History in the making within UCCSA;

The 29th of November 2008 marked an important day in the history of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, (UCCSA) with the graduation of the first batch of qualified lay preachers under the stewardship of the UCCSA Leadership Academy at the historic Moffat Centre in Kuruman. A total of 108 lay preachers graduated after an intensive 1 year programme attracting learners from as far as Zimbabwe.

The highlight of the event came as Rev Dr Dibeela in his sermon brought to the attention of learners challenges that lay ahead in their ministry. He emphasized the need to serve with humility, and desist from self-aggrandisement tendencies.

His address was based on Matthews where a blind Barthemeus was discouraged to seek help from Jesus by people who wanted to silence him. Instead the blind Barthemeus, in his quest for sight which could also be interpreted to mean knowledge, was not dissuaded from crying in his loudest voice for help.

In contextualising his message, Dr. Dibeela, cautioned learners of those within our midst who would go all out to question their credentials and discourage them to serve the congregation.

The wonderful message was interspersed by the KZN learners who stole the show by singing a popular chorus entitled “I lay my life before you Jesus I love you!

In the final analysis, how wonderful shall it be if others follow suit and expand their knowledge with the sole aim of making sure that the UCCSA grows.

By Keaobaka Leepile