “umamXesibe”, as Joe affectionately called her, became a
great pillar of strength and they kept their vows to the end.
Rev. Lofafa has not enjoyed good health over the past two years and whenever he was
ill his wife and children continued to nurse and care for him to the end. On the 31 May
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2015 he was admitted at St Georges Hospital in Port Elizabeth and on the 6 June 2015
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he was called to Higher Service in his 59 year of life and 35 year of his ministry.
He lives behind his wife uMamxesibe, daughter Lereko, 2 sons Lefika and Lentswe his
mother MaRadebe, 2 Sisters Priscila and Galeshwediwe and 2 brothers Kedisitse and
Kebalepile, and his uncles Meshack and Oupa Lofafa.
ROBALA KA KGOTSO MANGWAKETSI, MOKOENA, MATHEBE
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REV. NOEL ARTHUR MAGERMAN
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25 May 1960-16 July 2015
Noel was born on 25 May 1960 in Cape Town. He grew up in the Heatherdale
Children’s home in Belgravia and attended Heatherdale Primary School and Belgravia
High School. In his matric year he moved to Oudsthoorn to live with his mother and
matriculated from the Oudsthoorn Senior Secondary School. After school he returned
to work at the Heatherdale Home as a childcare worker until the end of 1985. It was
during this time that he began to feel the stirrings of a calling upon his life and he joined
the National Youth Leadership Training Program (NYLTP) in 1986. After his NYLTP
year he joined the Community Arts Project (CAP) in Cape Town (the organisation that
designed and printed posters and pamphlets for the UDF) as their bookkeeper. While
working at CAP Noel became a Local Preacher and completed a Diploma in Theology
under the mentorship of Rev Ivan Abrahams. He also became the deputy chairperson
of the Interdenominational Christian Youth (ICY) movement in the Western Cape. It
was through the ICY that he met Elaine whom he married on 23 December 1989.
Noel candidated for the ministry in 1989 and was stationed in Namaqualand where
he served the Kharkams and surrounding Societies. He was moved to the Eersterust
society at the beginning of 1993. He was ordained to the ministry of Word and
Sacrament in 1994. He achieved his BTh as a probationer and later completed his BTh
Honours and MTh degrees.
In 1995 Noel joined the SANDF as a chaplain and was stationed at Air Force Base
Hoedspruit. He served the members at the Base and also became the part-time minister
of the interdenominational church at Hoedspruit. He was transferred to Polokwane in
2001 where he served until 2003, during which time he also assisted in the local Circuit.
In 2004 he was transferred to the SA Navy in Simon’s Town and once again he joined
the local Circuit where he served in a part-time capacity. In 2014 he was promoted
and transferred to Pretoria where he worked at the SA Army Training Formation
Headquarters. He passed away suddenly during a routine surgical procedure at 1
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Military Hospital in Pretoria on 16 July 2015, in the 55 year of life and the 25 year
of his ministry. He leaves behind his wife Elaine, his two sons Nathan and Michael,
and his mother Doreen.
Noel was a very humble person. He was never one to boast about his many impressive
achievements. He always regarded himself as the least important. He even allowed
some to take advantage of his quiet humility that led to his being disadvantaged or hurt,
but that did not unsettle or alter his humble spirit in any way. He would rather hide the
pain than allow others to see it. Noel was tenacious. He had the gift of being able to
stick to and to stick through a task. He paid painstaking attention to detail, and worked
through every task carefully and meticulously. He always, without exception saw a
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task through to its conclusion. He never sought recognition for his work and even
when it was given, he was dismissive of that recognition, because according to him, he
was just doing his job. Noel had a passionate commitment to his family. Possibly due
to his own childhood where he was deprived of what one might term a ‘normal’ family
life, he was committed to living for his family. Pride would radiate from him when he
spoke of Nathan and Michael and their achievements, academic and sporting. When
he was away from home he made a point of maintaining contact with his family in
his usual meticulous manner. Noel was a man of deep faith. He would regularly make
reference to how God was at work or how God was leading in his encounters with
others. When he preached or shared a devotion, he helped others to encounter God in
new and fresh ways. His faith inspired faith in others.
Farewell Noel, humble, quiet friend – may you find your place amongst those humble
saints who have gone before us into the eternal presence of our Lord. Farewell Noel,
family man – rest in the knowledge that your affection and love will be held in their
memories and their hearts for as long as they live. Farewell Noel, man of faith – may
light perpetual shine on you.
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REV. VIVIAN BENEDICT SEETHAL
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14 July 1946-24 July 2015
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Reverend Vivian Benedict Seethal was born to Charles and Lena Seethal on the 14
July 1946 in Pietermaritzburg. He began his schooling at the Lidgetton Primary School
(a former Anglican Church Mission school in Lidgetton), about 20 kilometres north of
Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands Meander. He completed his junior secondary
education at the Estcourt Indian Secondary School and his senior secondary education
at the Woodlands Indian Secondary School in Northdale, Pietermaritzburg. After his
schooling, he worked at the Edendale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg where he trained and
qualified as a Medical Technologist, the first non-white person to do so at the Hospital.
While at Edendale Hospital he graduated with a Diploma in Clinical Pathology and
a specialist Diploma in Haematology. Reverend Seethal then accepted a position as
a Technician in the Organic Chemistry Section of the Department of Chemistry at
the University of Natal (now the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg
Campus).
In 1976, Vivian married Elaine Audrey Francis, an educator whose home town is also
Pietermaritzburg, and they have been blessed with two children, Donnette and Craig.
Elaine and Vivian’s children wholeheartedly supported his ministry and they truly and
willingly “followed” and accompanied him wherever he was sent by the Methodist
Church of Southern Africa for mission and ministry.
Vivian’s ministry as a presbyter began when he responded to God’s call and accepted
candidature for the Ministry of Word and Sacrament in the MCSA in 1975, while
in the Pietermaritzburg Metropolitan Circuit. He subsequently spent three years at
the Federal Theological Seminary where he completed a Diploma in Theology with
distinctions in New Testament Studies in all three years of study. His first appointment
was to the Cape Flats Methodist Mission in Cape Town where he ministered from
1979 to 1982 to the communities in Kalksteenfontein, Bonteheuvel, Bishops Lavis,
Mannenburg and Surrey Estate, under Reverend Abel Hendricks. Ordination and
acceptance into full Connexion with the MCSA, an occasion which he regarded
as the “mountain-top-experience” of his entire ministry, took place in 1981 at the
Conference held in Grahamstown. At this ordination ceremony, Vivian was awarded
the Floweday Memorial Award for being the outstanding ordinand and for discipline
and dedication.
Reverend Seethal continued his academic studies while serving as a full-time itinerant
minister. While in the Western Cape, he completed the Honours Degree in Religious
Studies with the University of Cape Town, and on his appointment to the Greater
Durban Region, he graduated with a Master’s Degree in Church History at the former
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University of Durban-Westville (now incorporated into the University of KwaZuluNatal) and the Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Education from the University of Natal
(Howard College Campus). His research for his Master’s Degree focused on the
“Contribution and Development of the Indian Mission (of the Methodist Church)
with particular reference to Natal”. His studies were to resonate in a multiplicity
of ways in his service as a minister and in many other published writings, the most
significant of which was his documentary on the Indian Mission of the Methodist
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Church in the 2010 publication that commemorated the 150 anniversary of the arrival
of the first group of indentured labourers to South Africa from India.
Reverend Seethal attended in a special way to the spiritual needs of his congregation
and to the physical infrastructure that constitutes the other element of the Church.
In regards to the latter he played a critical role in restoring and building the physical
infrastructure in many of the Circuits and Societies he served. This attention to
infrastructure invariably had its roots in his early days when his parents initiated and
completed a community driven venture to erect a new school building in Lidgetton,
all with voluntary help. Thus during Reverend Seethal’s tenure in the Umgeni Circuit,
the Verulam Methodist Church there was renovated. It was under his watch and
leadership in the Umgeni Circuit (1983-1988) that the Phoenix Methodist Church to
the North of Durban was built. On his appointment to the South Durban Circuit (19892010), Reverend Seethal provided leadership in the extension of the Mobeni Heights
Methodist Church. More significantly, it was during his term as the resident minister at
Mobeni Heights/Montford, that the new building of the Montford Methodist Church
was erected with donations and contributions from various quarters.
Members of the various congregations and communities amongst whom Reverend
Seethal and his family served were always touched by the entire family’s simplicity
and willingness to serve others. Reverend Seethal was a loving husband, father, relative
and friend to all who knew him.
Within the broader MCSA, Reverend Vivian Seethal played a remarkable role. In 1992,
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he coordinated the 130 Anniversary of Methodism amongst the Indians in KwaZuluNatal, and was the driving force behind the Methodist Church’s initiatives during the
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150 Anniversary celebrations in 2012 of similar celebrations.
Within the District and Connexion, Reverend Seethal served as an Assistant Secretary
at Conference for six years and as a diligent and punctual Secretary of Natal Coastal
District Synod for 13 years under Bishops John Borman, Norman Hudson and George
Irvine. Vivian also served on the Executive of the Methodist Connexional Office
(MCO). He was also one of the longest serving District Trust Properties Secretaries in
the Natal Coastal District. His role, as member of the Diakonia Council of Churches for
many years and by being instrumental in the formation of the Chatsworth Ecumenical
Fellowship, was an indication of how he valued unity and justice in the church, and his
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utmost respect for all the different denominations and their doctrinal teachings. At the
same time, he remained true to the teachings of John Wesley. Rev Seethal’s sermons
gave hope, healing and inspired many people to be the best and do their utmost for the
glory of the living God. His great love for God’s creation was shown by his immense
passion and patience when cultivating orchid flowers almost everywhere in his yard,
house and garages.
Vivian was a man of deep and practical spirituality; a high yet humble intellect; a
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people’s theologian with a good sense of humor; a committed family man. On the 24
July 2015, surrounded by his loving family members and relatives, during the evening
visiting hours at the St Augustine’s Hospital in Durban, Vivian Benedict Seethal
responded to the trumpet sound. And he slipped-away peacefully for his soul to be
eternally in the hands of his living Creator. There will be no more new memories made.
Nonetheless, the old stories and all memories will forever be new and will renew
and inspire those whose lives he touched. You are respected. You are loved. You are
missed. Rest in peace. You will rise.
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REV. MPUMELELO LUKE NDLANGISA
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2 June 1936-27 July 2015
Reverend Mpumelelo Luke Ndlangisa was born on 2 June 1936 in Ncalo, Ixopo. He
was the seventh of eight children to parents Mica and Hilda Ndlangisa. He was a selfmade man, selling the produce from his small-scale subsistence farming efforts to
pay for his own tertiary education. He was the only one from his family to succeed in
attaining a tertiary education. He studied in the following schools: Carisbrook, Polela,
and Nkelabantwana. He was trained as a teacher at St. Chads College.
He worked at the following places: Louwkop prison in Gauteng as a policeman, at
Bulwer forestry, he taught at Richmond in Endaleni where he came to accept the call
to join God’s army under the tutelage of Rev.G.K Ndlela.
In 1975 he married Nompucuko Simakuhle-Radebe whom he had met whilst active
in his mission at Kwa Tuku Circuit. He leaves behind his wife and their five children:
Ntuthuko, Nkosazane (deceased), Nokulunga, Lungile, and Mphumeleli, and two
grandchildren, Andisiwe Luyanda and Luzuko.
He worked in the following Districts and Circuits:
Natal West: Port Shepstone, Umzinto, Acton Homes, Estcourt.
Natal Coastal: Stanger, Bonjeni, Ingwavuma.
Grahamstown: Kwa-Tuku, Port Elizabeth.
Clarkebury: Phatekile, Palmerton, Mt. White, and Ndlovu, where he retired.
He had an unmatched and rare ability of organising mass congregations and transforming
dying Circuits into thriving Circuits. For example in Natal West, he succeeded in taking
the dwindling Estcourt Circuit to the heights of Connexional status. Luke also had the
power to captivate the minds and hearts of congregations equally by delivering the
word of God through deeply engaging sermons.
Luke had an amiable character, which was evident in the love that always surrounded
him from family and friends. His bright sense of humour certainly aided his popularity.
He was made even more popular by his innate ability to be a visionary; he often knew
how events would unfold in the church and in society in a peculiarly prophetic manner.
He was also popular for his capability to express necessary views regardless of the fear
of criticism. He always spoke the truth at the cost of his self-preservation.
He survived the violent unrest of Estcourt in the years between 1980 and 1991.
The gross violence compelled him to flee his home and mission despite his selfless
efforts to bring peace to the highly volatile areas of Estcourt. During the time of this
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apartheid linked violence, he continued the work of God, burying countless victims
and overseeing their funerals. He gave relief to bereaved families of the victims.
After retirement Luke settled in the small-town of Uvongo, on the South Coast of
KwaZulu-Natal, where he continued the work of God by mentoring and developing
aspirant ministers for their role in bringing the gospel to the masses of the Methodist
Church. Rev.F.Mjwacu was his last trained Minister.
He was always a strong-willed, determined and highly-capable man. He started
showing signs of ill health in January 2015 and was called to higher service on 27 July
2015.
Rest in peace Duma, Mthombeni, Lwandle olungawelwa, oluwelwa izinkonjane
eziphapha phezulu, Gqagqane, Mseleku, Thole, Mfingo, we will never forget you.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there
is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will
award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his
appearing.” 2 Tim 4:7-8
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REV. NEIL THOMAS OOSTHUIZEN
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5 May 1960-20 August 2015
Neil Thomas Oosthuizen was born on 5 May 1960 to Ockert and Mary Oosthuizen in
Kimberley. He was the second of three children, with his older brother Alan, and his
younger sister Ilona. In 1965 he began schooling, and matriculated at Kimberley Boys’
High in 1977, having been heavily involved in drama and sport, playing tennis, cricket,
and hockey and making provincial level in soccer. In 1975 he dedicated and gave his
life over to Jesus Christ. In 1978 he performed his National Service in the Defence
Force, and in 1979 worked in the insurance industry. In 1980 he received his call to the
Methodist Ministry.
In 1983 Neil married Colleen Ann Snedden and the Church then sent the two of them
to Wartberg in 1984 where he served at Dalton Methodist. In 1985 he was sent to
Matatiele Methodist Church. Neil then went to study at Rhodes University, where he
achieved Honours. In 1989 they were sent to Hillcrest Methodist, and the following
year, in response to the Aids crisis Neil founded the Hillcrest Aids Centre (which still
runs to this day). Also in 1990, in spite of what the doctors said, Simon arrived. In 1992
Rebekah followed, again, in spite of what the doctors said.
In 1999 the family moved to Johannesburg and Neil became senior minister at Trinity
Methodist Church. In 2002, after many years of work he attained his Doctorate in
Old Testament Studies. He formed a “Trinity Outdoor Club” and in defiance of his
health and bets placed against him he climbed Mt Kilimanjaro in 2004. In 2006, Tara
joined the family as a second daughter. In response to seeing a need among local
preachers and teachers in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa Neil began writing
and publishing the Malihambe Bible series in 2008.
Sadly in 2013, after many, many years of illness his wife and mother of his children
passed away. At the very end of 2013 he left Trinity and began at Bryanston Methodist,
albeit with a short stint at Ridgeway Methodist in Rivonia in the middle. In 2014 new
joy entered his life when he began dating Heleen Roets, and they married in June
2015.
Neil was a lot of things to a lot of different people. First a Minister, there for people in
good or bad. He gave advice, was a leader, an inspiration, a role model, and a source
of strength. To his family he was a dad, friend, confidant and endless support. Neil
will be remembered by everyone in a different manner, but to each person he will be
remembered as a strong man, a true gentleman, full of love and passion; whether this
be as a minister, a friend, husband, son, brother or father. He was a man who will not
be forgotten, an inspiration to all on how to live a full, Godly life. We thank God for
the far too short time we got to spend with Neil.
439
2016
REV. PHILIP SEQHALAMOTSE LEKHATLANYA
th
nd
18 September 1934-2 September 2015
Philip Seqhalamotse Lekhatlanya was born on 18th September 1934 at Castle Rock
Administrative Area in the district of Mount Fletcher in the Eastern Cape. He was the
third born, to the late Sempe and Msmosuwe, in a family of five boys and four girls.
Philip did his Primary Education at Luzie Drift Junior Secondary School in the district
of Mount Fletcher. He did his senior certificate through correspondence with the Union
College in Johannesburg.
In 1961 he got married to Nnuku MInah ZMatebesi. They were blessed with six
children: Tlhalefo, Liemiso, Likeng, Neo, Tshupo and Seema. Nnuku was called to
higher service in 1982. In 1984 he again got married to Mantoa Fanny Mojakisane.
In 1985 he accepted a call into the ministry of Word and Sacrament with the Methodist
Church of Southern Africa. He worked with diligence in the following Circuits:
Cwecweni, Mandileni, Etyeni, Fletcherville, and Cancele, where he retired in the year
1999. He served his Lord with great dedication and sincerity. He was called to be with
his Lord 2 September 2015.
ROBALA KA KHOTSO LEQALANA LA RAMPAI.
440
2016
REV. SWEETNESS NODLELA
th
th
20 October 1966-17 September 2015
th
Bulelwa Nopinky Sweetness Nodlela was born on the 20 of October 1966 to the late
Thethangaye and Nosipho Gawulane at Qolombane, Tsolo.
She did her Junior Secondary Education at Qolombane J.S.S. and her High School
Education at Victor Poto S.S.S. She then proceeded to Cecira College where she
completed her Diploma in Teaching and started working as an educator at Thandanani
S.S.S. from 1987 to 2007.
She completed the following studies: Bachelor in Education at Unisa in 2001, Diploma
in Theology in 2004, Advanced Certificate in Education (Rhodes University) 2006,
Degree in Theology (University of Kwa Zulu Natal 2010, Bachelor in Theology
(University of Kwa Zulu Natal) 2011, Honours in Bachelor of Art in Theology
(University of Pretoria) 2012.
She started her calling in Estcourt Circuit in 2008. She attended SethMokitimi
Methodist Seminary from 2009 to 2010. She was stationed at Zola Circuit from 2011
to 2013 and though without a station for 2014/2015 she continued to practice her
calling by readily assisting CCMYT (City Central Mission) and South Durban Circuit
when called upon to do so.
In 2015 Sweetness received a 5 year invitation to serve in the Eshowe Circuit 713 and
st
was looking forward to taking up her appointment on 1 January 2016. Regrettably she
th
passed away on 17 September 2015.
Sweetness married Thembinkosi Theophlius Nodlela in 1990 and was blessed with
6 children, 4 boys and 2 girls: Mxolisi 26, Phikolomzi 23, Lazola 21, Liamandla and
Lizalise 18 (twins) and Alikho 15.
Rev Nodlela was a person who had sharp intelligence and a deep perceptive mind. She
will be remembered for her commitment to serve God by preaching the good news and
being a mother to the orphans and needy people.
She is survived by her brother, Prince Gawulane, her husband Thembinkosi Nodlela,
and her six children.
You have run your race, now receive your prize. Rest in peace mama, we will always
remember your love and your teachings. You left us too soon.
May her soul rest in peace.
441
2016
REV. SELLO MOGOTSI ENOCK MAGSHULE
st
rd
1 January 1947-23 September 2015
Rev. Sello Mogotsi Enock Magshule, affectionately called GASH, GATSI, Bram
st
Paa (Grand PAA), was born on 1 January 1947 in Ditsobotla Litchenburg to the late
Madike Moses Magashule and Betty Mama (nee Monagane). He was the first born
son of eight boys.
He started primary school at Kroonstad Bantu United School and proceeded to
Kroonstad Bantu High School in 1962 where he matriculated in 1966. In 1967 Gash
worked as a Dispatch Clerk at Lambons Ford in Kroonstad and in 1968 moved to the
municipality offices until 1971.
Gash’s ministerial journey started in 1972 at Bethlehem Circuit, Qwaqwa. He was the
first minister to start a permanent ministerial presence in the area. In 1973 he went to
Federal Theological Seminary, then at Fort Hare University. The institution was later
relocated to Pietermaritzburg, where he graduated with a Diploma in Theology with
Greek in 1977.
In 1978 Gash was stationed in Lobatse, Botswana. He was later stationed in Francistown
also in Botswana, then Mahikeng in the Republic of South Africa.
He entered into Holy Matrimony with Neonyane (nee Thwane) in 1980. They were
blessed with two girls and a boy.
In 1981 he was given study leave to join the University of Botswana where he
graduated in Bachelor of Arts in 1986. He then proceeded to the United States of
American (California) where he did a Certificate in Special Studies from 1986-1987,
then a Master of Arts at Pacific School of Religion in 1988.
He was stationed in Gaborone as Superintendent Minister. He served in different
capacities which spanned over thirty years. During that period he was assigned by
Botswana Christian Council to serve as Chaplain in the Botswana Defence Force.
Subsequently he was employed by the Force in 1992. He served in the army until
his retirement in 2011. While serving at Botswana Defence Force the Bishop of the
Limpopo District assigned him to oversee the Botswana Central Circuit. He retired in
2014.
In the ecumenical formations of the church he worked on issues relating to church
and state, the care of refugees, street children programmes and programmes to fight
poverty. He was instrumental in the restructuring of the Botswana Christian Council
442
2016
in 1996 when donors were no longer giving funds for the work of the council. He
was a strategist of note and helped with reconciliation issues between Basarwa and
Government as part of the humanitarian role the council played.
Rev. Magashule had the opportunity to oversee the following: Botswana Christian
Council, Education Programme – Selibe Phikwe, Woman Basket Programme-Etsha,
Refugee Programme – Dukwe and the Old Naledi Street Children ProgrammeGaborone. He was a true ecumenist who participated in all church unifying activities
outside of the Methodist Church.
Gash is survived by his wife Neonyane, children Lalala and Samuel Giddie, Madike
and Basadibotlhe, his brothers Mosala, Rasemme and Malepe, granddaughters Oratile
and Leungo and great grandchild Jongilanga.
ROBALA KA KAGISO MOKENG WA GA MOTLATLA
443
2016
REV. RAHLABAKI GABRIEL RATHABA
th
th
12 June 1944-29 March 2015
th
Rahlabaki Gabriel Rathaba was born on the 12 June 1944 at Maranatha Location
Ventersburg District. He was the third child of the late Thokwa Klaas Rathaba and
Mapeo Sophia Rathaba.
He commenced his Primary studies at Maranatha Primary, then finished Standard two
at Phomolong Primary at Henneman. He completed his Matric at Moroka High School
at Thaba Nchu, where he became a staunch Member of the Young Men’s Guild in the
Methodist Church of South Africa under Boarding Master Rev. Andrew Losaba and
later under Boarding Master Rev. Kgomari.
Chief or Gab as they used to call him, married his beloved wife Mejeka Elisa Sebolai
in 1967. God blessed them with four children – Jwalane who died in 2004, Modibedi,
Mapeo and Madithathe, five grandchildren – Tshepang, Boichoko who died in 2003,
Ashwell, Tladi and Naledi and one great grandchild – Tshenolo. He left behind his elder
sister Mamodiehi and his brother Tladi. The rest passed away before him (Moipone,
Lerata, Madijeng and Ntheba).
Gabby started to work at African Explosive firm at Sasolburg where he was influenced
in joining the Methodist Church of Southern Africa as a priest under Rev. Mangole.
His first Circuit as a Candidate in Ministry was Leriba (Lesotho). His second Circuit
was Mafikeng – Montshinoa, followed by Bloemfontein at Bi-Centenary, Vryburg
– Huhudi, Roodepoort – Dobsonville, Randfontein – Mohlakeng, and Quthing –
Moyeni.
Before ordination he attended the Theological Seminary, first at Alice and then finished
his studies at Pietermaritzburg at John Wesley College.
In retirement:
Roodepoort – Tshepisong and Durban Deep
Thaba Nchu
Klerksdorp – under Rev. Madibe
Sasolburg – under Rev. T Letebele
444
2016
TOPMED LIMITED
HOW TO CLAIM – PAYMENT OF CLAIMS
HOW
TO CLAIM – PAYMENT OF CLAIMS
tŚĂƚŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶƐŚŽƵůĚďĞĐŽŶƚĂŝŶĞĚŝŶĂĐůĂŝŵŝŶŽƌĚĞƌĨŽƌŝƚƚŽďĞƉƌŽĐĞƐƐĞĚ͍
^ƵƌŶĂŵĞĂŶĚŝŶŝƟĂůƐŽĨƚŚĞŵĞŵďĞƌ͕ŵĞŵďĞƌƐŚŝƉŶƵŵďĞƌ͕ŶĂŵĞĂŶĚĚĂƚĞŽĨďŝƌƚŚŽĨƚŚĞƉĂƟĞŶƚ͕ĂƐ
What ǁĞůůĂƐƚŚĞĚŽĐƚŽƌ͛ƐƉƌĂĐƟĐĞŶƵŵďĞƌĂŶĚƚŚĞŶĂƚƵƌĞ͕ƌĞůĞǀĂŶƚ/ͲϭϬĐŽĚĞ͕ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞĚĂƚĞĂŶĚĐŽƐƚŽĨ
information should be contained in a claim in order for it to be processed?
Surname
and initials of the member, membership number, name and date of birth of the
ĞĂĐŚƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƌĞŶĚĞƌĞĚŽƌŝƚĞŵƐƵƉƉůŝĞĚ͘
patient, as well as the doctor’s practice number and the nature, relevant ICD-10 code,
serviceDĞĚŝĐŝŶĞĐůĂŝŵƐ͗ƚŚĞŶĂŵĞ͕ƋƵĂŶƟƚǇ͕ĚŽƐĂŐĞ͕ƚŚĞŐƌŽƐƐĂŵŽƵŶƚŽĨƚŚĞĐůĂŝŵ͕ƚŚĞƌĞůĞǀĂŶƚĚŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ
date and cost of each service rendered or item supplied.
ƌĞĐĞŝǀĞĚďǇƚŚĞŵĞŵďĞƌ͕ĂŶĚĂƌĞĐĞŝƉƚĐŽŶĮƌŵŝŶŐƚŚĞŶĞƚĂŵŽƵŶƚƉĂǇĂďůĞďǇƚŚĞŵĞŵďĞƌŝŶ
ƌĞƐƉĞĐƚŽĨƚŚĞŵĞĚŝĐŝŶĞĚŝƐƉĞŶƐĞĚ͕ƚŚĞƌĞůĞǀĂŶƚŶĂƟŽŶĂůƉŚĂƌŵĂĐĞƵƟĐĂůƉƌŽĚƵĐƚŝŶƚĞƌĨĂĐĞ;EWW/Ϳ
Medicine
claims: the name, quantity, dosage, the gross amount of the claim, the relevant
ĐŽĚĞ͕ĂŶĚƚŚĞƌĞůĞǀĂŶƚ/ͲϭϬĐŽĚĞ͘EŽŶͲĞůĞĐƚƌŽŶŝĐĂĐĐŽƵŶƚƐƉĂǇĂďůĞďǇƚŚĞŵĞŵďĞƌŵƵƐƚĂůƐŽ
discount
received by the member, and a receipt confirming the net amount payable by
ďĞĂĐĐŽŵƉĂŶŝĞĚďǇĂĐŽƉǇŽĨƚŚĞŽƌŝŐŝŶĂůƉƌĞƐĐƌŝƉƟŽŶŵĂĚĞŽƵƚďǇĂƉĞƌƐŽŶůĞŐĂůůǇĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƐĞĚƚŽ
the member
in respect of the medicine dispensed, the relevant national pharmaceutical
ƉƌĞƐĐƌŝďĞƚŚĞŵĞĚŝĐŝŶĞ;ŝĨĂƉƉůŝĐĂďůĞͿĂŶĚƉƌŽŽĨŽĨƉĂǇŵĞŶƚŵƵƐƚďĞĂƩĂĐŚĞĚ͘
product interface (NAPPI) code, and the relevant ICD-10 code. Non-electronic accounts
DĞĚŝĐŝŶĞƉƌĞƐĐƌŝƉƟŽŶƐƚŚĂƚĂƌĞƌĞƉĞĂƚĞĚ͗ŝŶĂĚĚŝƟŽŶƚŽƚŚĞĂďŽǀĞ͕ĂŶŽƚĂƟŽŶĨƌŽŵƚŚĞŵĞĚŝĐĂů
payable
by the member must also be accompanied by a copy of the original prescription
made ƉƌĂĐƟƟŽŶĞƌǁŚŽƉƌĞƐĐƌŝďĞƐƚŚĞŵĞĚŝĐŝŶĞ͕ƐƉĞĐŝĨǇŝŶŐƚŚĞŶƵŵďĞƌŽĨƌĞƉĞĂƚƐ͘
out by a person legally authorised to prescribe the medicine (if applicable) and proof
of payment
must be attached.
ĞŶƚĂůĐůĂŝŵƐ͗ƚŚĞŶƵŵďĞƌŽĨĞĂĐŚƚŽŽƚŚƚƌĞĂƚĞĚ͘WůĞĂƐĞŝŶĐůƵĚĞƚŚĞůĂďŽƌĂƚŽƌǇƐůŝƉǁŚĞŶƐƵďŵŝƫŶŐ
ǇŽƵƌĐůĂŝŵƐ͘
Medicine prescriptions that are repeated: in addition to the above, a notation from the
^ƵƌŐŝĐĂůĐůĂŝŵƐ͗ƚŚĞŶĂŵĞ͕ƉƌĂĐƟĐĞĐŽĚĞŶƵŵďĞƌĂŶĚƌĞŐŝƐƚƌĂƟŽŶŶƵŵďĞƌŝƐƐƵĞĚďǇƚŚĞƌĞůĞǀĂŶƚ
medical
practitioner who prescribes the medicine, specifying the number of repeats.
ƌĞŐŝƐƚĞƌŝŶŐĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƚǇŽĨĞǀĞƌǇŵĞĚŝĐĂůƉƌĂĐƟƟŽŶĞƌŽƌĚĞŶƟƐƚǁŚŽĂƐƐŝƐƚĞĚŝŶƚŚĞƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞŽĨƚŚĂƚ
DentalŽƉĞƌĂƟŽŶ͘
claims: the number of each tooth treated. Please include the laboratory slip when
submitting your claims.
ΎWůĞĂƐĞEŽƚĞ͗&ĂŝůƵƌĞďǇǇŽƵƌ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞWƌŽǀŝĚĞƌƚŽŝŶĐůƵĚĞƚŚĞŵĂŶĚĂƚŽƌǇ/ͲϭϬĐŽĚĞŽŶĂĐůĂŝŵǁŝůů
ůĞĂĚƚŽƚŚĞƌĞũĞĐƟŽŶŽĨƚŚĂƚĐůĂŝŵĂŶĚŶŽŶͲƉĂǇŵĞŶƚďǇdŽƉDĞĚ͘
Surgical claims: the name, practice code number and registration number issued by the
relevant
registering authority of every medical practitioner or dentist who assisted in the
tŚĂƚŝƐƚŚĞĚĞĂĚůŝŶĞĨŽƌƚŚĞƐƵďŵŝƐƐŝŽŶĂŶĚƉĂǇŵĞŶƚŽĨĂĐůĂŝŵ͍
ĐůĂŝŵŵƵƐƚďĞƐƵďŵŝƩĞĚǁŝƚŚŝŶĨŽƵƌŵŽŶƚŚƐĨƌŽŵƚŚĞĞŶĚŽĨƚŚĞŵŽŶƚŚŝŶǁŚŝĐŚƚŚĞƐĞƌǀŝĐĞǁĂƐ
performance
of that operation.
ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞĚ͕ŽƌǁŝƚŚŝŶĨŽƵƌŵŽŶƚŚƐĨƌŽŵƚŚĞĞŶĚŽĨƚŚĞŵŽŶƚŚŝŶǁŚŝĐŚŝƚǁĂƐƌĞƚƵƌŶĞĚďǇdŽƉDĞĚĨŽƌ
ĂŶǇĐŽƌƌĞĐƟŽŶƐ͘/ĨŶŽƚƐƵďŵŝƩĞĚǁŝƚŚŝŶƚŚŝƐƉĞƌŝŽĚ͕ƚŚĞĂĐĐŽƵŶƚǁŝůůEKdďĞƉĂŝĚ͘
* Please
Note: Failure by your Service Provider to include the mandatory ICD-10 code on
a claim will lead to the rejection of that claim and non-payment by TopMed.
What is the deadline for the submission and payment of a claim?
A claim must be submitted within four months from the end of the month in which the
service was provided, or within four months from the end of the month in which it was
returned by TopMed for any corrections. If not submitted within this period, the account
will NOT be paid.
445
2016
What is the deadline for the submission and payment of a claim?
A claim must be submitted within four months from the end of the month in which the
service was provided, or within four months from the end of the month in which it was
returned by TopMed for any corrections. If not submitted within this period, the account
will NOT be paid.
How will I know when my claim has been settled?
At the end of each month you will be sent a claims advice. All claims processed during the
month will be listed. Should you have any queries on how to read this document, please
contact Client Services on 0860 00 21 58.
You can also view your claims on the TopMed website www.topmed.co.za for security
reasons you will need to register a username and password before you can login to view
claims. For assistance with logging in, please call Client Services as above.
Claim statements incorporate the following information:
» The benefit amount paid by TopMed and the person/service provider to whom payment
has been made
» The money owed to you by TopMed
» The amount owed by you to any provider
In addition to your monthly claims statement, subject to TopMed having a valid email
address for you, you will also receive an email notification after every claims payment run
in which we have paid claims submitted by you or hospital.
All TopMed Limited members need to submit their claims direct to TopMed they will not
go through electronically. A TopMed Limited claim form should be used. The exemptions
are Pharmacies and Hospitals these usually are sent electronically. All Providers (except
hospitals ) are reimbursed direct to members at 80% of the total cost.
TopMed Limited: Other than the hospital account and pharmacies, members
must pay providers and then submit claims on a claim form.
Note: If you received a discount on an account, you will only be entitled to the lower benefit
amount after the discount was taken into consideration.
CONTACT DETAILS
Client Services, Pre-Authorisation, Case Management
and Disease Management Programme
Tel: 0860 00 21 58
International
087 740 2899 (for calls outside SA)
Email
[email protected]
Fax
086 762 4050
Website
www.topmed.co.za
Membership
[email protected]
Claims
[email protected]
Queries
[email protected]
Post claim to
PO Box 1462, Durban, 4000
446
2016

2016 YEARBOOK - Methodist - The Methodist Church of Southern

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