By Matefu Mokoena
It was a time to let go of the pain of the past and to relive pleasant moments in the history of the church which is in the heart of Makwane village in the mountainous area of Qwaqwa in the Eastern Free State.
Gathered at this Makwane Assembly of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa last week Saturday were the former adherents, who mostly belonged to the church during the periods of the then Presiding Pastors Tshukudu and Molete, and the current members.
The mood was celebratory with joyous songs, dance, laughter, memoirs, testimonies, words of encouragement and sermons at this church’s inaugural reunion aimed at gathering together all members – past and present – throughout the years of Makwane Assembly’s existence.
The aim is also to bridge the divide and bring a reconciliation following clashes that happened in the past resulting in other members ditching the church and also in the formation of a splinter assembly.
This was emphasised by Pastor John Nkejane in his preaching when he said: “Today we acknowledge the start of the reunion. Well done to all of us who are here. I am happy to stand here at this podium to proclaim peace, unity and reconciliation.”
Nkejane said a book of remembrance of those who fear the Lord was being written on Saturday.
Pastor Tshediso Mohale was also on call for the day to speak to the congregration with emphasis on the importance of the gathering.
Giving a synopsis of the church’s history, Pastor Daniel Moloi told of how their former Pastors mentored and taught them all the basic gospel truths and Christian principles to live by. And, their teaching has been a good foundation for them until today.
He recounted how the early members of the Makwane Assembly worked tirelessly to construct the church until it was finished. He also mentioned how he started serving in the church board in his youth.
“We cannot change history. We continue to write history. I did not know that when I leave this place I would be a Pastor as well.
“Many good things happened in this church. We went to many conferences. There were many marriages in this church,” said Moloi,
Makwane Assembly is currently under the pastorate of Pastor Phendile Dichaba, who was all smiles on the day of the festivity. “History has been written down today. The reunion will play an important role in the future in bring us today. Nowadays our churches are working in silos. What happened today will bring us together as children of God,” she said.
Another former member, Nomasonto Kheswa – Ramaisa, said they gathered together as living testimonies that there are still well grounded and strong church’s remnants, who continue to serve and worship the Lord. “We are here to say Ebenezer. The Lord has been with us thus far,” she said.
It was mentioned during the reunion that the Makwane Assembly has produced seven Pastors, some of whom are Pastors in the AFM church while others have established their own churches.
