2014 Yearbook the Methodist Church of Southern Africa

2014 1

2014 YEARBOOK

THE METHODIST CHURCH OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

ZIPHO D. SIWA Presiding Bishop

VUYANI GLADSTONE NYOBOLE General Secretary

FUNGILE DOTWANA Lay President

Methodist Publishing House, Cape Town

ISBN: 978-1-920464-06-6 2 2014

The Mission Statement

G "God calls the Methodist people to proclaim "A Christ-healed the gospel of Jesus Africa for the Christ for healing and healing of nations” transformation"

Our Continuing Goals of Transformation are:

A deepening spirituality A resolve to be guided by God’s mission A recommitment to environmental justice A rediscovery of the priesthood of all believers A commitment “to be one so that the world may believe” A redeﬁ nition and authentication of the vocation of the clergy in the church A re-emphasis of servant leadership and discernment as our model for ministry 2014 3

CONTENTS

The Mission Statement of the MCSA 2

The Presiding Bishop’s Address to Conference 2013 5

The General Secretary’s Report to Conference 2013 14

The Lay President’s Address to Conference 2013 22

The Lay General Treasurer’s Report to Conference 2013 27

The Districts’ Reports to Conference 2013 33

Chapter 1 Conference 2013: Message to the Methodist People 83

Chapter 2 Conference 2013: Resolutions 86

Chapter 3 World Methodist Council 97

Chapter 4 Amendments to Laws and Discipline 99

Chapter 5 Methodist Connexional Ofﬁ ce 101

Appendix 1 120

Appendix 2 127

Chapter 6 Education for Ministry and Mission Unit 131

Chapter 7 Ecumenical Affairs Unit 151

Chapter 8 Communications Unit 155

Chapter 9 Mission Unit 157

Appendix 1 168

Appendix 2 169

Chapter 10 Human Resources Unit 170 4 2014

Chapter 11 Order of Deacons 174

Chapter 12 Order of Evangelism 179

Chapter 13 Connexional Chaplaincy Committee 184

Chapter 14 Connexional Trust Property Committee 186

Chapter 15 Methodist Publishing House 189

Chapter 16 Women’s Work 193

Chapter 17 Young Men’s Guild 209

Chapter 18 Doctrine, Ethics and Workshop Committee 215

Chapter 19 Connexional Structures Committee 217

Chapter 20 Connexional Revisions Committee 222

Chapter 21 Methodist Archives 225

Chapter 22 Connexional Youth Unit 227

Chapter 23 Seth Mokitimi Seminary 233

Chapter 24 Connexional Music Association 237

Chapter 25 Connexional Local Preachers` Association Report 242

Chapter 26 Elections and Appointments 246

Chapter 27 Miscellaneous 249

List of Lay Presidents 249

Connexional Diary 2014 250

Audited Financial Statements of the Connexional Ofﬁ ce 253

2014 Lectionary 348

List of Conferences, Presidents and Secretaries 357

In Memoria 365 2014 5

PRESIDING BISHOP ZIPHO D. SIWA OPENING ADDRESS TO CONFERENCE 2013

Reading: Matthew 4:12 - 5:14 Theme: TOGETHER a transforming discipleship movement

Introduction The General Secretary of the Conference, Lay President, Bishops, District Lay Leaders, my colleagues in the ministry, Conference delegates and honourable visitors and guests, I greet you warmly in the name of our crucifi ed Messiah, Risen Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. It is with great joy and anticipation that I welcome you to this th 124 Conference of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. Please feel welcome in the Name of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, Amen. We are meeting in Mthatha, in the Clarkebury District; I can assure you of the warm hospitality of the Methodist people in this District. This is the home of many great, transformational leaders in the history of Southern Africa, both in church and society. Leaders like Gideon Baqwa, Charles Phamla, EJ Mqoboli, JC Mvusi and many others hail from this district. Others who infl uenced the history of not only South Africa, but the world as well are, to mention just a few, the world icon Tata Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the revered Oliver Reginald Tambo, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, and many others also come from this region. Just outside the borders of the District, but in the same region are the homes of Govan and Epainette Mbeki, Thabo Mbeki, Chris Hani, Clarence Makwetu etcetera. The Kings who invited the missionaries to bring the Gospel of peace, healing, hope and salvation: King Ngubengcuka of AbaThembu, Inkosi Ncaphayi of AmaBhaca and King Faku of AmaMpondo are revered ancestors from this area. Their action led to the establishment of prestigious mission stations with schools of excellence that offered quality education. Today, we weep when we witness the ruins that remain of those places of hope and pray that the phoenix would rise again and something new may be born. The recent troubles at the Walter Sisulu University were a cause of much concern. We applaud the stakeholders for coming to a resolution and pray that in future such disputes will be dealt with speedily and with due sensitivity so that they do not lead to unnecessary disruptions and derailment of the futures of the already disadvantaged students from poor communities. We cannot afford to allow a system that sacrifi ces the futures of the young generation to continue any longer. All of us must be counted in the efforts that turn things around throughout the connexion. The Conference last met here in 1994 in the very chamber where the Methodist Church of Southern Africa was banned in 1978 and where the doors were re-opened in 1988. The God of Grace was with His people all the time, patiently calling them and now us, to be a faithful movement of transforming discipleship. It was here that the historic celebration of that un-banning took place in a stadium in Mthatha in 1988 when the then President of Conference, Rev Dr Khoza Mgojo took us down 6 2014 memory lane to the origins of Methodism in this District as well as the powerful exposition of Proverbs 22:28: ‘Do not remove the ancient landmark that your fathers have set.’ Welcome to the Clarkebury District. It was here in Mthatha in 2004 that the Mission Congress met and made a fi rm commitment that every local Methodist society would be a centre of healing and transformation. Last year at Conference, I asked that each local church do some self-examination and now ask how far they have gone towards this goal. Next year th will be the 10 Anniversary of the Mission Congress, so it is appropriate that each local church does some self-examination in terms of the Mission Charter which was adopted and endorsed by Conference in 1995. I have asked that the Mission Charter be displayed at this Conference and trust that the same will be done in each District, Circuit and Society as a visible reminder of the commitments we made. As we do the self-examination, let me be the fi rst to acknowledge the hard work done in some of our local churches under very trying circumstances. Your efforts do not go unnoticed especially by the One who called you. Keep on keeping on.

The Theme: TOGETHER a transforming discipleship movement. There is no intention to move away from previous Conference themes. For those who may be asking what the message of the Methodist Church is at this time, I invite you to visit the themes of the Conferences in the last ten years. Those themes are also on display at this conference. The message has been consistent with our vision statement of ‘A Christ Healed Africa for the Healing of Nations.’ If you are not sure where to go and fi nd guidance for your action plans, I urge you to visit these themes, addresses and the Conference Messages to the Methodist people in the last 10 years. This year’s theme is informed by this journey of the Methodist people as well as the context in which we fi nd ourselves at this time. In the late 1990s, Phineas Dube who was then working for Africa Enterprise, posed a challenge in the form of a question: Are we as the Christian Church to build more buildings that look like churches or more people who are Christ-like? The General Secretary of this Conference followed in later years with a comment in the 2008 report: “We are over-churched and under- discipled.” I know that the local churches have been trying their best to respond to these challenges over the years. My call today is a deep desire, which I know is shared by most, if not by all of us, to be bolder and more courageous and determined about being true Methodist disciples in today’s challenging contexts. Our calling is to follow Jesus at this time; acknowledging Jesus as leader of our actions helps our witness to be characterised by grace, humility, justice and obedience. Discipleship is not a special programme of the church. It is the very life of being church. Whilst acknowledging that the task may be daunting, the good news is that God is doing it, and whenever we realise that we have not been strong and faithful, it is worth remembering that God is not fi nished with us yet. As we journey with the 2014 7

God of life, it is always worth remembering that it is He who transforms the world He loves so dearly and calls upon us to live in a way that signals God’s presence in the world. It is a journey of lifelong learning from the One who made us. It is God doing it. We are called to be faithful. I have heard the following words often and they have sometimes jumped out of my own lips: “This is our church,” until I came across a warning from Brian McLaren, who said that this is misleading in two ways. First, the church isn’t ours; it’s God’s church. Second, it isn’t ours; it’s us. Discipleship is therefore not something that stands outside of us, it is our DNA – our being and should be defi ned by what God is calling us to be – “a transforming discipleship movement.” The very nature of this call is revolutionary. We are not asked to be standing in the fl ow of the status quo (to use Brian McLaren’s words). We are called to be revolutionaries against the status quo which robs God’s people and creation of the state of well-being. We have to be a movement that is constantly on the journey of being Christ-like. We must strive for a faith that overturns the world and sets the agenda towards the will of God. The theme is intended to be an invitation for us to listen together, to think together and to act together towards being a movement that changes the lives of individuals and communities, beginning with me. Martyn Atkins, the General Secretary of the Methodist Church in Britain, writes in the booklet entitled Discipleship and the people called Methodist: ‘we are a story-rich Church and want to encourage each other to be ready storytellers. Not just the many good stories but also the stories of struggle and hurt, in order that the unfolding story of God’s faithfulness and leading, and the cost of discipleship is known among us more deeply.’ In order to deepen the impact of that story-telling, it should happen across all known boundaries. Our God is faithful and our God is in action and our God acts across all boundaries. We are simply called to follow. The purpose is far more signifi cant than our own survival. The commitment to discipleship, to being learners and followers of Jesus Christ – learning to be better followers ourselves and in the process contributing to the making of more followers, ‘who desire to pray and work to transform the world led by the Holy Spirit – is a key theme of our Church. Methodism is at its roots a discipleship movement and a disciple-making movement. It is the yearning and active seeking to become better disciples of Jesus Christ, and offering Him to others, that lies at the heart of being Methodist Christians.’ (Atkins).

The call to Discipleship Let us visit one of the beautiful passages where Jesus sounds the call to discipleship. It is in Matthew 4:12-5:14. According to Thomas Long, everything that is to follow in the ministry of Jesus is in embryonic form in this passage. I ﬁ nd this passage very compelling. Here is the glimpse of the future of ministry and mission – the making of disciples. John Hiigel in his recent book: ‘Partnering with the King’ introduces the passage in a very interesting way. He says: ‘The preliminaries are completed. 8 2014

Jesus has been baptised in the Jordan and tested in the wilderness. The mission of John the forerunner has ended with imprisonment. It is time for the main event’. Jesus is introduced as coming from the desert solitude and temptations. His arrival is described as light coming into darkness. Hear the words in Matthew 4:15-16: The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles – the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned. The link to the land of Zebulon and Naphtali points to Matthew’s conviction that what is about to happen is not a game of chance, but the unfolding of God’s plan. The reference to the Galilee of the Gentiles points to the emphasis that the message of good news is transcending borders, boundaries and barriers. Jesus is calling for disciples to take it there with Him. Thirdly verse 17 says that Jesus made the call for repentance. Discipleship is linked to repentance. It is not something to just know about, but has a transforming effect – the metanoia. Things cannot remain the same. New sets of relationships are formed and new direction is followed. The call is made to four fi shermen by the Sea of Galilee. With authority Jesus calls them to follow Him and they get up immediately and do just that – they follow Him.They follow him in the business of bringing light into darkness. I don’t know if they are aware that this is to be for the rest of their lives, but they knew who they were following, for John had introduced Him as recorded in John 1:29-42. The two disciples Andrew and Simon heard John announcing: ‘Behold, the Lamb of God’ who takes away the sin of the world and gives the world a new chance of being. Luke adds another dimension and says that they had seen Him perform a miracle as recorded in Luke 5:1-11 – the great miraculous catch of fi sh after toiling in vain for the whole night. Matthew who himself had left the tax collection booth to follow Jesus emphasises the impact of the presence of Jesus. The call to discipleship stirs people to act differently and changes the course of one’s way of life. They are called to learn from Him and imitate His way of life. Before they encountered Jesus, their lives were already set in a particular direction. They were fi shermen, not only recreationally, but for a living. It was their career. They were fi shers of fi sh for profi t and now they are to follow the One, who said that He would make them fi shers of men and there is no guarantee of what was in it for them. At that stage they were not yet disciples, but Jesus said I will make you…. It is Jesus who will do the making. They were not yet equipped for this new role, but the equipping would happen on the journey as they learnt from the One who calls and leads the way. Apart from reading about discipleship, important as it is, the transformation takes place as they encounter Jesus and walk with Him. Archbishop Elias Chacour of Galilee gives an Aramaic translation of the Beatitudes recorded in Matthew 5. He says the Aramaic word in the place of the word “blessed” which has a passive quality is ashray from the verb yashar. He says that word means “to set 2014 9 you on the right way for the right goal.” The Aramaic word has a sense of getting up, going ahead, doing something and moving. In the Aramaic language, Chacour says Jesus would have been saying: Get up, go ahead, do something, move; you who are hungry and thirsty for justice, for you shall be satisfi ed. Get up, go ahead, do something, move; you peacemakers, for you shall be called children of God… Get your hands dirty to build a human society for human beings otherwise, others will torture and murder the poor, the voiceless and the powerless (Elias Chacour, We belong to the Land).

Something happens on the journey with Jesus. It is not in the recitation, but in the following, that the world is turned around. From then on their personal agendas take a back seat and their lives become something God is doing. The orientation of their minds shifts from self to God. They were used to living for themselves and now they are to live for God. They were used to making plans according to their ambitions and common sense; now they were to follow God’s command and fi t into God’s plans. It is no longer about me and mine. The discipleship movement gets power when the mind-set changes from me and mine to God’s will. Even when the old mind-set wants to throw some doubts and confusion, the experience of following Jesus takes them back on course. When the old ways wanted to pull them (the disciples) back and they grumbled when Jesus laid down the law: “Whoever feeds on my fl esh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him.” (John 6.56) Many said that this was a hard saying and began to turn away. Jesus said to the twelve which included these four: ‘do you want to go as well?’ It was through the experience of the journey that Peter could say: ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.’ The journey forms and transforms and has the power of setting the agenda for the world. When we’ve only heard about Jesus, we lose the power to set the agenda and we ourselves begin to look elsewhere for the answers. This was one of John Wesley’s fears: ‘I am not afraid that the Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast the doctrine, spirit and discipline with which they fi rst set out.’ Jesus is central to the discipleship movement. ‘Follow me,’ He calls to them. Not your own ideas, or philosophy or skills but follow Jesus, the living person; learn from Him, imitate Him, be with Him, so that people are drawn to Him and not to a certain nice group of like-minded people, but to Jesus. The life of the disciples will revolve around Jesus and they are life-long learners who will not graduate but will continue to learn from Him as life continues to throw challenges their way. Jesus is about bringing together the people of God through renewing them; the fi shermen were called to partner with God in the business of gathering people who 10 2014 are learners of Jesus. The people are gathered for a relationship with Jesus. NB: not as individuals or small sects BUT church TOGETHER!!!

How are we to do this? This is a genuine question. How do we get to know what God wants? We can only hold on to the promise that He will be with us, and that we are therefore called to journey with Him, asking Him when in doubt; keeping constant communication with Him. Hiigel writes; the most helpful activity for learning His way is to converse with Him. Prayer becomes constant in the life of the follower. Guidance is taken from prayer and the scriptures. Scripture helps our praying to be a two-way conversation, so that we listen and hear Jesus as well instead of simply talking to Him. Earlier in the year, I invited a small group of intercessors from around the connexion and we spent time prayerfully discerning how to enhance the prayer life of this movement. I humbly request this Conference to take this call very seriously. We have to be a praying church. Secondly we refl ect on our journey constantly. That is why we need companionship, so that together we may refl ect on how it is with our souls. We walk with Jesus accompanied by others who walk with Him. Key to the Methodist Discipleship movement is openness to the in-fi lling of the Holy Spirit. Atkins writes that Methodism is one of the tributaries contributing to the emergence of the Pentecostal tradition and later renewal movements, but Methodists have never regarded the Holy Spirit as being captive to the church, and therefore having only the role of blessing those in the church. God’s Holy Spirit is the One who hovered over the whole created order and continues to do so in order to renew the whole of creation. The Holy Spirit is the One who reveals the things of God, and the One who convicts and converts. Whatever we do, whoever we meet and wherever we are, God the Spirit is already there. The challenge is to join him. Discipleship is central to Jesus’s mission and method. Making disciples is the core of the ministry and mission of Jesus. The mission of Jesus is about forming a community of partners whose hearts are adjusted to the will of God and it is the continuous calling of the church to draw more and more into the life of discipleship and the fi nal great harvest will be at the end, as we fi nally join the Leader of the movement, Jesus Christ. This will be an all-inclusive community, not two categories of specialists: committed disciples and a majority who are ordinary Christians. No, the joyous celebration at the end will be that of followers of Jesus TOGETHER.

Together: I have chosen the word TOGETHER deliberately. Discipleship requires mutual encouragement and help. You can’t do it on your own. We belong TOGETHER. Each church is the Church catholic, and not simply a part of it. The Porto Alegre statement of the World Council of Churches, ‘Called to be One Church’ (Geneva: The World Council of Churches 2006) asserts: ‘each church is the Church catholic, 2014 11 but not the whole of it. Each church fulﬁ ls its catholicity when it is in communion with other churches’. The Acts of the Apostles tells the story of the birth of the church and offers a Biblical picture of a church that is inherently mission shaped, called and sent to bear costly witness to the Risen and Ascended Lord. It is through that witness that the Holy Spirit was pleased to create a community characterised by holiness. John Wesley said: ‘By Methodist I mean a people who profess to pursue holiness… of heart and life, inward and outward conformity in all things to the revealed will of God; who place religion in a uniform resemblance of the great object of it; in a steady imitation of Him they worship… particularly in justice, mercy and truth, or universal love ﬁ lling the heart, and governing the heart.’ This is what we do together because we are interconnected. That interconnectedness is expressed by the New Testament word – koinonia – which basically means called together. Atkins says that word indicates a common life in Christ for believers. We are in connexion with the eternal family of God.

The call to follow implies movement somewhere: Jesus proclaimed the Gospel by words, deeds and signs. His teaching in words is supported by actions. Jesus is continuously on the move. In our world today where would Jesus go? I imagine Jesus going to your work place and my work place and inviting me to join Him there instead of the other way round; showing me and you how to live in that context. As they say, there is something called the 9-5 window – which is the best opportunity to witness to Jesus’ presence in your life – announcing not only in words but by actions and signs, the hope that is there in Christ Jesus. I imagine Jesus in every school and clinic and hospital, or even in every legislature or political meeting or labour union, and in every relationship showing us how to do things there. I imagine him present in every congregation and circuit and even at this Conference and every Synod; being part of the worship and every activity and meeting; leading the way and not us inviting Him to bless what we do, but us discerning what He wants to do with these structures and gatherings. I hear His call follow me and I will make you instruments of calling all people to join this transforming discipleship movement. As the Mission Congress did here in Mthatha in 2004, I echo the call for:

• Every congregation to strive to be a centre of healing and transformation. Of course each congregation is placed where it is to take notice of the reality in their locality. There are children who are being sacriﬁ ced by the education system in every town, city or whatever you call your mission area. We have the resources to do something about the access to quality education by all as already shown by many endeavours around the connexion. We have parents, grand-parents, learners in our midst; committed educators as well as those who may be frustrated in one way or another, including those who are broken by one thing or another. We have people with all kinds of expertise to assist and we have buildings. What are we waiting for? There are so many good models around the Connexion which must 12 2014

ﬁ nd their way into every area of need. Even the Governments and other stakeholders should be held accountable. • I urge each and every member, severally and collectively, to take following Jesus very seriously, so that the transformation of society may be a reality. I long for the growth of true learners in the school of following Jesus – that all of us may be transformed in the likeness of Him who loves us so dearly that He laid down His life that we may have life in all abundance • We must follow Jesus who challenged unjust systems, and acted in ways that are aimed at improving the quality of life of all God’s people. Immanuel Kant, the German Philosopher warned against loyalty to powers that exist at the expense of principle and justice. Many nations get into destructive mode when their focus becomes loyalty to power in order to get something, more than focus on justice and the will of God. Paraphrasing the General Secretary: we must be a movement of givers more than being takers as we follow Jesus who gave His life for the world.

This call is made at a time when abuse and violence against women, children and vulnerable persons continues to hurt the heart of God. Paul Brand says it is like the case of leprosy patients, who lose the ability to feel the pain; they become numb and insensitive to pain. An injury to one is an injury to all, writes Paul. May God of the abused vulnerable people, God of the victims of brutality and violence, disturb us and move us to action with Him as He walks wounded among His wounded people. I put it to all of us that the time is now for us to: • Stand up and be counted in condemning violence and abuse on the spot, where it happens • Begin a serious education campaign in all our spheres of inﬂ uence against this brokenness • To lobby support of all stake-holders for clear action by all of us against this monster • Push, persuade and disturb our governments to pull out all stops in dealing with this evil and harmful behaviour • Whilst the conversation on how we go forward with regard to same-sex relationships is still on-going, we must be very strong in condemning homophobic violence. No one has the right to kill or ill-treat anyone irrespective of our beliefs or positions on the matter. The balance has always been between the works of piety and works of mercy. The emphasis is on being, before doing. Follow me and I will make you. That is a healthy balance. From the beginning Methodist discipleship was not about being so heavenly minded that we are of no earthly use. (Atkins). Acts of devotion, compassion and social transformation have always belonged together in Methodist discipleship. Human beings are not only bodiless souls to be made ready for heaven nor are they soulless bodies only to be materially looked after. The two belong together. 2014 13

It is fi tting to conclude with the words of Charles Wesley’s hymn: Jesus, confi rm my heart’s desire to work, and speak, and think for Thee; Still let me guard the holy fi re, and stir up thy gift in me. – Ready for all thy perfect will, my acts of faith and love repeat; till death thy endless mercies seal, and make the sacrifi ce complete.

AMEN. 14 2014

THE GENERAL SECRETARY’S REPORT TO CONFERENCE 2013

Rev Vuyani Nyobole

1. INTRODUCTION The theme of the Conference: Together a transforming discipleship movement, demands that we continually expand our capacity to create results; we nurture new and expansive patterns of thinking and we constantly learn to learn together, thus become a learning community/organisation. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to learn of His way/s. This report is a reﬂ ection on the organisational health of our Church. It gives a balcony view on various organisational aspects affecting the life and witness of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. Like all previous reports, it is meant to open conversations on the various issues raised. The ﬁ rst part is therefore a response to the Wesleyan question: How is it with (the Church’s) soul? The latter part highlights certain governance and operational issues.

2. THE STATE OF THE CHURCH 2.1 Mission consciousness As reported last year there is a welcome emerging consciousness of the Church as a vehicle for God’s mission that is reﬂ ected in the Districts’, Organisational and Unit reports. Almost all the report narratives reﬂ ect stories of reaching out to the needy, the wretched, the marginalised and the vulnerable. The Mission Unit report gives testimony to ordinary Methodist people, some in remote areas, that are embarking on extraordinary ‘works of mercy’ to improve the quality of life of the least in their communities. We cannot call ourselves Christians proclaiming to know and love Jesus and turn away from the poor. Linked with these initiatives is a growing awareness and focus on justice and sustainability issues. There is an encouraging realisation that handouts without empowerment and a will to address the causes of injustice is a futile exercise. For instance the Connexional YMG, Natal Coastal Youth, Limpopo Women’s Manyano, Queenstown District Children’s Ministry Practitioners (CPMs) marched against gender-based violence and women and children 2014 15

abuse. Such activist approaches are refreshing. In the Wesleyan tradition there is no separation between piety and social justice. In line with this mission trend, we direct local congregations to use their buildings as mission stations and not just see them as monuments which are used by a select group once or twice a week but as centres that exist to serve the community. Jesus’ agenda is about changing the world. We celebrate that more and more people are coming to know the saving power of Jesus through these Methodist mission outreaches.

2.2 The moral crisis The Church is faced with a moral crisis. Societal moral degeneration is hastily making inroads into the Church’s life. The Church is becoming morally bankrupt judging from what has been in the public and social media, in correspondence, reports and telephone calls that come through our ofﬁ ce. These range from sexual abuse, promiscuity, family violence, unashamed misuse of church money for self-enrichment, making derogatory statements, blatant abuse of power, alcohol abuse – especially among ministers – and pornography addiction, to name but a few. These are signs of a Church that is rotting at its core. If this trend is not arrested it will destroy the very ﬁ bre of our Church community and compromise our witness. We call on all the organisational and ministers’ forums to urgently create safe spaces to address these matters and come out with practical solutions for countering these destructive forces. The recently established ecumenical Clergy Support Foundation must be utilised to rehabilitate clergy who are struggling with these moral challenges.

2.3 Racism The evil of racism (and tribalism) is rearing its insidious head and manifests itself in assorted forms and shapes within the life of the Church. The tragedy is that it goes unchallenged as it is no longer politically correct to speak about racist attitudes and tendencies. We are still trapped in the apartheid ghetto which will in time reverse gains made in the past 20 years of moving towards a ‘one and undivided’ Church. We must, as a matter of urgency create platforms for life giving, wet cement conversations – thoughts that are open to reshaping, rethinking and reconsidering at all levels of our structure (Society, Circuit, District and Connexion).

2.4 Agency reduction Agency reduction is a matter of great concern. During the last ﬁ ve years 16 2014

there has been a membership and assessment revenue increase but even so there has been an agency reduction in some Circuits. What is puzzling is that this has been the case in urban growth areas. This points to a serious, misguided notion that the less the agents the better the chances of survival whereas the opposite is true. Recent surveys show that quality pastoral care and focused individual relationship boosts membership commitment and giving. Given our average Church attendance ﬁ gures of just over 850 000 and the 711 active Circuit ministers, it means a minister ought to serve an average of 1140 members, but in reality about 70% of ministers serve in congregations that far exceed that number. The rest serve afﬂ uent congregations of less than 400 members. If we are serious about being Together a transforming discipleship movement, this is one area we cannot ignore.

2.5 ‘Being’ and ‘Doing’ Church – a new paradigm The winds of change continue to impact the way of ‘being’ and ‘doing’ Churchand unless the Church takes cognisance of these and adjusts accordingly, it will lose its saltiness. ‘Being’ is the ‘why’ of our faith. It is about our identity in Christ - a new creation. ‘Doing’ is about the ‘how’ of our faith. Reading the signs of the times is a spiritual discipline that helps us to look at the world with Kingdom lenses and to see clearly what it means to be a Church in the present milieu. Reading the signs of the times is also about deeply refl ecting on and engaging with the changes that are unfolding before our eyes. It is about interacting with life rather than reacting to it. It is a ‘kairos’ moment that focusses on ripeness (what is coming to fullness) rather than on wrongness. Dan Dick and Evelyn Burry in their informative book, titled: A new kind of Church, demonstratethat people are looking for a church that they have not been able to fi nd. A church that: • Cares about the needs of the world rather than just her own needs; • Spends more resources on others than on itself; • Spends more time out in the world sharing the good news, joining God in what He is doing in the world than it does gathered behind closed doors; and • Grows people into disciples – Christlikeness (my addition). We need a new kind of Church that is able to adapt to the prevailing changes without losing its essence in the process. A new kind of church where people can fi nd forgiveness, healing and a different way to live that 2014 17

only Jesus Christ offers; a new kind of church that steps out in faith and is on a disciple-making mission. The theme of this Conference invites us to embark on such a journey.

3. GOVERNANCE 3.1 Offi ce centralisation and restructuring Last year’s Conference directed that the Methodist Connexional Offi ce and the Presiding Bishop’s Offi ce together with all other Units be centralised. The process of fi nding a home for the new offi ces has been achieved. A new block of offi ces has been acquired in Bruma, Johannesburg and the Presiding Bishop’s offi ce will be the fi rst to move, hopefully before the end of the year and next year will be used to facilitate the transition, consolidation and rationalisation of the work, to move and train staff thereby strengthening our Connexional character and capacity. This move has been long overdue. We thank God that this amalgamation is now in process.

3.2 Medical Insurance As a way of alleviating the cost to minister burden, the General Treasurers have secured an insurance facility that will help reduce the Pharos member’s portion of the in-hospital account. This came into effect on 1 May, 2013 and affected ministers are already enjoying the beneﬁ t. Without the Church Reserve Fund this, and many other initiatives, would not have been possible. Continuous improvement is a hallmark of good governance.

3.3 Financial accountability and transparency The 4C schedules that are submitted to our offi ce reveal the following: • That there is a limited disclosure, not all money collected/received is declared; • That not all money collected/received is banked; • That we are a Church that is for itself – money is spent on maintenance, rather than on mission; • Proper fi nancial procedures are not always followed - major contracts are signed without reference to Superintendents • That some church funds are redirected to Circuit run Section 21 companies which is illegal. All the above are in breach of our fi nancial policies and procedures and we call upon all those entrusted with trust funds to adhere to standard fi nancial accounting procedures. 18 2014

3.4 Exploring new ﬁ nancial streams The fast changing economic situation and the seemingly dwindling Circuit resources, dictate that we explore long term viability as directed by last year’s conference. There is a need to ﬁ nd alternative ways of resourcing our mission. The assessment methodology needs to be urgently reviewed as it will not be sustainable in the long term. We invite Districts and Circuits to suggest innovative ways of resourcing our mission work and operations. We are also exploring how other Churches are dealing with the challenge.

3.5 Signage Our churches are invisible because there is no signage. How do we expect people to fi nd us if there are no clear readable signs on the streets that point them to our worship centres? Signage plays a signifi cant role in converting awareness of a church’s location. They carry the image and brand of our church, and grab the attention of the passer-by, act as invitations, pointers and greeters. They are the church’s public interface with the world, the ‘shop window’ that most people will encounter fi rst. One cannot underestimate the importance of signage as a way of attracting potential members. We encourage all our churches, even those in rural areas to create sign posts to all Methodist churches. A set of guidelines for the uniform appearance of these signboards is being created and will be available on the Methodist Church website, www.methodist.org.za shortly.

3.6 Interesting statistics Statistics tell a story about an organisation. The following stats show the current state:

# Ministers (active) : 741 (599 Ordained, 83 Probationers, 59 Seminarians) # Full time non itinerant : 20 (6 FTNIST & 14 FTNINS - 6 Ordained, 8 Probationers) # Part time non stipendary : 32 (20 Ordained & 12 Probationers) # Seconded ministers : 23 # Chaplaincy services : 23 # Women ministers : 127 (90 Ordained, 25 Probationers, 12 Seminarians) # Supernumeraries : 580 (350 Supernumeraries, 230 Widows/ Widowers) # Deacons : 33 (9 Stipendary, 14 FTNINS, 7 PTNINS, 3 FTNIST) Average age of ministers : 43 years Average life span of ministers : 72 years 2014 19

4. SPECIAL PROJECTS 4.1 Education Focus The Presiding Bishop’s call for Methodist people to reclaim their role in education has been met with great enthusiasm throughout the Connexion. The Education Task Team has met regularly to craft the way forward and has developed concrete action steps to ensure greater religious community impact. Several Districts and Circuits have organised stakeholders’ seminars, workshops and services to raise awareness on the education crisis, especially in South Africa. This initiative has also been taken up by certain Circuits who have intentionally engaged in issues affecting education. Parents are taking seriously their citizenry role through active participation in School Governing Boards and the education of their children. Methodist teachers are becoming more and more aware of their responsibility of nation building through education. Some ministers are offering chaplaincy services to schools in the communities they serve. The Women’s Organisations have embarked on a number of life giving initiatives with an education focus. For instance, the Connexional Women’s Manyano has renovated classrooms, donated school uniforms, computers and stationary, offered study bursaries to disadvantaged Methodist young people. The Young Women’s Manyano launched its reading club campaign for primary children at its Triennial. Through this campaign they want to establish reading clubs, libraries, make reading accessible and inspire parental involvement thus reinforcing literacy. 4.2 Preserving Institutional Memory Christianity is one of the most signifi cant institutional forces acting on the collective memory attributed to humanity. It is our responsibility to capitalise on, and create memory banks of “institutional memories” from before, during and after our lifetime, for the benefi t of this and future generations. The importance of a development and management strategy for the MCSA’s Living Heritage has emerged as a critical priority to address the challenges pertaining to a lack of a balanced and integrated approach to our heritage preservation. Strategic objectives have been identifi ed as interventions in this regard, which include the identifi cation of architectural, theological and cultural heritage, as well as possible pilgrimages for sustainable management. The MCSA has been in consultation with major heritage stakeholders including The National Heritage Council, The South African 20 2014

Heritage Resource Agency and other government stakeholders, taking learnings from their studies, guidelines and policies to further develop the MCSA strategy on Heritage Preservation District Heritage Champions, who will be selected by the Bishops, shall work closely with the General Secretary’s offi ce to ensure that appropriate action plans are developed for the preservation of identifi ed heritage sites. Grahamstown, the hosts of a recent Heritage workshop held in Port Alfred, shall also host the February 2014 Heritage ‘Journey of Discovery’ Indaba where the District champions will be introduced to the Connexional Heritage Plan to better equip them in their respective Districts preservation tasks, training them in various aspects of heritage preservation for which they, as Heritage Ambassadors, shall be responsible. We highlight the need for marketing, promotion and raising awareness of our heritage preservation across the Connexion. To this end the MCSA shall host its fi rst ever “Making History for Heritage” Golf Day, to be held early in 2014. Funds raised at this event shall go towards the preservation of our diverse heritage with a view to making this an annual event to be hosted by all Districts. “When an old person dies, a library dies with them” - we thus welcome all people called Methodists to submit artefacts, historical data, photographs and any other historically relevant pieces to their District Heritage Champions, the details of whom are available on the Heritage Website, the link to which shall appear on the MCSA website in early 2014.

4.3 Digitising of Methodist Archives Modern archive management and practices necessitate that new ways are explored to preserve the Methodist archives housed at the Cory Library of Rhodes University. The Cory Library is the ofﬁ cial repository of the MCSA archives. The MCSA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Rhodes University for the digitisation and upload of the archives to an electronic platform to facilitate research and preservation. The two year project shall entail electronic storage to obviate physical handling of the aging material and facilitate easy access. The Connexional Women’s Manyano shall offer bursaries to ﬁ ve Methodist students studying at Rhodes to assist with this project.

The expected outcomes from this initiative include: • the preservation and conservation of Church registers and other materials; 2014 21

• training of ﬁ ve Methodist students in the practice of archiving; • achieving open access to the Church archives, as well as giving open access to the research community world-wide.

5. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT 5.1 Leadership Capacity Building There is an undisputed dearth of capable, effective leadership at every level of our Church. This is more so with ministers than with laity. It is the responsibility of any credible organisation to invest in the development of current and future leadership. Such development should focus mainly on discerning the calling, character building, enhancing leadership competencies and aligning them to the Church vision, as well as sharpening Church governance and ﬁ nancial management skills. There is an urgent need to nurture and mentor emerging leaders, especially those entrusted with leadership at Circuit level – the Superintendents. It would be worth considering calling a Connexional/ Regional Superintendents’ Indaba/Summit to identify shortfalls, explore opportunities and strategise for future development. My view is that this is where things tend to go wrong.

5.2 Equipping the ‘saints’ One of the most neglected tasks of our time is that of ‘equipping the saints’ for their work. Equipping people for Christian living and mission is at the core of who we are as Methodists. Underpinning our theological understanding of Methodism are the concepts of: • The teaching ministry - a major tool for evangelisation and instilling Christian values; • Life-long learning as the foundation of Christian growth and spiritual maturity; • Education as an empowerment too for all.

6. ACKNOWLEGEMENTS I wish to acknowledge and extend my sincere gratitude for the input made by various team members at the Presiding Bishop’s Ofﬁ ce and at Methodist Connexional Ofﬁ ce in the compilation of this report. Without such dedicated assistance, intellectual acumen, moral and prayerful support it would have been impossible to give an informed account to this Conference. Henry Ford, American industrialist, is quoted as having said: Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. Siyabulela! Nangamso! Together we can achieve more. 22 2014

THE LAY PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS TO CONFERENCE 2013

Mr Fungile Dotwana

CELEBRATING THE FRUITS OF TRUE DISCIPLESHIP: SMILE, THE BELOVED CHURCH, SMILE

The Presiding Bishop, General Secretary, District Bishops and Lay Leaders, members of the Connexional Executive, Conference delegates and the entire Christian family gathered here, I greet you in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus Christ.What a joy and singular honour for me to do my second last address to the Conference in my home District, Clarkebury, before I say to my Lord and Saviour, “Uyamndulula ngoku umkhonzi wakho”. My umbilical cord was buried in this District and my bones will be buried here as well. I was baptised at Ncambele Circuit No 1359 by the late Reverend St James Page Yako, uTutuse, an author and poet of note. Members of Conference, I stand before you with a great sense of fulﬁ lment and contentment for, it is indeed “nice to be here”. Relax and enjoy the hospitality and generosity of the people called Methodists in the Clarkebury District. The theme of my address is “CELEBRATING THE FRUITS OF TRUE DISCIPLESHIP: SMILE, THE BELOVED CHURCH, SMILE”. One part of it has been “stolen” from the title of a book by an eminent author, Dr Alan Paton, “Cry, the th beloved country” while the other has been borrowed from a book by the 14 Dalai Lama entitled “My spiritual autobiography” (Archbishop Emeritus Tutu’s friend). In one of the chapters entitled, “I love the smile, unique to humans”, he makes the following observation: “As for me, I always want more friends, I love smiles, and my wish is to see more smiles, real smiles, for there are many kinds – sarcastic, artiﬁ cial, or diplomatic. Some smiles don’t arouse any satisfaction, and some even engender suspicion or fear. An authentic smile, though, arouses an authentic feeling of freshness, and I think the smile belongs to human beings. If we want those smiles, we must create the reasons that make them appear”.

SMILE ... It is my fi rm belief that the bones of the early missionaries who laboured in this District are shaking in jubilation in their graves, for they are witnessing that their mission has been accomplished. They have produced men of impeccable credentials like Reverend Jotham Charles Mvusi, born and bred at Ethembeni Circuit, Mzimkhulu and Bawo Nelson Rholihlahla Mandela of Mqhekezweni Circuit, Mthatha. The former was nurtured by, amongst other missionaries, Reverend Charles Pamla, 2014 23 and was elected to the offi ce of Chairman of this District, now known as District Bishop, in 1968 and later to the offi ce of the President of Conference, now Presiding Bishop, at the age of 70, in 1973. He was the second African to occupy that offi ce after Reverend Seth Mokitimi.

SMILE ... The latter, in his autobiography “Long Walk To Freedom”, writes the following: “The two principles that governed my life at Mqhekezweni were chieftaincy and the Church.....The church was concerned with this world and the next: I saw that virtually all the achievements of Africans seemed to have come about through the missionary work of the church. The mission schools trained the clerks, the interpreters and the policemen, who at the time represented the height of African aspirations. “When Reverend Matyolo preached at the simple church at the western end of the Mqhekezweni, the hall was always brimming with people. The hall rang with the hosannas of the faithful, while the women knelt down at his feet to beg for salvation. The ﬁ rst tale I heard was that he had chased away a dangerous ghost with only a Bible and a lantern as weapons. The Methodism preached by Reverend Matyolo was of the ﬁ re-and-brimstone variety, seasoned with a bit of African animism.” Members of Conference, I am convinced, and I think you will agree with me, that had it not been for this Church, we would probably not have the international icon we have in Tata Madiba. We wish him a speedy recovery and many more years to come.

SMILE ... This part of the Connexion has gone through trials and tribulations of untold proportions which included the banning of this church during the TBVC states era. However, our Lord prevailed and banishment was lifted by a military decree. There were joyous celebrations at the then Independence Stadium in Mthatha in 1988 when all Methodists in the Transkei were welcomed back to the Connexional Family, led by their ﬁ rst Bishop in the name of Reverend DD Dabula. To you Bawo Khalimeshe, Zulu, a special word of gratitude for being their Moses.

SMILE ... 1994 was the freedom year for all South Africans, and incidentally, it was the year that Conference was held in the Clarkebury District for the ﬁ rst time. This was a momentous gathering for our church which endorsed the Transformation Programme of the JOURNEY TO A NEW LAND. The ofﬁ ce I currently occupy is a creature of a programme that was endorsed in Mthatha, in the Bhunga Building where this church was banished by legislation. This time around, it was as if our Lord was there saying, “Behold, I make all things new”. Yabona..... 24 2014

SMILE ... As if this was not enough, again in 2004 a Mission Congress was held in this District and it crafted what is now known in Methodist circles as our MISSION CHARTER with 13 objectives. This year, Clarkebury District celebrates 133 years since its formation in 1880 under the leadership of Reverend Theophilus Chubb who was its ﬁ rst Chairman.

SMILE ... I now turn to deal with some of the activities I was involved in during this year. During March 2013, the KNB District hosted a District Lay Leaders’ meeting in Bloemfontein. We wish to express a sincere word of gratitude to Bishop Mothibi and his executive for their warm reception and generosity. In that meeting we were also graced by the presence of the Presiding Bishop who shared his own understanding with us of the role of Lay Leaders in the context of the Journey to a New Land. He was impressed by what he saw and heard as District Lay Leaders shared experiences about their activities in their respective Districts. We thank you, Zikhali, for your informed guidance and advice. What a loving Father we have! We are extremely excited that the offi ce of the District Lay Leader is slowly but surely taking shape. All twelve (12) Lay Leaders now formally report their activities in their respective District Synods. While we acknowledge that they have different spiritual gifts, the core business is laity empowerment through workshops. We sincerely thank the Bishops for giving them the opportunity to serve the Lord in this way. May that support continue to multiply until our mission is achieved. Members of Conference, it is my wish to take you into confi dence and report on two (2) critical issues which we discussed as well. The fi rst one relates to the use of stoles by the Lay Leaders. Conference 2012 in Swaziland pronounced on this matter and put 2015 as a deadline. We wish to state upfront, categorically and unambiguously that we unanimously respect and abide by that resolution and we would like to see that implemented as of yesterday. This was not a case of Sour Grapes but instead our commitment, as Christians, to do our mission as a church, serving our Lord with humility and obedience: “eyona nt’inexabiso Kobu bomi sibudlayo Asikutya nezambatho Asimpilo nakonwabo Kukuthwal’umnqamlezo Ngentobeko nengqobhoko We were equally mindful that our Lord is a responsible God who always substitutes one thing for the other, “Akasusi nto, angabeki nto”. I am happy to announce that we all bought into the idea of a medallion and a black gown for all Lay Leaders. Samples thereof have been presented by the Lay President to the Connexional Executive for 2014 25 further engagement and endorsement. It is our wish and desire that by the end of 2014, we will have put this issue behind us and moved on with our core business as the church. The second issue is about the roles, functions and duties of both the Lay President and District Lay Leaders which were endorsed by the 2010 Conference in East London, but were not published in 2011 Yearbook together with other resolutions. My own understanding of the position and I speak under correction, is that they were erroneously left out of the Yearbook, they were not deleted. The resolution which is before us this year does not seek to re-invent the wheel. On the contrary, it seeks to complement the 2010 resolutions. A close analysis of both resolutions reveals that they are not mutually exclusive and all they call for is harmonisation. I hope I am correctly articulating the spirit of the resolutions. My offi ce had also been tasked by the General Secretary to convene a Committee which will revise a book by one of the late fathers, Reverend EJ Mqoboli entitled “INTYILAZWI”. Due to logistical challenges, that work has not started yet. We promise, however, that the revised edition will be ready for publication before Conference 2014. My offi ce was further mandated by the Presiding Bishop and the General Secretary to institute legal action against two (2) splinter church groups for eviction out of the church halls at Kamastone and Fransbury Circuits (Queenstown District) respectively. The cases are pending before our High Courts for hearing. We just need to be patient a little bit as the wheels of justice grind slowly. We will not wait in vain as there are strong prospects of success in both cases. In conclusion, Members of Conference, may we please remember that the father of the “Chain of Mission Stations”, Reverend William Shaw, after crossing the Kei River from Mt Coke, targeted three Kings and one Nkosi for evangelism. Those were King Hintsa of the AmaXhosa in Butterworth, King Ngubengcuka of the AbaThembu in Clarkebury, King Faku of the AmaMpondo in Buntingville and last but not least, Nkosi Ncaphayi of the AmaBhaca in Shawbury. The seeds which were planted by this great disciple continue to germinate and bear fruit to this day. Needless to mention, Tata Madiba is from the Ngubengcuka royal family, and our former Bishop Dabula is from the AmaBhaca royal family. During the course of this year I attended two church services in Gcaleka and Marubeni Circuits where, in the former, the reigning Xhosa King Zwelonke Sigcawu, the great grandson of Hintsa, was robed as a member of the YMG together with four Princes, while in the latter, Marubeni, the fi rst-born son to the reigning AmaMpondo King Ndamase kaNdamase was baptised in a Circuit where his great grandfather, King Victor Poto Ndamase had humbled himself and served as a Circuit Steward. As I witnessed these services, I was moved and tempted to sing the spiritual made famous by Jim Reeves: 26 2014

“Give me that old-time religion x3 It’s good enough for me. It was good for our fathers and mothers x3 And it’s good enough for me.”

I thank you. 2014 27

METHODIST CONNEXIONAL OFFICE THE LAY GENERAL TREASURER’S REPORT TO CONFERENCE 2013

Mr Anthony Tibbit

1. Pension Fund Arbitration Matter The Adjudication through the Pension Fund Adjudicator (PFA) is complete and nothing more needs to be done in that regard. The Trustees and the Church have been found to have acted properly by the PFA. On the other hand we advise that the previous Arbitration complaint has been withdrawn completely but the complainants have submitted a new complaint for arbitration. The Church will respond to the new complaint and thereafter all the documents will be submitted to the Arbitrator who will decide what needs arbitration and the process to be followed.

2. Standardised DTP Control Forms A Standardised District Trust Properties (DTP) Control Form has been approved by the MCO Executive and CE for implementation by all Districts with immediate effect. From now on all property matters whether new structures, alterations, purchases, sales, leases, loans must be made to the DTP using this Control Form. The Form is attached to the MCO Business for Bishops to implement through their respective District Executive Committees.

3. MCSA Strategic Plan on Property A strategic property plan is essential for the MCSA and it is clear that such a plan must begin at District level in consultation with their Circuits. CE has, therefore, approved a Resolution requesting Conference to direct DTPs to investigate and propose strategies for the effective stewardship of properties within their District. This should be submitted to the Connexional Trust Properties Committee which will formulate a comprehensive property management strategy for the Connexion. The Resolution is attached to the MCO documents.

4. Conference Resolutions 2012 A Centralised Connexional Offi ce The 2012 Conference directed that the Presiding Bishop’s Offi ce, the MCO and the all Units of our Church be re-located together in one place. As should be appreciated this is a huge task as it involves the relocation of the administrative and fi nancial heartbeat of the church which has operated out of Durban since 1936, some 76 years. It also means the loss of excellent, trained staff who will have to fi nd new jobs and the employment of new untrained staff as well as the 28 2014

acquisition of a suitable property in which to house a centralised MCO – which will encompass the PB’s Offi ce and all the Connexional Units from JHB, Durban and Pretoria. We investigated the possibility of a Durban based MCO but decided that Johannesburg was the correct location. It was also decided that now is the right time for centralisation of the MCO for a number of reasons, especially that of staff considerations and certain retirements which occur in 2014. After a considerable search we have found and purchased a suitable property in Bruma, JHB very close to where the existing JHB offi ce is located. It is a modern, stand alone offi ce block comprising 3 fl oors, a parking basement with suffi cient space to earn rental income from outside tenants and it is the fi rst property to be registered in the newly established MCSA Properties Company (Pty) Ltd. The plan is, that once renovations are complete, the JHB and Pretoria Units and the PB’s Offi ce will move into the building and be ready for a start in January 2014. The Durban Offi ce of the MCO will move in May 2014 after all IT issues and audits are complete. We trust that you will hold us in your prayers. Please also understand that there will be times that we are not able to answer queries and attend to certain matters due to circumstances. It will be good to remember those who are not able to move to JHB because of family circumstances. They have been an incredible asset to the church and our thanks go out to them.

Resources Since all of the 2012 Resource Resolutions related in one way or another to the same issue of raising funds, it was agreed by the MCO Executive and CE that the General Secretary establish a Task Team to investigate and make recommendations on these issues. However, in the MCO Conference book, you will see the responses made to each of the Resolutions.

5. Viability of Circuits, Arrears and non-submission of 2010 Form 4Cs Please refer to the MCO Conference Book for the full report. I again highlight the concern I have about Circuits having difﬁ culty in meeting the deadline for th the payment of assessments to the MCO by the 19 monthly. Many Circuits pay nd th between the 22 and the 29 monthly. The problem is that MCO must decide by th th the 20 who can be paid a stipend on the 25 and who can’t. Unpaid stipends are extremely disruptive to the Minister and unnecessary. I again ask Bishops and Circuit leadership to please address this issue urgently. Last year 30, and this year 31 Circuits, are more than 2 months in arrears, amounting to R1.9 million. This needs the attention of Bishops and their DECs. Very often the arrear is not about affordability but about internal disputes. I again emphasize that All 4c’s and 4s’s must be submitted to the MCO by the th District Treasurer by 15 June (2 weeks after Synod). It is their responsibility to ensure that this happens. In this regard the MCO has created a website (www.methodist.org.za/units/mco) from which the 4c and 4s Schedules and 2014 29

the “Accounting Procedure for Circuits and Societies - 2013 Edition” can be downloaded. The Schedules have been updated and the new version of the 4c and 4s must be used for the 2013 accounts onwards. Please ensure that your Circuit Stewards, Treasurers and Auditors are made aware of this information. The web page will be available from December 2013.

The MCO is disappointed to report the poor quality of submissions of the 4c and 4s schedules. Many Circuits have been queried on the incomplete, unbalanced and shoddy accounting standards that these schedules refl ect. It is of great concern that these poor quality fi nancials are signed off by those with accounting qualifi cations. Far more care is needed in this regard. Incomplete and incorrect schedules will be returned to Circuits for correction. The new Accounting Procedure booklet referred to above will help in this regard. Please obtain a copy of it and apply the principles which are specifi c to the MCSA.

Stipend Increases for 2013 Circuits were requested not to increase ‘Additional Stipends’ by more than 1% above the MCO recommended increase of 7% for 2013. The request was generally ignored and Increases in ‘Additional Stipends’ made at Circuit level averaged 15.35%. This resulted in an average increase of 10.9% in stipends for 2013. We have said that if increases remain high, it may become necessary to levy an additional assessment on those Circuits that exceed the recommendations, intervene or amend the Church Pension Increase Policy. For 2014 we are requesting that total stipend increases do not exceed 8% and this includes the Additional Stipend granted by circuits. The average cost of a Minister to a Circuit for 2013 is R435 000 p.a.

6. Financial position of the Church and the Pension Funds. I am pleased to report that the Financial position of the MCO, the Pension Funds, the Millennium Fund and the consolidated accounts for the church as a whole all showed satisfactory growth and reﬂ ect a sound ﬁ nancial position. I mention that the Supernumerary pension increase in 2013 was 10.9%.

7. Reports for approval and adoption The 2012 audited Annual Financial Statements for the MCO, the Methodist Millennium Resource Fund, the MCO 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 MCO Report to Conference 2013 for reference and adoption.

8. Appointments CE appointed the following people to the MCO Executive Committee for 2014 to 2016: Rev Madika Sibeko, Rev Jacob Freemantle, Mesdames Judy Simons, 30 2014

Nomafrench Mbombo, Faith Nodada and Nombasa Hlati.

9. Insurance and Medical matters. Two matters need to be highlighted. First: Underinsurance. Earlier this year the Windhoek church was virtually destroyed by ﬁ re. An independent insurance assessor went in to assess the damage and part of the process is to value the church prior to destruction so that the claim can be assessed. He valued the building at R1.1 million. However, the building was only insured for half that amount. The result is that the term ‘average ‘ applies to the claim. This means that if the building is insured for 50% of its value only half the claim will be paid. This is obviously a real problem that should have been avoided by insuring correctly. Unfortunately there are many church buildings that are underinsured and if yours is one of those you need to make sure that you correct the insured value with the MCO in order to avoid what has happened in Windhoek. Please take the trouble to check your values with your stewards when you get back home. The second issue is the number of times that dubious claims are submitted. Please be aware that assessors are employed to assess claims and if they are dishonest the reputation of our Church and Ministers is severely tarnished. Beware Ministers - your reputations are on the line. This is a problem that must be sorted out, and another related to this is the number of Ministers who are openly rude and disrespectful to our various service providers - not only on the insurance side of things. Please be courteous to all our service providers. On the Medical Aid front I need to advise that over the past few years there have been a number of medical aid service providers who have amalgamated with other providers with the result that the number of medical aid schemes is diminishing. In this regard I wish to report that Pharos is in advanced negotiations to amalgamate with Top-Med. The amalgamation will see the name of Pharos disappear but the Methcare Plan will continue unchanged under Top-Med. It is anticipated that the amalgamated entity will operate from January 2014. There will be no change to the Methcare Plan except for the name change to Top-Med. Currently Pharos have 6500 principle members and Top-Med about 17 500. The combined membership will be approx 24 000. The MCO have no objection to the amalgamation and believe that it will be beneﬁ cial not only because of the increased numbers but because the reserving will improve substantially and the Methcare Plan will be retained. Members will be receiving voting forms and we ask you all to make sure that you vote in favour of the amalgamation. Please contact your fellow Ministers and tell them to vote positively for this and make sure they submit their votes on time.

10. Succession Planning My term of ofﬁ ce as Lay General Treasurer is rapidly coming to an end as I plan 2014 31

to retire at the end of 2014 having seen the move of the MCO to Johannesburg through. My very fi rst Conference was here in Mthatha in 1994 and I praise God that much has been accomplished but much is still to be done. We need to fi nd a successor to this position and that person needs to spend a year with me in order to grasp the magnitude of the position. I ask, therefore, that you be very deliberate in helping us to fi nd my successor. I am certain that we have a capable, called Methodist in our midst and we need to identify that person in the next few months. In addition we are looking for MCO replacement staff who will be JHB based from May 2014. Of the 17 staff currently at MCO only 3 will remain beyond 2014. Two of us will commute and train until the end of 2014. So we are looking for good quality fi nancial administrators and again I am sure that they will be identifi ed with your help and assistance. We will be advertising the positions in February 2014. Please be on the lookout. It remains for me to once again thank our dedicated Staff at the MCO who continuously look after the Church’s interests in a prayerful and fastidious way. They have a lot to be commended for as they have shown that they are there to assist and serve you to the best of their ability.

Thank you. 32 2014 2014 33

DISTRICT REPORTS 34 2014

CAPE OF GOOD HOPE (01)

Bishop Michel W Hansrod

1. INTRODUCTION Straddling the two Oceans which cradle Southern Africa, the Cape District continues to seek through its local churches to be centres of Healing and Transformation, in alignment with the Connexional Vision and Mission of A Christ Healed Africa for the Healing of Nations. During the year under review the District sought earnestly to discover the meaning of being “Together in Christ – A Healing Community” as we continued the Conference 2012 platform of work.

2. DISTRICT OVERVIEW Geographically covering approximately 300000 square kilometres, covering two South African Provinces and including two Countries, namely South Africa and Namibia, our District is served through 23 Circuits and 175 Societies with a membership of 46 124, by 76 Ministers, 3 Deacons, and 7 Ministers in Secondment/Chaplaincy, 35 Members of the Evangelism Order and 15 Full-time Youth Pastors. This District is also home to 60 Supernumerary Ministers and Deacons some of whom continue to minister regularly.

3. DISTRICT VISIONING AND PLANNING Our Annual District and Visioning Indaba, attended by all Circuits, Units and Organisations, convened at the end of 2012 and spent a meaningful time in reﬂ ection, evaluation, monitoring and listening to enable us to discover God’s direction for 2013.The following objectives were set for the year: 3.1 Ministerial Accountability and Review: Circuits were grouped into regions for purposes of greater accountability and mission. These regions are to serve as conduits for ministers to hold each other accountable for their call, vocation and common values as held in the District. They are further to work towards developing a Ministerial Review Mechanism which would serve as a ‘means of grace’ in serving God through the Church. 3.2 Convocation of Presbyters: A one day Convocation of Presbyters dovetailed with Synod will seek to allow Presbyters to prepare more adequately for their responses to the Questions of Vocation and Discipline. 3.3 Organisational Alignment and Accountability: All District Organisations are to align their platform of work and mission with that of the District and seek deeper ways of being held accountable in the ﬁ rst instance to the District. 2014 35

3.4 District Mission: Giving expression to our unity and togetherness a Week Long multi-pronged Mission Week, supported by ALL Circuits, Units and Organisations is to be held in the Central Karoo Circuit.

3.5 Training and Capacity Building: In seeking to build on the meaningful training of Circuit Stewards and Superintendents, Society Steward and Treasurer Training is be accelerated in addition to the Annual Lay Training Days. Further training is also to be offered for those Leading Worship and Lay Pastoral Staff.

3.6 Spirituality and Healing: Prayer and support is to be strengthened through the production of a District Prayer Diary for use in ALL services as well as the appointment of a District Intercessory Team.

3.7 Future Missional Planning and Resourcing: The District Boundaries Team is to develop a District wide Stafﬁ ng and Resourcing Plan to enable more effective Missional endeavours.

3.8 Afﬁ rmation and Support: To continue afﬁ rming and supporting the work and ministry within our District and Connexion.

4. SYNOD 2013 Held in the historic home of the “Belhar Confession” at the United Reformed Church Synodical Centre, Synod convened under the Theme: “Together in Christ a Healing Community”. Apart from completing the Administrative business of Synod, we experienced many Holy Moments in the vein of Mr Wesley’s Holy Conferencing. Amongst these were the inspirational Bible Studies led by Rev Dr Kennedy Gondongwe of the Zimbabwean Conference, Missional challenges of Drugs and Gangsterism by a Drug Victim’s Mother who is also an Abuse Survivor and a former Gang Leader turned Local Preacher, a Synod dressed in Black in support of the Thursdays in Black Campaign and the Celebration and th Recognition of 11 Supernumerary Ministers who have celebrated the 50 or more anniversary of their Ordination.

5. BUILDING COMMUNITY Holding our Covenant to live in community and guided by our District Values, we celebrate our togetherness through our Bi- Yearly Retreats, Monthly Communion fellowships, Spouses and Family events. Circuit Stewards and Society Stewards Consultations, Organisational and Unit leaders Forums as well as Training forums continue to give expression to our Togetherness as a healing community. 36 2014

6. ACHIEVEMENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS In Thanksgiving to God and Celebration of God’s abundant blessings despite a seriously challenging year fi lled with serious confl ict and strife in some Circuits, the economic meltdown and political turmoil, we celebrate the following: The Opening of a New Place of Worship at Veldrift kindly donated by a local businessman. The Centenary Celebrations of the YMG th th The 80 and 130 Anniversary Celebrations of our Ministry and Work at Langa and Salt River respectively. The hosting of a successful Children’s Ministry Indaba The dedication of and offi cial opening of the Extensions at Ottery Road Methodist including the Isaac Dearham Resource Centre and Thomas Achilles Foyer. The dedication of the Renovations and Completion of the Administrative Centre at St Mark’s, Edgemead The hosting of a number of HIV/AIDS Training the trainer Workshops. The Commissioning of our New District Lay Leader – Mr Derek Ronnie. The continuous leadership Development of Clergy and Laity.

7. AS A DISTRICT WE LOOK ARE ENGAGED IN THE FOLLOWING PLANNING: The Bi-Centenary of the Namaqualand Mission in 2016 Seeking creative ways to utilise our valuable asset at Wesley Training College in Salt River

8. MATTERS REFERRED BY CONFERENCE Through the Quarterly Meetings synod appropriately responded to the Structure’s Proposals and Laws and Discipline changes referred by Conference.

9. CONCLUSION As a District we continue in all our endeavours to uphold through our mission and ministry the Connexional Vision of a “Christ Healed Africa for the Healing of Nations” and commit ourselves afresh to being agents and centres of Healing and Transformation.

To the age old question of Jeremiah in Chapter 8:22 “Is there no balm in Gilead?” our resounding answer remains: “There is a Balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole There is a Balm in Gilead to heal the sin sick soul”

That Balm is Jesus, who is the Lord and the centre of our togetherness. 2014 37

GRAHAMSTOWN DISTRICT (02)

Bishop Musi SJ Losaba

1. INTRODUCTION “We are often troubled but not crushed, sometimes in doubt, but never in despair.” 2 Corinthians 4:8. This year, once more, we have witnessed and experienced the presence of God’s Spirit in our lives and that of the church. The Orders of Laity and Presbyters have once more given of themselves to the work which we have been called to do. This is seen in the many ways units, circuits, societies and organisations have performed in the past 12 months.

2. CLERGY MATTERS: DISTRICT MINISTERS’ RETREATS During the Connexional Indaba that was held in Grahamstown in October 2011, ministers from Grahamstown District resolved that spiritual renewal and development is indispensable. It was decided that clergy spiritual revitalization is going to be one of the main focuses. Subsequent to this the District, through the bishop’s ofﬁ ce, implemented the proposal. The book written by Brian McLaren, ‘Finding our way again: The return of the ancient practices’ was recommended as the resource for spiritual revitalization. All ministers in the District were requested to read the book as part of their daily devotions and spiritual discipline. Distinctively, this spiritual exercise was preparing ministers and deacons for their annual retreats and robust engagement during Circuit staff meetings and District events like Synod. For the year 2013 the group is reading together Conversations with my Sons and Daughters, by Mamphela Ramphele.

3. MINISTERS’ ROUNDTABLE We have established a forum presently called the Ministers’ Roundtable for the purpose of consultation and sharing. We hope that through this we will be able to build and strengthen relationships through fellowship and accountability to one another.

4. PRE-SYNOD MEETING Ministers from our District met a day before Synod to reﬂ ect on matters affecting the ordained ministry. A continuous conversation is in place on the following:

(a) The process of candidature for the ordained ministry and post ordination training, hurdles and opportunities, assessments and the length thereof. The challenges of cross-cultural response to the call to ministry.

(b) The process of afﬁ rmation and accountability of the clergy through the Synod order of business. We engaged on the meaning and relevance and on how can we make these meaningful for us and our lay people. 38 2014

5. DISTRICT INITIATIVES 5.1 Education Indaba As a District we have heeded to the Presiding Bishop’s call of getting involved in education related matters as these affect the future of our children and nation. We as the District agreed to prioritise this vision. We resolved to focus not necessarily on education in the broad sense but on schooling and learning related issues. We are convinced that as the MCSA Grahamstown District and the Eastern Cape Province we need to work hard in reviving the culture of schooling and learning. We believe that the culture of schooling doesn’t necessarily ﬁ nd its root in the corridors of government, department of education and the like, but in our living rooms, kitchens and the society we live in. We are convinced that the church, every disciple, every household must work hard to help our children understand the importance of schooling. We as the church have a responsibility to walk alongside and encourage those who make the schooling of our children possible. Statistics tells us that for every school in the country there are two churches. A Church intervention in the schooling and learning of our children can bring healing and transformation of lives. We have requested that every Circuit and/or local society forge partnerships with neighbouring schools together with religious bodies and NGOs per area. We call on all residents to dedicate one hour a month to a school in the form of sport, subjects, life skills etc. We encouraged all residents to empower children through knowledge sharing rather than only focusing on giving e.g. uniform, books, and food. Post the event: An implementation committee, in the Port Elizabeth area, has been established in partnership with Transformation Christian Network’s wing, the Nehemiah Project, chaired by Dr J McFarlane. We call on every Methodist across the District to give an hour a month of his or her life towards healing of our communities. An hour a month invested by 40 000 Methodists can and will bring healing to a broken and bleeding society. We also called on all our organisations, a call extended also to all our Circuits, business people and individuals, to establish an Education Fund that will assist those who are in need of such funding.

5.2 Connexional Young Women’s Manyano Triennial As the district we celebrate the commitment of our young women’s manyano for organising an event of such magnitude, noting that young women are forming a huge percentage of the unemployed in our country, especially in the Eastern Cape. They owned the process, displaying great 2014 39

commitment and support to the General President who is part of the Grahamstown District. The event also raised issues for us to ponder upon of Church and State relations. We need to begin to engage critically on how we understand the relationship we now have with the State and its organs, and what are the control measures of such relations.

5.3 Synod 2013 The Grahamstown District met in Cradock Fish River Circuit 223 in th Cradock for our 189 Synod, guided by the theme: “Together in Christ, a Healing Community”. Kingswood College blessed the Synod with wonderful music as the people of God joined together in worship. Over a period of three days, Spirit ﬁ lled & thought provoking Bible study was led by Rev Phumzile Zondi-Mabizela using contextual theology principles to guide the Synod. The election process was smooth; members of Synod elected Bishop ZD Siwa for Presiding Bishop, Mr Sikhumbuzo Nofemele for District Lay leader, and nominated Rev Msokoli Leleki for the ofﬁ ce of the bishop in the District for Conference to elect.

5.4 Healdtown Institution Our Synod has called on the members of the District to rally around Healdtown Circuit in the initiative of Restoring the Healdtown Institution. We thank the Connexional Women’s Manyano for making available R500 000 towards the renovations. Our District Women’s Manyano at their 2012 Convention resolved to adopt an Economics class at the Healdtown Institution. The Manyano will provide all necessary furniture and equipment for the classroom. The Women’s Manyano gave new furniture to two schools in the Port Elizabeth area. Our appreciation also goes to the Young Women’s Manyano, at Connexion level, for supporting Phillip Nikiwe Primary School, a school in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. In 2007 we started a partnership with this school and the YWM committed to starting a library for the school. Together in Christ we can! Our Kingswood College has embarked on cleaning and painting crèches and Day Care Centres. All departments at the college reach out to the community through imparting skills and resources to the needy.

We are humbled by the work done by the Wesley Guild in Perksdale Circuit, each member bringing a brick to build a house for a family. Annshaw Circuit together with District Women’s Manyano renovated a house. 40 2014

The Walmer Methodist Church is in partnership with John Masiza School. Our fellow Methodists, young and old, give their time, skills and resources to help heal the poverty-stricken families of Walmer Township through education. Uitenhage Kabah Circuit is in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in trying to give shelter and food to homeless and destitute people in KwaNobuhle Township. The Synod heeded to the call to open our churches, so that our buildings can be centres of hope and healing to a broken society. Our buildings become homework, skills development, and role modeling centres.

5.4 District Prayer for Leaders, Moral Regeneration and Thanksgiving service The prayer for leaders and thanksgiving service was a success. In partnership with Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality we hosted a service with the aim of reminding communities of the effort we must all make to ensure that our children and members become beacons of hope within the church and communities they live in. This partnership is in its second year and is envisaged to continue. We have, however, realised that it is a partnership that is not reﬂ ective of who we are as communities within the district. Conversations are to happen across the District with those (ecumenical family and local municipalities) keen to have a time of prayer and thanksgiving to God for our leaders both in church and society. We thank God for this vision.

5.5 Mission Unit Campaign This is an annual event facilitated by our District Mission Unit. The Biblewomen and Evangelists, plus our ministers on probation are indeed following in the footsteps of John Wesley; they are spreading the good news in the Plettenberg Bay area through home visits and spreading the gospel through open air evangelism and tent-ministry. The campaign also involves visiting hospices, police stations, orphanages and schools. At the schools, uniforms are distributed to those in need. We also have trainings of leaders and followers, and are running discipleship courses.

5.6 Heritage Indaba As we draw this year to a close we ought to look back! We value our roots and seek to understand where we come from in order to deﬁ ne th th an informed future for our District. On the 16 and 17 August in Port Alfred, where Methodism holds its roots in this area, we will be hosting a two day session telling stories, discussing and crafting a way forward for our District with regards the history of our District. Ms. Vanessa Peters from the Heritage Preservation Committee (in the 2014 41

ofﬁ ce of the Presiding Bishop) will be sharing with us what vision the committee has with regards to Methodist Heritage. We are also hoping to embark on the Cape of Good Hope and Grahamstown Districts Methodist Heritage Tour late next year starting in the Alice area to Namaqualand.

6. CONCLUSION As we move forward we are always inspired and cautioned by the words of Father John Wesley when he says: “I am not afraid that people called Methodists should ever cease to exist. But I am afraid lest that they should exist only as a dead sect having the form of religion without its power. And this will be the case unless they hold fast to the doctrine, the spirit and discipline with which they ﬁ rst set out.” May God put ﬁ re in us as we together, in Christ, become a healing community. 42 2014

QUEENSTOWN DISTRICT REPORT (03)

Bishop Mongameli President Noqayi

1. INTRODUCTION The year under review has been an excellent one regarding the mission of the Church in the Queenstown District. We acknowledge the selﬂ ess service of the ministers, Evangelists and Biblewomen, Pastors, Stewards and all members of the District, many of whom serve in the midst of high levels of unemployment and poverty. 2012 was a fruitful year in terms of growth and mission.

2. DISTRICT OVERVIEW The District has a total number of 60 850 members as against 45 897 last year, a growth of approximately 30%. The District has 30 circuits served by 56 ministers, 5 pastors, 1 712 local preachers, 577 local societies, 40 Biblewomen and 24 Evangelists. These servants of God seek to remain faithful to the Church’s mission statement that God calls the Methodist people to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ for healing and transformation.

3. DISTRICT VISIONING AND PLANNING The District, as an oasis in this part of the Eastern Cape, has kept the rules of an oasis – not to fence an oasis and not to ﬁ ght in an oasis. As always to be a beacon of hope, fertility and a cause of pleasantness to all, yet not failing in healing the brokenness of its people.

In its visioning the district planned to empower the clergy and the laity. The empowerment of the clergy has been realised by a retreat led by Dr. John Borman. He emphasised the following important aspects: • A Minister as a shepherd • A Minister as a healer • A Minister as a transformer

The training of Superintendents has been one other avenue used to empower the clergy. This training focused on: ‘The Superintendent as a Mission Leader in the circuit.’ Circuit stewards and circuit treasurers were trained on good governance and good ﬁ nancial management.

3.1 Celebrations, highlights and achievements: The District hosted three Connexional events successfully: The Connexional Youth Conference, the Connexional Women’s Association and the Connexional Women’s Auxiliary in the same year. A word of gratitude goes to the District Choirs for the manner in which they represented the District in those events. 2014 43

3.2 Education: The District has played a meaningful role in education. It participated in the “Ilima” Project, and the results produced were exciting and encouraging. The matric pass rate increased in many schools which participated. Ilima is intervention by the church and other stakeholders where grade 12 learners have exam camps – they stay at the schools from the fi rst day of the exams and leave after writing the last exam papers. Methodists helped in cooking meals, donating food to the exam camps, motivating the learners and supervising study-time in the evenings. Our ministers became chaplains to the schools. The District Bursary Fund has sent 21 students to tertiary institutions this year. Organisations, units, departments and circuits contribute tremendously towards the bursary fund. Individuals outside the District, like Mr. Z. Jakavula and Dr. John Borman, have also contributed to the District Bursary Fund. Thanks to them. The District Women’s Manyano has adopted the Mount Arthur High School for Girls. They renovated the school, started the ablution block from scratch and furnished the hostel kitchen. The Connexional Women’s Manyano invested in a prayer garden named after Susanna Wesley. More importantly, the ethos of the school has been taught and revived at the school. Mount Coke Circuit has erected three church buildings during the past year. Mdantsane 314 Circuit has erected a R2,8 million structure as a fi rst phase of the plan. Kamastone Circuit has erected a R1,8 million Church Building. Praise be to God for the strength given to these circuits and many others. It is commendable that projects in the District are sustained. Projects like “Umtha welanga”, “Masincedane”, sewing projects and garden projects are still operational and have an impact on society. The choirs launched their fi rst CD as a District Choir. The District Communication Desk has launched a District Magazine called “The Oasis”, showcasing mission work done by the District. An overview of the district activities would suggest that spirituality remains the major focus. Most of what is done is devotional in nature. Circuit and organisational retreats, conventions and revivals are a source of inspiration in this District. Emmaus Walk prayer meeting and Alpha classes are happening throughout the District.

3.3 Evangelism and Church Growth: District organisations remain an important vehicle for evangelism and church growth in the District. The Evangelists and Bible women have 44 2014

their outreach and house-to-house evangelism. There has been a numerical growth in terms of membership.

3.4 Justice and Service: Anti-corruption programmes and campaigns against children and women abuse are programmes in which the District participates and form partnerships in such forums. Workshops and trainings are done on substance abuse.

3.5 Economic Empowerment and Development: A District workshop on ﬁ nancial management, project sustainability and entrepreneurship was held this year. Projects are well managed. Circuits have improved in giving.

3.6 District Leadership: The District has elected new leadership. Rev. M.E. Matyumza as a new bishop; Rev. Ian Horwarth as Secretary of Synod; Mr. Lunga Panya as treasurer. The District has pledged to support and pray for them. We pray that they have a blessed period in ofﬁ ce.

The District is healthy, sound and in good state. I extend a word of gratitude to all who supported the vision and the mission of the District.

May God bless you. 2014 45

KIMBERLEY, NAMIBIA AND BLOEMFONTEIN (05)

Bishop Litaba Isaiah Mothibi

1. INTRODUCTION The year under review has been a good and exciting one for the District, as most of the planned projects were realised. The strategic document that was accepted in 2011 has kept the District focused. Organisations continue to use mission imperatives and play signifi cant roles in the lives of the respective societies in the District. I hope the fi fth imperative will be reported on later. In the midst of fi nancial challenges experienced by most Circuits, the District remains stable. Following are highlights of the work done in the District in the year under review:

2. SPIRITUALITY Spiritual formation continues to be an area of priority in most of our Circuits, where teaching, revivals, class meetings and cell groups enhance our witness to the community. We also continue to address the needs of the sick, the aged and the needy through various programmes. The District’s Pastoral work comprises of interventions such as counselling, sick and hospital visits, after care, bereavement ministry, trauma debrieﬁ ng and pastoral visits to families of members deployed away from home. Satanism is rife in the schools and amongst youth in the District. Young people are being tormented by demonic spirits. Resources like the devotional Upper room Prayer booklets are given to schools in an effort not only to conscientise the young people about the consequences of Satanism, but also to equip them with spiritual tools to resist joining these cults. The church leadership has also been involved in morning devotions and prayer meetings at the schools which are affected by Satanism. Our people are hurting, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Support and Equip- ping Programmes such as a Biblical Portrait of Marriage, Effective Parenting in a Defective World, Ethics and Anti-Corruption were done in collaboration with other Professionals in our district to uplift the spirit and give moral guidance.

3. EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH Through Ecumenism, Unity among MCSA and different Christian churches has improved. There is greater cooperation and understanding amongst churches. During the service delivery protest in Kuruman, a team led by the Bishop and the Kuruman Circuit Superintendent met with leaders of the protest and Northern Cape Department of Education to mediate in the hostile situation that compromised the education of the learners in that area. 46 2014

The Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein District together with the Northern Free State and Lesotho District hosted a very successful crusade in Bloemfontein. The participants in the programme uplifted the spirit of those in attendance many people were healed.

4. JUSTICE AND SERVICE An initiative that enables individuals in alleviating poverty in our communities, the St Mary’s Methodist Church in Bloemfontein through ISISWENYE AGRICULTURAL PROJECT continues to grow and helps identify families needing vegetables and eggs on weekly basis. Good work has also been done by the Organisations providing clothes to the needy in our communities. Uniforms, school bags, planting of Trees, and Computers were provided to schools such as HTT BIDI Primary School, Asmandia, both in Postmasburg circuit, and a school in Thaba-Nchu (Mokoto Village). A Wheel chair donation to one of the Young Women’s Manyano members was made also. The District Local Preachers Association established a project in honour of the late Reverend Gosani Mqomo, who was the President. This project was his dream in trying to help needy families. It is called Gosani Mqomo Education project. The Circuit that hosts the annual Convention will identify a school with needy children and the Convention will then donate a full uniform to somebody who is needy. Secondly the District will identify a needy child and assist with the registration fee at an institution of higher learning. This will continue until the student completes the registered course. Each year, the Christian Council of Namibia through the involvement of the MCSA in the district, in conjunction with Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, mobilises communities during the 16 days of activism against violence against women and children. The educational programmes and training for the empowerment of women clergy are taking place and conducted under the Christian Council of Namibia. All local churches are involved. Circuits such as Bloemfontein, Diamond Fields and Taung contributed and donated some food parcels, blankets and clothes to the Foreigners who were displaced in various Community Centres/Halls after the Xenophobic attacks in their businesses in Botshabelo and Thaba-Nchu. The District as well as the Connexion Mission Unit also assisted with blankets, food parcels and some clothes.

5. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT The District has acquired the Aldersgate Conference Centre property, as a District project. The centre has conference and accommodation facilities to generate funds for the District. It is hoped that it will help to alleviate costs and 2014 47

expenses incurred more especially in terms of our gatherings. The centre is up and running. Fundraising committee has been established to raise funds so that we can extend the property by building more rooms and camp facilities. The aim is to use it for future Synods, meetings of District Organisations, and Circuit activities. The District Women’s Manyano has pledged to donate a sum of R30 000 every year towards the District Project. A leader must lead by example, be a person of common wisdom, sound judgement, and be driven by a desire to do God’s will. Leaders must strive to be accountable, exemplary, and inspirational. That is why the District Training Team, led by the Mission Unit Coordinator and the Lay leader have held workshops where laity and clergy participated fully. There were three workshops held in various regions of the District, i.e. Central Northern Cape and Trans Orangia . Namibia will follow.

• Central Region: Very successful Leadership workshops were held in Brandfort Circuit at Bultfontein Society, and the other one was held in Seth Mokitimi Circuit, while the third one was held in Thaba Nchu Circuit at Selosesha. • Northern Cape Region: Leadership workshop at Kuruman and Postmasburg Circuits

These leadership workshops dealt mainly with issues such as (a) Spirituality of Giving, (b) Effective committees and role of Ofﬁ ce bearers (c) Leadership by Grace (d) Pastoral Leadership (e) Being Church and the spirituality of leadership (f) Critical skills of leadership (g) Leadership lessons from emperor Shaka the Great (h) Relationship among leaders and with the local ministers in the Society and Circuit Other workshops touch the following areas: Giving, Management & Leadership, Handling of Finances and the Five Mission Imperatives. The leadership training in the District continues to make a great difference and strong impact in the way our people are handling Church and property A District Trust Property workshop was held at Aldersgate Conference Centre for the Central Circuit Region. The workshop focused on:- • District Trust Property Application Form • Insured Properties in District • Insurance Booklet • Title Deeds 48 2014

6. HIGHLIGHTS Synod 2012 took a bold decision to purchase a vehicle for the Rundu area. Laity and ministers contributed but that was not enough. Our British partners donated a sum of R19 000 through the efforts of the Mission Unit. Mrs Charity Mampa from Postmasburg contributed R20 000. A 2007 Mazda Premacy was then bought and presented to Kavango Mission Circuit in May 2013. The District Website is up and running, and circuits and organisations are able to send their updates such as proﬁ les, pictures of what they are doing in their various corners, messages of aspirations and motivations, as well as their gatherings such as conventions and conferences. The district continues to have a paperless synod. Technology is effectively used in the Synod. All presentations and reports are projected. A new Lay Leader was elected during the 2013 Synod by the name of Mrs Ethel Tshangela. We would like to thank Mrs Palesa Thulo, the outgoing Lay Leader for the tremendous work she has done in this district during her two terms. Her commitment and skills will always be remembered. Mr Reuben Thibinyane took over from Mr Kago Marumo as District Treasurer. A word of gratitude goes to Kago for the work well done. Reverend Louis Williams who is the new supervisor of studies after Reverend Khotso Lesia, is tasked to establish the school of vocation as a matter of urgency. Rev. Lesia did a sterling job during his time of ofﬁ ce and we thank him dearly. District Childcare desk has been established with Mrs Phirime co-ordinating.

7. CHALLENGES The vastness of the district continues to be a challenge, whereby it is diffi cult for the Bishop to effectively serve other circuits in Namibia. The district continues to struggle to get and retain ministers in rural areas. Most white congregations in small towns have closed down. The relationship between Namibia home affairs and MCSA has improved to some degree. Unfortunately, because of stationing limitations, there are still ministers who live without their spouses. Because of dire fi nancial times we live in, Circuits are struggling to meet their fi nancial obligations toward the District and MCO.

8. CONCLUSION st The theme for the 2013 Synod was “Witnessing for Christ in the 21 Century”. This followed the Bishop’s address in 2012, where he challenged the Synod to be prophets who are not conﬁ ned to the four walls of Church buildings. Ministers were once again reminded of their calling and duty to shepherd the ﬂ ock of Christ. In 2013 the challenge was the kind of Witness you are in the 2014 49

st 21 century. A true witness for a 21st century world is one that comes from a perspective, not of superiority of speech or wisdom, but the personal testimony of the experience with God; from a presentation of a Person, of knowing nothing except Jesus Christ and Him cruciﬁ ed; from a posture of humility that exhibits itself in witness and fear and in much trembling, in a power that is not based on persuasive words of wisdom, but a demonstration of the Holy Spirit; and for the purpose that people will not place their faith in human wisdom but in the power of God. 50 2014

NORTHERN FREE STATE AND LESOTHO DISTRICT (06)

Bishop Andrew Motswenyane

1. INTRODUCTION The Northern Free State & Lesotho District is still seeking to align itself with our Connexional Vision: “A Christ-healed Africa for the healing of Nations”. In the words of Martin Luther King Jnr: “Anybody can serve. You do not have to have a College degree to serve. You do not have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love”. In the year 2012 we were faced with many challenges where conﬂ icts were experienced. God is good all the time. I still maintain that even in the midst of all the storms of life, God still rules. Yes indeed, He carried us through the year because He is in control! Our theme last year was The Wondrous Restoration of Dignity. After the Conﬂ icts, hurt and pain, God alone restores us and gives us dignity as the District.

2. DISTRICT SYNOPSIS • Our statistics have not given balanced and realistic ﬁ gures as should be reﬂ ected. All in all we are trying our best to get the correct statistics from different Circuits. • Our District is plagued with unemployment where mining companies are closing down. This means one thing – poverty! No wonder many Circuits are found to be in arrears, but through God’s grace those arrears are being reduced.

3. SPECIAL EVENTS 3.1 Women’s Manyano: The focus of the NFS & L District Women’s Manyano comes out of the Connexional Focus of 2011-2014: (i) Educate women for value added life. (ii) Educate children for value added life. Then the NFS & L District Operational plan 2011-2013: (i) Educate children for value added life. The Women’s Manyano donated school uniforms to 65 learners, school teaching aids for foundation phase, and blankets to old age homes. They also donated blankets to the House of Hope where abandoned children are cared for. A young girl has received a bursary from the Connexional Women’s Manyano; she is studying at Potchefstroom University. 2014 51

3.2 Youth Unit: The Youth Unit, realising that our District is plagued by poverty due to the high rate of unemployment, is constantly involved in trying to combat the situation through providing assistance to the homes of the needy as part of the Youth Unit programme. The Youth Unit identiﬁ ed a family in Bethlehem where there are 5 children, one of whom has disabilities. They provided a wheelchair for this child named Kagiso, the family was provided with blankets and groceries, and the house was painted. Again in Bethlehem the Youth Unit identiﬁ ed another family where the house was in a bad state. The owner could not do much for himself. The doors and windows were damaged, which the Youth Unit replaced. They also painted the house and bought groceries and blankets. The sanitary system was also repaired by the young people who are skilled in that area. I still maintain, if young people are given the chance, we will achieve great things through God who strengthens us. Well done Young people!

3.3 Young Women’s Manyano: The Young Women’s Manyano took up the challenge at their Convention in Wesselsbron and they bought a kitchen unit, fridge, table and chairs and blankets for a family that is very poor. They went a step further by intervening with a family where a granny is left with the grandchildren who do not have school uniforms. They bought uniforms for all the children; the face of the granny blossomed, she was so happy to receive these gifts.

3.4 Spirituality: The people in this District participate in prayer meetings. Worship services are continuing in all circuits. There are strong intercessory prayer ministries. Healing ministries are conducted at District level; we went to Senekal Circuit in July together with two ministers who are known to have gifts in healing ministry. Celebration of Covenant, Easter, Pentecost, Ascension and Christmas services are observed by the circuits in the District. Organised cell groups are established and Bible Study classes continue.

3.5 Evangelism And Church Growth: As I have indicated above, we had a wonderful time at Senekal. I had the opportunity of going from house to house in Senekal, praying with the people and sharing with them the Word of God. In the evening we had a healing service and the church was packed. We stayed at the Circuit for three days. Evangelism outreach and missions were undertaken by members of 52 2014

the church to India, Russia and Madagascar. YMG, Women’s Manyano and other organisations continue to hold revivals even at taxi ranks.

3.6 Justice and Service: Our main ministry in this area is still the St. Luke’s Clinic in Welkom which continues its ministry to the people who live in the dungeon and on the streets. The Clinic offers primary health care, HIV/AIDS Counselling and the services of a Social Worker. Women’s Manyano took to the streets and marched to raise their prophetic voice to the State on issues of abuse and rape in the society. Prisons and hospitals are being visited. At Clarens, Bana ba hlokang are placed at Tshepong – Place of Hope Centre, where needy and poor children are taught computer and fed daily. This support is especially for child headed households.

3.7 Economic Empowerment and Development: At Tshepong Centre we have the services of Social workers, two people employed as manager and matron, and other people are being trained in counselling. The Women’s Manyano are going forward with a sewing project, to the extent of starting a factory. Watch this space – the women in this District really look forward to empowering themselves.

3.8 Education: Things are happening as far as education is concerned. When the women celebrated Women’s World Day of Prayer, it was celebrated together with a particular school – St. Dominic’s, in Welkom. A church also adopted a school called Leboneng Special School for impaired children. This school was always being vandalized because it did not have any fencing; the church in the Welkom Circuit took it upon themselves and wrote letters to the MEC and the Education Minister. Today as we write this the school is fenced with palisade. They also bought groceries, a stove and a deep freeze for this school. The church is still negotiating for the hostels because the school caters for the children in the Lejweleputsoa district.

3.9 Lesotho: The circuits in Lesotho are trying their level best. We are still having a problem with lack of accommodation for the Maseru minister. We had a joint service where all Lesotho circuits met at one circuit for a service, which was a once-off event.

3.10 Challenges: We still have problems with Ficksburg and Ladybrand Circuit where a disciplined minister refuses to vacate the manse. We still wait on the judge to render her judgment. Also in Maseru. 2014 53

4. CONCLUSION: In his book, Common Acts of Signiﬁ cant Employees: Heal the Marikana in Your Workplace, Dr Leon Klein says:

“You are God’s workmanship. You are a product of God’s best, most valued and most signiﬁ cant work – Be and believe that”. Pg 25

Yes indeed you are the best in the eyes of God! AfterGod created you He said: “it is good!” 54 2014

NATAL COASTAL DISTRICT (07)

Bishop Mike Forster

“TOGETHER A WILLING COMMUNITY” Reﬂ ections on Luke 5: 12 to 16.

SANIBONANI BAZALWANE, GRACE AND PEACE BE UPON US ALL.

1. GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND RAPE: All our Circuits, Local Societies and Organisations are addressing this issue. EVERY 8 HOURS A WOMAN IS KILLED IN OUR COUNTRY BY SOMEONE SHE KNOWS. 5000 women are raped daily. Who is next? Your daughter? Your wife? One of your family members? On Human Rights Day 21 March 2013 a 7 km walk was organised by Ndwedwe 714 Circuit Wesley Guild to raise awareness to Stop Violence against Women. At this event we heard of several types of abuse against women: emotional; verbal; psychological; physical etc. I heard some terrible stories of rape & abuse in this area. Most of our people support the Thursdays in Black Campaign – contact Diakonia Council of Churches 0313103500, as a starting point to get involved. At the YMG annual convention held in Groutville, the Bishop together with our men signed a pledge committing themselves to overcoming the scourge of violence against women. Thank you for this initiative. Also together with the District Bishop the men at Durban North Methodist Church, Umngeni Circuit pledged themselves to regard women as equal and together as partners to work for justice for all women, during the Good Friday service where the theme was “Women at the foot of the Cross” - John 19:25-27. A similar pledge was made during the Easter Convention in Durban 712.

2. CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS IN MARRIAGE: Our District Wellness Task team has designed a Creative Conversations in Marriage workshop and continues to offer this speciﬁ cally for Methodist Clergy couples. We are in process of doing something similar for our single ministers.

3. METHODISTS CHALLENGED BY AIDS (MCA): It is encouraging to see that activism pays off. In the Mail & Guardian Newspaper (22 to 28 February 2013) there is an article reporting that there is a drop in infections following ARV’s success. Reporter Mia Malan writes: “The adult life expectancy of the general population in rural KwaZulu-Natal has increased 2014 55

by more than 11 years – from 49 to 60 – as result of the widespread availability of antiretroviral treatment. This is according a study conducted by the Africa Centre for Health and Population Studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, which was published in Science journal.” We give thanks to God for the many faithful activists and community caregivers who work tirelessly to overcome the HIV and aids pandemic. Thanks to Mam Phewa and our District Lay Leader, Sanele Mbhele, who have trained someone from every Circuit through our District’s Methodist Challenged By Aids mission task group. We continue to pray for those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS.

4. PALESTINE/ISRAEL: Rev Dr. Jenny Sprong spent three months as a peace monitor in Palestine/Israel, and has briefed many of our members of her ﬁ rst-hand experience of the current challenges in that part of the world.

5. NATAL COASTAL DISTRICT SCHOOL FOR EVANGELISATION AND DISCIPLESHIP: The pilot course was launched on 16 February 2013. THE CORE PURPOSE of a school for evangelisation and discipleship: Noting that there are many varied ways of bringing the Good News to a broken and bruised world and people, the Natal Coastal District seeks to provide space where we can sharpen our tools and develop new ones for the purposes of Evangelisation and Discipleship in: Townships, Informal Settlements, Suburbs, Rural and Inner-City places. The start of Module One was a practical with the Order of Evangelists in Upper South Coast Circuit on Saturday 16 March 2013. We had folk from Phoenix, Organisations and Trinity La Lucia participating. For more information contact the District Offi ce. ‘BECOMING THE AROMA OF CHRIST’: PERMEATING THE AROMA OF CHRIST TO AT LEAST ONE MILLION PEOPLE IN OUR DISTRICT. There are ninety-three images of the early church community in the Gospels and Epistles. One such image is found in 2 Corinthians 2:14-17: “But thanks be to God, who in Christ spreads in every place the fragrance that comes from knowing him... For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those are being healed and among those who are perishing. To one fragrance from death to death; to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is suffi cient for these things? ”John 12:3“....and the house was fi lled with the fragrance of the perfume.” Our ‘house’ is the MCSA Natal Coastal District, which includes about 7 million of 10.6 million in KwaZulu-Natal. We are the aroma of Christ whose fragrance must fi ll every corner of our beloved part of the KZN house. In ‘our house’ are: the unsuspecting stranger; the unemployed; those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS; the abused women; 56 2014

the mentally and physically challenged; the child who is abused; the corrupt business person; the hungry; those in prison...every person we come into contact with on a daily basis at work, at school, at tertiary places, at sports stadiums .... Let the aroma of Christ ﬁ ll every space that has been assigned to our care. Let us together be willing to reach at least One million and quantify this for our own encouragement to spur us on to do more. May this be part of our contribution in tangible ways to be together a healing community for the healing our corner of Africa. It is our hope to reach 1 million or more in the next three years. The Bishop will be leading this and will visit each Circuit staff meeting to enthuse staff.

6. ORGANISATIONAL CONVENTIONS AND DISTRICT MEETINGS: It is always a joy for me to participate in these events. Thanks to the YMG for your support, afﬁ rmation and many certiﬁ cates of appreciation.

7. YOUTH: Encouraging work has been done by our District Youth Unit Executive who have worked tirelessly to establish Circuit Youth Units. Our Youth are the ones who need to pave our way to a lasting unity within our Church and communities.

8. ENGAGEMENT WITH THE WIDER SOCIETY: Through the ofﬁ ce of the District Bishop we engaged with the following: • KZN Public Peace Programme • The tragic death of Trafﬁ c Inspectorate recruits • Gender Commission on Equality regarding the vulnerability of Widows • With the Premier.

9. ECUMENICAL ENGAGEMENTS: • Chair the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council (KZNCC) • Member of the KZN Inter-religious Council (KZNIRC) • Member of the World Conference on Religions for Peace (WCRP) • Member of Diakonia Council of Churches Council • We are represented on the eShowe-based KwaZulu Regional Christian Council

10. ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE METHODIST CHURCH IN ZIMBABWE, MARONDERA DISTRICT, MUTARI 22 TO 26 AUGUST 2012: Both Bishop Mongemeli Noqayi and I had a wonderful time with the people called Methodists in Zimbabwe during their annual Conference. We were both impressed by the resilience of our Zimbabwean neighbours and wish them well as they move into a new future. It was a special blessing and privilege to be part of the moving Ordination service on Sunday 26 August. 2014 57

11. TWINNING NATAL COASTAL DISTRCIT WITH BULAWAYO EAST DISTRICT, METHODIST CHURCH IN ZIMBABWE: After a visit by Bishop Mike Vorster and Rev Carol Walsh to Bulawayo East District in April 2013 and a reciprocal visit by Bishop Cleopas Sibanda, District Lay President Soneni Matiwaza and District President of the Women’s Manyano, Mrs. Susan Sibanda in May 2013, the NCD Synod formally adopted the proposal that we explore links and partnerships with the Bulawayo East District, MCZ.

12 LAITY TRAINING: The District Lay Leader, Sanele Mbhele and District Treasurer Lindiwe Mazibuko, continue to offer training for lay leaders in our church.

13. VISITS TO CIRCUITS: SOME HIGHLIGHTS: Bishop’s Pastoral Visit to Ingwavuma; Kwangwanase and Mozambique 13 to 17 March 2013: We visited the elderly in remote mountainous and bush areas in Ingwavuma. Rev Lucky Mgomezulu knows everyone, having grown up in this area – so rural visiting is drive-stop-chat-give some a lift-drive-stop- chat- give some a lift-drive- stop- chat- give some a lift-stop and chat – we visited the elderly and two mothers whose daughters were murdered by their boyfriends. May their souls rest in peace and may the families be comforted in their grief. (Thursday 14/03/2013) Visiting the elderly in sandy and bush areas, Kwangwanase. I admire the work done by Rev Jabu Mhlope and the team of dedicated lay leaders, who need to travel long distances on thick sandy roads – the only adequate vehicle is a 4x4. One really needs to know where you are going or one could get lost in the maze of sand tracks. The best is to go to a homestead and ask someone to accompany one – then take them back afterwards. The hospitality is amazing – we were served pap and free-range chicken after celebrating our Lord’s Supper under a tree, surrounded by indigenous bush and the sounds of nature – a wondrous moment. (Friday 15/03/2013) Rev. Lucky Mgomezulu, Mr. Madonsela and 2 Evangelical Church pastors travelled with me to Maputo to be in solidarity with our Mozambique District Bishop, Rev. Dinis Matsolo, at the loss of his beloved mother Mam Motsolo who lived until she was 90 years old. After attending a Local Preachers workshop led by the Bishop we travelled to Bishop Dinis’ homestead in Salamanga where we shared a word and prayers of comfort and encouragement to the family. The journey to Manguzi Border gate was quite an ‘adventure’; thank God for the excellent driving skills of Mr. Madonsela (I learnt a trick or two about negotiating thick, thick sand.) (15&16/03/2013) In addition to these Circuits I have also visited and had meetings with: Empangeni Circuit; Upper South Coast; Clerpine; CCMyT; Umngeni; Ndwedwe; Durban 712; Nongoma; Ubombo; Kearsney; Lower Tugela; Ndulinde. 58 2014

14. COMMUNICATION: Our District continues to have a featured article in every New Dimension, thanks to our District Media ofﬁ cer, Lihle Pewa. I would encourage all societies and Circuits to send articles to ND. The District Facebook:” Natal Coastal Methodists”, established 2 years ago by the late Roland Vernon, continues to portray our District (albeit in the main through the ‘eyes’ of the District Bishop) to the wider world. We have an estimated reach so far of over 200 000 globally. Rev. Michael Bishop is in the process of setting up our own NCD website; in the meantime we keep regular posts on the MCSA webpage. I have kept the District updated through our District Communique. Good use has been made of public newsprint media i.e. Isolezwe, Illanga, uMAfrika by many societies, sections and Circuits, to report to the wider community of Methodist events.

15. CONNEXIONAL COMMITMENTS: • We hosted the Connexional Heritage Indaba in August 2012. (Thanks to Rev Emmanuel Gabriel) • Chair of the Child Care Desk advisory committee. • Chair of the Ecumenical Affairs advisory committee (Director of Ecumenical Affairs: Rev. Purity Malinga) • Member of the Mission Unit Board (Chair: Bishop Temba Mntambo) • Member of the task team to set up a Connexional Justice and Service Desk (by decree of Conference) • Bishop’s meetings • CE and Conference We thank God for the Missional, Pastoral and administrative work done by the Ministers, Circuit Stewards, Superintendents, Organisation Leaders, Mission Group Leaders and the District Executive. I must thank the District Executive in particular, for their support and continued interest not only in the well-being of the District but in that of the District Bishop as well. Peace and Blessings 2014 59

NATAL WEST (08)

Bishop Sandy Dickie

1. INTRODUCTION The District offi ce, located in Pietermaritzburg, had been the traditional seat of District administration for the past 42 years. Since my induction service in Newcastle in November 2012, I have made the Newcastle manse the District offi ce. The offi ce in Pietermaritzburg has been closed, though the local societies have all made meeting rooms available when needed. This move is infl uencing the management style of the District, has reduced costs, but has increased my travelling as I attempt to meet pastoral needs throughout the far fl ung District. Our District area is home to about one third of the total population of Kwa Zulu Natal, is predominantly Zulu speaking, and has three main centres, namely Pietermaritzburg, Port Shepstone and Newcastle. Theme for 2013: Growing together in Christ: Ephesians 4: 11-16.

Synod The annual Synod was held at the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary. The venue proved ideal for worship services, catering, conferencing and workshopping. A decision was taken to hold future Synods at this venue. It is hoped that future Synods at a centralised venue will lead to improved efﬁ ciency and spiritual renewal. Four workshops were conducted on Evangelism, Youth and Education, Structures and the ongoing Same Sex Discussion. There is no doubt that the District Executive one day retreat held in January, as well as the Regional Meetings for Ministers, Deacons and Lay workers, and the Superintendents meeting, all contributed to the sense of joy and excitement about what the Holy Spirit was leading us into.

2. CIRCUITS There were 14 stationing moves in the District in December 2012. It is hoped that these moves will lead to stability in the circuits. Only four proposed moves will take place this year, two from retirements, one from the death of Rev Cynthia Xaba, and one probationer appointment. The circuits have been urged to keep their ministers for at least the initial ﬁ ve year invitation period, and to work at achievable vision and mission goals. The District Executive will be taking the lead in initiating discussions on increasing the number of stations for ministers. The lower south coast especially, where there are large concentrations of pensioners, is struggling to raise the ﬁ nances to enable the stationing of full time ministers. With regard to the situation of ‘one minister circuits’ there will be ongoing discussions, as urged by the Presiding Bishop and Conference. Circuits will 60 2014

engage in research and negotiations as to how to grow the work of the Kingdom of God through co-operation with neighbouring circuits, and changing of circuit boundaries.

3. FINANCES It is with joy that I can report that only one circuit is refl ected by the MCO as being behind in payment of assessments. It is hoped that this situation will also soon be remedied. The downturn in the Economy has seriously affected church funding, as was refl ected in the lower amounts collected for Mission and Ministerial Training at Synod. Nevertheless several church buildings were erected and renovations completed. I fi rmly believe that the Lord is calling us to be bold in faith and, despite the economy, to grow through being relevant to people’s needs. When preachers focus on improving the way they communicate the Good News, then congregations grow. There are examples of this growth in our District.

4. MISSION WORK The Metro Circuit in Pietermaritzburg has been working on new and effective models of ministry for lay workers and ordained ministers in city mission. Week day services are conducted in businesses, factories, hospitals and institutions. The Sunday services in all societies reﬂ ect a cultural mix and variety of worship styles. Soup kitchens and food parcels for the needy form a part of the ministry of presence. Deacon Kathy Marsden is doing invaluable work amongst the rural poor in Circuit 808 Pt Shepstone. She manages to raise funds from all over to continue the work, and has helped many by delivering food parcels and helping some to start up small businesses, and others to develop vegetable gardens. The Vryheid Wesley Guild members raised some R 30 000 and built a two roomed house for a pensioner whose mud house had been destroyed by the rains. The dedication service in February, in a nearby tent in the open veld, was a joyful occasion that showed the generosity of the local Methodists towards this as yet unchurched, grandmother and her dependents. In most areas there are crèches, child care centres, preschools and feeding schemes. Some have been supported by the Pula Fund, some by grants from the Mission and Extension Fund, but most are funded by local Methodists. The needs are everywhere, but we have to decide what is real mission work that ﬂ ows from the needs of the local communities and can be owned by the locals. There are too many who merely receive until funds run out, and then go elsewhere for handouts. The Thembelihle Child Care Centre in Newcastle has been helped by the Children’s Desk to receive a volunteer from Germany to work with the 45 boys for 6 months. This is truly cross cultural mission work. 2014 61

5. HISTORICAL PROPERTY The inﬂ uence of the early missionaries is evident in the worship and liturgies of our Zulu speaking congregations. Two institutions in our District have emotional ties for many Methodists, but today are cause for much soul searching in the st. challenges of the C21

Boshoff Street Church has been sold to a local business. It was built in 1880, but high maintenance costs and the downtown inner city locality, its proximity to Metro church along with the demise of the congregation led to a decision to sell. It was later found that Methodists from Circuit 802 were growing in numbers and reaching a community of people who were moving in from outlying areas. An appeal against the sale was lodged, but a commission set up by the Presiding Bishop found that the sale had to go ahead. This unpleasant episode raised the issue of the ownership of Church property, and the need for neighbouring circuits to communicate better. A recommendation from the commission was that all worshippers in properties stewarded/maintained by a circuit should become members of that circuit, and not have dual membership.

Indaleni Institution has three schools on the property, all subsidised by Government, and Methodists have very little say on the Boards. The School for the Deaf is doing amazing work and is staffed by dedicated teachers. More than 20 hectares of land is lying fallow. Squatters and property developers are all coveting the land, and we are challenged as to how to best use the land for mission.

6. MINISTERS The deaths of Rev Cynthia Xaba (Mission Secretary and Music Society coordinator) at Escort/Wembezi, Mrs Fundie Tshangela and Rev Elphas Miya hit hard. The funeral services held at Port Shepstone and Edendale were amazing occasions of revival and spiritual upliftment. We thank God for their faithful ministries.

7. DISTRICT CONVENTIONS These continue to fulﬁ l a need for fellowship amongst members of organisations, and are the events that when properly planned and organised can spread the overall theme of togetherness in Christ. We are blessed with strong leaders who are holding together organisations that do much good in their local churches and communities.

8. FUTURE PLANS We will continue to build relationships within the ministry and laity, to improve the sense of belonging together as fellow Methodists and Christians. We want to be obedient to the call of our Lord on our lives. “When each part is working properly, (it)makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” Eph 4:16 62 2014

CENTRAL (09)

Bishop Peter M Witbooi

1. INTRODUCTION Pausing to remember, recapture, reﬂ ect and review is always a bird’s eye-view into the wide-ranging work that God has graciously enabled the District to dare, dream and in humble vigilant service, commitment and faithfulness, achieve. Together, as church and society, ministerial and lay, young and old, men and women, rich and poor, urban and rural, we have sought to go beyond dialogue about the complex issues of destitution, inequality and vulnerability from the inner city, suburbs, locations, informal settlements and rural, to the extents of our District. Visiting, conversing and reading the reports on our work expose the diverse socio-economic factors, continuing journey towards healing and transformation and also testify to the love of God that creates all things, connects all things, calls all things together and redeems all things.

2. DISTRICT STRATEGIC DIRECTION As a District we have over the last year begun bottom-up conversations about the things God is calling us to preach, teach and do as part of our prophetic calling in this part of the world. A discernment process that began as a ministerial conversation highlighted the changing nature of our world. Whilst God has availed both ministerial and lay gifts there is a need for becoming more intentional about how we direct these gifts to our new world of ministry. Our new world is marked by unprecedented degrees of social ills ranging from divisions, neglect and abuse of ‘others’, corruption and greed as well as violence. There is a need for the church to minister in a relevant and creative way as we seek to heal and transform the world and people of the world through the Gospel. In working towards relevant, vibrant and practical mission strategies that would bring about healing and transformation, we together asked as a District, circuits, organisations and formations: What do we celebrate? What is it we are already doing? How effective is it in bringing about healing and transformation? What do we preach and teach? How can we improve our mission? As a corporate (i.e. together as a District) and as individual (i.e. as circuits/societies) Due to the nature of our District some of the emerging themes include a renewed District focus on: Christian formation; Women and Children; Education; Church Growth; Healing and Confl ict; Ministry to the Mining sector; Diversity Management; poverty focused stewardship; and Rural Ministry Development. Specifi c challenges relating to understaffi ng and limited resources in the western 2014 63

part of our District indicate the continuing challenges about use and distribution of our human and ﬁ nancial resources.

3. MISSION WORK The scope of our mission entails the whole spectrum of our District work in response to the Connexional call to become a healing community, in particular circuit, societies, organisations, youth and children’s conceptualisation of our mission pillars/imperatives. Evident in our reports from circuits and entities is the constant desire to hold in dynamic tension our Wesleyan ethos of personal and social holiness with a heart set on seeing the dawn of Godly justice and improving the lives of our people.

4. SPIRITUALITY Most of our circuit work testiﬁ es to the vibrancy, diversity and rich texture of the spirituality of our District. Most of our congregations continue to pastorally offer care and support to individuals, families, communities and most especially the vulnerable and bereaved of our society. This care is often accompanied with prayer and relevant teaching to enrich encouragement and enrich the journey of meaningful discipleship. Encouraging initiatives are found in those circuits with bible studies and fellowship groups that balance personal enrichment and practical service such HIV/AIDS call groups, healing services, courses on Forgiveness, Family enrichment courses like Marriage Alpha, care for immigrant people and foreigners, Discipleship courses that encourage social engagement.

This form of practical spirituality is noticeable in our District conventions and meetings where organisations and formations have become more intentional about reaching out with a warm heart and a helping hand to social institutions such as schools, police stations, vulnerable communities and hospitals within the surrounds of the host circuit. Whilst there is such a wide spread of spiritual resource material that circuits and societies are using, the District would beneﬁ t from an increased networking and sharing of these valuable resources.

5. EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH When our statistical secretary presented his report at synod, it was intriguing to note how he linked the socio-economic demographics of our District with the gospel imperatives. In this emerging mission ﬁ eld, evangelism needs to adaptively focus on the ‘whole person/people’ and the ‘whole society’ (politics, culture, economy and the environment) guided by spirit of the Triune God. To this end, a number of our circuits are using both traditional (revivals, ﬁ eld preaching, door-to-door) and new (conversations, social media and multi-media) missional strategies to expand their reach into new territories for ministry – and all these have led to a steady growth in membership and revealed new challenges for doing mission in the future. Noteworthy efforts include new churches and 64 2014

extensions to existing properties across the District; churches such as Central Methodist church and St Johns offering services in languages beyond the South Africa languages; and communities that are making deliberate efforts to include children and vulnerable people in the churches.

6. JUSTICE AND SERVICE One understanding of poverty is to see poverty as destitution (those without basic needs), inequality (the relationship between the wealthy and those with very little) and vulnerability (those who only live from month to month with very little protection). These categories in the District include the challenge of restoring the dignity and providing protection for Refugees (especially through Cen- tral Methodist), providing dignity through shelter, medical care, food parcels, gardening projects, support for families affected by HIV/AIDS, protection of children against abuse, advocacy, building bridges and community for people displaced through xenophobia and political instability, and other forms of social and material support. Our mission convenor and the youth unit have continued to assist the District in educating and providing support to circuits in highlighting issues of safety and appropriate care for children within our church – as highlighted by the Connex- ional Child Protection Act. Similar initiatives have been initiated by women’s organisations and the Gender Desk to help the District take seriously the plight of women within the church and society. These undertakings have been highlighted by the escalating rate of violence against women and children. A further issue of concern is the effect of the current issues within the mining sector that have resulted in increased instability, loss of employment and in some cases violence in some areas of the western part of the District. The District has the challenge of appropriately equipping our ministers in the mining sector to speak prophetically in these contexts and offer prudent care to all these places. Some churches have partnered with initiatives like unashamedly ethical and community crime ﬁ ghting ministries to help create a better society.

7. HUMAN AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT Every corner of the District is involved with some form of ministry of teaching, equipping and empowering of our people. This project ranges from sewing, computer centres, and education initiatives in partnership with schools, skills development and public works programmes. Whilst there is a lot being done in this regard, sometimes with meagre resources, the needs are enormous.

8. EDUCATION AND CHRISTIAN TRANSFORMATION One of the issues highlighted by the June 16 Celebrations is the desire to know the reality of what goes on in our country’s classrooms and within the education system in our country beyond the political rhetoric, the media posturing and the 2014 65

widespread celebrations. In response the Central District has, with other faith communities, co-signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOA) with the Gauteng Department of Education that calls all churches to begin practical and tangible partnership with schools and children. This MOA sets a clear frame of reference to accelerate the partnership between civic society and the education department. For the District this adds to the already existing work done by schools like Albert Street School and other such initiatives within the District.

9. CONCLUSION Again, I am deeply grateful to all the people and ministers of our District, for all they have dared to do in the name of God. The words of Charles Wesley continue to inspire us for we know there is so much more to be done.

‘To serve the present age, My calling to fulﬁ l O may it all my powers engage To do my Master’s will. (MHB 578 vs 2) 66 2014

HIGHVELD AND SWAZILAND (10)

BISHOP JONATHAN ANDERSON

1. INTRODUCTION It is with a real sense of joy and gratitude that I am able to report that our District is functioning well with increasing signs of health and effectiveness. Our leadership team (now settled and established) is offering much to facilitate healthy resourcing for ministry with encouraging results. Several promising initiatives have been well received.

2. OBJECTIVES AND VISION Towards the end of 2012 we embarked on a process evaluating what was needed as we seek to lead the District. Consensus was reached that alignment to the Connexional vision and between our various organisations and agencies within the District was a priority. In February 2013 a Strategic Planning and Vision Seminar was held including all organisational and executive leadership of the District. Consensus was reached on a Vision Statement which is descriptive of how we view ourselves: “The Highveld and Swaziland District, united in diversity, resourcing the dignity of God’s people, through disciplined devotional living, structures and activities”. We sincerely believe that the statement is somewhat descriptive of what is already our life together, but also recognise that it is a visioning statement, and therefore somewhat aspirational. A strategy to introduce the vision has been implemented. Circuits, Societies and Organisations are being called upon to evaluate what they are doing against this statement and to use it for reporting purposes. As leadership we are committed to lead innovatively and to use this vision as an ongoing point of reference.

3. KEY INITIATIVES AND PRIORITIES 3.1 Unity (Reconciliation and Relationship Building) Recognising the impact multidimensional disunity has had on the witness of the Church, ongoing attention is being given to the stresses of diversity and disunity within the District. We are committed to facilitate bridge- building between rural groups, rich and poor, laity and clergy, men and women, young and old. Various initiatives are envisaged in this regard. One major dis-unifying fact that, we agree, needs urgent attention, is the disparity between rich and poor. We consider it particularly tragic that often ministry within the Methodist Church tends to be restricted to those who can afford it. In response to that, we have initiated a fund (District 2014 67

Malihambe Fund) to subsidise poorer and rural Churches and to increase agency in these areas. Other creative initiatives to make ministry more affordable to rural areas are also being developed. Promoting ways in which previously disconnected communities may encounter each other and be afﬁ rmed by each other is an important part of this strategy. Particular focus is also being placed in equipping leaders in disadvantaged areas with ﬁ nancial leadership and management skills training.

3.2 Education And Resourcing For Ministry Early in 2013 the District EMMU Committee reviewed its role and defi ned four key areas of training. (Proper resourcing in these areas is key to restoring the dignity of God’s people and the effectiveness in ministry). • Lay Training: Intentional resourcing is to be offered in many largely neglected aspects. These include leadership training, better training for Local Preachers, members of the Order of Evangelists and material to deepen spiritual and devotional living. • Vocational direction and equipping: The work of our School of Vocation has been extended. People wanting to clarify or explore their calling are offered extensive mentoring and material. More guidance and help is to be offered to prospective candidates. • Training for those preparing for Ordination. • Pastoral conduct in training. Ministers will be guided to pay ongoing attention to their developmental vocational needs. Areas of concern and opportunity will include further theological training, management and lifestyle skills, lifestyle issues and challenges, ministry skills. Processes of review and refl ection are to be introduced and Ministers will be required to refl ect on their growth and development.

4. SPIRITUALITY A co-ordinated Intercessory Prayer Programme for the District is being introduced. • Ongoing and deeper reﬂ ection to be promoted to consider what Christ-centred spirituality means in our present context. • To make credible resources more available to our people.

5. MISSION While the District has had a strong emphasis on mission over the last two decades, we recognise the need to review and refresh the work of our Mission Desk. How the District can and should be facilitating mission in the local Church is under critical revision. A relaunch of the Desk is planned in the second half of 2013. In line with the direction being offered by Connexional leadership our 68 2014

plans include calling on local Churches to be effective as mission agents within School Committees. We also need to offer more leadership with respect to justice issues.

6. EVALUATING PRESENT MISSION ACTIVITY 6.1 Spirituality Spirituality remains the principal focus of the District’s various activities. As the District that initiated the EMMAUS movement in South Africa it is good to be able to report that three communities continue to do well within the District. Seminars, Retreats, Conventions and Revivals continue in various forms to resource our people. We continue to facilitate processes that seek to ensure that our spirituality remains Christ-centred and more culturally relevant.

6.2 Christian Service A wide range of mission projects continue across the District. Most of our 300 Societies have at least one mission project offering practical help and ministry. We are very close to embodying the vision of every Church being a centre of healing. Many of these projects offer basic help or food to the poor. Larger projects such as AMCARE, Epworth Children’s Village and Indawo Yosizo (Heidelberg) continue to face the challenges of inconsistent Government funding and reduction of corporate and international funding. AMCARE has made signiﬁ cant progress in the area of providing much needed medical care. Several new projects across the District have emerged. Springs Care has increased the scope of their work and acquired a large Community Centre building in the Springs CBD. Many of the District Organisations including the Women’s Manyano, Young Men’s Guild, Women’s Auxiliary, Women’s Fellowship and Young Women’s Manyano have extensive service projects.

6.3 Justice An increasing awareness of the need for the Church to be more engaged in justice issues has emerged. As labour issues have come to the fore (particularly in the mines following the Marikana killings) the District has sought to become more involved in matters of labour and economic justice. A Justice Champion for the District in the person of Rev Sethunya Motlhodi has been appointed and will be an integral part of our revamped Mission Desk. Problems relating to service delivery and corruption in South Africa are high priority. Together with the Connexional Justice Desk we are implementing initiatives to interrogate issues relating to democracy and governance in Swaziland. 2014 69

6.4 Evangelism and Church Growth A greater number of Societies and Ministers are making Evangelism a higher priority. In some cases Churches have enjoyed signiﬁ cant growth. Alpha has been an effective tool in several contexts. The centenary of the Young Men’s Guild presented an evangelistic window which was well utilised in some quarters. Critical reconsideration of evangelistic methods remains part of our District’s conversation in the light of ongoing societal developments.

6.5 Economic Empowerment and Development A number of skills development projects exist within the District. Several resource newly skilled people with business and entrepreneurial skills so that they can create their own employment opportunities. Several communities have made Church land available for crop cultivation resulting in unemployed people beneﬁ ting. We do, however, recognise this as a mission area that needs to be given higher priority in the light of increased poverty in several of our communities.

6.6 Education and Children’s Ministry As our reports in previous years reﬂ ect, ministry and mission to children has always been a high priority to our District, and this continues to be the case. Our two Children’s Homes, various Creches, Aftercare Centres, etc, continue to do good work. Our 33 Swazi Schools remain a priority and, while they have been given priority status by the Connexional Mission Department, we realise that we have not made the most of this beneﬁ t. Our Swazi Mission Synod has resolved to do more to place the needs of the Schools, and the mission opportunity that they represent, in Connexional and District view. More Churches are being more intentional at becoming more effective in respect of their evangelistic work among children and families. The Connexional call for Churches to “adopt” a Public School has been heard and is being systematically promoted within the District.

7. CONCLUSION We celebrate much that is good within our District. We give thanks for much faithfulness that honours God. While we remain a community that sees and struggles with many challenges of time and context we continue to lead with hope and optimism towards a vision that we believe to be given to us by God. 70 2014

LIMPOPO DISTRICT (11)

Bishop Themba Mntambo

1. SYNOD Synod met in Rustenburg which forms part of the platinum belt including Marikana. We were aware of the deep pain and suffering caused by the death of miners and police ofﬁ cers in August 2012, and the on-going strife within the mining industry between rival unions, the still unsuitable living conditions in the hostels, and the social problems created by the migrant worker system. At the beginning of each session of Synod a moment was spent in prayer and lighting of a candle for all those affected by the strife. In line with the Presiding Bishop’s theme around “togetherness”, and meeting between Trinity Sunday and Pentecost we explored the theme of “Together in the Power of the Holy Spirit” and the origin of the word Synod (together on the way). These guided us in seeking consensus in our deliberations.

2. MINING DISPUTES The country and the world were still focused on the aftermath of the tragedy of Marikana. We cannot even measure or comprehend the level of grief and pain the incident has caused. Statistics show that one mineworker has six to nine people depending on his income; the 34 who died then represent a much higher number of people who are at the risk of sinking deeper into poverty and suffering. While the headlines in the media proﬁ le a number of prominent people involved in this incident, there are a number of those who have been working quietly, away from the eyes of the world in ministering to the people. We are grateful for our ministers in this area who continue to offer support to all affected by this incident.

3. EDUCATION Our District has major tertiary institutions within its boundaries, receiving a large number of students from outside Limpopo. A signiﬁ cant number of those are Methodists or have some link with our church. Some Circuits in the Pretoria area have established ministries to students at the University of Pretoria; however these are off-campus ministries, reaching only those who are able to attend services at churches, mainly on Sundays. We have identiﬁ ed a need to extend our ministries on campuses in these institutions in order to reach the large number of our students and to draw the many un-churched young people into the life of the church. A more focused and dedicated ministry is being developed in order to minister to the young people on our campuses who may otherwise be lost to the church. The call is therefore that every Circuit that has such institutions consider appointing chaplains, either lay or ministerial, and for the District to source funding for such ministries. 2014 71

4. BOTSWANA Towards a New District Progress is being made in our process for Botswana to become a District, with signifi cant work already done towards this goal. The Synod of 2012 gave its approval to the process and directed the Botswana region to report back with the following: 4.1 Detailed income and expenditure statements of all fi ve Circuits for a period of three years. 4.2 Membership Schedules of all the Circuits. 4.3 A detailed budget and funding proposal for the new District 4.4 Identify specifi c areas where there is potential growth within the region. Synod 2013 received a report from the working group tasked to carry this process and agreed that the region be given District status in 2016. A resolution to this effect will be presented at this year’s Conference.

5. THE MINISTRY 5.1 Stationing Challenges The District has by and large managed to provide stations for ministers, but the increasing ﬁ nancial challenges continue where Circuits can no longer afford as many ministers as they previously could. Many Circuits have reduced or are contemplating reducing ministerial agency while the needs of our communities seem to require that we appoint more ministers. The more rural and further ﬂ ung areas of our District bear the brunt of this problem.

5.2 Ministerial Families There is a growing and alarming trend throughout the District (and Connexion), of ministers living apart from their families. On-going conversations are being held with ministers and Circuit Stewards that when invitations are extended or when ministers are stationed, consideration be given to whether the ministers are able to move with their families. This requires the cooperation of ministers and Circuit ofﬁ cials to resolve this issue, where the minister takes responsibility that when considering an invitation, to bear in mind the need to be with the family, and to point out to the inviting Circuit that they can only accept an invitation if there is provision for the family to be together. Circuit ofﬁ cials are encouraged to ensure that the minister’s family moves with him or her, and do all in their power to assist in matters of schooling, employment of spouses and suitable accommodation for the family.

5.3 Circuit Visits Having taken ofﬁ ce at the beginning of the year, the Bishop will spend 2013 in getting to know the District, meeting the people and continuing 72 2014

to minister to the District as pastor to all the people. It is planned that when visiting Circuits and regions the Bishop spends time together with the people in conversation. The whole weekend, that is Friday evening to Sunday morning will be dedicated to whatever programmes and activities Circuits together with the Bishop may decide on. While in Francistown, Botswana the Bishop was able to interact with civic and political leaders, and had the opportunity to explain how the MCSA operated in Southern Africa. He also used this opportunity to raise the matter of work permits for ministers who are not citizens of Botswana and how these leaders could assist the church in making it easier for our ministers to be stationed in that country. This interaction has yielded positive results and helped to ease the difﬁ culties our ministers face with regard to obtaining work permits.

5.4 Mission Our District Mission Task Team meets regularly to direct all mission work within the District under the four Mission Imperatives, viz. Spirituality, Evangelism and Church Growth, Justice and Service, and Economic Development and Empowerment.

5.5 Spirituality The District’s efforts to deepen spirituality and encourage growth involve making use of resource persons within the ministry and laity where groups and individuals are encouraged to spend time in retreats led by suitably qualiﬁ ed people. Over the past few years it has also been found that the spiritual growth of our people is hampered by physical needs and illness. So much of the focus has been, in cooperation with other pillars of mission, to conduct healing services which also included responding to the needs that make for a better life for our people, especially in the rural parts of our District.

5.6 Evangelism and Church Growth Our approach to evangelism is to embrace local cultures and traditions within the District, rather than provide a blueprint which is expected to work for all people and all environments. Local churches and organisations are therefore encouraged to do the work and the District provides the guidance and resources where necessary. The focus this year has been mainly on children and youth where cooperation with the District Youth Unit and Children’s Ministries has proved to be fruitful. There will be a focus in the coming year on developing campus ministries led by local churches and Circuits where institutions of learning are based. Cooperation with Operation Mobilization, which is to serve as a resource for local churches, assisting in outreach programmes for all age groups, has been 2014 73

helpful. The intention is that this partnership will assist in developing church growth models suited for local churches within the District.

5.7 Justice and Service Several projects are running with varying degrees of success and sustainability. Among these are the following:

5.7.1 Crime and Justice Watch This is an ecumenical movement running since 2010 aimed at creating awareness on issues of crime and justice through presentations, articles, teaching and preaching; recruiting volunteers to work as programme facilitators, mediators and spiritual care workers within the Department of Correctional Services; developing, equipping and resourcing volunteers; placing of volunteers; and monitoring, evaluating and mentoring volunteers in their work. 5.7.2 Restorative Justice Training This programme involves approaching crime from a biblical perspective; restoring ‘shalom’ by addressing issues such as identity, relationships, punishment, reconciliation, forgiveness and restoration. 5.7.3 Social Integration This area of work seeks to mobilise the church to act as a bridge between the prison church experience and reintegration of released ex-offenders back into society and the local church.

5.8 Economic Development and Empowerment Our major area of work in this pillar has been on poverty elimination. The Feed-a-Friend programme which involves the packaging of food to be distributed among the poor has been a great success with a number of churches and organisations showing interest in either doing the packaging or contributing to the purchase of ingredients for the food parcels. Synod this year set aside time for food packaging and members of Synod got involved in the actual packaging. One of the lunches provided for Synod delegates consisted of the food that would be distributed among the poor.

5.9 Education The District is working on adding the pillar of education within our Mission Task Group.

6. DISTRICT MISSION FIELDWORKER The District has employed a District Mission Fieldworker who provides a District presence in Circuits and local churches where various mission projects, social 74 2014

action and responsibility programmes and educational activities are conducted. The ﬁ eld worker is involved in a variety of activities such as conducting workshops, facilitating training, supporting care givers and involvement in HIV/ AIDS programmes. Some areas of work are: • Places of safety for vulnerable children based in the Hennops River, Garankuwa and Northern Odi Circuits. • A hospice in Hammanskraal, Themba Circuit. • Mahube Healing Centre which cares for people affected by HIV/Aids. A new unit to care for sex workers and vulnerable women has been opened recently.

7. CONCLUSION As we continue to explore our theme of togetherness, we seek to build our District into one unit where every Circuit, every local church, and every member has a sense of belonging within Limpopo. We are aware of the challenges we face where Circuits are differently resourced and so we attempt to encourage all to bring their resources together to support and uphold the work of God in our area. We celebrate the work done by the ministers in providing spiritual leadership and care, especially in the more vast and far fl ung areas of the District. We give thanks to the laity who often hold local churches together in the absence of ministers who have to care for large numbers of congregations. We give thanks for all organisations that not only conduct signifi cant work in mission but ensure the presence of the church in communities. We rejoice at the growth of the church as new buildings are dedicated, social development projects are initiated and new areas of mission are explored especially in the far northern region. Our focus in the coming year will be developing ministry to the far northern region of the District and in Botswana. This will require courageous faith, fi nancial resourcing and careful planning and vision to extend the work God has called us to do.

Shalom, Grace and Peace. 2014 75

MOZAMBIQUE (12)

Bishop Dinis Matsolo

1. INTRODUCTION 2012 was a settling year for the Mozambique District as the new District Leadership was trying to ﬁ nd its footing in conducting its affairs. As we all know, change is a process that is never easy but an indispensable component for growth and development to take place. We thank God for what we managed to do during the period under review. By the grace of God, the District is rising up, slowly but surely, with great potential for expansion and growth, because, as indicated in the previous report, Mozambique is a sleeping giant with huge potentialities for development.

2. COUNTRY OVERVIEW The Country is experiencing an ever growing discovery of its economic potential, that leads to mega-projects with investment interest, which in turn brings a lot of anxiety among citizens as to how best to ensure that blessing in natural resources will transform the lives of the people for the better. The question has been: “Will the natural resources that are being discovered be a blessing or a curse for our beloved country?” In fact people are beginning to be concerned that lately, after 20 years of relative peace and stability, a clear indication that Mozambicans have been good custodians of the peace that was achieved through the sacriﬁ ce of a lot fellow citizens, we are, since the end of last year, experiencing a political crisis that opposes the Government and RENAMO. With regards to this, the Church is trying to play its prophetic role, as it will be underlined below.

3. 2013 ANNUAL SYNOD st Our 31 Annual Synod took place from the 23rd to the 26th of May, 2013, at Limpopo-Sul Circuit, under the theme: “Produce therefore, fruits worthy of your transformation” - Luke 3: 8. In that way, the District was challenged to understand that the question of producing fruits is not an option but an obligation. Thus each and every one should ask him/herself if he/she is producing fruits… if, yes… then what kind of fruits and how many? We had profound discussions on the work of the Church in Mozambique as well as on Connexional issues. The Country’s socio-political situation was also analysed and the Church was challenged to play her prophetic role. We were also led in Bible Study sessions by Rev. Fernando Matsimbe, from the United Methodist Church in Mozambique, who emphasized “the value of thanking 76 2014

God for everything and in every moment through giving” (Ephesians 5: 20, Job 1:13). Rev Matsimbe appealed to Church members for a greater commitment in producing fruits that can contribute to the growth of God’s work. Our meeting at Hokwe, in Limpopo-Sul Circuit was also a way for the District to show solidarity with the ﬂ ood victims. The Youth Synod which preceded the District Synod was held at Matola Circuit. It was an occasion to reﬂ ect on youth ministry in our District and Young People were challenged to become more proactive and play their role towards the Growth and Development of our Church. The gathering was blessed by the presence of the Connexional Youth Coordinator with his team, who offered to do everything possible to get the Young People of Mozambique District involved in the activities of the Connexion, and challenged them to envisage projects that may galvanize youth ministries.

4. ACHIEVEMENTS/MAJOR CELEBRATIONS We thank God for what we were able to accomplish over the period under review, even in the midst of diffi culties: 4.1 Spirituality The District activities and Synod Reports show that our focus continues to be Spiritual growth for Mission and Evangelism. Thus, Bible Studies, Class Meetings, Confi rmation Class, Prayer Groups and Retreats are carried out in the Local Society and Circuit level and by Departments/ Organisations. A Ministers Retreat was held mid-February, at Chidenguele, Gaza Province, 270 Km out of Maputo. The occasion was used for a prayerful refl ection on our Calling and our Mission. We spent time refl ecting on Mission and Evangelism (Church growth and expansion). In fact, our being at Chidenguele gave us a unique opportunity to see the potential for growth and expansion of our Church, that being the place where we envisage establishing the Lodge Project and Church planting.

4.2. Evangelism and Church Growth At the District level we hold at least two Revival Services per year and the Circuits organise Quarterly Revivals, while Organisations and Groups/ Departments promote Evangelistic outreaches in various places, but as indicated previously, Mozambique continues to be an enormous platform for Mission, Evangelism and Church Growth. During the period under review we visited the Manica province in the “Zona Centro” Circuit and Nampula province, including the Marratane Refugees Centre, and the potentialities were conﬁ rmed. We need to join hands and efforts as a Connexion to utilise those opportunities for growth and expansion. 2014 77

We thank God that all the Circuits have embraced the “building of places of Worship” efforts.

4.3 Justice and Service Children’s Ministry is becoming a priority to many of our Circuits where some of our Church properties/halls serve as Crèches, and HIV and AIDS initiatives are carried out in some of our Circuits. Our involvement in an Inter-Religious Initiative against Malaria is proving to be making a superb contribution towards the elimination of this disease. Concerning the Country’s Political Crisis we would like to report that it all started when in October last year, the RENAMO Leader (President Dhlakama) went to take up residence at Santhunghira in Gorongosa, as a way of complaining about what he considered to be “power abuse” by FRELIMO. On January the 4th we took the initiative of going to Gorongosa in the company of Dr. Brazao Mazula, the former Vice-Chancellor (Rector) of Eduardo Mondlane University (the largest and oldest in Country) and fi rst President of the National Electoral Commission, with the objective of fi nding out from him, why he decided to go into the bush. He expressed his appreciation for our courage and concern that led us to go there, and assured us of the fact that he did not go there to restart war, but as a way of putting pressure and voicing his complaints that have never been heard so far. His concerns were: that he felt that there was no true democracy in Mozambique; that the Electoral Law was not transparent but rather benefi ting FRELIMO; that the Rome Peace Accord was not fully implemented, especially as it pertains to Defence and Security; and that the discovery of worth in the country and the emergence of mega-industries was not benefi ting the country but only a few. He also indicated that we were welcome to report to the President of the Republic about what he told us and come back to re-check and interact, if necessary. That then opened the way for us to get involved and play our prophetic role. We then went to report to President Guebuza, who also thanked us for the initiative and encouraged us to do our best for Peace preservation. We are now facilitating dialogue between them, meeting the Political Leaders, Delegations from both parties and all other interested parties, persuading them to do their parts for the sake of Peace. This is an ongoing process which we hope will culminate with a face to face encounter between the two political Leaders. For the success of the endeavour we count on the prayers and support of all of you. 78 2014

5. ECONOMINC EMPOWERMENT AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT In this area, we continued focusing on training/capacity building events for the various Church Groups and/or Organisations/Departments on Church Structures, Class Leadership, Leadership with Responsibility, Stewardship and giving.

The District is supporting an Agricultural project at Mapandzeni in Limpopo- Norte Circuit that is producing marvellous results after the ﬂ oods, a clear expression of hope even after such a tragedy.

We also provided food, hygiene services and clothes supplies, as well as Bibles and hymn books for the ﬂ ood victims in Gaza Province. We thank the Connexion and the Methodist family abroad for the support afforded to our District.

6. ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCES With the assistance of an external Senior Accountant we managed to put up accounting systems as well as to build internal capacity by producing systems control instruments and training an Accountant Assistant (Ms Zefa Mondlane). Apart from helping to produce the accounts report, the Accountant gave a set of recommendations of work that should be done to maximize the quality of ﬁ nancial management in the District which are being implemented. Part of these recommendations is intended to help the Circuits improve their ﬁ nancial management systems. This is a work in progress.

Circuit assessments are still a major challenge, but the sensitization effort by the District Leadership for members of the Church to increase the level of ﬁ nancial contributions is beginning to show fruits, especially in “Rona” contributions as the Synod Reports indicates.

7. PERSPECTIVES In order to move forward as a District we plan to undertake the following: • To work towards an understanding of the potentialities of our People and District. • To update the District Statistics. • To continue working on capacitating the Leaders efﬁ ciency and effectiveness in their role. • We would like to be more aggressive in our Mission and Evangelism endeavours in order to spread Methodism throughout Mozambique, and thus, call upon the Connexion to journey with us as the task is huge in a way that we may not be able to accomplish it alone. • To invest more and improve accommodation for Ministers (manses). • To produce and avail (to leaders at all levels) training material in Portuguese. 2014 79

8. CONCLUSION At times the task and challenges seem to be more and larger than we can afford, but as a District, we are called to produce fruits worthy of our transformation. We mustn’t therefore be merely proud of being Methodists or Christians, but we must produce fruits that show what we say we are. In fact, a tree is known by its fruits. No good tree produces bad fruits and no bad tree produce good fruits (Mat 12:33). Thus, we thank God that despite all the hardships, we remain committed and hold fast our belief in the vision of “A Christ-Healed Africa for the healing of Nations”. This motivates us to move forward and transform those challenges into opportunities for growth.

Thank you all for prayers and support, and God bless. 80 2014

CLARKEBURY (13)

Bishop Victor Tshangela

1. INTRODUCTION The year 2012 has come and gone giving way for the year 2013. We ended 2012 celebrating the work done by Bishop A N Mnaba, who had served this district for the past nine years. We praise God for all the good work He had allowed him to do. I accepted the baton from him with great fear and awe, but trusting in the wisdom of the ever wise and trustworthy, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It is like a bad dream to think that at synod we mourned the passing of this worthy servant of God. May his soul rest in peace.

At the same time it is painful to say that I went through my ﬁ rst synod in this District with my dear wife lying in pain in hospital, not knowing that the Lord had other plans for her in higher places. I thank the Lord for giving me her as a loving companion through this ministry for so many years. I know that the Lord has not forsaken me, but has allowed her to be a guardian angel to me and our children.

2. THE STATE OF THE DISTRICT We begin this year with some circuits ravaged by conﬂ ict from within. Even in that darkness there is a light at the end of the tunnel. There is great potential for mission and growth in this District. We are encouraged by the vision of the early missionaries, like William Shaw, who did sterling work in starting the work by building a chain of stations, and building school to bring light to the people of this District in those dark days in our land. I must say though that this work seems to have been neglected and forgotten. The beautiful buildings that were the pride of our work in yester year are standing in a very bad state of repair. The morale of most of our ministers is very low. God called the church out of the world , and sent it back to do His mission in the world, but it got swallowed up by the world, and became corrupt like the world. It is like when God called the children of Israel out of bondage in Egypt into Canaan and were corrupted by the ways of the Canaanites. That is why at synod I had to call for “A LIBERATED MIND ON A TRANSFORMED HEART”. Our mission is the proclamation of a liberating Gospel for healing and transformation. This is based on the following ﬁ ve imperatives:

2.1 Spirituality: The District is involved in various areas of spirituality: (a) Retreats for ministers, minister’s wives, circuit stewards took place during the year, and various circuits organized some retreats for their leaders, 2014 81

(b) Conventions run by the Women’s Manyano, Young Women’s Manyano, Young Men,s Guild, Local Preacher’s Association and Sunday School see the members of these organisations grow spiritually. (c) Prayer services were held for various happenings and the sick and bereaved people in our circuits. (d) Healing services are held at various times and places in the District. Many people receive healing spiritually in these services. Prayers done by the Women’s Manyanos every Thursdays are a powerful tool for healing. (e) Class meetings and Bible studies in circuits can be accounted for most of the spirituality of our members in our circuits.

2.2 Evangelism and Church Growth: The work done by the order of Evangelism is very much commendable. These servants of God go to very challenging places to fi nd the stray people of God and bring them back to the fold. They work under very diffi cult and trying circumstances. The order in this District partners with the Nzondelelo movement in the Natal District. We cannot forget the work done by the Young Men’s Guild in reviving fallen souls in the circuits. New forms of evangelization, like the one to one method, are used to win new people for Christ. New churches are planted in various circuits through the hard work of these people of God. The Methodist Youth Unit is also very active in evangelism. They hold evangelistic campaigns especially during the month of September which is set aside specifi cally for Youth work in the circuits.

2.3 Human and Economic Development and Empowerment Efforts of going back to farming, both stock and crop farming seem to be on the cards for most communities. Poultry farming is evident in some missions to try and encourage the people towards self- sufﬁ ciency. In one circuit pig farming is taking off. In some circuits people are being empowered in the modern form of crop farming, like perma-culture.

Workshops were conducted for the stewards in various regions of the District, in stewardship. Financial management workshops were run for circuit stewards and treasurers in the District. Various workshops were done for ministers on how to improve their ministry skills.

2.4 Justice and Service: Care has been taken, in some circuits, of children who have lost their parents through HIV/AIDS. Foster parents have been found for these children people have been encouraged in conventions and even at synod 82 2014

to come forward and be tested for this epidemic, and those who are infected are encouraged to take the medication for it. Children without birth certiﬁ cates were identiﬁ ed in some circuits and were assisted to obtain these. Some were even assisted to access child support grants.

2.5 EDUCATION: The matric results are the worst in our region, hence a call has been made that the churches should become involved in education. Some ministers are involved in the Lima project in cooperation with other churches and the Department of Education. All the department of our church have joined forces in establishing a bursary fund for the needy and deserving scholars. Last year two were assisted to register at tertiary level. We hope that this bursary scheme is going to grow each year. It is not meant for Methodist children only, but for all needy and deserving children.

3. CONFERENCE 2013: You are all welcome to conference in the Clarkebury District

God bless you. 2014 83

CHAPTER 1

CONFERENCE 2013

th Statement of the 124 Annual Conference of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa to the Methodist people:

Introduction th The 124 Annual Conference of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa congregated in Mthatha in the Clarkebury District, the land of the icons of the nation and the world. Meeting in a city that was founded in 1876 that was named after Mthathi, a tree that was famous for its medicinal properties, reminded us that we need a medicine for a number of social ills that are continuing to ravage communities around the countries of our Connexion. The coincidental switching on and off of the power supply, causing some sessions of the Conference to be conducted in the dark and others in the light, was a symbolic reminder of the socio-economic reality of our life, where some are experiencing the light of abundance and yet others are groaning from the darkness of poverty and suffering. The stormy weather was nature’s reminder of the storms of our contexts in which we seek practical ways of expressing the Conference theme, “Together a transforming discipleship movement.”

Presiding Bishop’s Opening Address Flowing from our vision statement, “A Christ healed Africa for the healing of nations”, and informed by recent themes and Conference messages, as well as the context of our times, the Presiding Bishop, Rev. Ziphozihle Siwa, in an opening address, unpacked the theme of the Conference, “Together a transforming discipleship movement”. He shared his concern that because of our failure to respond effectively, women, African children and many others are having their opportunities to experience life being sacriﬁ ced. He reminded us that discipleship is about being learners and that disciples are people who do the work.

In response to the Presiding Bishop’s address, Conference decried the state of Education in the countries of our Connexion and particularly in South Africa. We, however, appreciated the efforts of the Women’s Manyano towards education and indeed more can still be done.

Bible Study Session 1 In the ﬁ rst of a two-part Bible Study the Rev. Trevor Hudson re-afﬁ rmed the challenge of discipleship. He noted that there were three tasks at hand for disciples, i.e. to make disciples, teach, and baptise people into the Trinitarian social God. He suggested that we teach by who we are and what we do. He challenged us to be disciples and not just church professionals. 84 2014

In constituting the conference we noted with appreciation that 44% of Conference delegates were women and that 30% were youth.

General Secretary’s report The theme of discipleship was re-visited in the report of the General Secretary, Rev. Vuyani Nyobole. He pinned his report on an introspective question – “How is it with the Soul of the MCSA?” In his report he reviewed our integrity as we do the work of God and noted that in our work with money, power, use of church property and in engaging in our communities there are grave concerns. He encouraged us to consider where our intent is good, but not being expressed correctly, and where our intent is not aligned with the work of God.

The Conference elected the Rev. Charmaine Morgan to be the General Secretary for the period 2015-2017.

Methodist Connexional Offi ce report In the report of the MCO we heard of the signifi cant work which has been done and the deep plea to Societies, Circuits and Organisations to maintain integrity and discipleship in our accounting for fi nances, and in the way we use our resources – fi nances, property and other assets – to do the work of God, and not only for our own members.

Further, the Conference enacted the resolution to integrate all Connexional Ofﬁ ces and Units under one roof. A deep sense of pain fell on the Conference as we considered the impact on the lives of people who will be affected by the strategic relocation of the ofﬁ ces of these entities. The Conference sent a sincere word of appreciation to all the dedicated staff members who have been serving in all the Units that are to be affected by this move. We further appreciated that the Presiding Bishop and General Secretary will continue to offer a pastoral support to all persons affected.

EMMU, SMMS, MU and Organisation reports We accepted with appreciation the reports of the different Units and Organisations as they were spelling out the work of God that has been done in the respective entities. 18 candidates have been received to be trained for the ministry of Word and Sacraments. It was however, noted with sadness that so far only one district established a child care desk.

Conference noted with great appreciation that after many years the Justice and Service Desk has been re-established and looks forward to the fruits this work. The situation of the refugees and the developments in Marikana continues to be viewed with a deep sense of compassionate justice. We received a report of great appreciation by those affected in the Marikana tragedy regarding the intervention and witness of the church in those situations. 2014 85

Bible Study Session 2 In the second instalment of the Bible Study, we heard Christ reminding us that, in a life characterised by the trauma of loss, discipleship should be practiced in our homes and in our workplaces. A sharp and bold caption of the message of the Bible Study sessions was, “discipleship is expressed in the world and the world shapes our discipleship.”

The Rev Dr. Ananias Nyanjanya shared a conscience-pricking and mind challenging story of the socio-economic and political reality of the church and people of Zimbabwe. The Conference received and appreciated the story of the resilience of the people of Zimbabwe and afﬁ rmed the witness and discipleship of the church in what is a difﬁ cult context. The greatest challenge here was, what lessons can the Zimbabwe situation share with all countries of our Connexion so that the situation does not replicate in the region?

The morning Worship moved our hearts and came on like gentle, persistent, soul penetrating droplets of Spirit-ﬁ re and set the tone for the business ﬁ lled day.

Resolutions and Acceptance of Ordinands Conference further processed a number of resolutions related to its discipleship work. It was with great joy that the Conference accepted 28 Ordinands for 2013 and sent them out with the anthem, “Thuma mina, thuma mina Nkosi yam.” 86 2014

CHAPTER 2

CONFERENCE 2013: RESOLUTIONS

2.1 CONFERENCE THEME Conference afﬁ rms and adopts the 2013 Conference Theme: Together a transforming discipleship movement. Conference further resolves that all Districts, Circuits, Societies, Units, Organisations and Associations: 2.1.1. adopt the 2013 Theme for the ensuing year; 2.1.2. develop, through all their activities such as Minister’s retreats, conventions and planning meetings, programmes that give expression to the theme and 2.1.3. report to Conference 2014 on how these are helping the Church to become a transformed discipleship movement.

2.2 TRAINING OF WORSHIP LEADERS Noting the concerns that worship is not always led in accordance with the Theology, Doctrine and Ethos of Methodism, Conference directs DEWCOM to develop Methodist based worship guidelines that are in keeping with our Wesleyan Theology, Doctrine and Ethos. In so doing DEWCOM is to consult with EMMU, SMMS, and the Music Association, and bring a progress report to the 2014 Conference.

2.3 FINALISATION OF MINISTERS STATIONS Conference refers the proposal for the ﬁ nalisation of ministers’ and probationers’ stationing by the end of March to EMMU and the Human Resources Unit for consideration and report to the 2014 Conference.

2.4 LAY AND YOUTH PASTORS Noting that Lay and Youth pastors play an important role in the ministry of the MCSA and that there is no formal or standardised theological training nor set guidelines outlining their appointment, stationing, remuneration and other employee service conditions, Conference therefore resolves: 2.4.1 To refer the appointment and conditions of service of lay pastors and youth pastors to EMMU and Human Resources for consideration and report to the 2014 Conference. 2.4.2 To place a moratorium on the contractual appointment of lay pastors and youth pastors for a year with effect from 1 January 2014.

2.5 STEWARDSHIP AND MOBILISATION OF RESOURCES Conference instructs the General Secretary to appoint a Task Team to develop a comprehensive, implementable, resource mobilisation strategy and 2014 87

alternative models of funding, based on Conference directives as outlined in paragraphs (43.8-43.13 of the 2013 Yearbook (pg. 88-89) and to report on the progress thereof to the 2014 Conference.

2.6 FUNDING FOR THE JUSTICE AND SERVICE DESK Noting the critical role that the Justice and Service Desk plays in the life and witness of the MCSA, Conference resolves to continue funding this ministry from the Church Reserve fund for 2014, pending the submission of audited ﬁ nancial statements and budget for the ensuing year. Furthermore Conference directs the Mission Unit to develop a sustainable funding source for the Justice and Service desk and submit a report to the 2014 Conference.

2.7 SCHOOL OF VOCATION Conference resolves that each District establishes a School of Vocation and that all Prospective Candidates attend the school for a minimum period of (1) one year prior to nomination for the ordained ministry. Conference further directs EMMU to develop a Connexional Curriculum to guide Districts and submit a progress report thereon to the 2014 Conference.

2.8 CANDIDATES NOMINATION PROCEDURE Conference approves the following procedure for the nomination of candidates for the ordained ministry: 2.8.1 The Circuit Quarterly Meeting recommendation shall be in accordance with the provided Circuit Quarterly Meeting guide and the Superintendents’ evaluation report, provided by EMMU. 2.8.2 This includes a detailed Self-Evaluation, Superintendent’s report, Society Minister’s report, a Doctor’s Evaluation of Candidate’s health, Psychologist’s Evaluation and Police Clearance. 2.8.3 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 ﬁ elds of Psychology or Social Work be present within this panel together with representative/s from the Connexional EMMU. 2.8.4 Theological competency and academic ability be assessed in the form of a written examination. The examination would include some language and academic components. The examination is to be assessed by both EMMU and SMMS. 2.8.5 The applicant appears before Synod to give testimony. Synod is to recommend to EMMU General Committee and Connexional Executive, the acceptance of a Candidate as a Probationer. 2.8.6 Connexional Executive to approve the acceptance of the Candidate as a Probationer, based on the recommendation from Synods and EMMU General Committee. 88 2014

2.8.7 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 probationer formation for the ordained ministry. 2.8.8 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. 2.8.9 Individuals who have successfully satisfi ed the candidature requirements including screening processes, with completed academic qualifi cations from other registered and accredited theological institutions, shall be required to spend the fi rst three years of their probation at Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary to satisfy the Spiritual, Character Formation and Skills Development requirements for the Ordained Ministry. 2.8.10 The Rubrics governing the formation of probationers, who have exited the 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.

2.9 REQUIREMENTS FOR BECOMING AN ORDINAND Conference accepts and adopts that the process and requirements for becoming an Ordinand shall be in accordance with the following with effect from 2015: 2.9.1 Successful completion of the Self-Evaluation Assessment; 2.9.2 Successful completion of all In-Service Training Assignments within the year of recommendation for ordination; 2.9.3 Successful completion of all Synod Exegesis and Synod Oral Exams; 2.9.4 Recommendation from Circuit Quarterly Meeting in the year of recommendation for Ordination, to proceed to being an ordinand in the following year. This should be accompanied by a competent Circuit Report; 2.9.5 A competent District Assessment result from the District Listening Committee. This Committee has to be chaired by the District Bishop, or someone deputed thereto; 2.9.6 A probationer who has received a ﬁ nal warning going into or during the 2014 89

year of being designated an ordinand shall not proceed, irrespective of successful completion of other aspects of qualifying for ordination.

2.10 TITLES AND COLLARING OF PROBATIONERS Conference resolves that with effect from January 2014: 2. 10.1 All Candidates accepted by Conference are to begin their journey as probationers, but shall be collared and have the title of ‘Reverend’ conferred at the end of the year in which they exit Seminary, in their home circuits, following successful completion of their Academic and Spiritual Formation. This also means no probationer will be given dispensation to administer the sacraments whilst at Seminary. 2. 10.2 Probationers for the Order of Evangelism, i.e. Bible Women and Evangelists, shall be collared or robed only after the successful completion of their studies with EMMU. 2. 10.3 Candidates for the Order of Deacons shall be collared after completion of the required Academic and Spiritual formation programme, in the year of their designation as Ordinands. 2. 10.4 All candidates accepted by Conference to begin their journey towards commissioning or ordination shall be referred to as PROBATIONERS for the entire period of probation. Conference further directs EMMU to inform Circuits accordingly.

2.11 NON-ITINERANT MINISTRY Conference resolves to: 2.11.1 Accept and adopt the EMMU task team report on Selection, Discernment and Training in the Non-Itinerant Category as outlined in 2014 Yearbook, chapter 6, para 6.7.2. 2.11.2 Instruct DEWCOM to look at the theology of ordination in this category as understood by the church universal and in particular the MCSA; 2.11.3 Instruct the Human Resource Unit (HR) to look at all legal implications and practical aspects of this category, including and not limited to Superannuating/Retirement in comparison to Full-Time Itinerant Ministry; 2.11.4 Instruct the Mission Unit to look at the Missional Focus of the category and advise on matters of Church Planting and Missional Presence Connexionally; 2.11.5. Extend the moratorium on candidature for this category for a period of a year, and require all Units to report to Conference 2014.

2.12 LAY-PREACHER TRAINING Conference instructs EMMU and SMMS to restructure the Lay Preacher training programme in a way that enhances the Methodist doctrine and ethos 90 2014

and report to the 2014 Conference for possible adoption of a new way, with a possibility of starting at the beginning of 2015.

2.13 JUSTICE IN MCSA INSURANCE Conference, noting that many of our societies and properties are in ‘high risk’ areas, conﬁ rms that the insurance cover on such properties is not negatively affected by such circumstances, provided that the normal insurance requirements are adhered to. It is noted that the Church’s group insurance cover is in fact to the advantage of those in high risk areas as the premiums are kept standard for all properties.

2.14 BANK LOANS Conference, noting that the changes in the Credit (Banking) Act have made it almost impossible for churches to gain access to loans, tasks the General Treasurers to investigate the current crisis involving the raising of loans for the purchase and extension of church properties and report their ﬁ ndings to the 2014 Conference.

2.15 CONVOCATION COSTS FOR DEACONS Conference resolves that all circuits employing Deacons shall pay for all expenses relating to their attendance of the Convocation as required by the Laws & Discipline, 11th Edition, para. 13.6 (pg. 159) & Appendix 7 (pg. 204)

2.16 UNDERSTANDING OF THE ORDER OF DEACONS Conference notes the challenges as outlined in the Order of Deacons Report (2012 Yearbook, pg. 184) and instructs DEWCOM to consider the matters raised, develop an appropriate response in consultation with the Order and advise Conference accordingly.

2.17 ASSESSMENT FOR NON STIPENDIARY PERSONNEL (2012 Yearbook 5.3.1.8, pg. 118) Conference directs the MCO Executive to reconsider assessing non stipendiary personnel, with the possibility of discontinuing the practice, and report any motivation for continuation thereof to the Connexional Executive in 2014.

2.18 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF MCSA PROPERTY Conference, a. Recognising the importance and urgency of developing a comprehensive management strategy for Church property; b. Acknowledging that the property issue is an emotive, complex and contested matter; c. Mindful of the failure of previous attempts to galvanise the support of 2014 91

circuits towards a common vision of the strategic management of the MCSA property portfolio, Directs District Trust Properties Committees in consultation with Circuit Trust Committees, to investigate and propose strategies for the effective stewardship of properties within their districts for submission to the Connexional Trust Properties Committee, which will formulate a comprehensive property management strategy for 2014 Conference approval.

2.19 DIVESTMENT OF ISRAEL “HOLY LAND TOURISM” Conference resolves to encourage Circuits to study the Palestinian Kairos Document that calls for divestment of Israel to end the occupation by Israel in Palestine. (2013 Yearbook, 3.4, pg. 93-95). Conference further directs Circuits and Societies within the MCSA to ensure that if taking part in “Holy Land tours”, that the arrangements include meaningful engagement with the Palestinian community.

2.20 HATE CRIMES Noting with horror the continued violence against gay and lesbian people because of their sexual orientation and the xenophobic attacks against humanity, Conference calls on all members and leaders within the Connexion to speak out against these speciﬁ c forms of violence, prejudice and the intolerance which drives it, whenever it occurs, so as not to give the false impression that the Christian faith in any way condones such acts. Conference further directs the Justice and Service desk to develop materials and programmes that enable our members to work on this in a life giving manner.

2.21 GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AND ABUSE OF CHILDREN Conference confesses that in some instances Gender Based Violence and the Abuse of Children include some members of the Church where appropriate actions have not been taken. Conference acknowledges and afﬁ rms the work done by many of our churches and organisations on the matter but encourages them to do more to address this matter of national shame. Conference calls upon all perpetrators to stop such acts and calls upon all communities, churches, schools and families that are affected directly and indirectly, to join hands and bring back the spirit of Ubuntu. As part of their Mission plan, Conference requests that Churches become centres of healing and restoration for victims and perpetrators. Conference directs the Justice and Service Desk to develop materials to assist circuits in addressing this matter of gender based abuse and the abuse of children.

2.22 LIQUOR OUTLETS CLOSURE ON SUNDAYS Conference reafﬁ rms our position on Alcohol as outlined in the Miscellaneous Conference Resolutions found in L&D, 11th edition, para 1.6 (pg. 223) 92 2014

and par. 1.44 (pg. 236). Conference furthermore calls upon all spheres of Government not to permit the sale of liquor on Sundays. Conference directs the Justice and Service Desk to engage with Government on this matter.

2.23 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION While noting the religious plurality of our Society, Conference nevertheless calls on the South African and Namibian Governments to reinstate Religious Education as part of the curriculum in public schools, and refers this matter to the Connexional Education Task team for pursuance with the respective governments.

2.24 PORNOGRAPHY Conference reafﬁ rms L&D, 11th Edition, Miscellaneous Resolutions, par 1.27 (pg. 233) and further strongly calls upon our members and ministers to refrain from engaging in pornographic activities and subscribing to media programmes that promote such, e.g. Top TV.

2.25 SEXUAL HARASSMENT Noting: a. The current tragic trend of sexual and physical abuse toward women and children in South Africa and the African continent at large; b. That currently (other than the current child protection policy) no substantial policies are in place within the MCSA to deal with issues of sexual harassment and abuse when it affects the life of the church and its members; Therefore Conference directs the Human Resource Unit to develop a code of conduct for reporting to the 2014 Conference: a. That seeks to align our internal discipline (clergy to clergy and clergy to lay) with that of countries within the MCSA, taking into consideration amongst other things, CCMA policies on Sexual Harassment, The Sexual Offences Act, The Child care Act, Protection from harassment Act in South Africa and our sister Connexions; b. That addresses protocols of discipline for cases where charges of sexual abuse, harassment or misconduct are needed to be raised and that these protocols take into consideration the sensitive nature of the charges to both the person who has experienced abuse and the person who is accused of abuse; c. That informs procedural guidelines for covenantal and contractual personnel.

2.26 SUSPENSION OF GFIP E-TOLLING Reafﬁ rming the 2012 Resolution 20, 2013 Yearbook, page 82 regarding the matter of e-Tolling: Conference further directs the Justice & Service Desk to 2014 93

explore the possibility of calling for the immediate suspension of the GFIP e-tolling project, in collaboration with all parties and partners.

2.27 PARTY-POLITICAL POSTS Conference afﬁ rms the leadership shown by the Presiding Bishop by appointing a Commission to investigate the matter of party-political chaplaincies. Conference further directs that the said Commission in consultation with DEWCOM and the Connexional Chaplaincy Committee investigate and consider: 2.27.1 Whether it compromises the necessary independence of the Church in its witness to society; 2.27.2 If necessary, the Commission develop guidelines and processes for ordained Ministers who may be called upon to serve as chaplains of political parties.

2.28 REVIEW OF MINISTRY Conference resolves to implement the review of ministry and directs the HR Unit to revise the existing instruments and guidelines for Implementation. Piloting and testing of which shall be reported to 2014 Conference. Further, Conference resolves to hold Bishops accountable for the effective implementation of the resolution through the normal reporting procedures.

2.29 CONFERENCE REPRESENTATION 2.29.1 Conference encourages Districts which include member countries to ensure that at least one (1) lay representative and one (1) ministerial representative of the three allowed District representation comes from such countries to alleviate the Conference cost burden. Conference further refers this matter to the relevant Synods for comment with a view to amending the L&D 5.5.10 and 5.5.11 accordingly. Conference further encourages Circuits who have members who were elected by Synod as Conference representatives, to be given preference as delegates to Synod for the term that they are to serve as Conference representatives. Should they not be elected as delegates to Synod, Circuits are encouraged to pay for their cost to Synods as observers.

2.30 BOTSWANA – JOURNEY TOWARDS BECOMING A DISTRICT Conference refers the matter of the Botswana Region becoming an independent district within the MCSA in the year 2016 to the Connexional Boundaries Committee for further consideration and reporting to the 2014 Conference.

Conference further directs: 94 2014

2.30.1 That the Limpopo District Executive, in consultation with the District Boundaries Committee, work with the Botswana Region in looking at the ﬁ nancial sustainability of the region - and present a report on the ﬁ ndings; 2.30.2 That the Botswana Region, and thus by implication the Limpopo District, complies with any requirements which the Connexional Boundaries Committee and Conference may require of them prior to 2016.

2.31 MINISTERS AND LABOUR LAWS Conference afﬁ rms the principle of a Covenantal (not contractual) relationship between a Minister and the Church. Conference recognises its pastoral responsibility for the welfare of Ministers as outlined in L&D, 11th Edition, par 4.3 (pg. 29). Conference further acknowledges that contractual (lay) staff shall be subject to the relevant Labour Laws of each member country of the Connexion with regard to their employment.

2.32 ELECTION OF LEADERSHIP Conference resolves to implement the following amendments on the Appointment and Election of Leadership and directs the Revisions Committee to effect the amendments: 2.32.1 Leaders of Small Groups/Class Leaders The Leaders should be appropriately identiﬁ ed and skilled, ratiﬁ ed by the Society Leaders Meeting and appointed for a 3 year term, up to a maximum of 3 terms, by the Annual Society Meeting. 2.32.2 Society Stewards Society Stewards shall be nominated by the Leaders Meeting as well as by members of the Society at the Annual Society Meeting for election and appointment at the Annual Society Meeting for a 3 year term, up to a maximum of 3 terms. 2.32.3 Circuit Stewards Circuit Stewards shall be nominated, with motivation, by members of the Circuit Quarterly Meeting for election and appointment at the October Circuit Quarterly Meeting for a 3 year term, up to a maximum of 3 terms. 2.32.4 Superintendents Process remains unchanged. 2.32.5 Circuit & Society Treasurers Circuit and Society Treasurers shall be appointed after careful 2014 95

consultation between the Superintendent Minister and Circuit Stewards, or the Minister and the Society Stewards, and ratifi ed at the October Quarterly Meeting or Annual Society Meeting. The appointment shall be for a 3 year term renewable up to a maximum of 3 terms. 2.32.6 Mission Group Leaders Shall be appointed by Call and Gifting with no form of election. 2.32.7 Organisation Leadership Shall be appointed at various levels as set out in the Organisational Constitutions. 2.32.8 District Lay Leader Shall be nominated, with motivation, at District Synod for election and appointment by the said Synod for a 3 year term, up to a maximum of 3 terms. 2.32.9 District Bishop Candidates for election as Bishop shall be Ordained Ministers in Full Connexion. Supernumerary Ministers and Non-Itinerant Ministers are not eligible. The election shall take place in the last year but one of the Current Bishop’s term of offi ce, unless there are special circumstances, in which case the Connexional Executive or Presiding Bishop shall make a ruling. The following shall apply: The District Secretary shall invite all Circuit Quarterly Meetings within the District to nominate any Minister in Full Connexion, whether in the District concerned or not, at the January Quarterly Meeting. These nominations are to be submitted to the Secretary of Conference by 31st March. Bishops shall be appointed by Conference following their election by Synods for a term of 5 years, renewable for one fi nal term. 2.32.10 Presiding Bishop The Presiding Bishop shall be appointed following an election by Synods for a 5 year term, renewable for one fi nal term. 2.32.11 General Secretary The General Secretary shall be elected and appointed by Conference for a 5 year term, renewable for one fi nal term. 2.32.12 Unit Leaders and Directors All ministerial Unit Leaders and Directors shall be appointed by Conference for a 5 year term, renewable for one fi nal term. This does not apply to the Youth Unit. 96 2014

Conference further instructs the Connexional Structures Committee to develop proposals for further discussion by Synods for the appointment or election of people to serve in leadership ofﬁ ces of Presiding Bishop, General Secretary, Bishop, Lay President and District Lay Leaders and Unit Leaders/ Directors, and further clarify the role of Leadership Discernment Committees in this regard, taking into account the comments of the various Synods, for presentation to the 2014 Synods and Conference.

2.33 CONNEXIONAL BOUNDARIES COMMITTEE Conference resolves to appoint a Connexional Boundaries Committee to investigate the possible restructuring of Districts and report to Conference 2014 thereon. The committee shall include: Rev Mzwandile Molo (Convener), Rev Bill Meaker, Rev Dr Kenaleone Ketshabile, Judge Annah Mathiba, Mr. Zandile Jakuvula and a Representative of the Human Resources Unit.

2.34 ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS Conference resolves to establish the position of the District Ecumenical Affairs Secretary and refers this matter to the Structures Committee to determine the function and duties of such secretaries, taking into account the work of the Connexional Ecumenical Affairs Director.

2.35 PROPOSED STATIONING PROCEDURE Conference receives and refers the Human Resources Stationing Proposal to Circuit Quarterly Meetings and District Synods for discussion and report to the 2014 Conference.

2.36 LIFE OF DISCIPLESHIP Noting that prayer is at the heart of the life of discipleship, Conference resolves: That Lent 2014 be set aside as a focused time of prayer for repentance which leads to discipleship and also to pray about the social ills affecting our people at this time. onference instructs the Training of Lay Ministries within EMMU to develop and produce a prayer programme by January 2014. 2014 97

CHAPTER 3

WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL

3.1 Resolution on Syria Believing that the way of Jesus Christ is a way of non-violence 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 fi nally, 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 confl ict 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 confl ict. 4. Directs its Offi cers to forward this resolution immediately to the G20 and the United Nations affi rming restraint and diplomacy.

3.2 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 away 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 itsglobal body, members are deeply troubled by the arms fair being held at the same time in thecapital. The World Methodist Council: 1. Condemns the proﬁ teering 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, represented by Claire Potter, curator WMC London, 12 September 2013: The World Methodist Council notes that Epworth Old Rectory is held in trust by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (of the British Methodist Church), for the purposes of the World Methodist Council. 98 2014

The WMC confi rms both the responsibilities and opportunities this ownership gives us. The WMC confi rms that it will continue to offer fi nancial 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 Afﬁ liate 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 31-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. 2014 99

CHAPTER 4

AMENDMENTS TO LAWS AND DISCIPLINE

4.1 Order of Business for Youth Synods Amend L&D 1.1 and 1.2 page 203: Delete “Sunday School”; insert “Children’s Ministry”

4.2 Young Women’s Manyano Constitution Conference refers the following YWM Constitutional changes to the Revisions Committee:

Uniform The uniform of the YWM shall be: Add: 6.1 A white round neck blouse without a collar. 6.3 Plain leather black shoes without buckle. 6.5 Six panel Manyano hat with brim.

Local Branch Organisation Add: 7.5 Should there be no local Minister’s wife, a YWM, the Branch Chairperson shall be nominated by the Circuit Executive. If not possible, the wife of an Evangelist may be nominated, in consultation with the Superintendent of the Circuit and appointed by the Circuit Quarterly Meeting.

Circuit Organisation It was resolved that 8.2.1 be deleted, as it completely contradicts 8.2

District Organisation Add: 9.2.4 The President, Ofﬁ ce Bearers and two elected delegates of the Circuit YWM. 9.2.6 Delete the entire Clause.

Connexional Organisation 10.1.3 Delete the phrase “except for the minister’s wives in the committee”. 10.1.4 Add: Ex-President Add Clause: 10.1.6 Minister’s wives, widows and the wives of supernumerary ministers, 100 2014

and ministers who are members of the YWM in the Connexion, are Ex-ofﬁ cio members with no voting powers.

NB: All other Laws & Discipline Amendments approved by the Connexional th Executive will be included in the 12 Edition which will be available in May 2014. 2014 101

CHAPTER 5

METHODIST CONNEXIONAL OFFICE

PROFILE OF THE METHODIST CONNEXIONAL OFFICE

CHALLENGES TO THE CHURCH 1. The Church needs to begin managing Church property under its care strategically.

The suggested aim for Districts is: (1) To identify property with development potential in order to create income streams for the church into the future. (2) To resource the church at all levels by selling property that is no longer used effectively. The proceeds should be used for the ongoing maintenance, restoration and acquisition of property for the needs of the Church at District level. (3) To be strategic in the stewardship of church property. In other words, to identify what the property requirements will be into the future and plan to meet those needs as they occur.

2. The MCO expects all Circuits to pay their assessments on time. July 2013 Schedules indicate that 221 out of 340 Circuits pay by due date. Of the 119 Circuits which are in arrear, 88 Circuits are less than 2 months behind with their payments. We appeal to those 88 Circuits to exercise stricter control in order to reduce the unacceptably high level of supervision required. Another 31 (30 in July 2012) Circuits require intensive management and represent R1.9 million of the R5.1 million arrears.

3. 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 MCO as soon as possible but by no later than 2 weeks after the Synod meeting. Late submission of these Schedules is not acceptable and threatens the Church’s tax exempt status. Clear instruction is given on the completion of these schedules on the internet as well as an electronic and manual version of the Excel 4C & 4S Schedules for downloading on the Church’s website: Enter http://www.methodist.org.za/units/mco in your Internet Browser and this link will connect straight to the MCO web page. The 4C and 4S Schedules as well as the “Accounting Procedure for Circuits and Societies – 2013 Edition” is found at the bottom of this web page. The electronic and manual 4C and 4S Schedules are clearly marked. The “Accounting Procedure for Circuits and Societies – 2013 Edition” is applicable to both electronic and manual versions. 102 2014

1. It is pleasing to note that Circuits, Societies and Organisations are largely adhering to the Church’s ‘Policy on Effective Financial Management’ (See Annexure 1). Those who continue to ignore them contradict the high calling of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. The required guidance and discipline must be adhered to at every level of the Church.

2. All Church owned property is to be registered in the name of the Presiding Bishop, for the time being, of the Conference of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa 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.

3. The average cost to a Circuit for an Ordained Minister is approx. R435 000. This must be taken into account when considering the viability of a Circuit and deciding on the number of Ministers a Circuit can afford. This is particularly important for those Societies/Circuits which receive less than R500 000 in total income per annum.

HIGHLIGHTS AND SIGNIFICANT EVENTS 1. An up to date Audit of Church owned Property was completed in 2010. This was a vital exercise and will assist the Church in planning strategically for the future.

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 set the Circuit Assessment at 20% of Ministers’ stipends plus allowances.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES – A BRIEF OVERVIEW • Pension/Provident Funds The MCO administers two pension and one provident fund. Total assets under administration amount to R1 Billion. • Payment of Stipends/Pension 815 Ministers, Evangelists and Biblewomen, as well as 705 Supernumeraries are paid monthly through the MCO. • Insurance of Church Properties The MCO administers the insurance cover for the Church’s assets which amounts to over R4.7 billion. • Medical Aid The MCO, in conjunction with Pharos Medical Scheme, administers the medical aid for our Ministers, Evangelists and Biblewomen. 2014 103

• Property The MCO hold Title Deeds and administer the records of over oneandahalf thousand properties owned by the MCSA.

OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGY OF THE MCO The MCO 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 beneﬁ ts, income tax, health care, retirement planning and how to buy a vehicle, house or investments.

• Objective No. 2 Effectively administer Connexional Funds in accordance with missional objectives in an accountable and responsible manner: Strategy (a) Provide appropriate administrative and ﬁ nancial systems and services; (b) Control Connexional expenditure within reasonable limits; (c) Exercise management oversight of out-sourced specialised services to those who have the ﬁ nancial resources and expertise such as vehicle and housing loans, insurance, investment management, processing medical claims and computer consultancy.

• Objective No. 3 Offer administrative and fi nancial facilities and resources to the Church: Strategy (a) Provide Connexional fi nancial 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 fi nancial and other information to enable them to manage effectively; (d) Circulate an Administration/Financial procedure manual.

• Objective No. 4 Initiate ﬁ nancial 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; 104 2014

(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 ﬁ nancing purposes as opportunities arise. 2014 105

THE METHODIST CHURCH OF SOUTHERN AFRICA CONNEXIONAL OFFICE

ORDER OF BUSINESS – 2013 for 2014

5 THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS SHOULD BE READ IN th CONJUNCTION WITH THE 11 EDITION OF THE LAWS AND DISCIPLINE, CHAPTER 8, PAGES 89ff.

5.1 Administration 5.1.1 Executive Committee The Presiding Bishop, the Bishop of the Natal Coastal District, the Secretary of Conference, the Lay President, the Ministerial and Lay General Treasurers, Revs JB Freemantle, M Sebeko, C Morgan and L Lebaka-Ketshabile, Mesdames FBY Nodada, N Hlati, J Simons and N Mbonane, Ms LL Ginindza and Ms I van der Walt, Prof N Mbobo and Mr G Rulumeni.

5.1.2 General Treasurers The 2010 Conference appointed Rev VG Nyobole as Ministerial General Treasurer for a further period of three years (2012-2014). The 2009 Connexional Executive appointed Mr AR Tibbit as Lay General Treasurer for a further period of ﬁ ve years (2011-2015).

5.2 Financial Statements The Connexional Executive received and adopted the audited Annual Financial Statements of the Connexional Ofﬁ ce and the Millennium Mission Resource Fund as at 31 December 2012.

5.3 Connexional Funds 5.3.1 Connexional Assessment Fund Refer Laws and Discipline paras. 8.13 - 8.15.

5.3.1.1 Circuit Assessments To maintain the Connexional Funds the levy on all Circuits in 2014 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 2012. 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. 106 2014

5.3.1.2 Medical Expenses (previously called Extraordinary Afﬂ iction Grants): From 2005 Medical expenses were removed from the Circuit Assessment Account because its magnitude was distorting an objective evaluation of this Account.

To maintain Medical expenses in 2014 of R22 154 000 (2013 - R19 820 770) 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 2012.

5.3.1.3 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 MCO by the Circuits. (see paragraph 5.7.1.3)

5.3.1.4 N.B. Of the total amount of the estimated assessment income for 2014 – R10 802 440 (2013 – R10 703 890) is to be used directly for the care and maintenance of the ministry. This is made up as follows: BUDGET BUDGET 2013 2014 R R Ministerial Training EMMU/SMMS 7 475 250 7 611 540 Removals 1 730 000 1 900 000 Long Leave Grants 1 340 640 1 122 900 Exigencies of Stations 90 000 95 000 Bursaries 35 000 37 000 Work permits 20 000 22 000 Children’s Educational Grants 13 000 14 000 10 703 890 10 802 440

5.3.1.5 Administrative expenses make up the balance as follows: BUDGET BUDGET 2013 2014 R R Alcohol & Drug Concerns 2 500 2 500 All Africa Council of Churches 10 000 12 000 Auxiliary grants 3 000 3 000 Bishops administration allowances 168 000 180 000 Centralised Accounting Organisation 280 000 290 000 Botswana Council of Churches 2 000 3 000 Christian Council of Lesotho 2 000 3 000 2014 107

Christian Council of Mocambique 2 000 3 000 Christian Council of Namibia 2 000 3 000 Christian Council of Swaziland 2 000 3 000 Church Unity Commission 64 000 68 000 Conference Printing 25 000 35 000 Connexional Executive and Conference Planning 380 000 425 000 Connexional Committees 610 000 660 000 Connexional Chaplaincy Committee 40 000 40 000 Connexional Offi ce expenses 5 224 700 5 374 445 Connexional IT 50 000 50 000 Connexional Marriage Registrar 2 000 2 000 Doctrine Ethics and Worship Committee 35 000 75 000 Ecumenical Affairs 160 000 160 000 Connexional Schedules 15 000 15 000 Dept. of Archives 2 000 2 000 Minutes of Conference 250 000 250 000 Bursary Fund Assessments 1 000 1 000 Dept. of Public Relations and Communications 280 000 290 000 Legal expenses 1 020 000 1 020 000 Offi ce of the Presiding Bishop 926 600 976 450 Presiding Bishop’s travel costs 200 000 300 000 Offi ce of the Lay President 130 000 150 000 Offi ce of the Secretary of Conference 852 400 920 850 Sec of Conference Travel Costs 200 000 300 000 Sec of Conference Elect 0 200 000 Human Resources 300 000 500 000 Youth President 10 000 10 000 School Chaplain 10 000 10 000 Children’s Desk 250 000 250 000 Overseas Conferences 180 000 150 000 Regional Meetings 10 000 10 000 South African Council of Churches 75 000 82 000 SA Institute of Race Relations 3 000 3 000 Sundry funeral grants 4 000 4 000 World Council of Churches 150 000 150 000 World Methodist Council 80 000 80 000 Church Investors Trust 0 4 000

Total of all other Connexional expenses 12 013 200 13 070 245

TOTAL EXPENDITURE 22 717 090 23 872 685 108 2014

5.3.1.6 Without Agency 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 neighbouring Circuit. 5.3.1.7 Assessments of Ministers with Permission to Labour, on Leave of Absence or Seconded 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 Affl iction grants, Furlough allowances, Removal reimbursements, and any other grants, if such benefi ts apply to them. Where a Minister or Deacon has contributed the assessed cost to the Extraordinary Affl iction Fund for less than 10 years immediately prior to retirement, that Minister or Deacon may , from retirement date, apply for grants from the Extraordinary Affl iction Fund, limited to the same number of years for which such assessed cost was made. 5.3.1.8 Assessments for Non-Stipendiary Personnel 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. 5.3.1.9 Assessments of Ministers Stationed in United Churches (See L&D, para 8.49) Ministers serving in United Churches shall contribute each year, if such benefi ts apply to them, the assessed cost of Supernumerary Fund contributions, Supernumerary Fund Reserve/Church Reserve contributions, Extraordinary Affl iction grants, Furlough allowances and Removal reimbursements, together with an annual amount of approximately 50% of the residual assessment per Minister. The amount of 50% of the residual assessment per Minister is R11 220 for 2014.

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 2014 109

to bring them up to a minimum overall income package. From 2013 this package is R15 500 before tax. Based on a formula this will be fi nanced by a Stipend Augmentation Assessment levied on Circuits who pay stipends and allowances higher than R15 500 before tax. 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. The implementation of a voluntary policy was diffi cult to achieve and as a result the proposals on the implementation of an Assessed Stipend Augmentation Fund were approved from 2010. The Fund is administrated by the MCO but managed by Trustees appointed by Conference. Augmentations from the Fund to qualifying Ministers started in July 2010. 5.4.2 Voluntary Stipend Fund This is an existing Fund to pay a minimum stipend, or part thereof, to any Minister who does not receive a stipend. Before any Minister, not in receipt of the monthly stipend, is assisted from the Fund and to avoid possible abuse, someone from the District will need to visit the Circuit in situ and confi rm that there is genuine need. If this is the case the District Bishop will be required to provide written confi rmation to the MCO that such Minister did not receive a stipend or any infl ated allowances direct from the Circuit and that the Circuit does not have resources to pay stipends through the MCO. Amalgamation of the Voluntary Stipend Fund with the Stipend Augmentation Fund In view of the successful implementation of the Stipend Augmentation Fund the Trustees requested, and CE approved, that this Voluntary Stipend Fund be amalgamated with the Stipend Augmentation Fund and that the one Fund attends to both the needs.

Every Minister who in 2014 receives more than the minimum stipend will be invited to indicate to the MCO if they want to voluntarily participate in the Stipend Augmentation Fund and the percentage they want to contribute, subject to a minimum of 1% of Basic and Additional Stipend. Organisations are encouraged to contribute to the Fund on a voluntary basis. The granting of a minimum stipend, or part thereof, to any Minister who does not receive a stipend is dependent on funds being available.

5.4.3 Stipends for 2014 Two things need to be noted: 1. The recommended Stipend increase for 2014 is 8.0%. 110 2014

2. Because we target pension increases to be the same as the average increase in stipends all the contributions in each pension group will increase by the average stipend increase. Superintendents and Circuit Stewards please take note of this as the cost of ministry is growing too quickly for Circuits to be able to afford it. Noting the above and that CPI is expected to be approximately 6.3% in 2014, the Connexional Executive recommends that: The Minimum Stipends and stipend assessments for 2014 be increased by 8.0% to R8 210 per month and that Total Stipends increase by not more than 8.0% for 2014. We request that this be complied with as far as possible.

Minimum stipend allowances for 2014 shall be: Annual Monthly R R Ministers : Ordained 98 520 8 210 Probationers (85%) 83 760 6 980 Deacons: Ordained 73 920 6 160 Probationers (85%) 62 820 5 235 Evangelists: Commissioned 40 680 3 390 Probationers 34 620 2 885 Biblewomen: Commissioned 40 680 3 390 Probationers 34 620 2 885

5.4.4 Stipend Assessment In order to pay stipends in 2014 in terms of L&D paragraph 8.56 the stipend assessment to be included with the Circuit assessment and other th th charges, payable on or before the 15 of each month or on the 19 if paid by debit order, is the same amount as the above stipend.

5.4.5 Payment of Stipend Allowances The amount of stipend paid shall relate to the total amount received by the Connexional Ofﬁ ce in respect of the combined charges in terms of L&D paragraph 8.56 and subject to the allocation priority in terms of L&D paragraph 8.57.

5.4.6 Superintendent’s Allowance (See L&D para 8.52) The allowance is discontinued with effect from 2008. 2014 111

5.4.7 Note the Conference resolution relating to stipends, refer to paragraph 5.4 above. 5.4.8 Research regarding non-payment of stipends and viability of Circuits. The Connexional Executive mandates that in regard to stipends: 5.4.8.1 Each District shall be required to appoint a qualifi ed task-group to research and study the problem of some Ministers not receiving stipends, including the costing of options they may seek to recommend; 5.4.8.2 The recommendations of the District task-groups be sent to their own Circuits and Synods for discussion in February annually; 5.4.8.3 The work of Districts be submitted to the Executive Secretary and combined into a defi nitive discussion document to be considered by the Connexional Executive in September annually. 5.4.9 Depreciation Allowance (See L&D, paragraph 8.61) The Depreciation Allowance will no longer be paid as a separate allowance. 5.4.10 Travelling Allowance (See L&D, paragraph 8.62) 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 2014 is based on the Value of the Vehicle being between R120 000 and R180 000 and calculated on the basis of travelling 1 400 km per month. The recommended Travelling Allowance for 2014 is R6 066 per month. Where the distance travelled exceeds 1 400 km per month, the excess mileage may be claimed at R3.40 per km. 5.4.11 Loan-Reducing Term Insurance (See L&D, paragraph 8.63) Car Loans are no longer available from the Church and the Reducing Term Insurance therefore falls away. 5.4.12 Extraordinary Affl iction Grants (See L&D, paragraph 8.75). 5.4.12.1 In terms of Laws and Discipline, paragraph 8.75, various benefi ts and limits are granted under the Pharos 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 Pharos Medical Plan and the Church from time to time. 112 2014

(a) In-Hospital Benefi ts • From 2009 the upper limit is R500 000 per incident per annum; • The co-payment required by the member from 2009 is: 50% of the fi rst R4 400, thereafter 10% of the amount over R4 400, up to a maximum of R10 000; • Any hospital treatment that forms part of the Prescribed Minimum Benefi ts at State and Provincial Hospitals is fully paid-for by Pharos Medical Plan. (b) Out-of-Hospital Benefi ts Ministers and Supernumeraries are required to pay doctors and other out-of-hospital accounts up-front and will be refunded 80% thereof by the Pharos 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 Pharos electronically. 5.4.12.2 The conditions and limits referred to in Laws & Discipline para 8.15.2 are as follows: “Members of the Order of Evangelism qualify for extraordinary affl iction 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, having been paid the minimum stipend through the MCO. All such grants are subject to a limit of R4 000 per family per year.” 5.4.12.3. 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 R885 per month for 2014. With effect from January 2014 the required contribution from Supernumeraries who receive a Pension greater than R5000 per month will be R150 per month towards the medical expenses of Ministers, Supernumeraries, Deacons, Evangelists and Biblewomen for 2014.

5.5 Funeral Grants (See L&D , paragraph 8.78) The limit for 2014 is R2 200.

5.6 Children’s Education 5.6.1 School Uniforms (See L&D, paragraph 8.79.2) The amount for 2014 is R385. 2014 113

5.7 Supernumerary Fund 5.7.1 Stipend Groups, Contributions and Basic Beneﬁ t Rates 5.7.1.1 The following basic beneﬁ t rates of pensionable service are recommended with effect from 1 July 2013 being an increase of 10.90%:

Group Basic Beneﬁ t per year being 2% of Annual Pensionable Stipend R 1 224.16 2 672.48 3 1 196.16 4 1 868.88 5 2 616.48 6 3 363.84 7 4 111.44 8 4 859.04 9 5 606.64 10 6 354.00 11 7 101.60 12 7 849.20 13 8 596.80 14 9 344.40

5.7.1.2 The following annual pensionable stipend and contributions in each group are recommended from 1 January 2014:

Annual Monthly Stipend Annual Stipend Pension- Personal Circuit Contributions Group Range Range able Contributions SF/SFRes/ChRes Stipend Monthly Annual Monthly Annual 1 1868 1 22416 11208 93 1116 279 3348 2 1869 3736 22417 44832 33624 280 3360 840 10080 3 3737 6232 44833 74784 59808 498 5976 1494 17928 4 6233 9342 74785 112104 93444 779 9348 2337 28044 5 9343 12462 112105 149544 130824 1091 13092 3273 39276 6 12463 15570 149545 186840 168192 1402 16824 4206 50472 7 15571 18692 186841 224304 205572 1713 20556 5139 61668 8 18693 21800 224305 261600 242952 2025 24300 6075 72900 9 21801 24922 261601 299064 280332 2336 28032 7008 84096 10 24923 28028 299065 336336 317700 2647 31764 7941 95292 11 28029 31152 336337 373824 355080 2959 35508 8877 106524 114 2014

12 31153 34258 373825 411096 392460 3271 39252 9813 117756 13 34259 37382 411097 448584 429840 3582 42984 10746 128952 14 37383 & over 448585 & over 467220 3894 46728 11682 140184

5.7.1.3 The contribution from the Circuit towards the Supernumerary Fund, Super- numerary 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 contribution for 2014 will be 1 times to the Supernumerary Fund, 2 times to the Supernumerary Fund Reserve and zero times to the Church Reserve. 5.7.2 Ministers will receive an annual benefi t statement which will indicate their Individual Member Balance in the Supernumerary Fund and also an indication of the Church minimum benefi t (at current benefi t rates) they will receive from the Supernumerary Fund at retirement and in the event of death, to enable them to arrange their personal fi nances. 5.7.3 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. 5.7.4 The Rules of the Supernumerary Fund are available on request from the Methodist Connexional Offi ce. 5.7.5 In terms of the rules the Church representatives of the Supernumerary Fund shall include the Ministerial General Treasurer and the Lay General Treasurer ex offi cio. 5.7.6 The 2010 Connexional Executive appointed Mr GW Trimble and in 2012 Rev ZD Siwa and Mrs J Trytsman as Church representatives of the Supernumerary Fund for the term (2011-2015). 5.7.7 The 2010 and 2012 Connexional Executive noted the election by members and pensioners of Revs J Borman, JP Scholtz, JB Freemantle, SG Jones and CHS Bell as Elected Trustees of the Supernumerary Fund for the term (2011-2015).

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 ofﬁ cio Church representatives of the Lay Staff Pension Fund. 5.8.2 The 2013 Connexional Executive appointed Mr GW Trimble, Rev ZD Siwa and Mrs J Trytsman as Church representatives of the Lay Staff Pension Fund for the term (2014-2016). 2014 115

5.8.3 The 2013 Connexional Executive noted the election by members and pensioners of Mesdames HA Fleming, M Hildyard, BE 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 ofﬁ cio Church representatives of the Provident Fund. 5.8.5 The 2013 Connexional Executive appointed Mr GW Trimble, Rev ZD Siwa and Mrs J Trytsman as Church representatives of the Provident Fund for the term (2014-2016). 5.8.6 The 2013 Connexional Executive noted the election by members of Mesdames HA Fleming, M Hildyard, BE 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 L&D, para 8.84.3, para 8.84.4 and 8.84.5) 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. 5.10 Ministerial Students’ Fund 5.10.1 Contributions to the Ministerial Students’ Fund (See L&D, para 8.87.3) 5.10.2 Ordained Ministers are invited to contribute a voluntary amount to the Ministerial Students’ Fund for deduction from their stipend payment by the Connexional Ofﬁ ce. 5.10.3 Donations from Districts to the Ministerial Students’ Fund The following donations were received from the Districts:

Actual Actual 2012 2011 R R Cape 178 200 155 996 Grahamstown 39 162 52 978 Queenstown 37 029 25 935 Kimberley, Namibia and Bloemfontein 30 067 37 610 Northern Free State and Lesotho 54 585 61 992 116 2014

Natal Coastal 142 012 151 703 Natal West 97 000 123 234 Central 186 296 164 489 Highveld and Swaziland 171 213 153 989 Limpopo 70 793 79 450 Mocambique 0 0 Clarkebury 43 000 68 000 Miscellaneous 80 987 144 576 TOTAL 1 130 344 1 219 952

5.10.4 Books for Probationers The entire Laws and Discipline paragraph 8.88 is deleted and is no longer applicable as approved by Conference 2012. 5.10.4.1 The special grant to students for the purchase of extra copies of important but expensive books for the library at John Wesley College is no longer paid. 5.10.4.2 Ministerial Students’ Fund Cost of Ministerial Training (See L&D, para 8.91.1) The cost of Seminary Training to be met by any Minister who does not complete 5 years of ordained service to the Church is R86 000 for the study year 2014. (R75 000 for the study year 2013. This was incorrectly quoted in the 2013 Yearbook as R60 000). 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 R17 000 for the study year 2014. The cost of Ministerial Training to be paid by Ministers in respect of 2014 is 30% of the Seminary Training Cost per Seminarian for 2014 and/or 30% of the In Circuit Training per Probationer for 2014, as follows: Training Cost Minister’s 30% Portion Prob. at Seminary R 86 000 R 25 800 Prob. In Circuit R 17 000 R 5 100 5.11 Removals (See L&D, para 8.93) st 5.11.1 Where travel is by private transport, the reimbursement from 1 June 2012 shall be R3.40 per kilometre. 2014 117

5.12 Loans 5.12.1 Building Loan Interest Rate (See L&D, para 8.94.1) The Connexional interest rate on building loans will be an appropriate rate as determined by the General Treasurers from time to time. 5.12.2 Outside Housing Loans (See L&D, para 8.94.3.2) There is no formal agreement with banks to make property housing loans available to Ministers and full-time employees of the Church. 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 L&D, para 8.95) 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 L&D, para 8.96) The Connexional Ofﬁ ce conducts a number of bank accounts all of which have been approved by the MCO Executive Committee.

5.15 Northern Districts Finance Committee (See L&D, para 8.101) The following are members of the Committee: The Bishops of the Central, the Highveld & Swaziland, and the Limpopo Districts, together with one Minister and two lay members from each of those Districts and a Secretary and a Treasurer.

5.16 Bursaries for Tertiary Education for the Children of Ministers and Laity An amount of R35 000 is allocated for bursaries for Ministers’ children from the Circuit Assessment Account. Such bursaries are: School R2 000 Tertiary R7 500 per annum tenable for a maximum of 4 years at an approved tertiary education institution.

5.17 Bursary Fund Levy (See General Regulations, para 1.10.2) The Bursary Fund levy on Circuits is R400 per annum per Minister for 2014. 118 2014

5.18 Connexional Bursary Secretary P O Box 75476, Gardenview, 2047 Tel : 011 6150729 Fax: 011 6162805 2014 119

CONNEXIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES

(Yearbook, Chapter 13)

th The following paragraphs should be read in conjunction with the 11 Edition of the Laws and Discipline, Chapter 9, pages 118ff.

9.41 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. 9.50 No building contract exceeding R250 000 in value may be entered into without the District Trust Properties Committee’s approval. 9.52 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. 9.53 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. 9.57 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.

CONNEXIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES COMMITTEE Delete paragraph 9.60.8 which is replaced by Laws and Discipline, paragraph 9.13: “There shall be a Connexional Trust Properties Committee convened by the Presiding Bishop’s Ofﬁ ce.” 120 2014

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 May 2011)

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 to Synods, Connexional Executive or the Board of Mission Meeting.

OBJECTIVES The main objectives are to provide: 1. A clear statement of the fi nancial 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 diffi culty when Treasurers or Offi cials move; and 4. Management information to facilitate decision-making by the respective Executive Committees as well as the Synod, Methodist Connexional Offi ce 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. L & D 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, keep proper accounts of income and expenditure and submit them to the Quarterly Meeting. The Circuit Treasurer, where 2014 121 appointed, shall operate under the direction of the Circuit Stewards. Superintendent Ministers must ensure that Circuit Stewards do exercise this management duty. 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 qualifi cation, whose qualifi cations shall be stated in the audited Annual Financial Statements. This Appendix 1 document should be made available to the Auditor to assist him/ her with the audit. Where the services of qualifi ed persons are not available, there should be consultation with the Methodist Connexional Offi ce so that the accounts are handled by a fi rm of Accountants or the Centralised Accounting Organisation. 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 6.34 and 6.35). The District Treasurer will then submit a copy to the Methodist Connexional Offi ce within two weeks of Synod. All income and all expenditure of 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 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 fi rst 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 Offi ce. The audited Annual Financial Statements of Connexional Units, Organisations, 122 2014

Institutions and Trusts are required to be submitted fi rst to their respective Connexional (Controlling) Executive Committee and then to the Methodist Connexional Offi ce for consideration by the Connexional Executive Committee. These requirements also apply to special funds collected, invested and expended such as Building, Rona 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 Benefi t Organisations (PBOs), (which includes religious organisations) are required annually to submit a consolidated Financial Report to SA Revenue Services refl ecting 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 STANDARDS 1. All money collected is immediately banked. 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 cheque 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. 4. Cheques, payable to the supplier of 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. Stolen/lost unused cheques must be reported to the Bank & SAPS immediately. A ‘stop payment’ must be placed on these cheques with the bank. 5. Invoices must be obtained to substantiate payments made. 6. All vouchers, receipts, invoices, receipt records, bank deposits, paid cheques and bank statements together with cash book and other bookkeeping records are given to the auditor. 7. Each expense must be allocated, in the ﬁ nancial records, to the relevant budget item it relates to. 8. For any large items of expenditure, eg. repairs or printing, 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 or person responsible. 9. Extra staff may not be taken on if not budgeted for. 2014 123

10. 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. 11. Accounting data, in respect of Connexional Units must be sent timeously to the Methodist Connexional Ofﬁ ce in Durban according to the agreed deadlines. 12. In accordance with paragraph 5.43.15 of the Laws and Discipline, no loan from Circuit or Connexional Funds may be made to any private person or body. 13. Electronic payments are only permissible where dual control of authorisation on a payment instruction is a requirement of the banking system and separate conﬁ dential password codes are used. 14. No unbudgeted item of expenditure shall be purchased or commitment made to purchase without the prior approval of the appropriate Connexional authority. The General Treasurers must be consulted when appropriate. 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 fi gures but calculate accurately and be able to justify each budget item. 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 confi rmed 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 verifi ed 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 suffi cient accommodation for them to avoid unbudgeted for acquisition or renting of properties. 8. Where necessary infl ation 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 defi nitely not an excess of Expenditure over Income. 124 2014

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 speciﬁ ed 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 ﬁ gures. 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. st 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.

OVERSEAS and DOMESTIC TRAVEL 1. Any travel on ofﬁ cial 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. Where overnight accommodation is provided by family or friends an allowance of R300 per night may be claimed in lieu of commercial accommodation. st Where domestic travel is by private transport the reimbursement, from 1 June 2012, shall be R3-40 per kilometre. (This rate changes from time to time – see Yearbook). 2014 125

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 speciﬁ ed 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 preferably transferred to the General Treasurers for investment. 2. All Bank account balances, be they Call or Current, must be reported to the relevant authority on a weekly basis or whenever appropriate. 3. Quarterly administration grants to Units need only be paid if cash resources will not be sufﬁ cient for the forthcoming quarter. A partial quarterly grant need only be paid if cash resources are left over from the previous quarter. 4. Continually look for ways of saving on costs and avoiding unnecessary expenses. 5. Carefully monitor all expenses. 6. Ensure 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 speciﬁ cally 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 9 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 126 2014

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 ﬁ rst obtaining permission from the MCO. 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. 2014 127

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)

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

...... 128 2014

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 sufﬁ cient 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? ● Identiﬁ cation 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 day 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 ﬁ nancial 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 identiﬁ ed and assigned to staff? 2014 129

Are staff records in place including employment contracts? Are appropriate disciplinary and 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; ﬁ nancial controls; board relations?

Technology/Systems Are there systems in place which assist staff and 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 ﬁ nancial statements, reﬂ ecting income from all sources, all expenditure, excess income over expenditure and a balance sheet of assets and liabilities and funds at year-end submitted to Synod? 130 2014

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 ﬁ nancial/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 ______2014 131

CHAPTER 6

EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY AND MISSION UNIT

Rev. Norman Raphahlela

The year under review was characterised by many challenging performance activities pertaining to the continuous review processes of our Education System. EMMU and SMMS partnership meetings continued to tirelessly work hard on the seamless kind of model that addresses a number of development areas brought about by the establishment of the Seminary. The year also saw exciting work done by the Lay Training Coordinator with his team producing and launching the ﬁ rst publication of the Christian Education and formation material. The Lay Orders also received a lot of attention in upgrading standards of training and raising the bar on curriculum review. The training for the ordained ministries also saw a revised programme that took into consideration a notion of continuity from the SMMS curriculum.

The EMMU staff and members of the General Committee delights in the appointment of Rev. Dr. Mvume Dandala as President of the Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary. His appointment brought a sigh of relief to the body of seminarians after the loss of the past president. A word of gratitude is also sent to Rev. Prof. Peter Storey who navigated the affairs of this great institution during difﬁ cult times.

1. CANDIDATURE The selection and discernment work continues to be a site of struggle particularly for those who have not gone through a proper and thorough preparation in their home circuits. In responding to such a challenge and managing the risk of accepting and listing candidates for Seminary in preparation for Ordination, only to later learn of our mistakes, EMMU has introduced the School of Vocation. Conference urges all Districts to take all those who feel called to ministry to make use of the School of Vocation to help them prepare well in advance as they respond to God`s call.

EMMU continues to urge all Superintendents to make use of the Circuit Quarterly Meeting Guide in the nomination processes; the guide is still available at EMMU. The year has also seen candidates who appealed through the Presiding Bishop`s Ofﬁ ce as they were not successful in the screening processes. It is our belief at EMMU that if due processes are followed we will not have such litigation outcomes.

2. TRAINING FOR ORDAINED MINISTRIES The January Probationers seminar was a great success as all attended save 132 2014

one, who sent a doctor’s sick note. The seminar lasted for the entire week. Our probationers had a good time of fellowship among themselves and also learned through sharing experiences. The week’s programme was as follows: • Doing Exegesis – Rev. Morapedi Diutlwileng • Spirituality of Leadership – Rev. Vusi Vilakati • Socio-Economic Justice (Focus on Marikana) – Rev. Dr. Smanga Kumalo • Diversity Management – Rev. Dr. Wesley Mabuza

The Project on Diversity Management served as a main project for the In-Service- Training (IST) year. It covered the Presiding Bishop’s Conference 2012 address th on ‘Together a Healing Community’ and further celebrated the 55 year since our famous statement “One and Undivided”. The presentation by Dr. Wesley Mabuza was followed by a panel discussion comprised of Bishop Matsolo of Mozambique District and Bishop Anderson of the Highveld and Swaziland District, together with two other ministers, Rev. Mathibedi and Rev. Mtshiselwa.

3. NON-ITINERANT PROBATIONER MINISTERS TRAINING Eight of our Non-Itinerant presbyter ministers met at Lumko Centre in Brentwood Park Retreat place. The centre provided all and satisﬁ ed the needs of the programme following what the Convenor had prepared. The programme exposed participants to solitude and reﬂ ection periods as part of the formation training. The programme was as follows: • Church Polity and Leadership Skills – Rev. Okkie van Niekerk • Liturgy and liturgical theology – Rev. John van de Laar (2 days) • Evangelism – Rev. Dr. Mvume Dandala • Retreat Day – Sr. Teresa Mafuta

The training covered all aspects of the curriculum: Leadership Skills, Worship Skills, Evangelism and Spiritual Formation, Pastoral Skills (Funeral and Death Work), Conﬂ ict Resolution Skills. A word of gratitude is sent to Rev. Brenda Timmer who is the Convenor of the Non Itinerant Non Stipendary Ministers.

4. SUPERINTENDENTS TRAINING COURSE The Superintendents Training Course took place at eMseni Methodist Training Centre in Benoni. Only four Districts sent participants, namely Limpopo, Grahamstown, Central, Kimberly Bloemfontein and Namibia. A total of 16 Superintendents were trained. In future the training will not take place with less than 20 participants as this is not cost effective. EMMU strongly believes that the current training programme responds to basic needs of newly appointed Superintendents; this is also conﬁ rmed by the evaluation sheets. This programme is of vital importance to the life of the church as Superintendents play a key role in leading mission at local level. Following our Laws and Discipline, the Superintendent is the ofﬁ cial head of the church in the circuit (L&D 7.12). This 2014 133

statement does not only speak to the training but also to the appointments of such persons. EMMU is committed to work hard in improving the programme and looks forward to ﬁ nd a way to accredit it through SMMS in future. The programme for the week was as follows: o Understanding Yearbook Chapter 6 – Revs Diutlwileng and Raphahlela (EMMU) o Superintendents and Methodist Accounts – Mr Anthony Tibbit (MCO) o Biblical, Theological and Wesleyan Understanding of Superintendency – Bishop Hansrod (EMMU Chair) o Superintendents as Mission Leaders – Rev. Dr Ketshabile and Mrs Pearl Moraswi o Systems Thinking – Rev. Raphahlela

5. ORDINANDS RETREAT A successful Ordinands Retreat was held in January at eMseni Methodist Training Centre and all participants arrived for the retreat. The retreat dealt with the Ordinands Assignments, and presentations were done on the theology and understanding of ordination in the Methodist tradition. The second retreat was held at Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu in the ﬁ nal preparation for ordination at Conference. This work was led by the able and reliable Rev. Trevor Hingle who has now asked to be released from being the Convenor of this work. A word of gratitude is sent to him for the sterling work he did for all the years in leading and preparing our Ordinands in their year of ordination.

6. RECEIVED INTO FULL CONNEXION 6.1.1 Conference 2013 received the following PROBATIONERS into Full Connexion and resolved that they be ordained: SURNAME NAMES Beukes Martin P Dlamini Douglas Sizwe Dunga Felix Mzobanzi Edwana Price M Edwards Bruce Ellison Dylon Endres Kevin Clyde Keet Raymond Geoffrey Kwayini Siphiwo Ellias Lenkwe Kagiso Virginia Mabaso Esther Nomsa Makhubo D Petrus Mavombo Leta J May Vuyokazi P 134 2014

Mingana Sibongil M Monoametsi Kamogelo Nodlela Sweetness Bulelwa Nsibanyoni Mbuyiselo Norman Ntshapha Philisiwe Mandimande Ntshwanti Mkhululi Rapuleng Moletsane Stephen Rozana Khayalake Michael Serame Moshe B Shabalala Mbuyiseni Sbusiso Godswell Sikupela Zamani Wellington Van der Merwe Deon Matthew Zondagh Kevin Bradley

6.1.2 Conference 2013 received the following ORDAINED MINISTER into Full Connexion SURNAME NAMES Watt Ryan McKelvie

6.2 PREPARING FOR ORDINATION 2014 6.2.1 Subject to satisfactory results as indicated in the Handbook for Probation the following PROBATIONERS are to prepare for Ordination in 2014. SURNAME NAMES Buhr Heather Jill Chacate Nelson Faustino Didiza Philasande Dlamini Victor Mzuthini Feni Xolani Richard Gertze John Christian Hillebrand Jenny Innes Merilyn Jones Steven Granville Koekoe Phezile Joseph Madi Siphiwe Madliki Linda Mahanjana Eunice Ntombintombi Mahobe Lennox Lusapho Manamela Thusho Mmaphuti Matshaka Mapula Shirley Mbiko Verah Vuyiswa Mfuleni Clarence 2014 135

Ndlanzi Wandile Joseph Nogonyothi Zibangele Lithius Ntshingila Sandile Ntwagae Johannes Seuntjie Oliphant Xolani Gladman Pakela Miso Pene Nelson Joao Sanda Mtobeli Shongwe Zakhele Solomon Wernich Charles Hermanus Julius

6.2.2 Subject to satisfactory results as indicated in the Handbook for Probation the following DEACONS are to prepare for Ordination in 2014

SURNAME NAMES Burke Willem Gwabeni Mphumelelo Richard Mngxali Talente Sarah Njuze Thandiwe Phina Songelwa Sheila Zoleka Tiedt Coral Wendi

6.2.3 Subject to satisfactory results as indicated in the Handbook for Probation the following ORDAINED MINISTERS are to prepare for Reception into Full Connexion in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Banti David Siyabonga Sandiwe Mjali Dumalisile Jongudumo

6.3 PROBATIONERS 6.3.1 The following PROBATIONERS will continue their ministerial training in circuit in 2014

SURNAME NAMES Cutane Izidro Jaime De Jaar Sam Rasaemane Gana Nomaroma Ethel Goniwe Lusindiso Frank Gqomfa Luxolo Gumenke Thobeka Therecia Gxamza Akhona Kameya Evaristo Mutomb 136 2014

Keva Mziwethu Desman Kganyape Galetlhokwe Sarah Kulu Sivuyise Gosford Xevier Letsoko Motlatsi Meshack Mabaso Londeka Glenrose Mabilu Masedi Reuben Mabusela Xolisa Loveworth Madwe Knowledge Mfan’Tholakele Matsididi Tebogo Theophillus Mbaza Ayanda Mbozanani Madinisa Jordan Mehlomakulu Archibald Snephu Tamnci Mhaleni Nomatyala Martha Mhlomi Nzuzo Mkhonta Dumisile Lungile Mlaba Mbongeni Nkosikhona Thokozani Modise Mosioa Meshack Mogale Karabo Kingston Rufus Mokuena Mahlomola Johannes Mokuena (Lumko) Ayanda Pearl Mphithi Mandisi Edward Mwanda Manelisi Mzamo Jabu Thomas Ncobeni Sanele Howard Ndaba Jane Thoko Ndlangamandla Mduduzi Patrick Oupa Ngcayisa Thembani Ngxekisa Mpumelelo Nolingo Thembelani Christopher Ntola Nomvuyo Olivier Wesley John Qengwa Sisanda Ralo Solomzi Anthony Ralo Bongani Sabalele Similo Newman Sebolao Vuyelwa Gladys Seitisho Storia Cynthia Songo Joshia Vusimuzi Thekiso Mantima Hadiyo Tiroyabone Obusitswe Kingsley Tolashe Jalamba Vergueiro Nuno Miguel de Gouveia Xulu Londiwe Thobeka 2014 137

Zatu Getrude Nomthandazo Zombe Pumeza Zwane Maureen Ntombekaese

6.3.2 The following NON-ITINERANT PROBATIONERS will continue their ministerial training in circuit in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Gape Hamilton Tshegofatso Ghavalas Yvonne Moira Gobingca Zobongile Reford Hall Ronald Arthor Ketshabile Reginald Leﬁ tlhile Lehlongoane Sechaba Sydney Mosupi Chipo Ndumela Welcome Sipho Neveling Carol Nadine Ninneman Bryan Allan Nokwe Lindela Sebastian Nombombo Nodumo Sylvia Ntlai Motseleng Edward Ntshinga-Yawa Kholeka Vuyelwa Lawukazi Segone Phemelo Klaas Simelane Sharon Nomasonto Wernich Louise Linda Zono Kholekile Andrew

6.3.3 The following PROBATIONERS will continue their ministerial training at SMMS in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Breytenbach Johan Petrus Caluza Mxolisi Norman Cele Nosipho Chibindje Abel Lourenco Cira Thembeka Pretty Cole Philippa Diba Zwelinzima Bennet Dipali Tlali Sam Du Bazane Katy Hazel Gaarekwe Sethunya Michael Lubbe Carol Levon Maine Lakabane Patrick Makgalane Sonamzi Jaaroud 138 2014

Masentse Luvuyo Reuben Matthews Bulelani Claude Mlombi Mawuzole Ernest Mlotana Monwabisi David Moloabi Bareng Omphile Kagiso Mosia Peter Mothupi Mamoalusi Vallerie Mvinjelwa Siviwe Solomon Nel Bernardus Gerhardus Nomxego Mazwenkosi Lawrence Qamba Ndileka Qhampa Moleko Nzima George Quluba Lubabalo Mawande Rose David Barclay Senakgomo Ramoshodi Kenneth Silosini Kunjulwa Ethel Socatsha Xabiso Thulo Serame Samuel Thwala Annah Gcinile Tshangela Thoko Ntombizonke Zitha Shirley Nkgopa

6.3.4 The following DEACON PROBATIONERS continue training in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Berrange Petrus Hermanus Grobler Douw Gerbrand Habgood Anthony Joseph Kgosana Philip Ata Tembe Monitalina C Van Boom Bernice Verona Ann

6.3.5 The following ORDAINED MINISTER continues On-Trial in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Mathenjwa Mdidiyeli Philemon

6.4 CANDIDATES FOR THE ORDAINED MINISTRY 6.4.1 FULL TIME ITINERANT candidates received on trial as PROBATIONER MINISTERS who will commence training at SMMS in 2014. SURNAME NAMES Fumba Zukisa Patrick Tongo Liyanda 2014 139

Mtapane Lesizi Johan Seitshiro Kelebogile Patricia Mthembu Madina Thokozani Pillay Wesley Mcinga Thabiso Dlamini Mbongeleni Philani Windvogel Juliet Mosiane Rebekka Yelverton Ralph Henri Nkosi Tshepo Moeketsi Themba Thabethe Theophilis Gujulwa Milile Anderson Buthelezi Jeremia Valentine Legodi Gift Malose Gumede Muzomuhle Davidovich BoyBoy

6.4.2 FULL TIME ITINERANT candidate received on trial as PROBATIONER MINISTER who will commence training in circuit in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Ngcayisa Thembani

6.4.3 Candidates for the ORDER OF DEACONS received on trial who will commence training in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Brink Francois Ngomane Simisile Cathrine

6.4.4 Ordained Ministers who will commence on Trial Period in 2014 SURNAME NAMES Cita Zolani Magadla Nandipha Sweetness Mngcita Zandisile

6.5 CANDIDATES FOR ORDINATION On successful completion of ALL the requirements of training as set out in the yearly updated Handbook for Probation, Student Ministers are advanced to the ﬁ nal phase of training, which is preparation for Ordination. 6.5.1 ORDINANDS’ SCREENING Ordinands will appear before the District Ordinands’ Screening Committee before appearing before Synod for their ﬁ nal examination. The evaluation should include devotional discipline, social, mental, 140 2014

emotional and physical health, educational achievements, preaching and pastoral competence and an assessment of how probation has inﬂ uenced the Student Minister’s development.

6.5.2 ASSIGNMENTS 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.

6.5.3 SYNOD EXAMINATIONS Ordinands shall undergo Synod Oral Examinations on the ﬂ oor of Synod, which are set by the EMMU annually and forwarded to the Bishops prior to Synod.

6.6 STUDENT MINISTERS 6.6.1 Concerning effective communication of the criteria for discipline. They are known as the “rubrics”, and are as follows:

Caution: fail 1 course or fail to attend or fail to complete the requirements of formational training. Warning: fail 2 or more courses or fail to attend or fail to complete the requirements of formational training. Final Warning: If a student received a warning in the previous year and fails to complete the required work in the current year, or fails to attend or fails to complete the requirements of formational training in the current year, he or she will receive a ﬁ nal warning. If the student concerned does not pass all of the required courses or does not complete all the formational requirements by the end of the following year he or she will be recommended for discontinuance. Recommendation for Discontinuance: If the student minister received a Final Warning in the previous year and fails to complete the required work in the current year, he or she must be recommended for discontinuance. If any valid reason can substantiate why a person has not done the required work expected for the year of training, he or she must make a written appeal through the District Bishop or District Supervisor of Studies to the EMMU Director to reconsider the regular steps of discipline. The EMMU Director will make his recommendations to the Presiding Bishop for a ﬁ nal decision.

6.6.2 SYNOD EXAMINATIONS Required reading Tim Attwell & Dion Forster, Exegesis for Preachers and Scholars, (Four page pamphlet available from your DSS or EMMU. 2014 141

Recommended reading TEEC Exegesis Workbook. (Available from TEE College.) 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. • 1 Samuel 2:12-19 • Acts 8:4-23 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: (i) Preparation for the examination, as evidenced by the exegesis and the oral response. (ii) The Student Minister’s understanding of his/her own position. (iii) Understanding and ﬂ exibility of response to the positions of others.

6.7 GENERAL REGULATIONS Internship: All non-itinerant Student Ministers, 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. Advancement to Ordination is conditional upon satisfactory completion of the programme (all assignments must be found competent).

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. 142 2014

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 All non-itinerant Student Ministers without a completed qualiﬁ cation must pass 3 subjects per year (6 modules or 3 full courses). Warnings and ﬁ nal warnings will be given each year for those not adhering to this.

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. EMMU’s Expectations and Requirements: a. Academics – Diploma or Degree (3 year qualiﬁ cation) from a South African Qualiﬁ cation Authority approved, Council on Higher Education accredited, Department of Education registered institution acceptable to the MCSA – if entering with one of these, additional courses to be added (normally 3 additional) b. Three courses or six modules per year c. Full IST participation of 5 or more days per year and the associated projects d. DSS annual report e. Annual Superintendent’s reports f. Attend January Connexional 5 day seminar g. All compulsory District Events such as Retreats, Seminars, Consultations and Synods as determined by the District Bishop. h. One week formational training per year. Expectations as above must be presented to prospective candidates before the Circuit Quarterly Meeting (CQM) by the Superintendent through which the prospective candidate seeks recommendation to candidate. Further to presenting the above requirements to the candidate the Superintendent intending to nominate a Non Itinerant Candidate will be required, along with the normal documentation, to furnish EMMU with the following: 1. A motivation for the need in the circuit for such an appointment. 2. A detailed description of the work and ministry to be exercised by the prospective candidate, including the placement, expectations, hours of work and the line of report on activities.

6.8 CANDIDATING REQUIREMENTS 6.8.1 In order to be a CANDIDATE FOR THE MINISTRY OF WORD AND 2014 143

SACRAMENT one needs to: • Be a practicing Christian, committed to Jesus Christ; • Feel a clear call to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament; • Have at least a Senior Certifi cate or Matriculation; • Be a full member in good standing of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa for at least 2 years; • Be an accredited Local Preacher or a Local Preacher On Trial having travelled successfully in the Circuit Quarterly Meeting for no more than 3 years (refer 6.14.6, 6.14.7 and L&D 10.9.18) and no less than 1 year. The MCSA requires the following academic courses from TEE College. Please note: Candidates must have completed these courses before being nominated. o Engaging with people pastorally and ethically (6002) o Growing spiritually, thinking theologically (6003) o Interpreting Texts (6004) o Exploring our Christian Foundation (6155) Or a completed qualifi cation from a South African Qualifi cation Authority approved, Council of Higher Education accredited, Department of Education registered institution acceptable to the MCSA.

6.8.2 CANDIDATING FOR THE MINISTRY OF WORD AND SERVICE. See Yearbook Chapter 11 (Methodist Order of Deacons)

6.9 CANDIDATING PROCEDURE • “Intention to Nominate a Candidate” (forms obtainable from EMMU) must be submitted by Superintendent ministers to reach EMMU before 31 July. • Candidates’ forms (including Circuit Report) and ALL relevant st attachments must be submitted to EMMU not later than 31 October. Documents received after this date will not be considered. • Screening Committee in the District. • Oral Examination in the District (usually held at the same time as Screening) • Synod testimony for all who have passed the process

6.10 ORDAINED MINISTERS WISHING TO TRANSFER FROM OTHER 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 completed st and submitted to EMMU no later than 31 October. The Education for Ministry and Mission Unit, noting the importance of receiving suitably called, and theologically informed ministers from other 144 2014

denominations, resolves that all ordained ministers seeking to transfer from another denomination into the Methodist Church of Southern Africa be examined in the following manner by the District Screening Committee the following year during February/March.

6.10.1 In the Readiness and Suitability for Methodist Ministry committee: The candidate/minister’s conversion experience, the call to preach, and the call to the Ordained ministry need to be heard and evaluated by the screening committee. In particular the committee should assess how the call to the Ordained Ministry has been conﬁ rmed.

6.10.2 In the Theological Examination Committee: The following books and articles need to be studied by the candidate/ minister: • Siwa, Z.D., “Presiding Bishop’s Address” in 2014 Yearbook. (Also available from Methodist House and on the Conference website www.mcsa-conference.org.za. • Report on the key outcomes of the Mission Congress: The Methodist Church of Southern Africa, Mission Congress 2004. (obtainable from the Mission Unit, Methodist House) • Charter of the Mission Congress of the MCSA adopted in Mthatha in November 2004. (obtainable from the Mission Unit, Methodist House) • Malinga, P & Richardson, N (eds) 2005. Rediscovering Wesley for Africa. Tshwane. Education for Ministry and Mission Unit. • Storey, P. 2004. And are we yet alive? Revisioning our Wesleyan heritage in the new South Africa. Cape Town. Methodist Publishing House. • Hulley, LD. 1987. Wesley: A plain man for plain people. Cape Town: Methodist Publishing House. • Laws and Discipline of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. The candidate/minister being examined is to be questioned about the content of Methodist Doctrine, an understanding of Methodist polity, and his or her calling to participate in, and further the work of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. Upon hearing and evaluating the responses to the questions, the theological examination committee should award a mark. In order for the candidate/minister being examined to pass he or she will need to achieve a minimum mark of 50%. Successful applicants 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. 2014 145

6.11 DISTRICT SUPERVISORS OF STUDIES FOR 2014 Cape of Good Hope Rev Mervin Williams Grahamstown Rev Vukile Mngxuma Queenstown Rev Kebalepele Lofafa KNB Rev Louis Williams N. Free State & Lesotho Rev Trevor Hingle Natal Coastal Rev Chris Mokone Natal West Rev David Barbour Central Rev Phillip Serwalo Highveld & Swaziland Rev Stephen Barry Limpopo Rev Mbuyiselo Stemela Mozambique Rev Arlindo Francisco Muduma Clarkebury Rev Kereng Matlawe

6.12 LAY TRAINING Rev. Morapedi M. Diutlwileng (Co-ordinator for the Training of Lay Ministries)

INTRODUCTION The Lay Training division of the Unit has over the last year experienced very drastic and recognisable development in terms of training both members of the Order of Evangelism and the Local Preachers. The process of training is gradually realising integrity and affords probationers and on-trial preachers a good sense of satisfaction and credibility in their vocation.

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION AND FORMATION The pilot project on the introduction of small group material, a booklet referred to as “The Way”, has been well received, particularly by urban and inner city societies. The feedback makes it clear that societies are in dire need of material and tools that would assist and guide small group leaders in their endeavours in spiritual formation and education. The fact that some inner city and urban societies have designed and or adopted class and small group teaching and learning material from the ecumenical circles, speaks volumes about our desperate need for material and programs that could be used to disciple our people. We therefore recommend that Conference should consider funding the development, writing and production of Christian Education and Formation material for use in our societies. We also reafﬁ rm Conference resolution 2010, on the appointment of an ordained Minister to facilitate and drive the vision of “making disciples” of people called Methodists.

TRAINING OF EVANGELISTS AND BIBLEWOMEN The graduation ceremony was held by the KNB District, Bloemfontein Circuit on the 8th June 2013. Eighty-four (84) probationers of the Order of 146 2014

Evangelism graduated and certiﬁ cates were conferred on them. The training of ﬁ rst year probationers happened straight after the 2012 Swaziland Conference in November. Forty-one (41) probationers attended. Eighty-six probationers turned up for the second year training in September 2012, and 84 of them passed, and subsequently graduated as mentioned above. The General Committee of the Order of Evangelism continues to cooperate and participate through structures of the EMMU, in the review of the “part time and non-itinerant category of ministry”. The moratorium on the acceptance of candidates for this category remains in place, until and unless Conference 2013 directs otherwise.

LOCAL PREACHERS The fi rst 2013 TEEC quarterly report, confi rms that the College has registered 1 372 students who claim to be Methodist Preachers and Mission Practitioners. We are unable to quantify the numbers with certainty, unless all circuits encourage and practise group registrations of students. The total Wesley Studies registrations for 2013, across all the levels of study, was fi ve hundred and ten (510). We are still experiencing great numbers of preachers who are studying at Award and Certifi cate levels.

LOCAL PREACHERS TRAINING REVIEW The Co-ordinator for the Training of Lay Ministries has devoted much time in clarifying structural issues with regards to the Local Preachers Department (LPD) and the Local Preachers Association (LPA). We recommend that Synods make an effort to resuscitate the LPD structure in accordance with the dictates of the L&D 10.9.1 - 10.9.4 for the Connexional structure, and L&D 10.9.7 - 10.9.9.5 for the District structure.

PRELIMINARY REPORT ON THE REVIEW The review committee met with TEEC in May 2013. The outcome of the meeting offered little pleasure, as the College was in no position to alter its curriculum to meet Methodist objectives. The College does not encourage students to develop a habit of reading text books, by its practice of making students rely on notes provided by the College. The conversation with SMMS regarding a possible relocation of Local Preachers studies from TEEC to the Seminary was opened in July 2013. The following is an abridged version of the on-going conversation with the Seminary, as it pertains to Local Preachers training and spiritual formation. 2014 147

• That whatever recommendation and decision emanates from the discussions between the EMMU Preachers Training Review Committee and SMMS, it will be subject to approval by the Governing Council and Conference. • That possibilities exist for SMMS to initiate the development of academic and administrative capacity to deliver the training of local preachers. • The preparations for this additional mandate would also be subject to gaining registration with the Department of Higher Education and Training for a mixed model of delivery of courses offered by the Seminary. The SMMS is currently registered as a contact institution. • That SMMS shall gradually begin the process of conceptualising a curriculum that is a mixture, involving distance training, but including a week or two of contact training and formation for preachers. EMMU will be presenting a concept document on the reconfi guration of Local Preachers Training for consideration and ratifi cation by Conference 2013. 6.12.1 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 liase 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 qualifi cations

6.12.2 LOCAL PREACHERS ON TRIAL Local Preachers on Trial are registered with TEEC. The trial period must not exceed 2 years, or in special circumstances 3 years. th Refer Laws & Discipline (11 Edition), p.130, para 10.9.18.

6.12.3 AWARD The Award courses are available in various African languages. These courses have assignments but no exams. 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 148 2014

6.12.4 CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE These courses have assignments and examinations First Year TEEC course 201 (Introduction to the Old Testament) TEEC course 272 (Preaching) Second Year TEEC course 221 (Introduction to the New Testament) TEEC course 241 (Christian Doctrine) + Wesley Studies through EMMU

6.12.5 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

6.12.6 DIPLOMA COURSES FOR EXISTING STUDENTS (Currently being phased out) These courses have assignments and examinations First Year TEEC course 6002 (Engaging with people pastorally & ethically) TEEC course 6372 (Proclaiming our faith) Second Year TEEC course 6003 (Growing spiritually, thinking theologically) TEEC course 6004 (Interpreting texts: Biblical & other sources) + Wesley Studies through EMMU

DIPLOMA COURSES These courses have assignments and examinations First Year TEEC course 85260 (Ethics) TEEC course 85370 (Practical Theology) TEEC course 86378 (Proclaiming our Faith) 2014 149

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

6.12.7 DEGREE These courses have assignments and examinations First Year TEEC course 7002 (Engaging with people pastorally & 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 Wesley Studies registration with EMMU is only from January with a closing date of 28 February each year. Registration forms obtainable from EMMU in January each year.

6.12.8 MATURE AGE PREACHERS For mature age preachers who have less than Standard 3 and are older than 55 years (to be veriﬁ ed 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) TEEC course 172 (Preaching) Second Year (R110) TEEC course 121 (Jesus Christ and His People) TEEC course 141 (Basic Christian Doctrine) Wesley Studies • The circuit applies to TEEC for the course material at a cost of R500,00 plus R50.00 postage, providing proof of payment, language preferred and indicating address to which material must be posted. Wesley Studies material must be ordered from EMMU at a cost of R100. Only one set of material from TEEC and one set of material from EMMU are needed by the circuit. 150 2014

This material can be kept as a permanent resource in the circuit. • Oral examination question papers are sent (in September/ 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 for Mature Age preachers are obtainable from EMMU in January of each year.

6.12.9 REGISTRATION WITH TEEC Registrations at TEEC open in October for the following year. Registration forms are obtainable from TEEC.

6.12.10 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) • Assessment of Trial Service (obtainable from EMMU) • Copy of ID document • Copies of results for ALL Local Preachers’ studies There is no cost involved for the fi rst issue of a certifi cate. Certifi cates are posted to the Circuit Superintendent. EMMU does not issue certifi cates on the request of individual preachers.

Long Service Certifi cate EMMU only issues certifi cates of Long Service for 25 years and 40 years. The following information must be submitted to EMMU by the Circuit Superintendent for these certifi cates to be issued: • Copy of ID document • Copy of LP Certifi cate or a copy of the inscription in the Bible given to a preacher when accepted onto Full Plan 2014 151

CHAPTER 7

ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS UNIT

Rev Purity Malinga

The involvement of the MCSA in Ecumenism is based on the commitment to the will of Jesus Christ expressed in His prayer in John 17:21 - “that all of the believers may be one so that the world may believe”. The Ecumenical Affairs Unit is tasked with encouraging ecumenical involvement throughout the Connexion. The unit is to ensure that Methodist people are assisted to realise that ecumenical engagement is not an optional extra, but rather is central to our mission. It is one of our transformation calls.

1. THE DISTRICTS’ ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS SECRETARIES CONSULTATION. To get a clearer picture of the state of ecumenism in the connexion, and also to structure the unit, a Consultation of the Districts’ Ecumenical Affairs Secretaries (DEAS) was held at the beginning of the year (Feb 2013 ). The representatives of the MCSA to the Councils of all the countries of the Connexion were also part of the consultation. Addressing the Consultation, the Presiding Bishop challenged all present to believe and participate in the unfolding future of Oneness that God is creating. He emphasized the task of the unit to encourage Methodists to engage locally and ecumenically on issues that people face. That is “prophetic living” which is what every Christian is called to. Ecumenism at local level will lead to better church impact.

Out of the reports and sharing, the following became clear: 1.1 Those in the leadership (bishops) do meet ecumenically but there is lack of information and action at the grassroots level. 1.2 Ministers’ Fraternals still exist in some communities even though in most areas they have died. 1.3 Churches do come together in communities when there is a crisis e.g. ﬂ oods, strikes etc. Ecumenical involvements does happen around social issues in some areas e.g. HIV/AIDS programs, soup kitchens, homeless shelters etc.

2. COUNCILS OF CHURCHES. 2.1 While there is a general knowledge that the South African Council of Churches is going through ﬁ nancial difﬁ culty, it is a concern that the member churches have no information about what exactly is happening. The absence of the SACC has resulted in the 152 2014

proliferation of ecumenical bodies, which creates disunity and puts pressure on churches as they are pressured to support many bodies. The Heads of CUC churches and the CUC Executive have agreed to organise a formal meeting of the two bodies, to consider the different roles each should play in ecumenical endeavour in South Africa. 2.2 The Botswana Council of Churches is involved in health and educational projects which are recognised and supported by the government. One of this Council’s achievements is the establishment of an ecumenical college - Kgolagano. 2.3 In Namibia, the Churches are involved in three initiatives, i.e. the Ecumenical Social Community Action (ESCA), National Youth Forum and Women Clergy and Theologians Training. 2.4 The KwaZulu Natal Christian Council is actively involved in strengthening ecumenism in the province. They are embarking on holding meetings one on one with church leaders to improve relationships and to strengthen the churches’ roles in ecumenical projects. They will hold their th 4 Assembly in August where two important themes will be discussed: “Commemoration of 100 years of the Native Land Act: Restoration of Hope for the poor and the marginalized”, and “Restoring the dignity and power of Women in the context of the current Domestic Violence and rape of women”. th 2.5 The All Africa Conference of Churches held its 50 Jubilee Assembly rd th on the 3 -9 June in Kampala, under the theme, “ God of life, lead Africa to peace, justice and dignity”. While the gains of the past 50 years were celebrated, the theme highlighted the areas of challenge facing Africa. The Assembly resolved that, to bring about peace, justice and dignity in Africa, the member churches focus on at least the following three areas: - Consolidation of the Protection of Life - Promotion and enhancement of Life - Celebration of Life. 2.6 The World Council of Churches will be meeting in Busan, Korea in November 2013.

3. THE CHURCH UNITY COMMISSION. The Church Unity Commission (CUC) convened its fi rst Consultation on Unity and Mission from 11-13 May 2013. Having had to concede in 2010 that the goal of the organic union was inaccessible in the foreseeable future, the CUC believes that its quest for unity should be undertaken and worked for in the midst of diversity. The Consultation was (and will be convened after every fi ve years) to track the progress toward deeper expressions on unity along fi ve Trajectories, i.e:

(1) Co-operation in Ministry and Mission (2) Developing common preaching and liturgical resources 2014 153

(3) Co-operation in training for the ministry (4) Developing Centres of Hope (5) Seeking consensus on the ministry of oversight. There was a general feeling amongst all delegates of the Consultation that the churches need each other and that together we can achieve more. The closure of Fedsem remains a sore point for all the churches. It is important to highlight the achievements of the CUC during its 40 years history as was shared at the consultation: - the mutual Eucharistic hospitality (the open table between denominations) - the free transfer of membership between CUC churches - the mutual acceptance of ministries and the freedom of ministers to minister in any other covenanting church - the united churches that exist throughout the country (South Africa). Following are the recommendations to the MCSA that its delegates made after all the deliberations of the Consultation: 3.6.1 There is a need to appoint/ﬁ nd someone who will champion liturgy work for the MCSA. Passion and education in liturgy to be the criteria for the appointment. 3.6.2 Recognising that separate ministerial training has weakened ecumenical and missional connections, SMMS is to be encouraged to be more intentional in linking with other churches and in teaching Ecumenism as a subject. 3.6.3 There is a need to strengthen and formalise the Fellowship of Vocation - and where possible co-operate with other churches. Districts to be encouraged to ensure that Post-ordination training takes place. 3.6.4 Ecumenical co-operation to be encouraged at local levels, i.e. society, circuit levels. 3.6.5 The Methodist understanding of Episcopacy to be taught and clariﬁ ed to members.

4. MATTERS REQUIRING CE/CONFERENCE DECISION. The DEAS consultation proposed that the following be formalised as the DEAS duties: 4.1 to champion/lead ecumenical co-operation in the district 4.2 to receive ecumenical affairs reports from the circuits 4.3 to collate and present a district ecumenical affairs report to synod (copy sent to the Director) 4.4 to facilitate training sessions to encourage ecumenism in the district - enabling and encouraging prophetic living 4.5 To represent the district (in consultation with the bishop) in ecumenical forums within the district. 154 2014

Linked to the duties above the following proposals are made: • Districts to budget for ecumenical affairs. • Circuits to appoint ecumenical affairs conveners/champions to ensure easy links and communication. (could be someone already in the leadership) • Ecumenical Affairs reports to be given time/to be taken seriously at Synods. • DEAS term of ofﬁ ce to be in line with other district ofﬁ ces (three years) to ensure some stability.

5. CONCLUSION I would like to thank and encourage all those who have continued to participate ecumenically in God’s work without any recognition. I think of those women in all the corners of our connexion who meet ecumenically to pray together and to support the bereaved in their communities; those men and women who participate ecumenically to meet the needs of the vulnerable in their communities. Keep it up! That is what we are called to do!

6. THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS UNIT Chair: Bishop Mike Vorster Members: Bishops P Witbooi and D Matsolo, Revs S Makubalo, T Sibi, F Whitby, R Machola, P Malinga, Mrs T Mncube and Mr M Magagula 2014 155

CHAPTER 8

COMMUNICATIONS UNIT

Mrs Bongi Moyo-Bango

The year 2013 seems to have ﬂ own past and we are grateful for all who have supported the unit by sharing information, writing articles and subscribing to the New Dimension. We are grateful to Joanne Trytsman and Nelisiwe Hlengwa whose committed hard work and debt collecting abilities have kept the units ﬁ nances in the black.

1. WEBSITE The website has continued to be used by many mainly for information about the church and our different organisations and units. We have received complaints about certain information not being available on the website and I continue to plead with the organisations and units to please provide us with as much information as possible for their pages. I take this opportunity to reiterate that the main website is not for circuit or society events and pictures; those should be put on society/circuit websites and the link provided to us so that we can maintain our connexionality. We encourage any who believe the website is difﬁ cult to navigate to make use of the search panel to ﬁ nd whatever it is they may be looking for. We are doing our best not to clutter the home page with hundreds of tabs. I would like to extend my gratitude to Rev Michael Bishop who continues to give technical support and maintain the website. We are in the process of refreshing the page but we want to maintain the ‘clean’ look. Social media continues to be the space in which most communication within and without the church takes place - most of the communication happens on Facebook and Twitter. Anyone who has a Facebook page can like the MCSA (Shell logo) page and follow the church events as they happen.

2. THE NEW DIMENSION The newspaper continues to thrive with an equal number of new subscribers as cancellations. More and more churches and people are making use of the paper for communication, to debate issues and share good news stories. We applaud this and encourage more of the same. We also note, with some resignation, that whenever a church goes through a tough time ﬁ nancially, the New Dimension subscription is always the ﬁ rst to go. Annual subscription is R100 per annum including postage. The advertising costs are: 156 2014

Advertising Rates Advert Size Casual 2 or more issues Full Page 380mm x 265mm R6 000.00 R5 700.00 Half-a-page 190mm x 265mm R3 000.00 R2 800.00 Quarter of a page 131mm x 198mm R1 500.00 R1 375.00 Eighth of a page 95mm x 131mm R750.00 R680.00 Sixteenth of a page 95mm x 64mm R385.00 R350.00 A4 page 210mm x2 97mm R4 000.00 R3 800.00

Churches advertising positions receive a 15% discount on these prices and the closing dates for submission of articles and advertising is the 15th of every month.

3. STAFFING There is still one full time member of staff in the communications unit and this is a pity. The PBO has been investigating the possibilities of employing an additional individual who can provide all round support in the PBOs ofﬁ ce. We continue to ask the organisations to view the communications unit as an integral aspect of our mission imperative and therefore support it, both ﬁ nancially through subscriptions (and not just when the organisation features in the paper) and in terms of articles. In as much as the unit is an instrument and mouthpiece of the church, it should be remembered that its effective survival is dependent on the church.

4. BRANDING The church insignia is still in the process of being registered. We appeal to every member of our church never to bring the church into disrepute, especially when wearing church uniforms or any other branded items. It is our duty as members of the church and the body of Christ to, at all times, be ambassadors of Christ in our carriage and actions. Any use of church trademarks should happen under controlled conditions with permission sought from the PBO.

5. FUTURE… The unit is thinking of introducing a biannual magazine and is actively seeking funding for this venture. The magazine will highlight in greater detail, some projects of the church, have longer length feature articles on topical issues in the health and life of the church and provide space and expression for every country in our Connexion. Anyone who would like to be a part of this should please contact [email protected] . An e-newsletter is also something we would like to do, but with the stafﬁ ng as it is, it will have to wait until such a time as when we are better equipped. 2014 157

CHAPTER 9

MISSION UNIT

Rev KF Ketshabile

INTRODUCTION The establishment of the Justice and Service Desk within the Mission Unit this year has been one of the milestones in the life of the MCSA. Whilst Justice and Service work has been happening in the life of the church over the years, we are pleased that the J & S Desk report is before us in a more focused way. A careful and keen reader of the MU reports over the past years will appreciate the growing work in HIV/AIDS and Childcare ministries as reﬂ ected in this year’s report. Also evident in this year’s report is the critical role that partnerships and ecumenical cooperation play in the mission of God, missio Dei, that the church is called to. We hope that the report will inspire and encourage further engagement in mission work.

JUSTICE AND SERVICE DESK Conference 2012 resolved to establish a formal Justice and Service function within the Mission Unit of the MCSA. A process to develop the strategy and approach for the function, and a budget for the ﬁ rst year’s work was undertaken. The Presiding Bishop’s Ofﬁ ce and MCO approved the strategy and budget and work commenced in February 2013. In May 2013, Paul Verryn was appointed to lead the Justice and Service function within the Connexion. Consultation was undertaken with Districts. All Mission Coordinators were requested to develop an overview of the key justice issues within their Districts at the 2013 annual Mission Unit Consultation. Key issues emerged as poverty, unemployment, land disputes, violence against women and children and democracy. District Synods were requested to appoint Justice and Service Coordinators. Ideally each Circuit and Society should have a person or persons designated to embrace the dream of justice in a local context. There has been some suggestion that the Connexional Coordinator should try to meet with Bishops as they meet in their Clusters and if possible for their District Coordinators to be present for part of that work so that expectations, lines of communication and accountability are clearly mapped out. It is abundantly clear that the presence of Bishops in some of the work is critical. Much of this work demands urgent unfettered intervention. We need to be careful that this ministry does not just end with meetings, but that we build a capacity of acting swiftly in response to some of the symptoms that represent far deeper issues in our Southern Africa context. It is also to be noted that in certain incidents the Presiding Bishop’s direction will be of critical importance and the initiation and action in particular matters could well be at his direction. 158 2014

Establishing Task Teams to take forward past resolutions of Conference Task teams were established to take forward the work from Conference Resolutions that had been referred to the Mission Desk since 2009.

Work commenced to ensure MCSA communities: • Could access the building standards for making buildings accessible to the disabled; • Provide additional information to the MCSA constituency on legislation dealing with traditional courts and leadership; • Combat substance abuse; • Be more active in our confrontation of violence against women and children; • Address the issue of e-Tolling.

Other Interventions For some time now it has been thought that the church generally, not simply the MCSA, had disappeared from the social justice platform and anxiety has been expressed that, in South Africa, for example, with the downsizing of the SACC, crucial matters in the life of the nation are either being ignored or certainly are not receiving the engagement of the church in a way that infl uences the conscience of the nation. This has not meant that absolutely no work has been done but it certainly seems as if a new energised commitment needs to be taken up and the church’s presence as a critical voice in society must be heard. The interventions in Marikana can be described as a multi-layered approach. It has included conversations that have had mediation overtones with management and various unions. The fi nancial disparities in this context have drawn attention to a dimension of our political life in South Africa which is one of the greatest threats to the stability of Southern Africa. Our intervention has also meant engagement with the South African Police Services and also the tribal authority for the area. Furthermore, some of the engagement has meant visitation to homes of the bereaved and the mooting of healing circles to enable communities to understand the symptoms of post traumatic stress. The engagement with Marikana has uncovered the huge complexity of ministry in a mining context and challenges the Church to review its entire approach to this ministry. At the invitation of a local society in the Johannesburg North area, engagement has occurred with the community known as Clay Oven which has been exposed to a variety of human rights violations. It seems as if a strategy has been employed by the authorities to make life untenable in the Clay Oven location because there are plans for highway development in the exact area of the informal community. An added nuance to the diffi culties is that most of the inhabitants are from Lesotho and have faced all the complexities that foreign nationals do at the hands of the Department of Home Affairs and the police. The United Nations High Commission for Refugees and the South African Human Rights Commission have been appraised of the matter, 2014 159 as the behaviour of the police during a particular raid on the community has been reprehensible. Again, the issue of poverty has raised its head as a feature of the crisis in which these people fi nd themselves. Strategies to skill and empower this community for employment has been a major part of the intervention. A third important example of intervention would be engagement in ongoing land, accommodation and eviction sagas. The Church, as one of the largest landowners in our region cannot escape its responsibility in seeking to explore strategies that provide secure shelter for the most dispossessed. Of critical import is the more general question of the allocation of land and the profound perception that we still live in the shadow of colonised states. There are other areas of engagement such as Sasolburg; a coalition of urban mission operatives; engagement with Provincial Departments of Education in seeking to improve standards; grass roots interventions in rural communities; Swaziland democracy; ongoing xenophobic violence and violation of the rights of refugees, to mention some.

Ecumenical Engagement The Church Unity Commission has a sub-committee entitled “Places of Hope” which in some respects has a similar mandate to the Justice and Service function of the MCSA. This is an important window of opportunity for cooperation.

Peace initiatives in Mozambique We acknowledge with gratitude work done by Bishop Dinis Matsolo in initiating pastoral conversations between the Government of Mozambique and RENAMO. These conversations have resulted in an Inter-Religious engagement under the umbrella of the Electoral Observer, the Ecumenical Body and other civil society leaders, initiating peace talks between the Government and RENAMO and working towards a face to face encounter between the President of the Republic of Mozambique and the leader of RENAMO. The peace talks have until this time helped prevent the possible eruption of conﬂ ict between RENAMO and FRELIMO (the Government) which could have dire consequences for the people of Mozambique and the SADC community. There is no doubt that the Justice and Service ministry opens horizons to a most dynamic and vital response to God’s love.

HIV AND AIDS DESK While the Millennium Development Goal No. 6 aims at combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases, the declaration adopted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1978, goes on to state that “…the attainment of highest standard of health is the most important world-wide goal whose realisation needs action from other sectors, economic & social in addition to health sector…”. It is the realisation of the 160 2014 above truth that the role played by the religious sector in waging a robust response to HIV & AIDS is gaining momentum and recognition from communities as well as government. As Methodists committed to a vision of healing, we are all held responsible for the realisation of the MCSA’s “Christ healed Africa for the healing of Nations” vision. It remains a direct challenge for every Methodist to live to “make this vision become ﬂ esh” by being the practitioners who bring healing to every front. When through our Mission Charter we committed ourselves to taking intentional and sustained action to implement a vigorous response to the crisis of HIV & AIDS, we pledged to play an intentional role towards achieving this. The report on interventions made by the MCSA across its Connexion is evidence of efforts to fulﬁ l the commitment of Methodists enshrined in their own Mission Charter on HIV & AIDS. Much as the ailing donor fund landscape has limited the activities that can be carried out, the compassionate hearts of MCSA people who continue to offer themselves to this ministry made this a rich year.

Connexional HIV and AIDS Activities Four Districts & MCSA partners from World Vision participated in the Connexional World AIDS Day event which was held in the Queenstown District on 2 December 2012. HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) services were rendered by the District Department of Health (DOH) in Dutywa. There was an impressive display of material from all attending districts. The guest speaker for the day was Dr N. Sangoni. An activist who lives positively as well as orphans who benefi t from MCSA programmes gave testimonies. There were messages of support from local DOH and the representative of King Sandile Sigcau who hosted the event. Four home-based care-givers (HBC) of the Queenstown District projects received T-shirts, HBC bags & kits. Four circuits of the hosting region received food parcels for 210 families, courtesy the MCSA partner SAP (Systems, Applications & Products in Data Processing, an international company dealing in application software). Overall, the event demonstrated the commitment and passion of Methodist people at all levels and various communities to fi ght the scourge of the pandemic and to care for those affected and infected. It also underlined the importance of partnerships in this area of ministry. The fi rst draft of the newly revised MCSA Strategy & Implementation Plan booklet is ready for comment and input. It is available from the Mission Unit. Translation into Portuguese of the CUAHA (Churches United Against HIV & AIDS) Training Manual of “Towards a HIV Competent Church” is in progress. The MCSA’s presentation on “Our Response to HIV & AIDS” to South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) Religious Sector Summit in February was well-received and regarded as a best practise model. The HIV/AIDS Coordinator participated at the Collaboration for HIV & AIDS (University of Natal) “Contestation on HIV & AIDS Conference” and attended and 2014 161 participated at the briefi ng of SACC member churches by the MEC for Health Dr A. Motswaledi, where information was shared on the strategy by government for HIV & AIDS response for all role-players. This interaction served to confi rm that the MCSA’s strategic plan on treatment is on track. The MCSA has gained a new training partner in the Aurum Institute who will serve greatly to enable our present decentralised community-based centres with clinical training and training material development. Our partner SAP has done impressive facelift and renovations which will convert the Khwezi HIV & AIDS Centre at Yase-Thekwini Central Methodist Church in Natal Coastal District into an effi cient facility. The company is also presently furnishing the centre.

GLOBAL FUND (GF) Refresher training by trained trainers of trainers Eight workshops from all ﬁ ve 5 inland provinces were conducted between November and December 2012 by the trainers trained earlier last year. These workshops have made a big impact on our sites as they were not focusing only on GF trained caregivers.

Monitoring and Evaluation A mid-term evaluation for Phase 1 was conducted by a Prof. Kataruza from Wits University. It was aimed at evaluating the work done so far and the impact made by the GF. HBC and OVC caregivers, ministers from incumbent circuits and benefi ciaries/clients from all of our sites were invited to be a part of this evaluation. They were interviewed privately about the programme. It became clear from the feedback elicited that the benefi ting communities now view the MCSA in a different but positive light. They stated that their lives have been given meaning and purpose as a result of the support they received from the care-givers in their various contexts. During 2013, the National Religious Association for Social Development (NRASD) paid three visits to the Mission Unit for the purpose of on-site data verifi cation to check our progress and data-compliance within the GF Programme. The feedback has been positive and encouraging. Due to the quality of our work, the MCSA has been identifi ed as one of the benefi ciaries for Phase 2 starting in October 2013. We are currently in the process of identifying new sites for wider reach and impact. The following areas were selected based upon a number of factors (HIV prevalence, number of orphans, poverty level, unemployment, school attendance): Gert Sibande & Ehlanzeni District (Mpumalanga), Lejweleputswa District & Thabo Mofutsanyane District (Free State), Dr Kenneth Kaunda District (North West), Sekhukhune District & Mopani District (Limpopo) and Sedibeng District (Gauteng).

Reach of the programme The following Projects benefi tted from the Global Fund food parcel support (one parcel per household and which feeds an average of eight people): 3136 food parcels, 162 2014 which fed 25 304 benefi ciaries were distributed between October 2012 and June 2013 in the following areas: God is Able (Limpopo District), Bula Monyako (Highveld & Swaziland), Pimville Call Group (Central), Bophelo HIV/AIDS (KNB), Modimo O Matla (Limpopo), Tholimpilo (Highveld & Swaziland), Empilweni (Highveld &Swaziland), Lethabong (Limpopo), Nehemiah Place of Love (Central), Tsogang (Limpopo), Indawo Yosizo (Highveld & Swaziland). 600 children received toiletries such as face cloths, tooth paste and brush, aqueous cream, deodorant, body soap and sanitary towels for girls. 600 children received school uniforms ranging from school shoes, socks, pants, tunic, shirts, ties, pullovers, jerseys, and blazers. 500 children received blankets to warm them up in this cold winter. We are happy to announce that by the end of June 2013, which is our Year 3, the MCSA has reached out to a total of 7 564 direct benefi ciaries in under-served areas between October 2012 and June 2013. The total number of clients reached with home-based and OVC care services by the MCSA between January 2011 and June 2013 is 14 257.

CHILDCARE DESK The functions of the Desk include, among many things: aligning of Child Care policies and protocols of the church and State, coordination of Children’s work towards compliance with the Children’s Act, encouraging and supporting the formation of District and local church structures for children’s work and encouraging programmes that ensure the best interest of the child is taken seriously at all levels of the church. Child development pillars include development, participation, support, care and protection and these are aligned to the objects of the desk which are: • Building Capacity • Strengthening ECD programmes • Policy and Compliance • Advocacy and Networking • Strengthening Partnership Training on different issues was conducted during the past year in various districts. Topics included listening to children, understanding the context of the child as well as identifying issues that put children at risk. At some of the presentations the participants were shown the video from OUTWARD BOUND, in which the Presiding Bishop calls on the church to make available church structures for education and childhood development. Some of the Children’s homes who were exposed to the content have started an initiative that has begun to make a visible difference in the local schools as well as improve the teachers’ morale and increase parental participation. The heads of the various children’s homes continue to meet quarterly to learn from 2014 163 each other and share tried and tested intervention methods that ensure growth and development. The homes are presently looking at professionalising their skills and knowledge base in therapy with a view to expanding services to the community at large. The plan is to increase community outreach programmes with a view to re- integrating children into their families whilst preventing the break-down in family relationships to reduce the need for children to be institutionalised. A network of pre-school heads and practitioners is also looking at collaboration to increase their reach to children who cannot afford opportunities to be stimulated. There is an increase in the development of holiday clubs and programmes in the urban areas. There is also a call for support to develop these programmes in the rural areas of our Connexion. Some churches are growing their reading and maths programmes, utilizing the spaces they have in the churches. Books of all languages are needed, particularly for young children so that these can be distributed to schools and churches to ensure that literacy and numeracy in our children is improved. Some Women’s Manyano programmes have assisted with the registration of children. This is a serious and central issue as many children of Africa do not know who they are because the state does not know who their parents and caregivers are. The potential of any human being is unleashed when they know who they are. The gravity of children born on mine campuses or the death of a child’s caregiver before they can be registered will affect the progress of ensuring that, as a church, we raise children as God intended. The non-registration of children can be also a critical contributor towards the continued perpetuation of a range of abuses including slavery. The childcare Desk is encouraging that special events dates include prayers for our children. The events include Global 4/14 Day, Child Protection week (last week in May), International Day of the Child (1 June), Children’s Rights Day (16 June) and Youth Month (September). Two documents are available from the Mission Unit. These are the MCSA Children’s Policy Booklet and the MCSA Safeguarding procedures for children and young people. They spell out the position of the MCSA in terms of safeguarding children in all its institutions. Churches are encouraged to assign individuals who will ensure that children are safe and can get help when required. All churches, children’s homes, camps, pre-schools, drop-in centres and children’s shelters need to ensure that they are compliant, so as not to compromise the position of the MCSA. All those working with children have been asked to take the Children’s Act with regard to screening seriously. We celebrate the fact that more than 300 people including Bishops have been screened and been found safe to work with children. Pamphlets are available on how to apply for registration or start early childhood programmes as well as how to strengthen the quality of palliative care programmes that are already operative. Another pamphlet gives a description of the children’s homes and encourages the registration of all homes. 164 2014

Advocacy this year has been key in addressing issues that impact the well-being of children. There is a concern about the unaccompanied minors who move through the Connexion. The concern was further highlighted by 30 000 young children recorded and reported missing or trafﬁ cked by human rights partners in South Africa since 2010. Education is required across the board as well as information about ministries and stories of good practice where services and prevention programmes are carried out. Through the “Take a Stand to uphold the dignity of Women and Children” initiative driven by the Amadodana, the Childcare Desk increased links with stakeholders in the Connexion and is proud of the initiative done in all Districts. This movement will culminate in the 1,5 million man march planned for August, when men take a stand against abuse of women and children. We are grateful to all the Districts that ensured that activities for raising awareness were implemented during the “Child Protection Week” and to all those who wore the green ribbon to emphasize this week. The Childcare Desk continues to have strong relationships with partners from Action for Children, the United Methodist Church in Germany, the Methodist Church in Britain and the Global Board of Ministries in the United States. These partners have supported Childcare Desk work in Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia. They support pre-schools, leadership development as well as material support for the practitioners and ECD sites. Capacity building is core to the sustainability of the programmes for long term sustainability. This is encouraged in partnership with District bishops and circuit superintendents with a view that the District take ownership of programmes. PROJECTS COORDINATING DESK (including SAMVIM) The work of SAMVIM continues around the Connexion in many different forms. One of the highlights of this year has been the appointment of a SAMVIM coordinator for the Cape of Good Hope District in the form of Lester Sedras. This has meant that the District is constantly being reminded of volunteerism. Many of our churches have been involved in reaching out to make a Christian difference. This last year, a number of churches have travelled to different destinations in Africa: St Luke’s in Welkom sent teams to Madagascar, Malawi was a destination for mission teams from local churches and others have gone to Mozambique and Swaziland to work on Methodist schools there. Teams have travelled to these places with a view to working in partnership with local communities and not for them. We still have ongoing Connexional projects. The Swaziland School project continues with a number of churches and organisations travelling to Swaziland to help with the upkeep of different schools there. This project is in response to the Conference resolution on this matter. The Mooiplaas project in the Queenstown district is moving along well with the local community having taken ownership. The partnership with the Church of the Resurrection is a part of this. There is a possibility that the ﬁ rst team from Church of 2014 165 the Resurrection could visit Mooiplaas in October this year when they are in South Africa. This should help with future teams that come and work on the project site with the local community.

Helplift Network The Helplift Network, initiated by the Dutch Reformed Church, is a means of connecting those with resources with those who are in need. It is a way for those who are resourced and would not normally get involved in mission to be able to help make a difference in our hurting world. All that needs to be done is for churches or communities to co-ordinate those who have the resource and those who are in need. All the necessary information can be found on the MCSA website as well on the Helplift Network website (www.helplift.co.za). All churches are encouraged to look at this way of reaching out.

PULA FUND We have supported a number of different projects within the districts ﬁ nancially through the Pula Fund again this year. These are projects that have met the criteria of the Mission Unit in terms of receiving funding from the Pula fund. One of the criteria is that the projects report back to the Mission Unit as to how the projects are doing both physically as well as ﬁ nancially. The projects have a component of capacity building as well as skills development in them. These together go a long way in helping to alleviating some of the poverty that we experience in South Africa today. In order to strengthen this Connexional mission fund, we earnestly appeal to circuits and Districts to give to the M & E (Rona) generously. The Pula Fund is critical for the support of mission work throughout the Connexion.

PARTNERSHIPS Methodist Church in Britain Grateful thanks are extended to the Methodist Church in Britain for their support for the MCSA Parliamentary Liaison Ofﬁ cer and Connexional Youth Unit as well as for the ministers in Maseru and Rundu and two Namibian students and for future partial support towards the Justice and Service Desk. The Childcare Desk wishes to express appreciation for the contribution towards capacity building for children’s work in Namibia.

United Methodist Church, Germany We are grateful to the German United Methodist Church and the volunteers who have assisted various projects throughout Southern Africa this year. Franziska Zucker and Irina Thamm spent time in the Natal Coastal and Natal West Districts respectively. Nora Eschmann and Stephanie Koerner served in Windhoek, Namibia. Juliana Thater assisted the Ikageng project in Soweto (Central District) with her social work skills and Lea Hofmann, a qualiﬁ ed nurse assisted at a hospital in Mozambique. We look forward to a new quota of volunteers later this year. 166 2014

General Board of Global Ministries Two mission interns from the USA have spent time since the beginning of 2013 working in Tzaneen. Michelle Wood has been doing research into the issue of children from Zimbabwe who cross the border into South Africa, often unaccompanied by an adult they know and trust. She is recording the services and support for these minors so as to inform the church on the most practical way in which the church can deal with this social atrocity. Rebekah Phillips has been helping develop the skills of practitioners who will develop food gardens for OVCs as well as for households gripped with illness and who require food to ensure adherence to medication.

Church of the Resurrection In June this year, a team from the Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City, USA came to assist with leadership training in Northern Free State & Lesotho District (76 participants) and the Kimberley, Namibia & Bloemfontein District (71 participants). The Leading Beyond the Walls three day seminars were attended by ministers and lay people and many were reminded of principles for growing churches. Evaluations from participants demonstrate that the seminars were fruitful in many ways. It challenged circuit leadership to think afresh about leading their churches in missional and transformative ways. Should resources permit, the MU and EMMU plan to do follow-up to ensure that the training was not in vain. Renewal and revitalization of churches in these Districts is an expected outcome of the training. We are grateful to the Church of the Resurrection, especially the Rev Adam Hamilton and the team that came to join us during this seminar. The Rev. Cayce Stapp has, since the signing of the MOA in 2011, ensured that our partnership is kept alive and healthy.

Volunteerism Volunteers to Southern Africa are greatly enriched by the learning and experiences they receive. This makes partnerships truly valuable to both sides.

APPRECIATION: A word of thank you from the Mission Unit staff goes to all those who have worked, encouraged and advised us in order that we can serve the Connexion better. The District coordinators, District Bishops, the Advisory Board chaired by Bishop T Mntambo and the ofﬁ ce of the Presiding Bishop are among the many who have made our tasks easier and more meaningful. We thank you.

The Mission Unit Advisory Board for 2013 is to consist of: Bishop Themba Mntambo (Chairman) Bishop Mike Vorster Deacon Dr Vernon van Wyk Rev Faith Whitby 2014 167

Ms Yoli Tashe Mr Mbongeni Magagula Mr John Schorn Rev Kenaleone Ketshabile

Shalom. 168 2014

Appendix 1

PULA FUND

Income: 1 165 748 Grants Paid: 933 000 Grants to Units: Mission Unit: 150 000 Communication Unit 50 000 Christian Education Unit 30 000 Ecumenical Affairs 15 000 Youth Unit 15 000 Order of Evangelists 55 000 Presiding Bishop’s 60 000 Contingency Fund Mission Area Grants: Lesotho 313 180 Mozambique 120 000 Angola & Malawi 36 000 Namibia 21 000 Estcourt Methodist Church Projects: 20 000 Outreach Cancele Circuit 15 000 Vryburg Children’s Home 20 000 Mahamba Circuit 21 900 Rundu Circuit 40 000 Surplus: 183 658 2014 169

Appendix 2

MISSION AND EXTENSION FUND

Contribu- Return Contribu- Return tions 2011 2012 tions 2012 2013 District Totals 1129 643 677 786 1 057 479 634 487 Cape of Good Hope 92 150 55 290 115 757 69 454 Grahamstown 57 260 34 356 47 325 28 395 Queenstown 68 628 41 177 5 301 3 181 KNB 130 160 78 096 84 000 50 400 NFS and Lesotho 55 426 33 256 55 308 33 185 Natal Coastal 49 000 29 400 147 797 88 678 Natal West 65 000 39 000 62 000 37 200 Central 87 230 52 338 41 320 24 792 Highveld and Swaziland 74 407 44 644 90 377 54 226 Limpopo 300 382 180 229 268 294 160 976 Clarkebury 150 000 90 000 140 000 84 000 Mocambique 0 0 0 0 Allocations to Mission 338 893 317 244 Unit Contingency Grant 73 000 30 000 Mission Coordinators 120 000 140 000 Fund Connexional HIV/AIDS 50 000 50 000 Grant Methodist Relief and 20 893 47 244 Development Fund Promotion of M & E 75 000 50 000 Allocation to Pula Fund 112 964 105 748 TOTAL ALLOCATION 1 129 643 1 057 479 170 2014

CHAPTER 10

HUMAN RESOURCE UNIT

Rev Dr Vukile Mehana

1. INTRODUCTION The 2012 Conference approved the strategic direction of the Human Resources Unit as presented and gave directions on certain speciﬁ c matters to be attended to by the Unit and report back to the 2013 Conference on such matters. This report gives progress on such speciﬁ c matters.

2. OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF THE HUMAN RESOURCE UNIT The Human Resources Unit as appointed by Conference facilitates, advises and guides the Church on matters of professionalising the MCSA Human Resource. This is done by providing a strategic and policy formulation work to be used in the management of the Church Human Resource Management (HRM). As presented in the last Conference, the Unit, working with the Connexional Human Resource Committee appointed by the 2012 Conference, has developed a strategic plan which is guided by the 4 strategic pillars namely: Procurement - which the Committee has rephrased to be Acquisition, Selection & Discernment; Alignment; Development; and Retention. The Connexional Human Resources Committee met in May 2013 in a workshop and developed an HRM Strategic Plan with short, medium and long term goals. For purposes of this report, hereunder are the short term goals and key deliverables that will be attended to during 2014. Such deliverables are informed by the Theological rationale which has already been presented in the last Conference and subsequently improved after interaction with DEWCOM.

3. THE SHORT TERM GOALS OF THE 4 STRATEGIC PILLARS 3.1 Acquisition, Selection & Discernment (previously Procurement) Working together with EMMU, the Connexional Human Resources Committee will concentrate on the following focus areas: • Review the processes and procedures of Candidature in the case of those in Covenantal relationships e.g. Ministers, Deacons etc, in order to ensure that our Acquisition Strategy is informed by the mission plan of the Church. • To this end, matters of the Human Resources Plan that include the current headcount, the future needs of the Church as well as the utilisation and deployment of such resources as informed by a supply and demand principle shall be robustly attended to. 2014 171

• Assess the possibility of an Electronic On-Line tool that will assist also with selection and deployment of such candidates. • Determine the Church’s Human Resource needs as informed by the Mission plan of the Church. • Conduct studies on various Acquisition models, as well as develop an MCSA ideal model for admitting Candidates for “Covenantal” relationship. • Map processes within MCSA through BPR principles that will assist the Methodist Church to have an appropriate headcount. • To improve or develop policies that are to be utilised by the Church in Recruiting, Selecting and Placing the contractual staff. • Such policies, processes and procedures to be utilised by the Districts, Circuits and Societies that employ contractual staff.

3.2 Alignment • The Connexional Human Resource Committee shall conduct a survey to determine to what extent the people understand the importance of scriptural holiness, ordinances of the Church encompassing our Laws & Discipline, as well as Usages and Traditions of our Church. • With regard to the Alignment process, we shall develop a programme of “On-boarding” & Induction of all Methodist workers, both Ministerial and Laity, with a view to aligning them to the Theology, Doctrine, Ethos, Discipline and Rule of Life of the Methodist people – including operational procedures and policies. • To monitor and evaluate how the people practice such Methodist principles, on an on-going basis.

3.3 Development • Working together with EMMU, the Connexional Human Resource Committee will assess the development and training needs and requirements of the Church in terms of skills and competencies, vocational proﬁ ciency, work ethics, relationships and teamwork per District, Circuit and Society. In the case of Candidates for ministry, the Connexional Human Resource Committee shall explore the possibility of having a School of Vocation, where Candidates, before being approved by Conference, will be expected to attend. • Conduct a Skills gap analysis to identify development and acceleration learning programmes for both Ministers and Laity. • Develop a training & development intervention based on the results of the skills gap analysis. • Develop a Leadership Development pipeline for purposes of leadership succession planning. • Develop a Training Intervention on EXIT strategy especially with 172 2014

respect to those in a Covenantal relationship to prepare them for retirement. • To continue evaluating the programmes offered by EMMU with respect to Ministers and Lay people in relation to the achievement of the Church Mission Strategy.

3.4 Retention • Ensure that every job in the MCSA, whether Covenantal or Contractual, is effectively profi led. • The Committee shall look critically on matters of Compensation and Reward Management Systems especially with regard to categories of Remuneration and benefi ts of both Covenantal and Contractual workers within the MCSA. • Focusing on matters of Church Working Conditions relating to Ministers and Laity with specifi c attention given to the issue of Justice (which includes all aspects of labour law), Welfare and Wellness. • Develop Performance Management and Review Systems in order to ensure that the Church embraces the culture of performance. • Review all Policies with regard to all operational Human Resource matters especially matters such as Leave management and the revision of the Employee Handbook. Talent Management will be attended to as well in order to ensure that there is a deliberate Retention Strategy that will enhance the professional work ethic and competency engagement in the Church. Over and above that, we will ensure that the MCSA remains a CARING Institution, and in relation to Ministers, the following programmes will be explored: i. Clergy Renewal Support ii. Emotional Intelligence iii. Post Ordination Training The Renewal Support will include: a. Spiritual Direction b. Professional Coaching & Mentoring c. Clergy Support Groups A comprehensive Human Resource Planning document has been developed and it shall be available on the MCSA website.

3.5 Image and Visibility The Committee will be exploring matters of branding and marketing of the Unit together with possible communication about its goals, objectives and key accountabilities with monthly reports published in the New 2014 173

Dimension. Where and when possible, a communication on current programmes and progress of the Human Resources activities may be shared across the Connexion for education and awareness purposes.

4. RESOLUTIONS: 4.1 Ministers and Labour Laws The Connexional Human Resource Committee in its Workshop in May 2013 resolved to ask Conference to affi rm the principle of a Covenantal Relationship between a Minister and the Church (not contractual) and also to be directed by the relevant Labour Laws of all Member Countries of the Connexion with regard to the employment of the Contractual staff. 4.2 Human Resources Unit A comprehensive Human Resource Strategy has been developed as mentioned above and it can be made available as a guide to the future activities of the Unit on request. 4.3 Training of Leaders The Human Resource sub-committee on Development working closely with EMMU has provided input on some parts of the report that EMMU shall present on matters of Training of all Leaders. 4.4 Compliance and Accountability With regard to Compliance and Accountability, the Human Resource sub- committee on Retention is currently looking at a Competency Assessment Tool for both Covenantal and Contractual workers in the Church. 4.5 Centralised Connexional Offi ce The Unit continues to participate in the process of integrating the Connexional Head Offi ce, working together with the Presiding Bishop, General Secretary and Lay General Treasurer. 4.6 Human Resources Unit The Unit has conducted a work study exercise in the offi ce of the Presiding Bishop; this includes the profi ling of existing jobs and looking at the fi lling of the resultant vacancies, as informed by the integration of the Presiding Bishop’s Offi ce with the Methodist Connexional Offi ce in Durban. 4.7 Stationing of Ministers A separate presentation shall be made at the 2013 Conference on the proposed alternative method of Stationing Ministers. The Human Resources Unit is thankful for the on-going support of the Presiding Bishop and General Secretary in advancing its work. 174 2014

CHAPTER 11

METHODIST ORDER OF DEACONS

Deacon Dr Vernon van Wyk

““I am in the midst of you as one who serves.” (Luke 22:27 GNB) “That is what the Son of Man has done: He came to serve, not to be served ….” (Mark 10:45 MSG)

1. THE ROLE OF A DEACON The model for diaconal ministry is Jesus Christ, ‘one who serves’. Servanthood is the key to understanding the call to diaconal ministry. The servanthood that is central to diaconal ministry is a costly way of life chosen by those who know their own brokenness and their own need for God’s healing. It can be embraced only by those who have received God’s love and been empowered by the Holy Spirit. Diaconal, servanthood ministry, according to DIAKONIA World Federation (DiaconalRefl ections, p. 1), “… means being a healing, accepting, encouraging presence to others, enabling them to experience God’s unending, unconditional, love and forgiveness. It includes seeking justice and sharing a vision. It presumes an image of God whose love and care extends to all people. It is a call to be in a relationship with God and God’s world, to accept, support, and comfort, and to equip and encourage others to use their own gifts to fulfi l their potential in service and life.” Deacons are ordained in and act as icona vivens Christi servi est signum spei in Ecclesia ad mundoque. i.e. “living icons of Christ the servant, who is the sign of hope in the Church and the world.” (From the Diakonia of Christ, p 109) When harnessed to the hope that Christ brings, the Deacon becomes an icon of that hope. It is in this role of a living icon refl ecting Christ the servant, who is the sign of hope in the church and to the world, that the Deacon’s service emerges. In being an icon of Christ, Deacons are identifying with the suffering of the world, with the oppressed, the poor, the disenfranchised, and the abused. The diaconate calls the whole church, Presbyters, Deacons and laity, to see the suffering of the world and to be involved in mobilising the church to being a caring community. We are to bear one another’s burdens, not to make others dependent, but to express solidarity and support, to be agents of healing and hope.

2. ON BECOMING A METHODIST DEACON The Candidating procedure is the same as for Presbyters. (See Chapter 6). Christians of any age with a call to primarily a ministry of Service and wishing to candidate for this Order should, in the ﬁ rst instance, explore their calling with 2014 175

their society minister and circuit superintendent minister early in the calendar year. A clear understanding of a call to serve and of the type of service ministry that will be conducted is essential in avoiding possible role confusion. Candidates should have a strong sense of vocation to the Ministry of Word and Service (or Service only) and not a failed or thwarted sense of vocation somewhere else (e.g. Word and Sacrament). There needs to be clarity of vision/purpose for the whole Circuit, into which a vision for the diaconal appointment fi ts. This should be analysed and translated into specifi c aims and goals for the diaconal appointment. All parties are requested to ensure that only qualifying candidates are recommended to the Order. The basic Entrance Requirements for Deacons are as follows: • Applicants must be in possession of a Matriculation (or equivalent) Certifi cate • Be a Local Preacher on trial, if candidating as preaching-Deacon • Applicants may candidate to become non-preaching Deacons, i.e. those who believe that their ministry is of a more practical nature and that for them God’s Word can be adequately proclaimed through their acts of service. A letter of recommendation from Superintendent Minister is required. • Completed on the academic level of: o Higher Certifi cate in Theology: Introduction to New Testament (45121); Introduction to Old Testament (45111); Introduction to Theology (45241) and Pastoral Care (45371) o Diploma in Theology: Getting to Know the Bible (85100); Systematic Theology 1 (85240) and Practical Theology 1 (85370) o Bachelor in Theology: Developing Skills for Theological Study (7000); Interpreting Texts (7004) and Engaging with people pastorally and ethically (7002) To be accepted for ordination all Deacons must: • Complete either the Higher Certifi cate in Theology (TEEC), or the Diploma in Theology (TEEC), or Bachelor Degree in Theology (TEEC) plus • Methodist Studies – Wesley, Polity and Accounting, plus • In accordance with Section 13.17 of the MCSA Laws and Discipline have completed at least 4 years of probation (together with presbyters) focusing on skills - and character formation for a ministry of Service. One further year will be allowed to enable a probationer to complete certain academic requirements and/or internship projects not yet completed (maximum 5 years). • Be a local preacher on full plan, if seeking to be ordained for Word and Service.

3. DEACONS IN MINISTRY The measure in which progress has been made is reﬂ ected in the growing numbers of candidates for the Order. In 2012 one Deacon was ordained at Conference in 176 2014

Swaziland. No Deacons will be ordained in 2013, but the Convocation of the Order have recommended eight (8) Deacons for ordination in 2014. Three (3) Candidates were admitted to the Order in 2013 and two (2) are in the screening process for admission in 2014. This will grow the numbers to 44 in active servant- ministry: • Eighteen (18) ordained Deacons (12 female and 6 male.) • Five (5) Supernumeraries (4 female and 1 male) • Fourteen (14) Probationer Deacons (6 female and 8 male) • Two (2) candidates (1 female and 1 male) Having men and women representing all sectors of our Southern African communities is an exciting development in The Order. The scope for serving Jesus Christ in the world is limitless and the Order provides a vehicle through which persons can be trained and prepared for servant ministry. The names of all Deacons appear in the Church Directory.

4. ANNUAL CONVOCATION The Convocation remains the highlight of the year for Deacons. Deacons function as a dispersed religious community and the time spent together in fellowship, study and training at Convocation is invaluable and affords members an opportunity for celebrating the successes and sharing the heartaches of ministry. Deacons meet at Convocation to transact the business of the Order (L & D Appendix 7), to foster and develop their calling as servant-ministers and to receive training relevant to their ministry. The Convocation was held from Monday 22 April 2013 to Friday 26 April 2013 at eMseni Christian Conference Centre. We had a full programme focusing on various aspects of Children’s ministry. The Deacons went on a ﬁ eld visit to AMCARE in Alberton and Rev. Dr. Leon Klein conducted a Workshop on “Servant Leadership”. A Rededication Service conducted by the Warden, Deacon Dr. Vernon van Wyk ended the Convocation. It was especially gratifying to have Bishop Andrew Motswenyane present for the whole Convocation.

5. ECUMENICAL RELATIONSHIPS The Methodist Order of Deacons is a member of DIAKONIA World Federation. All Protestant Churches with diaconal ministries world-wide are eligible for membership. The Warden attended the very blessed Conference “Diakonia – Healing and Wholeness for the World” in Berlin, Germany from 1 – 9 July 2013. Valuable links with other Methodist Diaconal Orders in Africa were forged at the Conference.

6. FINANCES Most of the expenses incurred for the Convocation are covered by Circuits contributing to the accommodation of their Deacons. Travelling is largely covered 2014 177

by donations received from the District Women’s Auxiliaries. We are pleased to note that the Connexional Cash Management Scheme has contributed to the Order’s funds and that tuition fees have been taken over by EMMU. The Order is most grateful for this meaningful support. However, in view in the decline in funding and increase in membership of the Order, additional sources of funding need to be found to administer the Order. We appeal to other organisations of our Church to consider supporting the work of the Order. As the Order grows the MCSA may in future also have to consider the full-time stationing and funding of the Warden of the Order.

7. CONNEXIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE The Methodist Order of Deacons is managed by a Connexional Committee. The following persons are recommended to Conference to serve on this Committee in 2014: Bishop: Bishop Andrew Motswenyane - Northern Free State and Lesotho District Warden: Dcn Dr Vernon van Wyk – Alberton (Highveld and Swaziland District) Ministers: Rev Dr Cedric Poole – Alberton (Highveld and Swaziland District), Rev Ina Guy - Brackenhurst (Highveld and Swaziland District) Deacons: Deacon Rosemary van der Merwe – Parys (Northern Free State and Lesotho District), Deacon Gerald Dickson – Toekomsrust (Central District) Lay members: Mr Percy Howroyd – Alberton Circuit (Highveld and Swaziland District), Mr John Mitchley – Benoni Circuit, Highveld and Swaziland District, Mrs Maureen Mildenhall -–Representing Women’s Auxiliary; Highveld and Swaziland District, Mrs Beth Kok – President of Women’s Auxiliary: Central District, Mrs J Sbo Mlangeni – President of Women’s Manyano, Highveld and Swaziland District

8. RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION BY CONFERENCE The Convocation requested that Conference consider the following: (a) In terms of Laws and Discipline chapter 13, and Appendix 7 of Laws and Discipline, all Deacons in active ministry are required to attend the annual Convocation of the Order of Deacons. Such attendance incurs costs of travelling and accommodation. The Convocation requests Conference to direct all Circuits to pay these costs for all Deacons in the Circuit. (b) In terms of Appendix 7.18 of Laws and Discipline, the Convocation of the Methodist Order of Deacons endorses the resolution of the Connexional Committee to the Connexional Executive that the MCSA address the following challenges (2012 Yearbook, p.184) and requests Conference to ensure that these are given appropriate consideration: 178 2014

• The structures that place one form of ministry above another • The perceived reluctance of circuits/societies to appoint Deacons • Differences in stipends and other allowances • Promoting the appointment of those called to a speciﬁ cally missional ministry • Encouraging a move towards itinerant ministry in preference to the largely non-itinerant model that currently prevails. (c) The Convocation of the Methodist Order of Deacons requests Conference that paragraph 5.3.1.8 of the 2013 Yearbook, p. 109 be deleted in its entirety, as it is preventing poorer Circuits from engaging the services of non-stipendiary ministers, probationers and Deacons, and requests that alternative ways be found to support these ministries. (d) The Convocation of the Methodist Order of Deacons recommends that Deacon Dr Vernon van Wyk be appointed as Warden of the Order for a further period of three years from 2015 to 2017.

9. APPRECIATION The Order is grateful for the many acts of selﬂ ess service and ministry offered by God’s servants and thanks all who support this work in prayer or in kind. The Deacons are grateful to God for His call upon their lives and for the many and varied opportunities of ministry and service that have been afforded to them. Please pray for the Deacons as they seek God’s help to fulﬁ l their vision statement:

“To share Christ’s love through service and to help the Church respond to the needs of the wider community.” 2014 179

CHAPTER 12

THE ORDER OF EVANGELISM

Rev Jacob Freemantle

1. OUR MISSION FOCUS The basic focus of every Biblewoman and Evangelist can best be summarised by the following pericope in which Evangelist Luke quoted Jesus’ core mission on His return to the local or home church of Nazareth. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, Because He has anointed me To preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent me to heal the broken-hearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed, To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. This passage remains the seed-bed and the plateau upon which Methodism all over the world is founded. For this reason, such a predisposed and God given approach to evangelism remains our anchor and is critically characteristic of everything we would wish to communicate to the world from generation to generation. This is something we must re-emphasise; no genuine Methodist can claim to be a non-evangelist. Evangelism is our breath and blood. To this end, the Order of Evangelism is, to all intents and purposes, the face of the mission of our growing and developing church. I remain humbly indebted to thank God always for, among many things, the work being done by you, our Biblewomen and Evangelists under extremely challenging conditions. Thank you for the good work in Swaziland, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and South Africa. As a Warden I continue to appraise our Church of all you are sacriﬁ cially doing out of love for the Lord Jesus Christ. We have always thanked your Circuits for supporting, praying and remunerating you accordingly.

2. BIENNIAL 2014 The Biennial Convention will be held at Clarkebury District under Tombo Circuit from 15-18 May 2014. Please note, in 2016 it will be in Queenstown District, and in 2018 it will be in Free State and Lesotho District.

3. EDUCATION AND TRAINING 3.1 Rubrics (which include admission to candidature, course content, duration of studies and discipline for not abiding by EMMU standards) in the 180 2014

training are all contained in the L&D as presented by the Connexional Coordinator of Lay Training and accepted by the General Committee. Implementation thereof will take place after the approval of L&D.

3.2 Courses The following Courses were accepted as syllabus: Grade 12 is an admission standard and candidates shall have a minimum of four local preaching courses at the year of candidature. The First Year Courses shall be: Wesley’s Studies (e.g. preaching, church organisation etc), Doctrine, Leadership. The Second Year Courses shall be: Evangelism (e.g. soul winning, pastoral care and counselling, church planting, etc)

3.2.1. 2014 Candidates 0128 Jekwa, Popie 0330 Ngceba, Albertina 0128 Lynch, Oswald 0703 Moolisa, Elizabeth 0128 Magcoba, Nosipho 0803 Zuma, Simon 0211 Rossouw, Katie 0813 Radebe, Thembalihle 0322 Vumazonke, Nokuzola 0902 Macingwane, Sabelo 0322 Mbanga, Adonijah 1024 Masuku, Tsakasile 0330 Sixinti, Nzame 1105 Manamela, Motsei 0330 Sodladla, Zwelitsha

3.3. Eighty Six (86) students who Graduated in Bloemfontein on 08-06-2013 Surname First Names Baloleleki Oupa Dauglas Blouw Kos Bokwe Pauline Nomvuselelo Cekisani Bayisekile Eric Chaza John Chemese John Daweti Nomthandazo Dorothy Draghoender Errol Dennis Dungelo Nosipho Patricia Dzoye Dege Naum Figlan Nomandile Mildred Griqua Maria Hendricks Suezette Juaneta Hlokomfana Mpikiso Sakhele Jantjie Myra Jeme Mandla Samuel Jombile Nokwanda Grace 2014 181

Kalipa Mlungeli Melton Koogotsitse Seadimo Lilly Kopeledi Michael Kopeledi Ledwaba Mathabathe Elsie Madela Cwebile Joyce Magwaza Fredman Khethani Mahlangu Maqhiri Winnie Makabeni-Qoza Nomonde Perseverance Makhopa Mzwandile Elias Maraba Teboga Steven Maseko Ndlangamandla David Maseti Nontombi Cynthia Mashabela Raseekele Ronald Masuku Duduzile Matshobongwana Nomvuselelo Primrose Mbabela Bonakele Charles Mbelu Nosipho Euginia Mdladlamba Virginia Nomvuyo Mduzulwana Nkundla Archibishop Mehlo Thabo Menyatso Mokoai Kornel Andries Mﬁ ki Mncekeleli Mjeku Nombulelo Putswana Cynthia Mkiva Lungelwa Margaret Mnotoza Nomkhitha Julia Mokgopane Olebogeng John Mokiri Pulane Suzan Molamu Gabaake Sarah Molapong Gaabocwe Thomas Molutsi Jospin Thope Mooka Kerileng Margret Mosounyana Mohlabani Daniel Mothibi Glorious Keabaitse Motumi Tsepo David Mrwebo Welcome Mkhuseli Mzinzi Xhoseka Edgar Ndyenga Noncinci Rita Ngcanga Phakama Margaret Ngesi Tryphina Sandikazi Ngwane Gilda Nokuthula Nong Malepekola Mary Nonjiko Joyce Ziphokazi Norushu Benjamin Vukile 182 2014

Nzondo Nzima Isaac Olifant Goitsemodimo Gideon Oliphant MacDonald Bandile Peter Nontsasa Sylvia Phele Matlakala Elizabeth Pule Nomthandazo Agnes Qhakaza Zamekile Qina Joyce Ramoitheki Norah Dikeledi Roda Mongezi Petrus Sebaka Moeketji Aaron Sebotho-Ditlhobolo Didimalang Denise Segopolo Joyce Mittah Seisho Moeti Bennett Setlhare Moretiemang Matshidiso Shiba Thandi Kate Slatsha Bongani Songelwa Nobantu Christina Tlali Nonkosi Marry Tshangana Mxolisi Tshofela Nomhle Pretty Tshofuthi Nolaynette Doris Tyimi Nosipho Vilakazi Bongani Jackson Xhalisile Themba Xhobiso Luthando

4. REMUNERATION FOR 2014 Commissioned Biblewomen and Evangelists R3390-00 Probationers R2885-00 Monthly Travelling R1100-00 Medical Assistance per family R4000-00

5. BIBLEWOMEN AND EVANGELISTS WHO HAVE PASSED ON SINCE LAST CONFERENCE MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN PEACE!

District Surname Name 01 Biblewoman Jantjies Angelinah 02 Evangelist Khalipha Milton Biblewoman Ngonyama Gushana Evangelist Globlaar Jimmy Evangelist Hans Zenzile 2014 183

Biblewoman Bonga Mildred Evangelist Tile Pakama Biblewoman Ndesi Nozandile Biblewoman Jongilana Thembeka Ntsondwa Lulama 03 Evangelist Ntobeko Jaca Evangelist Robertson. Jacobs 05 Biblewoman Dithungoe Naomi Biblewoman Selewane Angelinah 07 Evangelist Phakathi George Biblewoman Mhlungu Harriett Biblewoman Cynthia Vilane Biblewoman Nkambule Besie 10 Biblewoman Mohlamme Jane Biblewoman Mcombo Mantombi 13 Evangelist Mvimbi Skekana Evangelist Tyali Adolphus Biblewoman Sixhanti Maria Evangelist Nomdlembu Wiseman

6. 2014 DIARY 18 February District Secretaries Consultation Emseni 15-18 May Biennial Convention Tombo Clarkebury 03 June General Committee Meeting SMMS 07 June Graduation Bloemfontein 29 Sept-03 Oct Training of First Year Probationers Emseni 10-14 November Training of Second Year Probationers Emseni

7. DISTRICT SECRETARIES Cape of Good Hope Rev N. N. A. Nomqolo Grahamstown Rev M. D. Songelwa Queenstown Rev T.T.P. Dhlamini Northern Free State and Lesotho Rev T.J. Kgotle Kimberly, Namibia and Bloemfontein Rev S.S.J. Kobuoe Natal Coastal Rev N. R. Gowana Natal West Rev H.M.H Mngadi Central Rev T.T.S. Sibi Highveld and Swaziland Rev S.S.A.Toolo Limpopo Rev R. J. Mabidikama Mozambique Rev R. Massango Clarkebury Rev T.T.H. Ntuli 184 2014

CHAPTER 13

CONNEXIONAL CHAPLAINCY COMMITTEE

Bishop Themba Mntambo

The committee meets regularly to monitor the work of chaplains in the three security services, (South African National Defence Force, South African Police Service and Correctional Services) to offer support and guidance to our ministers who have been appointed chaplains on behalf of the MCSA, and to enable all those appointed to these positions to give accountability to the church. According to our records we have 22 chaplains within the three security services (9 SAPS, 9 SANDF and Botswana Defence Force, 3 Correctional Services).

1. OTHER RELATED CHAPLAINCIES There are other related chaplaincies which in essence conduct ministries similar to the three recognised and supported by the church. We have one chaplain serving within the Johannesburg Metro Police Department, two within the Johannesburg Emergency Services and one within the Western Cape Community Safety Department. The committee wishes to include these within its work in order that they receive the beneﬁ t of the church’s support system and have a place of accountability for their work. However, before this decision is made, the committee needs to determine whether indeed these ministers are doing the work of chaplains; if not, they will have to be recorded as seconded ministers.

2. PASTORAL COMMITTEES In terms of Laws and Discipline 15.3.3, “During the tenth year of the Chaplain’s service the CCC will arrange a Pastoral Committee to review the chaplain’s work and recommend whether or not they should continue in chaplaincy.” A number of our chaplains have indeed reached this stage in their ministry and arrangements are being made for such committees to meet with them and make recommendations to the CCC.

3. TRANSFERS TO OTHER DEPARTMENTS WITHIN THE SERVICES It has been brought to the attention of the Committee that some chaplains, particularly within the SAPS, get transferred to other departments which may not necessarily require them to do chaplaincy work as the church understands it. The Security Services have over time taken the role of determining the work of chaplains, and this may at times conﬂ ict with the church’s view. We have taken this matter up with the Security Services Christian Advisory Board (SSCAB) who will work together with the three security services to come to some agreement regarding this matter. 2014 185

4. APPLICATIONS FOR CHAPLAINCY There seems to be general ignorance regarding the process of application and appointment of chaplains. In order to give information (which can be found in L&D chapter 15), the committee sent a pamphlet to all ministers through the stipend advice slip. We hope the information will assist ministers who wish to apply for chaplaincy. In last year’s report the committee pointed out some challenges regarding the appointment of chaplains. We continue to address these through the SSCAB, but we are also bound by the fact that chaplains become employees of the security service to which they are appointed and are subject to labour legislation pertinent to that particular service. Another challenge is the availability of posts, whereby posts become available at any time and if our process would be followed to the letter, then our ministers may lose out on opportunities for appointment. In order to facilitate appointments the committee has been ﬂ exible to allow a parallel process where an application for a position may be submitted while at the same time the church processes the application for chaplaincy through a pastoral committee. The committee has had four applications to apply for chaplaincy and all four have been granted, but none of the applicants have been able to secure positions within the security services.

5. REVIEWING CHAPLAINCY It is the committee’s view that the understanding of chaplaincy has widened beyond the three traditional areas, viz. SANDF, SAPS and DCC. Some areas of uncertainty about the deﬁ nition of chaplaincy have emerged which will require the church to determine what constitutes chaplaincy, who may be appointed chaplain and to which speciﬁ c areas chaplains are appointed. At our retreat with chaplains at the end of the year some time will be given to consider these questions and bring suggestions and recommendations to the Connexion.

6. CONCLUSION Chaplains continue to represent the church in areas where traditional forms of church cannot be exercised. They are a vital link between not only members of the church but even to those who may be regarded as ‘unchurched’. This is a vital part of the church’s mission and challenges the church to seek always to appoint people who believe they are called to this work, who are the most suitable and able to represent the church in an increasingly secularised world. The committee will seek to offer the support and resources our chaplains need to perform their duties, and to hold them accountable for what they are sent to do on behalf of the MCSA. 186 2014

CHAPTER 14

CONNEXIONAL TRUST PROPERTY COMMITTEE

Offi cial Trustee Rev Ziphozihle Siwa is the President of the Conference from 2012 to 2014 and as such is the offi cial Trustee of the whole of the movable and immovable property of the Church. Conference appointed the Rev Vuyani Gladstone Nyobole as the Secretary of Conference for a further period until 31st December 2014. The amounts referred to in the 11th Edition of Laws and Discipline paras. 9.41, 9.50, 9.52, 9.53 and 9.57 are fi xed as follows and should be read in conjunction with Chapter 9, pages 118ff:

Para 9.41 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.

Para 9.50 No building contract exceeding R250 000 in value may be entered into without the District Trust Properties Committee’s approval.

Para 9.52 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 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.

Para 9.53 At least two tenders are required for schemes where expenditure will exceed R150 000. “Contractors All Risks and Public Liability Insurance” must be arranged for all erections, alterations, additions or renovations to buildings.

Para 9.57 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. The following are the District Trust Property Secretaries: Cape of Good Hope Mr Clive Green Grahamstown Mr Thobeko Soga 2014 187

Queenstown Rev Barry Allen Kimberley, Namibia, Bloemfontein Mr Arrie Beukes Northern Free State & Lesotho Mr Derek O’Connor Natal Coastal Rev Graham Goodwin Natal West Mr Thembinkosi Hlela Central Mr Ricky Ngwenya Highveld & Swaziland Rev Scott Manning Limpopo Rev Marcel Smulders Moçambique Rev Carlos Magane Clarkebury Mr Mtuzeli Ntshiba

Secretary of the Trust Properties Committee As Secretary of the Trust Properties Committee of the District in which the Presiding Bishop is located, Mr Ricky Ngwenya is Connexional Secretary of the Department.

GUIDELINES RELATING TO PURCHASES AND SALES FOR THE METHODIST CHURCH OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

To help Circuits to be consistent and comply with legal requirements, Superintendent Ministers and District Trust Property Secretaries are requested to ensure that resolutions to buy or sell property are drawn up using the following standard format: ‘The Circuit Quarterly Meeting of the……..………………………Circuit, in the District no. …………., at a meeting held on the …………….agreed to buy/sell the following property: ……………………………………………………………………………………..... ……………………………………………………………………………………..... (please state physical address, erf no. and description, eg church/manse etc) in the ………………….. Society, Circuit No. ……….. for the sum of R ………… (State full price) If property is being bought, please indicate how the purchase price is going to be ﬁ nanced i.e: amount available in cash: R ………………………………………… withdrawal of investment: R ………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………..... (State if MCO or Bank investment and give Account number and Bank name) Loan amount required (if applicable) R……………………………… The Circuit Quarterly Meeting authorises the Circuit Stewards to seek permission from BOTH the District Trust Properties Committee and the General Treasurers to apply for an outside loan from: 188 2014

……………………….………Bank/Institution for up to R………………………..

If approved by the Circuit Quarterly Meeting and General Treasurers, the Circuit Stewards may arrange, through attorneys, to draw up the necessary documents to effect the transfer.

N O T E S: Please always refer to the requirements as contained in Chapter 9 of Laws and Discipline relating to the Acquisition, Exchange, Lease, Disposal or Alienation of any Church property.

The Presiding Bishop or Secretary of Conference are the ofﬁ cial signatories for all documents related to purchase or sale of property in terms of L&D chapter9para 9.1 ff. For practical reasons the Secretary of Conference normally signs the documents. Therefore all documents related to buying or selling property must reﬂ ect the following wording as our signatory: “I, the undersigned, Vuyani Gladstone Nyobole, in my capacity as Secretary of the Conference for the time being, acting for and on behalf of the Presiding Bishop of the Conference for the time being of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa”.

The Pink Loan Application Form, available from the MCO, must be completed and submitted to the MCO whenever any loan is required.

Purchase: INSURANCE COVER is to be obtained from the MCO as soon as the transfer is affected. Please advise the MCO the replacement value and give full details. The TITLE DEED must be sent to the MCO for safekeeping and noting of all information on our computer records.

Sale: Please request the MCO to delete insurance cover and deed record. The original Title Deed will only be released on the written authority of the Superintendent Minister.

NB NB NB!! Statements/Pro Forma Accounts by Attorneys When drawing up legal documents for signature by the Presiding Bishop or Secretary of Conference, please advise Conveyancers/Bank/Transferring Attorneys that those pro-forma accounts must be sent to the local Circuit or Society for settlement and NOT to the Secretary of Conference or the MCO. Secretaries of the District Trust Property Committees are requested to supply DTP Minutes to both the MCO and the Secretary of Conference for their records. 2014 189

CHAPTER 15

METHODIST PUBLISHING HOUSE

Mr George Vine

1. FINANCIAL RESULTS 1.1 Based on preliminary fi gures, overall MPH sales increased by 11.2% over 2011/12. Retail turnover increased by 10.3% and Wholesale sales by 15.8%. 1.2 We maintained a positive cash-fl ow throughout the year. 1.3 Budget 2013/14: We’ve set fairly bullish targets, given the current economic circumstances, of a 14.5% growth in shop sales, excluding the two new shops (Soweto and Benoni) and 21.1% with the new shops. For Wholesale, we’ve budgeted for a 10.4% increase. Overall, with the new shops, we’ve budgeted for a 21.1% increase in sales. 2. STRATEGY Our strategy is to pursue sales growth in order to increase our share of the market and to achieve economies of scale. We opened a shop in Soweto at the Jabavu Community Centre on 30 May 2013 and we opened in Northmead Mall, Benoni on 15 June 2013. We have no plans to increase further the number of shops but will now consolidate our retail position and place emphasis on achieving sales via the Internet. 3. POINT OF SALE SYSTEM ISOPOS is providing comprehensive information that enables us to replenish stocks more accurately than previously and to better monitor gross profi ts. It will always be a work in progress in the sense that the database needs constant maintenance. 4. STORE PERFORMANCE Cape Town: The trend of decreasing sales that started in Cape Town shop in September 2010 has continued with sales for the year being down 8% for the year under review. The previous year the shop was down 5% so the trend is unmistakable. Efforts to reverse the trend have not worked so this year we will be following up on the idea of opening a second shop in the suburbs while keeping a presence in the City. Johannesburg: 4.5% up for the year. Durban: Like Cape Town shop, Durban is a CBD shop and also suffering a downward trend. It fi nished the year 3.4% down on 2011/12. Mthatha: has experienced excellent growth, fi nishing the year 29.6% up. This strong performance has taken Mthatha to being our highest turnover shop - if only by a few hundred Rand. 190 2014

Pmb: Up 1.9% on the previous year. Plans are afoot to revamp the shop, making it smaller and more appealing. Bryanston: A good performance at 11.9% up on the previous year. Pretoria: Our Pretoria shop has had to re-establish itself after relocating to new premises in Capital Park, where it opened on 19 March 2012. Sales are down just .3% on the previous year. Kimberley: Far from being affected by the opening of Bloemfontein, Kimberley shop continues to thrive, particularly after being relocated within the Kimpark shopping centre on 2 July 2012. It ﬁ nished the year 15.1% up. East London: East London (which opened in August 2009) continues to show good - but no longer spectacular - growth. It was up 13.2% for the year. Port Elizabeth: Our shop opened in Port Elizabeth on 10 January 2011. Sales continue to disappoint with the shop failing to achieve any growth at all over the previous year’s sales. Bloemfontein: This shop continues to disappoint – it’s been open over a year and should be showing much stronger month-on-month growth than it is. New shops: As mentioned above, having opened in Benoni and Soweto, we’ll take a breather to concentrate on improving the position at shops that are below par, and on Internet sales.

5. STAFF Little training took place in 2012 – this aspect of the business needs more attention An incentive scheme for managers was introduced, effective 1 July 2013, which will run for 12 months. The bonus is to be paid on a balanced set of criteria and is aimed at encouraging each manager to treat the shop as if it were his/her own business, and to grow as a manager.

6. ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONS Rev. Ken Leverton’s What are we Reading? column in New Dimension continues to draw interest as does his regular ﬂ yer in ministers’ stipend advice envelopes. As ever, Easter remains our biggest month with Christmas sales lagging considerably behind those of Easter. We have improved our Christmas promotions but Christmas sales are still not at their full potential. We continue to run book-tables at a variety of events in the life of our church and its organisations and these generally enjoy good support. Database: The shop managers are collecting customers’ names and contact details for our database. At this point the database comprises over 3000 names.

7. PUBLISHING: THE FOLLOWING NEW BOOKS AND NEW EDITIONS WERE PUBLISHED IN 2012/13 SiSwati hymnbook 2014 191

Venda hymnbook Let the Children Come (revision) Umthandazo Wenkosi by TSN Gqubule Fire in the Bones by Jack Scholtz The Way (pilot project study material for small groups) Large Print edition of Xhosa hymnal Revised LPA Constitution Yearbook 2013

The following are underway for later this year: History of Healdtown Opening Doors by Donald Cragg and Joan Millard (Vol 2 of history of Methodism in SA) Mister President by David Sadler (all Presidents and Presiding Bishops of MCSA)

8. MPH WEBSITE We expect a beta version of the site to be operational in August 2013.

9. “GIVING BACK” SCHEME The ﬁ rst pay-out under the “Giving back” scheme was made in May 2012. Under the scheme, each Christian Connexion Resource Centre donates 1% of its annual turnover (not proﬁ t) to the District in which it operates. The donation is used by each District to subsidise its choice of a needy mission project – or church – in its district.

The following projects benefi ted from the fi rst pay-out under the scheme: Central Karoo Circuit (Cape of Good Hope) The Kavango Mission in Rundu and Namibia (Grahamstown) Kavango mission Circuit 553 Pre-School (Kim, Namibia & Bloemfontein) District Ministerial Assistance Fund (Natal Coastal) Port Shepstone Projects and Umtshezi Circuit (Natal West) “Rural work” in North West (Central) Child Care Centre in Moloto village (Limpopo). The second pay-out was made in June 2013 with seven Districts benefi ting to the tune of just over R100 000. The following projects benefi ted from the scheme this year: Cape of Good Hope - Central Karoo Circuit Grahamstown - District Education for Ministry and Mission unit Kim, Nam, Bloem - Aldersgate conference centre in Bloemfontein Natal Coastal - Project for the wellness and care of ministers Natal West - Work done by Deacon Cathy Marsden in Circuit 808, Port Shepstone 192 2014

in rural mission as well as the Thembelihle Children's Care Centre at Kilbarchan near Newcastle Central - Supporting mission in the rural areas Limpopo - Jan Botha Projects - 4G Youth Training Programme

CONCLUSION Unlike the previous ﬁ nancial year, Wholesale sales showed pleasing growth. The growth in retail sales was satisfactory under the prevailing trading conditions. Overall, MPH is very healthy. I expect the tough trading conditions to continue during the 2013/14 ﬁ nancial year. 2014 193

CHAPTER 16

WOMEN’S WORK

WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

Mrs Charmaine Fortuin

THEME : “God’s Table of Grace and Healing”. 2 Chronicles 30:19-20; 1 Peter 2:24

1. OVERVIEW The invitation to a round table of coming together (Luke 14 verse 21) is still extended throughout the Connexion. The aim of this is in a context of changing moral values and seeking to deepen spirituality in the life of our church. It is also to challenge inclusiveness for all, to engage in an invitation from God to have a personal relationship with Him and to grow daily in Christian values and behaviour. In living out our motto - “By love serve ye one another’, we believe that the church is one of the best places where we can learn to begin to live together in love and harmony. We come from very different backgrounds with diverse histories and stories to tell, some even quite horrendous. And yet, somehow, we can gather in peace around the Eucharistic table and celebrate the resurrected Christ in our lives. Therefore a common thread in our discussions and resolutions run through the social challenges facing our communities on the topics: victim abuse in all its forms, substance abuse, teenage pregnancies, the brokenness of family life, and the speciﬁ c need for the empowerment of women.

2. OBJECTIVES The objectives of the Women’s Association are as follows: 2.1 Revisiting of Women’s Association rules and Afﬁ rmation to bring these in line with the MCSA procedures and structures 2.2 To have the Constitution and rule book which will include the Afﬁ rmation, Women’s Association Prayer, to be reprinted as one book 2.3 To revisit/amend the Order of Service for Induction and Dedication services 2.4 To have achieved the MDGs 2.5 To recruit and empower younger women

3. ACHIEVEMENTS Our relationship with the global sisterhood of the World Federation of Methodist 194 2014

& Uniting Church Women was endorsed through the emphasis placed on working towards achieving four of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDG’s) and our Mission Pillars. These are:

3.1 To eradicate extreme poverty and hunger (MDG1) Soup Kitchens and various feedings schemes are being done by the sisters in all of the districts. Clothes and blankets are also donated and distributed at these outreaches. Children and their parents come for nourishment and are fed spiritually as well.

3.2 To give all children a primary school education (MDG2) The Ladies are encouraged to assist at school with the assemblies and prayer rooms. They are also encouraged to be the voice of the church in the schools and to build relationships with teachers in their areas. In most Districts ladies are on the school governing bodies and represent Christ in the schools. They also have established prayer groups who pray for the schools, the pupils and the teachers. The WA throughout the connexion is also very involved with the orphanages in the various Districts and has sponsorship programs and mentoring programs in place. Districts and branches have taken up the initiative of ‘adopt a learner/s’, where they are responsible for buying full uniform and stationery for learners coming from poor families. Connexional project (2013 Biennial): All branches in the 5 Districts to collect school stationery e.g. Colouring pencils, pencils, exercise books, sellotape, glue sticks, rulers etc.

3.3 To promote gender equality and empower women (MDG3) The Women’s Association have taken a stand by supporting the ﬁ ght against “Victim Abuse” in all its forms by wearing black on Thursdays in solidarity with those affected, and to practice the “knock on the door” initiative as challenged by Bishop Witbooi of the Northern District, with the aim of exposing and speaking up against violence in the home.

3.4 To combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases (MDG6) The sisters are actively involved in ministering to those infected and affected at the various places of healing such as Hospitals and orphanages. They also visit the hospitals and old age homes in their areas regularly where they spend time tending to the sick, frail and lonely. Continuous health education and HIV/AIDS awareness programmes are undertaken in societies and communities and also at our organisational meetings. 2014 195

4. ACHIEVEMENTS 4.1 MDG’S as refl ected in overview 4.2 Shawl Ministry (WFMUCW): This unique ministry is aimed at the infi rm, the bereaved, and the elderly members of our Women’s Association. These shawls are knitted with a specifi c person in mind, and she and her family are upheld in prayer. Our aim is that the ministry should develop further and many ladies of our Association be blessed and comforted by the shawls. An article was published in the Tree of Life where a shawl was handed over to the oldest member who turned 100 years in February 2013. 4.3 We are delighted to report that Namibia is included in the KNB District after their absence for some years. Namibia will also be hosting the 2013 District Meetings.

5. HIGHLIGHTS A women’s consultation was held in Durban from 28-30 June 2013 (South and East Africa region). How true, as we stepped out in the unknown tomorrow, putting our complete trust in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, to a gathering of an unexpected large number of faithful members of the Southern & East Africa Area - joyfully welcomed old and new friends. This is always an amazing and happy experience, meeting women from many other countries within our Area. This was an ideal platform for ladies from the three sisterhoods (South Africa) to show unity. Common goals were achieved and set for the future. We were also blessed with the presence of Mrs Siwa, wife of MCSA Presiding Bishop, Mrs Nyobole, wife of Rev. Vuyani “Vido” Nyobole, Thenjiwe Ncube –past Area President, Mrs Songia and Mrs Lazekya from United Methodist Church Zimbabwe.

6. DIVINE SERVICE AND HOLY COMMUNION (Sunday) The Service was led by Rev. Dandala who substituted for Presiding Bishop Siwa. His message was taken from scripture reading Judges 5:1-9 and Hebrews 10:19-27 with the Theme of HOPE. He elaborated on “Never give up” as we are not living in easy times. When we call on the name of Jesus – never give up.

7. CHALLENGES We are still facing the huge challenge of substance abuse and women and child abuse. The women are working hard in being vocal about these social evils, but it is a drop in the ocean. We pray and trust that more Methodist men will speak out against these evils that are destroying our communities. Men’s League: As the Women’s Association we are looking forward to working in partnership with the Men’s League at Connexional and District levels on workshops on drug abuse and other educational and social issues. 196 2014

METHODIST WOMEN’S PRAYER AND SERVICE UNION

WOMEN’S MANYANO

Mrs Nobuntu Madwe

FOCUS AREA: EDUCATE WOMEN AND CHILDREN FOR A VALUE-ADDED LIFE.

1. PREAMBLE As we are ordained of God, we are a reﬂ ection of His Will and Purpose. We must then arise and arm ourselves with the power of Faith and cleave to that which draws us together and unites us.

2. SPIRITUALITY This aspect is so vibrant in Manyano generally. Ecumenism is encouraged at all levels. In all Manyano gatherings spiritual upliftment takes precedence.

3. EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH We believe in Evangelism in action and this is our strongest point. This is evidenced by many converts who join Manyano. Manyano has resuscitated the ﬁ nancial assistance to the Order of Evangelism. We have donated a sum of R50 000 to the order and have committed to make this a yearly contribution.

4. JUSTICE AND SERVICE Eleven tertiary students have been awarded bursary funding of R18 000 each. We are still awaiting Mozambique to furnish us with details of the academic institution at which their candidate is registered. This is an on-going programme that will continue until the beneﬁ ciary ﬁ nishes the junior degree on condition that he/she does not fail.

During the Connexional General Executive meeting held in February in Port Elizabeth we donated 50 desks and chairs to Emsengeni Primary School in Zwide, and Grade R playing and teaching material at John Masiza Primary School in Walmer Township.

In response to the effects of climate change, Manyano membership have donated water tanks to schools for water harvesting and have also planted trees at the area where they convened for their District and Connexional meetings.

We graciously donated a sum of R30 000 to the plight of Mozambique. The contribution was channelled through the ofﬁ ce of the Mission unit. 2014 197

5. ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT Through CCS Manyano membership engages in educational programmes as well as income generating projects. Speakers are invited to educate membership on wellness, social and economic issues. Women are capacitated with strategies of taking care of their health and encouraged to participate in projects that will sustain their economy.

6. EDUCATION Natal Coastal District was engaged in a Matric intervention programme last year, which resulted in the improvement of end of the year Matric results, especially in the rural areas of KZN. In recognition of this goodwill, the Natal Coastal Women’s Manyano was awarded a certiﬁ cate of appreciation by KZN Department of Education.

During their Manyano Convention, Queenstown District handed over to the Eastern Cape Department of Education a renovated building of Mt Arthur High School which is one of the Methodist Missionary Schools.

As directed by their focus, the Connexional Women’s Manyano refurbished the Eagle Block in Healdtown in an endeavour to save the soul of Healdtown. This structure will be handed over to the church and Eastern Cape Dept. of Education on the 9th of August 2013.

7. ACHIEVEMENTS After a long struggle to keep the Manyano website functioning, we have eventually successfully created our own. Our website is www.manyanounion. co.za .

All Manyano documents that carry our history are archived at Cory Library since the end of 2012.

8. STATISTICS 75000 Full members.

9. CONCLUSION We extend our sincere gratitude to each and every member of this organisation for carrying us through in their prayers and ensuring that God’s work is fulﬁ lled. May the good Lord weave us together so that through us He may be known. 198 2014

YOUNG WOMEN’S MANYANO

Mrs Zime Nyembezi

PREAMBLE God has called on the Young Women’s Manyano to humbly serve as agents of His love and healing, transforming society through prayer and service. As we begin our journey for the next three years, our direction shall be steered by our theme, “Save and Heal the Promised Seed”.

1. OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF THE DISTRICTS 1.1 Spirituality: Spiritual upliftment takes precedence in Manyano gatherings. We are constantly discovering creative ways of worshipping God, using contemporary musical instruments and orders of service to conceptualise our worship. We encourage and foster the spirit of giving as part of spirituality.

1.2 Mission Work In our execution of God’s work, the Manyano is targeting women and children. We actively engage in poverty alleviation and relief initiatives. Financial relief for the needy is given in the form of bursaries for children’s tuition. School uniforms, food, utensils, furniture and clothing are donated to day care centres, places of safety, hospices and old age homes. A prayer service was held for South African Nolubabalo Nobanda, imprisoned for drug trafﬁ cking. Her family was invited to a Manyano gathering and pocket money for Nolubabalo’s needs was collected. The organisation has established a number of varying projects such beading, sewing and vegetable gardens to promote economic empowerment and sustainability of the Manyano and the Church at large. Environment sustainability is practised by Districts which participate in clean-up campaigns in partnership with local municipalities.

2. ACHIEVEMENTS A number of initiatives are noted as achievements at circuit and district levels. Circuits have formulated and/or reviewed policies for ease of operations and consistency. Bursary funds are created with one District escalating its fund to R20 000 by 2013. Another District has established a crèche. A number of Young Women’s Manyano members have accepted the call and we have one ministry candidate and nine fully ordained Evangelists. 2014 199

3. HIGHLIGHTS 3.1 Triennial 2013 The Presidential Address at the Triennial held on 2nd-5th May 2013 outlined the following: 3.1.1 Objectives of the next three years (2013-15): To promote a culture of reading amongst children To build and enhance self-esteem in young women 3.1.2 Focus Areas: The Manyano shall focus on education and literacy of children and on gender equality 3.1.3 Envisaged outcomes: In setting out to accomplish the set objectives, we envisage: Restoration of the Church tradition of educating the young and the old. Taking on the responsibility of promoting reading by the children in our churches and communities. Taking charge to solve the ills of society (poverty, abuse of women and children). Spreading positive messages about women, so that as role models to children, we are able to address gender equality issues and in that way educate them for their own future. 3.1.4 Triennial Magazine: The Young Women’s Manyano published a magazine of a high standard in terms of design, packaging and most importantly relevant content. It was informative, educational and attractive and was appreciated by various targeted audiences. 3.1.5 Gala dinner: A gala dinner of note held at Triennial clearly demonstrated that the Young Women’s Manyano is ready to establish a new identity for itself and create a unique space for the Manyano within the Church. Political leaders of a high calibre (Hon. Naledi Pandor and Helen Sauls-August) were our key note speakers. They critically analysed issues on the gender equality debate. 3.2 Natal West District Visit and Celebrations: The General President and Executive visited the Natal West District which was celebrating 50 years of the Young Women’s Manyano’s existence. 3.3 Connexional CCS Project: The General President and Executive launched its “Drop Everything and Read” (DEAR) Project at Phillip Nikiwe Primary School in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth on the 20th of July 2013. The event was timed such that it also paid tribute to Nelson Mandela’s birth month. Reading books were donated for a classroom-turned reading room, which is being renovated by the Manyano for use in the near future. 200 2014

4. CHALLENGES Numbers of Young Women’s Manyano are showing a decline due to an increase in attrition rates as a result of HIV/Aids, pregnancy, ceasing membership, migration to the Women’s Manyano and marriages. Unemployment is rife among Manyano members which destabilises the economic standing of the Manyano and is a discouraging factor to others who end up ceding their membership. The geographic vastness of some Districts also proves to be a challenge, in particular for the Districts’ smooth operations, as this poses difﬁ culties when unemployed women have to incur travel costs.

5. FUTURE PLANS 5.1 Database The Manyano is in the process of creating a database of its membership, specifying biographical details, qualifi cations and jobs. The purpose of the database is skills auditing and profi ling of the membership, so that programmes relevant for all ages can be provided and when opportunities arise, job, business, fi nancial and otherwise, the profi le of the Manyano is available for proper and relevant channelling. 5.2 Annual Magazine We plan to have annual magazine publications which will feature highlights for the year and other relevant, useful and educational information. 5.3 Reading Rooms In the next 3 years, all churches with Manyano membership will have established reading rooms. 5.4 10th Anniversary In 2014, we will be celebrating 10 years as the Connexional Young Women’s Manyano and we intend to hold an event to observe this milestone. 5.5 August activities All Districts are expected to have activities during August (Women’s month) which promote gender equality and enhance the self-esteem of young women. A list of suggested and possible activities has been sent out to Districts and these are (1) Grooming children to be independent. (2) Discussions on issues of women choosing the right partners. (3) Career choices for women. (4) Setting up reading rooms. (5) Establishing book clubs. (6) Black Thursdays – YWM wearing black on Thursdays as a statement against the abuse of women and children. (7) Awards to extraordinary women. (7) Discussions on relationships between women today. (8) Cleaning up our environment. 2014 201

Districts are expected to submit reports on the August activities they have done.

5.6 Visits to Districts The General President and Executive intend visiting districts to ensure that plans are put into operation.

6. MATTERS REQUIRING CONFERENCE DECISION The 4TH Triennial Convention held in the Grahamstown District on the 2nd to 5th May 2013 resolved that all the Constitution matters discussed and agreed upon in terms of the Clauses in our YWM Constitution at the 3rd Triennial Convention in 2011 and in the February Meeting in 2012, be referred to the 2013 Conference for approval. The Clauses discussed and agreed upon are the following:- 3. UNIFORM The uniform of the YWM shall be:- Add 6.1 A white round neck blouse without a collar. 6.3 Plain leather black shoes without buckle. 6.5 Six panel Manyano hat with brim.

4. LOCAL BRANCH ORGANISATION 7.5 Add: Should there be no local Minister’s wife, a YWM, the Branch Chairperson shall be nominated by the Circuit Executive. If not possible, the wife of an Evangelist may be nominated, in consultation with the Superintendent of the Circuit and appointed by the Circuit Quarterly Meeting.

8. CIRCUIT ORGANISATION It was resolved that 8.2.1 be deleted, as it completely contradicts with 8.2

9. DISTRICT ORGANISATION Add 9.2.4 The President, Ofﬁ ce Bearers and two elected delegates of the Circuit YWM. 9.2.6 Delete the entire Clause

10. CONNEXIONAL ORGANISATION 10.1.3 Delete a phrase “except for the minister’s wives in the committee”. 10.1.4 Add: Ex-President 202 2014

Add Clause 10.1.6 Minister’s wives, widows and the wives of the supernumerary ministers, ministers who are members of the YWM in the Connexion are Ex-ofﬁ cio members with no voting powers. 2014 203

WOMEN’S AUXILIARY

Mrs Shirley Fergus

‘Through Faith all is possible’

Our theme for the year 2012-2013 is “Faith”. This has been the main theme for our General Executive that all portfolio holders have focused on and used when the President and General Executive have visited Districts, especially during March as they visited and attended some District Meetings and Branch celebrations. As we get closer to our Centenary many Branches are already turning 100. The overall purpose of the Women’s Auxiliary is to ’Know Christ and make Him known’. And as we make our way towards the Centenary we can see how it has created a place in the church as a whole, where women can fellowship, share and grow spiritually. It is also a place where collectively through their talents the ladies have met the ‘millennium goals’ through projects in a mighty way.

1. MEMBERSHIP It is both with joy and sadness that I report on membership of the organisation. As always it is easier to report on the good things fi rst and that is that some Branches have experienced quite positive growth, as well as some of the Affi liate Branches, who have also sought a much closer active interaction. Sadly however, I must report that the overall membership has declined and that we fi nd it diffi cult to motivate younger women to join. Membership 3532 Country and Postal 1045

2. EVANGELISM AND CHURCH GROWTH The greatest event annually between ladies of all denominations is when the Women of all churches come together for the service of ‘Women’s World Day of Prayer’ which is held yearly on the ﬁ rst Friday in March. It is a time where women plan and pray together for the World and its people. World Federation Day Services are together planned with the other women’s organisations within the church, the Young Women’s Manyano, Women’s Manyano and the Women’s Association. It is at these events that further ideas and opportunities emerge where we can work together for the Glory of God. The greatest of all is that each of these groups where possible supports the other at their annual meetings.

3. SPIRITUALITY All Branches start each meeting with spiritual messages. Many members are 204 2014

involved in church leadership, leading Bible Studies and attending Spiritual talks through-out the year. Most Branches have a Prayer Chain where fellow members uphold members both in the branch and the church. Oh, how powerful is the power of prayer. I just give thanks to our Saviour for answered prayers. Some branches during outreach projects pray with and spread the word with those they help.

4. HUMAN AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT Many projects in the Branches are committed to empowering those in need. We have a very successful programme of evening Computer lessons. These empower those who have not had the opportunity to obtain these skills. Sewing classes are also not only times of learning and passing on sewing skills but times of sharing. Many women have empowered themselves by being able to start their own sewing businesses after attending such classes. This promotes gender equality and empowers women. Some projects have helped women start gardening businesses, thereby helping households to sustain themselves by planting vegetables. In one instance this has led to the individual opening a small seedling business in her own backyard where the community can buy their seedlings.

5. JUSTICE AND SERVICE To borrow a sentence from last year’s report, ‘Justice and Service’ are synonymous with the Women’s Auxiliary in that these goals are the goals and aims of each branch. Our members are natural good Samaritans, as mothers helping the needy seems deep seated. The Women’s Auxiliary has many projects focused on the old and young alike, especially the vulnerable. The collective effect of the numerous projects of food hampers, HIV affected and infected, knitting and making of clothes, knitting of bed socks and caps, all come with love that only the Lord can give. We see these projects as the mission arm of the Women’s Auxiliary. On Justice issues, information on social injustices is shared and members are encouraged to speak out on them.

6. CONNEXIONAL MEETINGS The 96th Annual Connexional Meetings were held in August 2012 at the Gonubie Methodist Church, East London. These were ably hosted by the Queenstown District. Here delegates meet to discuss business, events and accomplishments of the past year. We give thanks that the Lord, through the miraculous healing of the Queenstown District President, enabled delegates to see God’s work in action. It surely gave the new/incoming General Executive, a sound foundation to base their ‘Faith’ theme on. 2014 205

These meetings were Induction Meetings of the ‘New Incoming General Executive’. The Induction Service was led by our Presiding Bishop, the Rev. Siwa. He gave an inspiring message giving the delegates a real sense of what it is to serve such a great and powerful God.

7. WORLD FEDERATION OF METHODIST AND UNITING CHURCH WOMEN I would like to thank Mrs. Gwen Gibb for agreeing to represent us on this body. This is an organisation where women can work on projects all having the same goal. We met in Johannesburg earlier this year with the area President, Mrs Gretta Makhwenkwe, where plans for the future work of the WFM&UCW was discussed for this area. A conference is to be held in Durban at the end of June and the Women’s Auxiliary will be doing a presentation on Sustainable Development in line with our Millennium Goals.

8 COUNTRY AND POSTAL (C&P) This is an area of Mission within the Women’s Auxiliary very close to my heart. The majority of these members served within Branches of the Women’s Auxiliary for many years and either due to age, illness or relocating to new areas where there is no longer an active branch, still wish to stay connected with the Women’s Auxiliary and the C&P gives them a sense of still belonging to the organisation. They receive a monthly contact letter which is a letter sent out with a scriptural message and then they also receive another of Women’s news. The collective Contact Messages will be printed as a booklet at the end of our term of ofﬁ ce. Many of these ladies are powerful prayer partners and are also helping gather information for our Centenary Book “Stepping Stones to a Centenary” for which we are forever grateful.

9. FINANCES Most of the funds raised are through the talents God has given each individual member, including cooking, baking, knitting, sewing and other various talents. We are blessed in the knowledge that ‘Seek ﬁ rst the Kingdom of Heaven and all things shall follow’ and that God honours his word to those faithful and obedient and so our ﬁ nances are continually blessed. Monies paid out this year are: Local missions R423 171.00 Outside organisations R114 025.00 Methodist Church funds R456 726.00 Notwithstanding the above the General Executive is very aware of the current 206 2014

recession in our country and the increasing needs of the people. We feel that monies need to be spent in a responsible way.

10. JUBILEE FUND This fund was established by the General executive some years ago. The annual interest received is donated to a widow of a Methodist Minister. Donations given for entries in the Book of Remembrance have yearly swelled these funds now standing at R118 490.79 at the end of April 2013. We are trusting that this fund will continue to grow, so that the interest thereof will meet an ever increasing need as living costs increase daily.

11. THANKS As our theme says ‘Through Faith all is possible’ and so it is to Him, Jesus Christ, that I humbly say thank you for His faithfulness and for the promise of His word that He will never leave us to do things on our own. We give Him all the Glory. Secondly, a sincere thanks to our Presiding Bishop and the Executive Secretary of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa for their support and guidance. To all District Presidents and District Committees, it is to you we owe our thanks. It is your encouragement and nurture of branches and members that bears fruit. Thank You. To each Branch member never let us forget that without you the organisation would not exist. So thank you for your faithfulness and love. Last, but certainly not least, to my General Executive: without you the world would be a poorer place; your support, love and amazing work will surely be rewarded in heaven with many Crowns. ‘Thank you’ always seems such a small word for big deeds.

God Bless. Keep the faith. 2014 207

WOMEN IN MINISTRY

Rev. Nomvuyo J.E. Mhlongo

1. INTRODUCTION “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for God’s compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lament. 3:22-23) The Women in Ministry (WIM) Forum continues to strive for equal participation of men and women in decision-making structures within the Church. Healing and transformation can only be realised when we ALL become one in Christ Jesus!

2. ACHIEVEMENTS • More women are candidating for the Ordained Ministry of Word and sacrament/word and service. • A few women serve at District/Circuit level as Vice-chairpersons, District Secretaries and Superintendents. • Conversations between Women Ministers and Minister’s wives took place on the 28th November 2012 at the Presiding Bishop’s Ofﬁ ce. The conversations continue in the different forums seeking healing and transformation for both parties. • Improved working relations between WIM and Women Manyano. • WIM Consultation where at connexional level we share our joys, pains, struggles and achievements! Here we encourage and empower each other.

3. CHALLENGES • The consistent pain, humiliation and oppression resulting from only one sector of male ministers being offi cially privileged to labour with their spouses while other ministers across colour and gender do not enjoy the same privilege. This is an issue of Injustice and human rights abuse which needs to be addressed by the MCSA. • The tension between the Laws & Discipline (L&D) of the MCSA and the constitutions of the Organisations. • To move beyond “fi rst appointments” churches. • The inability to move in signifi cant numbers beyond the local church to serve in Connexional/District/Circuit positions to effect change and/or be a part of the decision dynamic on the connexional level. • To effectively engage the WIM Connexional Task Team for Gender transformation because of fi nancial constraints. 208 2014

4. CONCLUSION We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the ofﬁ ce of the Presiding Bishop for making the meeting between the WIM and Ministers Wives possible. We also applaud the establishment of the Justice and service agenda of the MCSA.

Despite progress being made in terms of Gender-transformation, examples of Women Ministers in Key positions remain minimal. Most of the men in Key positions are also multiple Committee/Board members which further stretches their strategic capabilities. As a result Women in Ministry are left struggling to navigate the male-dominated workspace. 2014 209

CHAPTER 17

YOUNG MEN’S GUILD Rev Motlalepule Petrus Leseba 1. INTRODUCTION This report covers submissions of seven districts out of the expected 12. These districts are presented not necessarily on their importance but rather in the order of their respective submissions, namely, Central, Queenstown, Kimberely Namibia and Bloemfontein, Northern Free State and Lesotho, Limpopo, Grahamstown and Natal Coastal.

2. NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE The new Connexional Executive Committee was inducted on the 30 May 2013 by the Central District Bishop, Rev Peter Witbooi (courtesy for Presiding Bishop Rev Z. Siwa). The executive portfolios are as follows: General President: Rev Motlalepule Petrus Leseba; Ex-General President: Rev Linda E. Mandindi; General Vice President: bro Buntu Rasmeni; General Secretary: bro Selogilwe Petrus Mokobe; General Recording Secretary: bro Malesela John Mokoele; General Treasurer: bro Vuyani Elia Ngcatshe; General DDSR: bro Papile Fred Kekana. However, the current executive acknowledges the work done by the following ex-general committee: Ex-General President: Rev. L. E. Mandindi; ex-General Vice President: bro. S. H. Mbatha; ex-General Secretary: Rev. G. M. Monama; ex-General Recording Secretary: bro. T. P. Z. Sangweni; ex-General Treasurer: bro. W. B. Ngidi; ex- General DDSR: bro. M. E. Ngcobo; past-General President: Rev. L. Mdoda.

3. THEME AND PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS th The theme for the 26 YMG Triennial Convention read thus: “The Role of Christian Men (YMG) in Reclaiming Humanity in a Broken Society: The nd 2 Century Outlook”. In line with the theme, the General President, Rev Motlalepule Petrus Leseba, challenged the YMG and concluded by tabling the following recommendations as way forward for implementation in all districts: (a) Districts should establish dialogue forums with different stakeholders within communities. (b) Strategic plans should be adopted in order to address: (i) Unemployment across the board aggressively (ii) Educational issues of circumcision, abuse, bursaries, and youth intake to the YMG 210 2014

(iii) Effective and efﬁ cient monitoring of programmes agreed upon (iv) Formation of prayer chains (v) Partnership with other organisations.

4. MISSION IMPERATIVES (RELATED TO DDSR)

No District Mission Imperatives Performance Indicator 1 Central Evangelism and Church Growth Regions alive Regional revivals, street revival and evangelism done. Spirituality “Then my soul just 09/06/2012 Vryburg Circuit/Bophirima Region opened up…” 25/08/2012 Mogale Circuit/Soweto Region “Helping others to fulﬁ l their potential” Development and Economical Empowerment Ms R.J. Kgasago, Registered 2 Town Region students for 2012 Unisa – R2000 15/08/2012: Rev Tlholwe E., 1971 – 1973 First Ms A. Latsha, TEEC president of the District medical support. – R2000 R5 000 Medical bills donation Justice, Service and Reconciliation Central, Limpopo 16/02/2013 at Klerksdorp: Prayer support to Rev. and H & S together Leseba M.P. family for the late Mrs Leseba M. and went out and prayed daughter Tshidi’s Tombstone for the people in 14/10/2012 Schweizer Reneke/Ipelegeng Marikana March against women and children abuse, drug and alcohol abuse with different organisations e.g. WM, YWM, SAPS, CBO 09/09/2012 Rustenburg prayer for Marikana Massacre that rocked the Nation 2 Queenstown Evangelism and Church Growth N/A Ventures into old age homes, hospitals, schools, taxi ranks, prisons and private homes for evangelism. Spirituality N/A Holding healing services, retreats, weekly evangelical crusades and night vigils during the times of hardships, when members have lost their loved ones. Development and Economical Empowerment Strategic Plan Exist Shared sheets and blankets to a needy community of Queenstown June and December Capacitate each other and share best practices with target months the less fortunate. Address Issues of circumcision Justice, Service and Reconciliation Quarter Plan Correctional services given quarterly revival services that clearly show Gods unwavering salvation even beyond redemption. 3 Kimberley Evangelism and Church Growth Regions alive. Namibia and As always it is difﬁ cult to determine growth in our Bloemfontein district due to poor reporting from the circuits 2014 211

Spirituality Zastron, Achbell, Recruitment of membership through revival services Tweespruit and also conducted bible studies. Development and Economical Empowerment 4 Circuits Taung, Kuruman and Aliwal North donated blankets, food parcels, fenced Taung station mission and Upington church, Archbell and Tweespruit renovated manse.

Adopted baby Christopher Vissagie, a disabled child. Upington circuit His parents are unemployed. 4 Northern Free Evangelism and Church Growth Partnership of KNB State and District fellowship relations with KNB were forged and NFS & L. Lesotho and a joint revival was held at Senekal in September 2012 as a way of learning from each other and praying together. Spirituality Refer to the forged The level of spirituality within the YMG in the district KNB and NFS & L seems to have deteriorated links above Development and Economical Empowerment Mafeteng Vegetable gardens are sustainable to support vulnerable families. Poultry project is being run.

YMG History booklet which states NFS & L history History booklet dating as far back as 1971 during the demarcation with KNB under the leadership of Rev Coetzee is being produced. 5 Limpopo Evangelism and Church Growth Regions alive The regions continue to spread their wings through evangelism in the various circuits of their respective regions. Spirituality Central, Limpopo We managed to visit Marikana after the disaster to and H & S together convey our condolences and pray at Die “Koppie” went out and prayed (the venue where the disaster occurred), the hospital for the people in to pray with those who were still admitted, and lastly Marikana the police station where we prayed for the Offi cers, because we as the church do not take sides, we only assist where our need is required. Development and Economical Empowerment Supernumeraries are offered an amount of R250 for them to utilize according to their will. Provide annual fi nancial assistance to the district Record Newspaper Young Women’s Manyano and Youth by donating 29 April 2013 for to them R2000 and R5000 respectively. The Botswana support to YMG has also contributed R5000 towards the students. Bishop’s discretionary fund and another R5000 to the MCO for our ministers in Mozambique. R10 000 was allocated to our deserving students who need fi nancial assistance; one of them is a student minister at Seth Mokitimi Seminary. 212 2014

Justice, Service and Reconciliation Thokoza Statement Our Circuits participate in full uniform during 16 days (Domestic Violence). of activism against abuse of women and children and also read the statements during these gatherings. 6 Grahamstown Evangelism and Church Growth Regions alive Street revival and visits to hospitals, homes for the elderly and sick, correctional services and support to the weak are key on our evangelism. Spirituality Spiritual revival YMG members attend to bereavement prayers. is done through imvuselelo, amahlaselo nemidibaniso. Development and Economical Empowerment Food parcel Projects adopted in the district: distributions. -Adoption of at least two children per Circuit, 4 Students bursary at Initiation school project R5000 each. -Family life and February month as the Baqwa month Justice, Service and Reconciliation N/A YMG at all levels contribute a lot when it comes to visits to the sick and giving to the needy, hence minimal contribution on Justice, Service and Reconciliation. 7 Natal Coastal Evangelism and Church Growth 75 families The evangelism campaign in the hosting circuit has yielded positive results in that we managed to visit and pray for 75 families and ensured that the gospel message was delivered to them. Spirituality Script The Bible Study was conducted by the Rev SHS Khuzwayo and he focused on St Luke 15:11-32. He reminded us to be aware of various sources and types of theologies that are not related to the Wesleyan culture and theology. Development and Economical Empowerment Dr JW Vilakazi We have bought school uniforms for 50 pupils School in Groutville. ranging from shoes, socks, girls’ school uniforms and white shirts. Justice, Service and Reconciliation Stanger Prison Visited inmates to pray, give hope and afﬁ rmation of God’s presence in their circumstances.

4. FINANCES 4.1 Annual Financial Statements (AFS) The 2010 – 2013 AFS presented by the ex-General Treasurer, Brother Wiseman Ngidi were approved and adopted by the 2013 YMG Triennial Convention. The balance brought forward by the 27/05/2013 was R134 685.91

4.2 Budget 2014 – 2016 The proposed budget by the General Treasurer, Brother Vuyani E. 2014 213

Ngcatshe was adopted. Compressed gross budget totals are as follows:

YEAR INCOME EXPENDITURE 2014 R201 120.00 R208 404.00 2015 R206 120.00 R211 404.00 2016 R211 120.00 R251 934.00 R20 000.00 budget shortfall to be covered through fund-raising by all districts treasurers 4.3 Seth Mokitimi Seminary Support th The 26 Triennial Convention handed over the following amounts in cheque form to the Seminary: (i) R10 000.00 For Library (ii) R20 000.00 Donated by Highveld and Swaziland District (iii) R25 000.00 Donated by Central District (iv) R25 000.00 Donated by Queenstown District GT R80 000.00

5. CONSTITUTIONAL MATTERS th The 26 Triennial Convention held in the Central District, hosted by Jabavu circuit, ofﬁ cially deferred the “Constitutional matters” to the 06-09 February 2014 Connexional General Executives Committee (CGEC) meeting to be held at East London, Queenstown District.

6. RESOLUTIONS th The following resolutions were approved by the 26 YMG Triennial Convention for implementation: (a) To avert impoverishing the District of new talent and gifts, the term of offi ce should be limited to that specifi ed in the constitution irrespective of the different portfolios the person has served in that term of offi ce. Meaning, a person becomes eligible after a terms’ break. (b) To collaborate with other church denominations and intensify a joint stand to fi ght the spread of Satanism in our country. (c) To wear YMG uniform at all funerals irrespective of affi liation of the deceased for evangelism and as a YMG marketing strategy. (d) To take the resolution of “Selling Liquor on Sundays” to the MCSA Conference in September 2013 at Umtata. (e) To re-affi rm the Thokoza statement by YMG members in all District levels. (f) All district presidents are to submit material of their presidential addresses to support the incumbent General President’s presidential address. 214 2014

(g) All districts are to submit a “Bursary Fund” to the GDDSR in order to augment “Bursary support” to deserving students from Connexional level. (h) The host of the Triennial should submit a list of B&B’s and guest-houses so that Districts that are able to pay accommodation for their members can do so. (i) All districts that are able to bring and pay for their choirs to Triennials should continue to do so without limitations, lest we kill the spiritual “Methodism Movement”. (j) Starting 2014, all Districts are to ensure that each Saturday in their YMG Annual Conventions is scheduled for marches against the atrocities perpetrated against woman, children, and the vulnerable of our society.

7. TRIENNIAL ROSTER AND GP-ELECT th The 27 Triennial will be led by the General President Elect, Rev S. Nhlapo of Limpopo District as follows: Date: 2016 Host: Zone 3. Cape of Good Hope, Grahamstown and Queenstown

8. CONCLUSION Firstly, regions are alive in different districts. Constitutionally, they make districts more viable in relation to administration. Secondly, most districts engaged in tangible projects to address the four mission imperatives. We thus add value and bring change to our most needy people. Thirdly, both our retired ministers and those who served the organisation diligently are being taken care of. They receive some reasonable support in the form of subsistence. Ruri “Hube ga a tshwane le setlhe!!!” Fourthly, the organisation’s AFS 2010-2013 as well as the Budget 2014-2016 have been adopted and leaves the organisation in a viable state. Hence Seth Mokitimi Seminary received YMG’s ownership to the tune of R80 000. Fifthly, the Constitutional matters will be addressed by a broader meeting during February 2014 at East London. Sixthly, our resolutions as well as the challenge to forge links with the Zimbabweans based from the presidential address will be a blessing for the SADEC region. Lastly, this report reﬂ ects 58% of the submitted work of the YMG Connexionally. However, it gives one joy to say bravo to the district secretaries who made this report to be a success, namely, Brother Monaheng David; Ngumbela X.G.;Khatlake M.A.; Masilo P.A.M.; Manamela T.W.; Nobuya Xolile; and Vusi Kunene. Sterling job brothers!!!

This is the spirit in the Connexion – “One heart, One way!!!” Bakaulengwe. 2014 215

CHAPTER 18

DOCTRINE, ETHICS AND WORSHIP COMMITTEE Bishop Jonathan Anderson It is a pleasure to be able to report that DEWCOM continues to function well as a resource agent of the MCSA. The Committee functions as a Sub-Committee of Conference with the principal responsibility of responding to matters of a theological nature (Doctrine, Ethics, Worship) referred to it by Conference. For 2013 the Committee has fulﬁ lled its responsibility thoroughly and excellently.

A. MATTERS REFERRED TO DEWCOM BY CONFERENCE 1. The Same Sex Debate (Yearbook 2012 page 84) DEWCOM is committed to assist Districts towards making concrete and informed suggestions for a way forward. To this end, DEWCOM has supplied two papers to Conference (available on our blog site). These are intended to help people to consider ‘concrete suggestions’ as required by Conference 2014. Arrangements have been made for some of the material in “In Search of Grace and Truth” to be simplifi ed, abbreviated and made available in fi ve of our sub- continental languages (Xhosa, Zulu, Sotho, Tswana and Portuguese). 2. Christian Holy Days (Yearbook 2012 page 82) DEWCOM has prepared a comprehensive document on Christian Holy Days and the Christian Calendar to be presented to Conference. We have noted that this document would be benefi cially linked to the material on clerical wear and with the related material being prepared by DEWCOM. Our hope is that this material would be published and made available in a booklet form. 3. Defi nition of Marriage/Family Life (Yearbook 2009 page 239) A successful Conference was co-hosted by DEWCOM and SMMS in October 2012. DEWCOM, however, considers that more ongoing work needs to take place if the Church is to respond adequately and relevantly to ongoing trends within Southern Africa. Plans for ongoing research and resourcing are in place.

B. OTHER BUSINESS REFERRED TO DEWCOM BY VARIOUS PARTIES WITHIN THE MCSA 1. Human Resources Unit At the request of the Unit a DEWCOM Sub-Committee supplied a critique of some of the theological and philosophical positions supplied in the discussion 216 2014

document. Dr Mehana has indicated that further inputs may be sought as the Unit is in the process of being established.

2. Gambling - The ethics of receiving donations from the proceeds of gambling DEWCOM is in the process of preparing a paper on this matter. This has become particularly necessary as several of our major mission project endeavours are somewhat dependant on receiving LOTTO money.

3. Non-Itinerant Ministry DEWCOM has been called upon to assist the Task Team reviewing the place and justiﬁ cation of the Non-Itinerant ordained ministry within the MCSA. Our brief includes giving critical consideration to our view of ordination.

C. LITURGICAL DEVELOPMENT Conference appoints a Sub-Committee of DEWCOM tasked with the responsibility of developing liturgical material for the MCSA. Slow progress in this endeavour has been of concern to us for some time. It is hoped that the new Committee (proposed below), with the prospect of better ﬁ nancial resourcing, will result in the Church receiving much needed new liturgical material.

D. OTHER BUSINESS DEWCOM also takes on the additional responsibility to resource the Church on issues that the Committee Members consider important. Ongoing work in respect of gender issues, poverty and ecumenism, remains part of our conversation and research.

E. CONCLUSION All interested parties are encouraged to read and make comments on DEWCOM work. The material alluded to in this report may be accessed on the website www.mcsa.dewcom.blogspot.com . Those who prefer to receive printed material may contact Rev Dr Wessel Bentley who is able to provide it. Proposed DEWCOM Committee for 2014: Bishop Jonathan Anderson (Convenor); Revs Peter Witbooi; Dinis Matsolo; Diane Worringham (Secretary);Vusi Vilakati; Jenny Samdaan; Pumla Mtshiselwa; Tim Attwell; Luvuyo Sifo; Dumisane Sikhakane; Lumka Sigaba; Neill Robinson; Roger Scholtz; Phidian Matsepe; Peter Grassow; Faan Myburgh; Nomvuyo Mhlongo; Wessel Bentley; Norman Raphahlela Connexional Liturgy Committee: Bishop Jonathan Anderson; Revs Nomvuyo Mhlongo; Luvuyo Sifo (Secretary); Lumka Sigaba; Tim Attwell; John van de Laar; Phidian Matsepe; Mbuyiselo Stemela; Kenaleone Ketshabile. 2014 217

CHAPTER 19

CONNEXIONAL STRUCTURES COMMITTEE

Bishop Michel Hansrod

Following the acceptance of the 2011 Structures Indaba Report and Proposals, Conference in 2012 received the submissions at the 2012 Conference of the various Synods in response to the said proposals. Those proposals which were accepted were referred to the various Units, Organisations and Revisions Committee for report directly to the 2013 and subsequent Conferences.

Amongst those to report to Conference 2013 are: Resolution 43.2: Training of Leaders Conference directs EMMU, SMMS and the HR Unit to work together in the development of models for the training and on-going training of leadership for both laity and ministers at all levels of the church, and that these proposals be brought to the 2013 Conference.

Resolution 43.4: Centralised Connexional Ofﬁ ce Conference directs that the Presiding Bishop’s Ofﬁ ce, the MCO and the various Units of our Church be relocated together in one place, and mandates the formation of a steering Committee to plan and oversee this exercise, under the direction of the Presiding Bishop. A progress Report should be presented to the 2013 Conference, but Conference gives permission for sooner implementation if deemed necessary.

Resolution 43.5: Human Resource Unit Conference directs the MCO Executive, in consultation with the HR Unit as it exists at present, to draw up proposals for the establishment of a full-ﬂ edged Human Resources Unit, and the appointment of full-time staff to run it, for presentation to the 2013 Conference.

Resolution 43.6: Inclusivity Noting that work has already been done with regard to the greater accommodation of the different languages of the Connexion, Conference directs EMMU, the Mission Unit, Communications Unit and Youth Unit to do further work and bring recommendations and plans to the 2013 Conference.

Resolution 43.7: Streamlining of decision making Conference, noting concerns expressed regarding the cumbersome decision making 218 2014 processes, asks the Connexional Structures Committee to develop a streamlined process for presentation to the 2013 Synods and Conference.

Resolution 43.8: Resources Conference, noting the need to capacitate the Church in terms of fulﬁ lling her mission mandate, requests the MCO and the Mission Unit to establish a Committee to explore additional methods of income generation and report at the 2013 Conference.

Resolution 43.9: Establishment of a Property Unit Conference reafﬁ rms its 2007 resolution for the establishment of a MCSA Property Unit (Resolutions Book, p.84) and instructs the MCO Executive Committee to act accordingly and submit a progress report to the 2013 Conference.

Resolution 43.14: Stationing of Ministers Conference instructs the Human Resource Unit to explore alternative methods of stationing ministers and report to the 2013 Conference taking cognisance of already existing inputs, proposals and comments. Those units, organisations and committees so directed by Conference should now report directly to Conference.

The following resolution was referred to the Connexional Structures Committee for report to this Conference: Resolution 43.1: Appointment or Election of Leadership Conference receives the proposals, comments and suggestions of various Synods regarding the appointment or election of people to serve in leadership ofﬁ ces at Circuit, District and Connexional levels and directs the Connexional Structures Committee to draft new proposals taking into account the comments of the various Synods, for presentation to the 2013 Synods and Conference. The Structures Committee referred to the Synods various proposals bearing in mind that there was widespread consensus that more care and discernment be exercised in the elections of leaders at Society, Circuit, District and Connexional levels. Submissions with comments were received from the following Districts and Units: Cape of Good Hope, Grahamstown, Queenstown, Kimberley Bloemfontein and Namibia, Northern Free State and Lesotho, Natal Coastal, Natal West, Central, Highveld and Swaziland and Limpopo Districts as well as the Human Resources nd Unit. It should be noted that this is the 2 year we have had no responses from Clarkebury and Mozambique Districts on Structural Matters.

This report is therefore a consolidation of ALL responses received both quantitatively and qualitatively. 2014 219

A review of the responses continues to afﬁ rm the principles accepted by the 2011 Conference of: i. The desire to ensure that the structures of the MCSA are relevant to the present context of being church. ii. That much more care and discernment be exercised in the election and appointment of our leadership at various levels. iii. That the principle of election would best be served by a wide body of people, through collective nomination and discernment.

With regard to the Proposals on the Appointment and Election of Leadership the following are noted: a. There has been unanimous support for a number of the proposals with minor amendments, namely on: Leadership of small groups/class leaders, Society Stewards, Circuit Stewards, Superintendents, Treasurers, Mission Group Leaders and Organisational Leadership. b. There is a call for clarity on the role of the Leadership Discernment Committees, whilst some Synods rejected the concept completely. c. There remain major disagreements in the election procedures proposed for the Ofﬁ ces of Bishop, Secretary of Conference and Presiding Bishop. d. There was a unanimous rejection of the proposal to abolish the ofﬁ ce of District Vice-Chairperson.

Following unanimous support from various Synods, Conference resolves to implement the following amendments on the Appointment and Election of Leadership and refers these changes to the Revisions Committee:

1. Leaders of Small Groups/Class Leaders: Should be appropriately identiﬁ ed and skilled, ratiﬁ ed by the Society Leaders Meeting and appointed for a 3 year term to a maximum of 3 terms by the Annual Society Meeting.

2. Society Stewards: Nominated by the Leaders Meeting as well as by members of the Society at the Annual Society Meeting for election and appointment at the Annual Society Meeting for a 3 year term up to a maximum of 3 Terms.

3. Circuit Stewards: Nominated with motivation by members of the Circuit Quarterly Meeting for Election and Appointment at the October Circuit Quarterly Meeting for a 3 year Term up to a maximum of 3 Terms.

4. Superintendents: The Conference through the Connexional Executive shall appoint Superintendents on an Annual Basis, after consultation with the Bishop, District Executive, and the Circuit Stewards and Ministers of the said Circuit.

5. Treasurers: Should be appointed after careful consultation between the 220 2014

Superintendent Minister and Circuit Stewards or the Minister and the Society Stewards, and ratiﬁ ed at the October Quarterly Meeting or Annual Society Meeting. The appointment shall be for a 3 year term renewable up to a maximum of 3 Terms.

6. Mission Group Leaders: Shall be appointed by Call and Gifting with no form of election.

7. Organisation Leadership: Appointed at various levels as set out in the Organisational Constitutions.

8. District Lay Leader: Shall be nominated with motivation at District Synod for election and appointment by the said Synod for a 3 year term up to a maximum of 3 Terms.

9. District Bishop: Candidates for election as Bishop shall be Ordained Ministers in Full Connexion. Supernumerary Ministers are not eligible. The election shall take place in the last year but one of the Bishop’s terms of ofﬁ ce, unless there are special circumstances in which case the Connexional Executive or Presiding Bishop shall make a ruling.

The following shall apply: The District Secretary shall invite all Circuit Quarterly Meetings within the District to nominate any Minister in Full Connexion, whether or not in the District concerned, at the January Quarterly Meeting. These st nominations are to be submitted to the Secretary of Conference by 31 March. Bishops shall be appointed by Conference following their election by Synods for a term of 5 years renewable for one ﬁ nal term.

10. Presiding Bishop: The Presiding Bishop shall be appointed following an election for a 5 year term renewable for one ﬁ nal term.

11. General Secretary: The General Secretary shall be appointed for a 5 year term renewable for one ﬁ nal term.

12. Unit Leaders and Directors: Shall be appointed by Conference for a 5 year term renewable for one ﬁ nal term.

Conference further resolves: to instruct the Connexional Structures Committee to draft new proposals for the appointment or election procedure of people to serve in leadership ofﬁ ces of Presiding Bishop, General Secretary, Bishop and Unit Leaders/Directors and further clarify the role of Leadership Discernment Committees in this regard, taking into account the comments of the various Synods, for presentation to the 2014 Synods and Conference. 2014 221

Conference resolves: to appoint the following Connexional Boundaries Committee to investigate the possible restructuring of Districts, and report to Conference 2014 thereon:

Revs Mzwandile Molo (Convenor), Bill Meaker and Kenaleone Ketshabile, Mrs. Annah Mathiba, Mr. Zandile Jakuvula and a Representative of the Human Resources Unit.

The Following are appointed to the Connexional Structures Committee: The Presiding Bishop Zipho Siwa, the General Secretary Vuyani Nyobole, the Lay President Mr. Fungile Dotwana, Revs Michel Hansrod (Convenor), Mzwandile Molo, Bill Meaker, Kenaleone Ketshabile (Mission Unit), Vukile Mehana (HR. Unit), Messrs. Anthony Tibbit (General Treasurer), Ivan Samdaan, Mrs. Jo Anne Trytsman (MCO). 222 2014

CHAPTER 20

CONNEXIONAL REVISION COMMITTEE

Rev Vuyani Nyobole

1. REINSTATING THE PURPOSE The Revision Committee is an advisory commission appointed by Conference in terms of Laws & Discipline 5.38.3. Its terms of reference are: • to maintain and ensure the integrity of Laws and Discipline • to publish revised editions from time to time • to report to Conference through the Connexional Executive.

TH 2. LAWS & DISCIPLINE (12 EDITION) The Committee has been working on the L&D amendments for the past two years. These have been circulated to Circuits/Synods for consideration. Comments and suggestions from Synods have been carefully considered and some have been incorporated in the Committee’s submission to the Connexional Executive and Conference. th The approved amendments will be incorporated in the proposed L&D (12 Edition) to be published early next year.

3. MATTERS REFERRED TO COMMITTEE 3.1 Youth Conference celebrates the appointment of the Rev Lauren Matthew to the Presidium of the World Methodist Council, as Youth President. Conference refers the proposal of her membership at Connexional Youth Executive Committees, Connexional Youth Conference and being a member of Conference to the Revision Committee, in consultation with the Connexional Youth Unit. The Revision Committee is asked to also give consideration to other members of the MCSA, serving on related structures of the World Methodist Council being members of the Annual Conference.

The Revision Committee endorses Synod and Conference membership of all MCSA members who have been appointed to serve in Methodist related regional and world bodies provided the respective bodies carry the costs. This excludes ordinary members who are appointed from time to time to represent the MCSA in regional and world bodies.

3.2 Women Organisation’s Representation at Conference Conference refers the request for increased representation of Women’s 2014 223

Organisations at Conference to the Revision Committee for report back to the 2013 Conference. The Revision Committee having carefully considered the matter recommends that Conference rejects this request as women’s organisations are already entitled to four (4) representatives at Conference. Women representivity at Conference has also increased.

3.3 Divorce of Ministers Conference reafﬁ rms its 2009 Resolution on Divorce of Ministers (p. 14 of Resolutions Book) and directs the Revision Committee to ﬁ nalise the review of rules governing the divorce of ministers and report progress to the 2013 Conference. A proposed procedure to deal with Ministers Divorce was circulated to Synods for consideration. These are ready for adoption and implementation. The Revision Committee is of the opinion that there are other moral issues and preventative strategies (apart from the proposed procedures) that Conference needs to refer to other appropriate structures.

3.4 Role of District Lay Leader Conference notes the changes with regard to the role of lay leaders and refers these to the Revision Committee. Conference furthermore directs the Revision Committee in the meantime to develop guidelines to assist lay leaders with the execution of their responsibilities and to report this to the 2013 Conference.

The guidelines have been developed, referred to Synods and are to be th included in the 12 Edition of the Laws & Discipline.

4. MATTERS FOR IMPLEMENTATION Conference approves the implementation of the following proposals and directs the Revision Committee to make the necessary policy changes so that: 4.1 Societies • are outward looking and missional; • disciple and care for members; • have a Connexional identity; • promote every member ministry and offer healing and transformation especially in relation to our mission pillars, namely: • spirituality; evangelism and church growth; • social justice, economic development and dignity; • education and Christian formation. 224 2014

4.2 Circuits • oversee and coordinate societies; • become mission champions; • the Circuit Quarterly Meetings devote signiﬁ cant time, at least twice a year, to mission planning and reﬂ ection. The Connexional Structures Committee together with the Mission Unit is directed to modify the CQM agenda so that the necessary Laws and Discipline changes can be implemented. th The necessary changes have been made and will be included in the 12 Edition of Laws & Discipline.

5. REVISION COMMITTEE MEMBERS The 2012 Conference appointed the following as members of the Revision Committee: The General Secretary (Convener), Revs Vukile Mehana, Brian Smith, Norman Coetzee, Jacqui Rivas, Norman Raphahlela, Dr. Gcwalisile Kabanyane, Prof. Simphiwe Mini, Messrs. Anthony Tibbit and Fungile Dotwana. 2014 225

CHAPTER 21

METHODIST ARCHIVES

Ms Meg Hartzenberg

During the period October 2012 to September 2013 the following requests were attended to by the Archivist: Marriage records 17 Baptismal records 14 Burial records 0 Family tree information 4 Historical research 23 Most of the marriage and baptismal records that are requested are needed for legal purposes where original certifi cates have been lost. Unfortunately there are many gaps in the Archives because lots of churches have not sent their 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. Most requests for information pertaining to family trees are addressed to the genealogist at the Albany Museum in Grahamstown. She frequently makes use of the material in the Archives to fi nd information. Requests for historical information often relate to churches celebrating anniversaries and wanting to produce brochures for the occasion. This often includes requests for a list of ministers who have served at a specifi c 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 specifi c 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 speciﬁ c topics for researchers who are writing a book or thesis. Back numbers of Dimension are sometimes a valuable source of information here.

Churches should be encouraged to send to the Archives 1. Marriage, baptismal and burial registers 2. Pamphlets, brochures and leaﬂ ets giving the history of a church 3. Any documentation pertaining to the history of a church 226 2014

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 ﬁ nding information.

CONVENOR: Ms Meg Hartzenberg 7 Mosdene Close Grahamstown 6139 Tel. 046 622 3658 Email: [email protected] 2014 227

CHAPTER 22

YOUTH UNIT

Rev Luxolo Mantini

1. INTRODUCTION The purpose of this report is to investigate the current state of affairs of the Unit by looking closely at what transpired over the past 12 months and to examine the predicted future of the Methodist Youth Unit and its advancement. Broadly, the main objectives are to inform our young people about the road travelled so far since the adoption of our theme “Dare to Dream” as articulated by the leadership last year, assess and to make proper analysis that will inform a clear way forward for us to attain our goals and ultimate realisation of the MCSA vision.

2. ADMINISTRATION Our main role as a committee is largely about ensuring effi ciency in the Unit and smooth coordination of all children and youth programs in the Unit. It was for this reason that pretext was made at CYC ’12, about the importance of having a strategic review process, regular information sharing sessions and progress evaluation with District leaders. As part of the Unit repositioning, the MYU Connexional Youth Executive undertook a detailed Unit and strategic review during the month of February 2013, at a session held in Magaliesburg Retreat Centre. The review covered the following non-exhaustive areas: • Ensuring a consistent “working defi nition” of youth • MYU strengths and weaknesses • Environmental situational analysis • Environmental challenges and opportunities • Defi ne and refi ning the focus areas (mission pillars) • Articulating a clear vision, and Mission • Ensuring a uniform operating plan with clearly defi ned priority areas. After vigorous engagements, a synthesized report on the key observations, fi ndings and main thrust points of the MYU, a clear vision and mission for the Unit was created.

3. VISION “Christ-centred youth empowered to attain their full potential and realise their dreams”.

4. MISSION STATEMENT “We aim to instil Christian values and Methodist ethos, infuse fresh generational 228 2014

expressions and develop young people into holistic leaders who are Christ- centred and mission-focused”. Following from our “Dare to Dream” theme and the Mission-Plan that were articulated at the Connexional Youth Conference in East London in July 2012, coupled with the strategic review process held at Magaliesbug, the following 5 key imperatives were identiﬁ ed:

THEME OUR STATED INTENT 1. Establish a Youth Unit Invest- Empower youth economically ment Company/Enterprise Create basis for fi nancial sustenance Channel and invest returns on Mission work 2. Enhance our Image and Vis- Ensure that we have clear programmes that are ibility visible and impactful. Profi le the work that we do. Have a clear communication plan and programme that builds visibility and reinforces what we stand for (“our brand”). Adopt and implement clearly articulated guid- ing “values” for the MYU. Project an image of God as the Healer and Em- bracer of Diversity. 3. Mission and Spirituality Deepen the spirituality of young people. Establish a Mission Fund. To be a Mission oriented youth. To become responsive to local causes. 4. Youth/Child Development and To resuscitate the National Youth Leadership Leadership Advancement Training Program (4G Training program) Implement programmes that expose youth to values based leadership. Look for (and implement) programmes that im- part specifi c skills that are relevant to children and youth development. 5. Education Establish a Tsietsi Mashinini Education Fund. Partner with like-minded organisations/institutions and ensure we channel “our” youth to access currently available interventions. Organise youth within MYU entities to deliver meaningful educational interventions in support of the younger learners at school (tutoring and mentoring). As mandated by CYC ’12 we embarked on a drive to inform and widely consult District Youth Synods about these developments and to inculcate a sense of ownership to this Vision and our Dream. The Mission-Plan was well received and broadly accepted by Districts. 2014 229

Furthermore, separate sessions were held, where Coordinators, Treasurers and Secretariat met amongst each other to combine resources and effective support system to accomplish a common set of goals. In our quest to ensure that there is effi ciency in the running of the Unit, a concise Communication Plan was adopted. This Communication Plan was propagated to Districts which saw the establishment of District Communication/Media Offi cers. A clear process fl ow for information and stories coming from Districts was carefully constructed such that District Coordinators are involved before articles go into print in the New Dimension. This can be attributed to the newly established association we initiated with the Communications Unit of MCSA and our intention to permanently occupy a full page of the Publication to advance enhancement of the Unit’s image and visibility pillar. We have received only a minimum of children and youth related articles and wonderful stories from Districts; however, we would like to thank those CO’s who have been active and to encourage others who haven’t begun to follow suit. We also would like to thank the Director of the Communications Unit who has for the past couple of months expressed interest and excitement in publishing our stories and ensuring that the youth voice is heard. We have solicited the services of Iqembu Consulting which is owned by one of our own, Dineo to assist in fi nding creative ways to positively brand and market MY, not only to improve our image, but to truly refl ect and be ambassadors of Christ. Social Media: As part of an Integrated Communication Plan, we have commissioned our brother Kago to effectively administer the MYU offi cial website. We have encountered some shortcomings in this regard, but we have identifi ed these and we are working towards rectifying them. In our quest to enhance communication, and the establishment of a youth and Skills Audit Database, we have invaded the social space through Facebook and Twitter where we have taken over the Wesley Guild SA Page. Thobelani Ncaphayi has been commissioned for the running of this page through the Connexional offi ce. We are pleased to announce that this page already boasts over 6000 followers and going strong. We also have created a Twitter account with a Twitter Handle MYU and we urge that youth must follow these pages. Child/Youth Development and Leadership Advancement: We took a conscious decision to amalgamate the Strategic Review process with the CM Indaba in February this year at Magaliesburg Retreat which indeed yielded some positive spin offs. Amongst other topical issues that emanated from the Indaba was a call for the establishment of Vacation Bible schools for circuits during school holidays and the CM Practitioner Framework. We commend those Districts and circuits that have started to hold their own Local Indabas to take heed of such developments and urge those who haven’t started to begin heading towards that same direction. Child Care Desk: Placed under Mission Unit to in order to assist the Church on the complex legal framework around child protection and compliance, the Desk 230 2014

tabled a draft Children’s Policy which is aligned and therefore compels all CMPs to implement and comply with the Children’s Act. After our formal meeting with the Mission Unit Director, a general need to reaffi rm the relationship between the two Units was established with a view to strengthen long term sustainability of child care projects beyond foreign funding. The Church has made a call to all child workers to invest in Early Childhood Development programmes as they have developmental benefi ts to children. We therefore extend this call to all those who are involved in Children’s Ministry within MYU. After our frank interactions with Wendy Walker (Youth Pastor) last year, we are pleased to inform CYC of the partnership we have established with the Limpopo District and Hennops River Circuit, particularly Rev. Ian France and Wendy on the 4G Training programme. This programme provides training entrenched in Methodist Ethos to aspiring youth workers from all walks of life. We have also stated our intent to develop this programme towards a revised NYLTP. In this regard, a presentation was made by Ivan Samdaan who has worked with GenSec Rev. V. Nyobole in digging through archives and putting some work into making this programme contemporary. We appreciate the support from the likes of Dr. Gavin Taylor, Bishop Losaba, Bishop Vorster, Anthony Tibbit (and others) and commitment expressed by MCSA towards channelling of funds and investment to Youth Development and Training programmes. 5. MISSION AND SPIRITUALITY There is an explicit will constantly shown through Mission interventions by Districts and Circuits. Almost all MYU entities have heeded the call to be mission oriented and being a youth that is in solidarity with the indigent. We applaud the growing trend of the establishment of District Mission Funds for long term sustenance of these programmes. We continue to work towards strengthening ties with the MU through our HIV/AIDS champion Mbongeni Magagula who also serves in the MU Advisory Board this year. We also want to affi rm the work done by Mbongeni thus far in distinctively representing MYU’s voice and keeping us abreast with developments such as benefi ts brought by Global Fund to MCSA Training of Trainers programme and making sure that youth take part in these. The General internal/external stakeholder evaluation still perceives youth as exuberant in Ministry and spiritually accredited which is evident in the number of young people who enter into full time Ministry and Lay Preachers Department. There is still a need for extended support and a guided environment in the spiritual growth path of young people more especially now that we always read and hear from media about satanic cults that target youth and other social ills. Talks with the Sedibeng Spiritual Group led by Rev. Sidwell Mokgothu were initiated to look at ways of rolling out this spiritual programme at a broader spectrum in the Connexion. 6. INVESTMENT ENTERPRISE As mandated by CYC ’12, there was an enthusiastic engagement with the PBO 2014 231

on this issue and there was a general acceptance that this initiative will spearhead a new model in the church for sustainable economic empowerment (fresh generational expression). This concept was widely accepted by Conference last year. A concept paper was presented to Youth Synods this year and we are pleased to present a full Paper on this concept for engagement and fi nalization. There is ongoing engagement with MCO on the funding model of 1% once off contribution from one’s salary; we will soon devise a strategy on how this will unfold. From Youth Synod visits we have discovered there is a general decline and lack of information about YEE and application procedures to access the fund in the constituencies. This could either be attributed to apathy from youth or relevant information not being disseminated to young people. Notwithstanding, the YEE Task Team has been working tirelessly in fi ne-tuning YEE Policy and fi nalizing internal/external controls for funding.

7. EDUCATION This is a ﬁ fth Imperative of Mission that was added by the PB. The Unit has extended a call to all constituencies to respond and intensify this Pillar. Our church buildings have been declared as centres of healing and as people of hope, called by God into community, we have an obligation in offering assistance to scholars during weekends and school holidays. Bilateral meetings with the Mashinini family to tender a request to name the Mission Fund after Tsietsi were successful and permission was granted in this regard.

8. WESLEY GUILD CONNEXIONAL EVENT st th From the 31 of July to the 4 of August this year, the Methodist Youth Unit hosted a momentous Wesley Guild Connexional Event in Port Edward under the Theme: “Our Dreams anchored in the visions of our Forefathers”. This Event afforded us opportune time to refl ect on our journey and the 4Cs model as a collective and not in silos as during previous times. It was also a time to Fellowship together as Districts, deepening of Spirituality, evaluation and charting of an explicit and consistent way forward towards Unity of Purpose and not Sameness. The signing of a reworked Wesley Guild Charter signifi ed a renewed expedition informed by the context within which this movement exists. The Presiding Bishop successfully launched the Tsietsi Mashinini Mission Fund. It was very humbling to witness the affi rmation and presence of the Church Leadership in this event

9. INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS Our Connexion is now a recognised affi liate of Africa Methodist Youth Movement. rd We attended the 3 General Assembly in Kenya last year which looked at the plight of an African child and youth challenges. Building such networks has been essential in refocusing our interventions and thinking beyond our Connexion. th The 5 General Assembly will be held in South Africa, which we believe will provide us an opportunity to infi ltrate and place us in a sphere of infl uence on 232 2014

African issues within the Wesleyan family. A process which will ultimately give way to the recovery of an exchange programme with the United Methodist Church in Germany was initiated at Conference in Swaziland last year. In this regard, a meeting with the Youth Department has been sought through the offi ce of the Secretary General of the German Conference. We appreciate the continued confi dence and fi nancial support provided by The Methodist Church in Britain through the Nationals in Mission Appointments.

10. CHALLENGES It was generally noted that cultural nuisances and dominance sometimes impede the rate of social inclusivity and integration. This sometimes manifests itself in language dominance and disproportionate representation of demographics in our Youth Synods, amongst others. Youth voice is incomplete without the other. In looking at some of the Unit challenges, it was also noted that the Youth are generally under-led, resulting in them being easily manipulated and in most instances being used as tools for sowing divisions and sponsoring confl icts (mischief-making). Communication and some protocols have been somewhat of a challenge from both the Connexional Offi ce and Districts exacerbated by busy work engagements. The Connexional Youth Coordinator who serves in this committee has oversight on 5 Local churches in his circuit under his full responsibility. The Youth Ministry in our Connexion requires full uninterrupted dedication, so we continue to make an appeal for funding of this offi ce which shall realise and support a full-time Connexional Youth Coordinator who will be dedicated to this ministry.

11. CONCLUSION Our dreams are indeed of a very ambitious nature, but through God’s unmerited grace we remain resolute in the ultimate realisation of our Theme and objectives. Let us be reminded that John Wesley himself was stringent against idleness, and therefore we believe this account provides impetus for every young person to invest constructively to the cause of Youth Ministry. Mohandas Gandhi once said (“Young India” 1925): there are seven social sins: Politics without principle Wealth without work Commerce without morality Pleasure without conscience Education without character Science without humanity Worship without sacriﬁ ce

As young people of faith we should not cease to dream dreams that are deep- rooted in Godly values, lest our works of faith fail to change and inspire others. 2014 233

CHAPTER 23

SETH MOKITIMI METHODIST SEMINARY

Rev. Dr. Mvume Dandala

1. LEADERSHIP The Seminary welcomed its new President, H. Mvumelwano Dandala, who took ofﬁ ce on December 01, 2012. The outgoing interim President, the Rev Prof Peter Storey did everything to make the handover smooth, and we owe him a great debt of gratitude. Prof Storey worked valiantly to steer the SMMS ship through highly stormy days. We cannot thank him enough.

The Leadership and Administration of the SMMS is as follows: Registrar and Academic Dean: Dr Rowanne Marie is the Registrar and Acting Academic Dean. Seminarian Life Unit: Dr Eraste Nyirimana is the Head of the Seminarian Life Unit. He also serves as head of Biblical Studies and languages. Administration: Mrs Jenny Grassow resigned and the Rev Maurice Mpeta Phiri was appointed in her place as Acting Head of Administration and Finance. Chaplain: The Rev Dr Peter Grassow is the Chaplain of the SMMS. In addition to this and his teaching responsibilities, he has the responsibility of directing and overseeing the Church placements and formation.

2. SMMS LEARNING PROGRAMMES SMMS runs the following programmes: - Diploma in Practical Ministry (360 credits, NQF level 6) – 35 Registered Seminarians - B.Th. (384 credits, NQF level 7) – 47 Registered Seminarians - UKZN POST GRADUATE – 12 Seminarians doing either Honours or Masters Programmes - FORMATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME (FIP) – 6 Seminarians

The B.Th. and Diploma programmes function under the following 5 Departments: - Biblical Studies – Dr Eraste Nyirimana - Church History – Rev Dr Pete Grassow - Foundations and Development – Dr Rowanne Marie (Co-ordinator: Mr Jon- Mark Olivier) - Practice of Christian Ministry and Mission – Rev Dr Mvume Dandala (This 234 2014

Department is linked with Field Education Ministry - FEM) - Systematic Theology – Rev Dr Pete Grassow

2.1 Library Update Our total library holding now stands at 12 947 books. We place on record our appreciation for the generous donation of R150 000 from Cape Town Central Methodist Mission toward the library. We also received a generous donation of R10 000-00 from the YMG towards the library. Various Methodist have been bequeathing their libraries to the SMMS. We are most grateful. It is an accreditation and registration requirement that our library remains current and relevant, hence there is on-going efforts to ensure its upkeep. 2.2 Adjunct Lecturers and Co-teaching There are presently 10 adjunct lecturers teaching in 2013. The Church History department under the leadership of Dr Peter Grassow runs a cluster course which is co-taught by Dr Grassow and Prof Philippe Denis (UKZN). Dr Eraste Nyirimana is also co-teaching a Biblical Studies course at UKZN. We encourage such exchange and opportunities.

3. FORMATION UNIT This Unit is responsible for the spiritual journey of the Seminarians. The tools for this journey are Field Education, Covenant Discipleship Groups, and Church placements. Evaluating the progress of each Seminarian is achieved through the Seminary’s Formation panel. The Governing Council has since established an Academic and Formation Board that will fulﬁ l this responsibility. 3.1 Field Education This programme was initiated through the sterling work of two missionaries from the United Methodist Church in the USA, Mr. Doug and Mrs. Cheri Roland, who cold-canvassed numerous agencies in and around Pietermaritzburg, persuading them to partner the SMMS in this work. We cannot thank them enough for their work. This year saw the next step in the programme, which is the integration of the practical “ﬁ eld” component with the theoretical “class” component of the PCMM courses. Dr Dandala heads up these courses. We are excited by the learning possibilities that open up when linking classroom and practice.

3.2 The Covenant Discipleship Groups This programme sees seminarians placed in accountability groups that meet every Monday evening. We are grateful for Rev Brenda Timmer, who trains the group leaders, and who will become an ongoing resource person for this programme. 2014 235

3.3 Congregational Placements We have every seminarian in a congregation somewhere in the greater Pietermaritzburg region. They are attached under the supervision of a Superintendent Minister, who is asked to mentor and encourage their journey of faith. This is the place where theory and practice meet. We are grateful for all the churches that have opened their doors to us. In addition to this, every seminarian has an Easter placement, which is achieved by means of invitations from Superintendent Ministers around the Connexion. Once a year our Seminarians join the Nzondelelo Home th th missions campaigns. This will take place from the 15 -18 August 2013.

3.4 Counselling We are discovering that sometimes the seminarians who come to us are themselves in need of healing. They may themselves be coming from broken contexts, and so exhibit broken behaviour. Often their environmental conditioning may be such that they do not even recognise aberrant behaviour. Currently we have 40 probationer ministers who are living on their own in seminary accommodation, without their spouses and children. We also have 17 seminarians who are living with children, but without a spouse As part response to this dilemma, we have gained the services of Dr Lumka Sigaba, who comes to the Seminary once a week as a pastoral counsellor. In addition Dr Sigaba gives special attention to the spouses of the Seminarians.

3.5 Disciplinary Issues: One seminarian is appearing before the Disciplinary Committee. Except for this, the discipline of the Seminarians has overall been exemplary.

4. THE GOVERNING COUNCIL The Governing Council has met once this year under the chairmanship of Prof Gordon Zide. In between Governing Council meetings, the Governing Council Executive oversees the governance of the SMMS. The key challenge to which the Governing Council has sought to apply itself has been to try and put in place policies, systems and structures that strengthen the institutional life of the SMMS. In addition, the Governing Council has decided to create a variety of revenue streams that are aligned with the primary mission of the SMMS. In this regard, last year we reported that we would seek to appoint an Institutional Development Ofﬁ cer whose primary task would be fund raising. This has proved to be a tough challenge. We have now secured a short list of possible candidates with the hope that we will ﬁ nally make this appointment. Even more satisfying, 236 2014

though, is the fact that we have secured the funding of this ofﬁ ce for a period of one year.

5. CONCLUSION Currently we are in discussion with the Department of Local Preachers to look at the possibility of the SMMS offering local preachers’ studies and administering the examinations. The agreed goal is for this programme to begin in 2015 if ﬁ nal agreements are reached. In addition we continue to explore the possibility of a one year certiﬁ cate programme focusing on ethical foundations. The programme would be aimed at the following constituencies: • Young people who want to do a “gap year” and use this as an opportunity of formation • Business men and women • Community leaders • Church Leaders

We are in the process of developing this course as well as acquiring the necessary legal permits for us to proceed. This one year qualiﬁ cation would be credit bearing but would also carry a strong formation component. The Seminary was raised up to produce “transforming leaders for church and nation”. This arises out of the acknowledgement that our church and nation are in need of transformation and healing. The SMMS continues in this commitment to grow Godly spiritual norms and values for seminarians, so that we are able to realise this vision. Please continue to hold us in your prayers. 2014 237

CHAPTER 24

MUSIC ASSOCIATION

Mr Itumeleng Motingoe

1 OVERVIEW OF THE WORK OF CONNEXIONAL MUSIC ASSOCIATION (AUGUST 2012-JULY 2013) Motto: “One voice; one song!” As a Connexional Music Association we believe in our call to be ‘ﬁ shers of men’. Our existence as a Music Ministry relies on the main pillars of our objectives as suggested in our Constitution, i.e. mainly deepening the sense of spirituality in our respective societies and Circuits and leading all worship services, irrespective of event and size. The Church Choirs, through their music, bring people closer to God. They touch everyone to evoke various emotions such as happiness, dance, hope, crying and praise, interpreting scriptures, healing, uniting, giving comfort and hope to the hopeless, because music is the language of Heaven.

2 OBJECTIVES OF THE CONNEXIONAL MUSIC ASSOCIATION FOR THE PERIOD UNDER REVIEW - To ﬁ nalize and submit the Music Association Constitution to the Conference for approval - To monitor improvement of the Districts not fully participating in Connexional activities - To market the Connexional Music Association - To increase membership of Church Choirs in all Circuits/Societies - To support SMMS ﬁ nancially - To re-visit and make possible the Germany trip for 2014 - To unify music and singing in the Connexion (bring back Methodist chants in our Divine services), especially Liturgy.

3. IMPERATIVES OF MISSION 3.1 Spirituality As a spiritual body, we continue to refresh, inspire, and uplift every soul by praising in song, cherishing every moment granted to us by God to burst out in song. Throughout the Connexion, choirs avail themselves in all Services and events of our Church. It is noted with appreciation that church choirs are beginning to sing the hymns in all Methodist Hymn books, not only concentrating on the usually sung hymns and they bring new and original Methodist chants so that the generation to come is not confused by our hymns being sung the ‘gospel’ way. Circuits have 238 2014

worked towards forming District choirs to unify singing in the church. District Lay Leaders have conducted workshops in the Districts to instil a spirit of belonging in the districts. It is also appreciated that all but two Districts (Natal Coastal and Northern Free State & Lesotho) are holding their District Conventions on a yearly basis.

3.2 Evangelism and Church Growth Music destroys the social and economic barriers that face our church and community on a daily basis. Though some Circuits still struggle with choir membership, few as they are, church choirs are visible, and try against all odds to claim their rightful place in the church by leading all services. In some Districts though, it is still difﬁ cult to unify singing, especially liturgy. However, through music workshops at District and Connexional levels, this will soon be a thing of the past. Some Districts have reported some growth in terms of membership as the Circuits that have been regarded as not active, have been revived and are now participating in their respective District activities. As far as our Youth is concerned, though they are very active in our Church activities, it is still an uphill battle to recruit them to join church choirs.

3.3 Justice and Service Church Choirs do visit needy families and organisations on different occasions, some during Conventions and some out of their own planning.

During these visits they donate items according to the needs, like blankets, school uniforms and groceries to mention but a few. Also during the Connexional Convention in November 2012, such a gesture was demonstrated by visiting three (3) identiﬁ ed places of need, namely, Khayalethu Day care Centre (Kliptown), a home for mentors (peer) who assist vulnerable children with educational needs, and a family of two girls who were victims of rape, and were later burned and killed. Those who were tasked with this these visits were deeply affected and Rev S Sethunya was requested to do de-brieﬁ ng and counselling for them. In different Districts choirs do support existing District Methodist Bursary Funds.

3.4 Human and Economic Empowerment and Development Church Choirs are now beginning to close the economic gap by using their inheritance as Methodists (Hymn books) to the beneﬁ t of the Church, rather than leaving the Methodists Hymns to empower gospel singers. Apart from these projects forming part of the Districts’ fundraising, they also contribute greatly to ‘healing and transformation’ of our Church. We are proud to mention that the following Districts have recorded their CDs: 2014 239

Cape of Good Hope: Dumisani & False Bay Circuits Grahamstown Queenstown

We encourage the Methodist Church to support these Districts, and besides, the music recorded is so inspiring and as Methodists, we cannot afford not to have all these CDs in our collection. WALALA! WASALA! We also have Highveld and Swaziland, and Natal West Districts in the process of producing their own. Watch this space!

4 ACHIEVEMENTS We hosted a successful Connexional Music Association Convention in November 2012 in the Central District (Pimville Circuit). All Districts participated. We were happy to see Rev L Mandindi representing Natal Coastal District. This event was blessed by being graced by close to twenty (20) Ministers from all over the Connexion. The event was further recorded and broadcast by Dumsa Channel 340. Visited Northern Free State District with the object of reviving it and trying to have other Circuits joining the District in reviving music and also participating in Connexional activities, rather than having only two Circuits (Qwaqwa and Parys) participating. This visit was successful and the District reports slight improvement and will soon have the District structure in place. Communicated with Natal Coastal District to mobilize the District to participate actively in the Connexional activities. The Natal Coastal District has appointed Rev L Mandindi to coordinate the activities of the District. Connexional music workshop was held in Welkom on 18 May 2013, facilitated by our own Methodist adjudicators who will also ofﬁ ciate adjudication in our Connexional Competitions on 12 October 2013 in Rustenburg. One of the prescribed music pieces was arranged by one of our own, Mr. PT Mthethwa (Natal West District), who has arranged music (Liturgy) to be sung by massed (District) choirs – “Umphefumulo wami uyabusho ubukhulu beNkosi.”

The Connexional Choir has now been constituted in preparation for the Germany trip due to take place in May 2014. The choir has 3 members from each of our 10 active Districts.

Mr. SJ Makgalane (Conductor of St Thomas Methodist Choir – KNB District and an Evangelist), had been accepted by the Methodist Conference as a Minister and is now studying at SMMS from 2013. 240 2014

5 CHALLENGES • The failed attempt to represent the MCSA in Germany in May 2013 is a reason for concern • Failure to recruit members to join our Church choirs at Society and Circuit levels • Not yet honoured our promise to support SMMS fi nancially as we committed ourselves to do • The majority of the Districts still unable to meet the Connexional fi nancial targets due to very low membership • NFS&L still struggling to have all Circuits participating in music activities at District and Connexional levels. Only two (2) Circuits represent the District and are trying to meet Connexional fi nancial needs • Natal Coastal District still not participating in Connexional activities. Much as we are trying to penetrate certain Districts, there are some far fl ung circuits which are not reachable. They may only be reached with the assistance of Circuit Superintendents Ministers in general if they offer support.

6 FINANCIAL POSITION The ﬁ nancial status of the Connexional Music Association according to the audited ﬁ nancial statement as at 31 December was as follows: Income: R106 435 Expenditure: R105 300 Balance: R1 135

7 FUTURE PLANS • To meet with the ofﬁ ce of the Presiding Bishop and MU to pave the way forward for the Germany trip • To visit Natal Coastal District to try and mobilize the District and Circuits to participate in Connexional activities • To complete the Connexional Music Booklet with speciﬁ c 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.

8 BEREAVEMENT It is with deepest sympathy especially, to Natal West District, that we report the loss of one of our icons in the music fraternity, Rev CN Xaba, who has been the District President of Natal West District. She will always be remembered for her humbleness and dedication in this Association and for taking Natal West to greater heights. “May God peacefully rest her soul!” 2014 241

9 CONCLUSION We request the Church to apply its mind to the fact that in the seven days of every week, the church choir is the only organisation that meets frequently, more than once in one week, including Sundays. Church choirs deserve some amount of vocal support from Ministers. Our Youth Unit is far away from us. We request the Church to assist us in recruiting members into the Association by bringing the Youth Unit in one way or another closer to the Music Association.

10 DISTRICT STRUCTURES

DISTRICT NAME PORTFOLIO CONTACTS Cape of Good Rev Maseti VG District President 082 423 9789 Hope Ms Tyutu J District Secretary [email protected] Grahamstown Mr Meke H District President 073 380 5575 Ms Beja C District Secretary [email protected] Queenstown Mr Mhlaba S District President [email protected] Bam N District Secretary [email protected] Kimberly, Rev Stuurman S District President [email protected] Namibia and Ms Makate P District Secretary [email protected] Bloemfontein Northern Free Rev Moeketsi ME ActingDistrict [email protected] State & Lesotho Ms Molibeli L President [email protected] ActingDistrict Secreary Natal Coastal Rev Mandindi L District Coordinator [email protected] Natal West Mr Mthethwa PT Acting District [email protected] Ms Mthiyane N President [email protected] District Secretary Central Mr Monyane TL District President [email protected] Mr Phasha E District Secretary [email protected] Highveld & Mr Sefatsa JR District President [email protected] Swaziland Ms Maritz J District Secretary [email protected] Limpopo Ms Kgabi G District President [email protected] Mr morekhure J District Secretary [email protected] Clarkebury Rev Mahe MR District Secretary [email protected] Ms Tolobisa P District Secretary [email protected]

11 MATTER REQUIRING CONFERENCE DECISION Approval of the Music Association Constitution submitted so that it can be formally put into operation. We request District Bishops to be involved and support, including ﬁ nancially, the choristers from their respective Districts who are part of the Connexional choir. 242 2014

CHAPTER 25

LOCAL PREACHERS ASSOCIATION

Mr James Nkosi

1. INTRODUCTION The Local Preachers Association (LPA) is an Organisation of the Methodist Preachers who have accepted the calling of Jesus Christ to proclaim His Gospel within the holistic Mission of the Church. These local preachers organised themselves in a formidable church entity striving to assist the Church towards strengthening preaching. This Organisation always promotes the fellowship of all Local Preachers of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa within the context of her progressive unfolding Vision and Mission. The Organisation committed itself to make the Vision and Mission of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa be realised through encouraging preachers to minister to God`s people following different themes usually enunciated at the Organisation`s Triennial and District Conventions. Currently the Local Preachers Association performs ministry within the theme: “LIVE FOLLOWING THE DIRECTION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.” The LPA members trusting in this theme and embracing the Presiding Bishop`s theme which says “TOGETHER A HEALING COMMUNITY” have gained strength in their calling and minister to God`s people within the ﬁ ve imperatives of our church, working hand in hand with the Connexional, District and Circuit leaders.

2. EXECUTIVE General President : Mr. JM Nkosi Ex General President : Mr. ZM Jakavula Vice General President : Mr. NG Mlambo General Secretary : Mr. ME Kumalo Asst General Secretary : Mrs. NM Mntungwa General Treasurer : Mr. ES Zulu Committee members : Rev. AM Mkhwanazi, Mrs. LP Zikalala and Mr. ZG Bhusa

3. LPA OVERVIEW The year under review has revealed an increase in numbers of preachers who have afﬁ liated to the Local Preachers Association. The Accredited Preachers increased from 7920 to 9087 and Preachers on Trial from 1646 to 2003. This data demonstrates an increase of 1524 despite the sad loss of 489 preachers who have been called to higher service. May their souls rest in peace. The preachers who have afﬁ liated to the Local Preachers Association come from 11 Districts of 2014 243

our Connexion. The plan of the Mozambique District Local Preachers to afﬁ liate is in process.

4. OBJECTIVES FOR PERIOD UNDER REVIEW The following objectives were successfully adhered to in the year under review: 4.1 Encouraging all Local Preachers and Ministers to observe the Vision and Mission of the MCSA and enhance its purpose. 4.2 Giving fresh and relevant impetus to the preaching ministry of lay persons. 4.3 Encouraging and assisting Local Preachers and Ministers to empower themselves through study and reading widely in order to enhance their preaching potential. 4.4 Promoting fellowship amongst all Local Preachers and Ministers in the MCSA. 4.5 Utilising the Association as a forum to promote fellowship, inspiration and empowerment, and to share issues of common concern amongst members of the Local Preachers Association. 4.6 Finding creative ways of embracing each other within and among all Local Preachers and Ministers in the Connexion in a manner that is sensitive and uniting.

5. ACHIEVEMENTS, HIGHLIGHTS, CHALLENGES AND FUTURE PLANS The Local Preachers Association committed itself to pursue ministry within the framework of the fi ve imperatives of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa as follows: 5.1 Spirituality All Districts gave positive reports about their District Conventions and the workshops that were held. The well prepared bible studies enriched the spiritual lives of those who attended. The DRD (DISCIPLINE RESPECT DISCERNMENT) model which is a tool to revive humanity has been adopted as the project in all the Districts. This model (DRD) has proposed prayerful strategies to fi ght social and spiritual ills. Regions and Districts have made plans to implement this model with the belief that it will help the entire Church to fi ght against th all kinds of ills. This year under review revealed to us the 24 celebration of the Local Preachers Association in Clarkebury and recognition of the work done by the MCSA and Traditional Leaders in promoting spiritual unity among God`s people. Local Preachers of Central District have also celebrated Jubilee. 5.2 Evangelism and Church Growth In each District the preachers are always working hand in hand with the 244 2014

leadership of the circuit and societies in proclaiming the Gospel to God’s people in urban and rural areas. Preachers actively participate in taking preaching appointments in societies, hospitals and in other identifi ed places where the word of God is needed most, thus assisting their Ministers in the preaching fi eld. Evangelical Crusades have been held in all the Districts and Regions culminating in the Connexional Crusade, which will be held on the 19-20 October 2013 at Standard Bank arena in Johannesburg. The Evangelical Crusade is the Preachers sponsored Triennial (3 yearly) event. The one to be held this year will be the second one following the fi rst Crusade which was held in 2010 in the KNB District.

5.3 Justice and Service nd The Local Preachers have produced the 2 edition of the LPA Constitution to update the clauses that required some changes that will help the Association to meet its objectives. The revised Constitution was launched by the Presiding Bishop and General Secretary of Conference at the LPA Connexional General Committee in February 2013. The LPA is currently in the process of translating these Constitutions from English into other South African languages to promote understanding by all its members. The LPA has also produced a new badge which is now understood to be in line with the Methodist doctrine. This new badge was also blessed and launched at the same General Committee of February 2013.

5.4 Human and Economic Development & Empowerment Working with and helping of communities in our Districts is continuing in various ways. We have embarked on a project of giving help to our Mozambique fellow preachers. Our General President will visit Mozambique District in preparation for launching the Local Preachers Association there and the presentation of Manels, Copies of the Constitution and LPA badges to preachers and identifying other necessities preachers who would have afﬁ liated to the Local Preachers Association may need.

Districts have been requested to identify projects in the Community and work as partners with the structures of the Community in helping the needy.

5.5 Education and Training The training of the local preachers is being reviewed and the report of the task team was presented at Conference 2012. Conference supported it and a follow up report is expected to be presented at the Conference of 2013. It is our view that this initiative of reviewing the training of local preachers would improve preaching in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa if the Methodist Contextual model is implemented. 2014 245

6. FINANCIAL POSITION We are happy to report that our books are being audited by the MCSA Central Accounting Organasation and our ﬁ nances as at 31 December 2012 closed as follows: INCOME : R280 782.00 EXPENDITURE : R240 342.00 SURPLUS : R40 440.00

7. RESOLUTIONS The resolution on the Review of Local Preachers Training is now in the hands of EMMU for presentation to this Conference (2013) as directed by 2012 Conference. We thank the Holy Spirit who keeps us alive and directs our Church to empower the Local Preachers Association as a forum to enhance the purpose of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in ministering among God`s people. Let us follow Our Good Lord even in the shade of darkness. 246 2014

CHAPTER 26

ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS

PRESIDING BISHOP Rev Ziphozihle Daniel Siwa 2014-2016

SECRETARY OF CONFERENCE Rev Vuyani Gladstone Nyobole 2012-2014 SECRETARY OF CONFERENCE ELECT Rev Charmaine Morgan 2015-2017

DISTRICT BISHOPS Cape of Good Hope Rev Michel Hansrod 2014-2016 Grahamstown Rev Musi Losaba 2012-2014 Queenstown Rev Mthobeli Matyumza 2014-2016 Kimberley, Namibia, Bloemfontein Rev Litaba Mothibi 2013-2015 Northern Free State & Lesotho Rev Andrew Motswenyane 2013-2015 Natal Coastal Rev Michael Vorster 2014-2016 Natal West Rev Alexander (Sandy) Dickie 2013-2015 Central Rev Peter Witbooi 2013-2015 Highveld & Swaziland Rev Jonathan Anderson 2014-2016 Limpopo Rev Themba Mntambo 2013-2015 Moçambique Rev Dinis Matsolo 2014-2016 Clarkebury Rev Victor Tshangela 2013-2015

VICE-CHAIRPERSONS OF DISTRICTS Cape of Good Hope Rev Yvette Moses Grahamstown Rev Zamikaya Tena Queenstown Rev Admiral M Dondashe 2014 247

Kimberley, Namibia, Bloemfontein Rev Lesiba Nkhumise Northern Free State & Lesotho Rev Mncedi Majola Natal Coastal Rev Linda Mandindi Natal West Rev Vuyo Dlamini Central Rev Itumeleng Tlhakanye Highveld & Swaziland Rev Phidian Matsepe Limpopo Rev Kgakalane Peega Moçambique Rev Muduma Francisco Clarkebury Rev Wellington WV Manciya

DISTRICT SECRETARIES Cape of Good Hope Rev Vincent Harry Grahamstown Rev Pam Delport Queenstown Rev Ian Howarth Kimberley, Namibia, Bloemfontein Rev Kedibone Mofokeng Northern Free State & Lesotho Rev Pierre du Plooy Natal Coastal Rev Ansie Liebenberg Natal West Rev Delme Linscott Central Rev Vusi Vilakati Highveld & Swaziland Rev Mogomotsi Diutlwileng Limpopo Rev Mike Durrant Moçambique Rev Fernando Chissumba Clarkebury Rev Mzi Jadezweni

DISTRICT STATISTICAL SECRETARIES Cape of Good Hope Rev Anele Bonoyi Grahamstown Mr Xolile Nobuya Queenstown Rev Nokulunga Songca Kimberley, Namibia, Bloemfontein Rev Christopher Gaya Northern Free State & Lesotho Deacon Rosemary van der Merwe Natal Coastal Ms Nombuso Mbatha Natal West Mr Thabani Thushini Central Mr Ricky Ngwenya Highveld & Swaziland Rev Elize Goddess Limpopo Rev Fozia Madjoe Mocambique Ms Isabel Mazias Clarkebury Rev Nonzolo Maswana

CONNEXIONAL EXECUTIVE Presiding Bishop Bishop Ziphozihle Siwa General Secretary/Ministerial General Treasurer Rev Vuyani G Nyobole Lay President Mr Fungile Dotwana Lay General Treasurer Mr Anthony Tibbit 248 2014

Cape of Good Hope Bishop Michel Hansrod Mr Derek Ronnie Grahamstown Bishop Musi Losaba Mr Sikhumbuzo Nofemele Queenstown Bishop Mthobeli Matyumza Mr Mcebisi Godlo Kimberley, Namibia, Bloemfontein Bishop Litaba Mothibi Mrs Ethel Tshangela N/Free State & Lesotho Bishop Andrew Motswenyane Mr Vusi Chuta Natal Coastal Bishop Michael Vorster Mrs Sanelisiwe Gumede Natal West Bishop Sandy Dickie Ms Nonhlanhla Mbonane Central Bishop Peter Witbooi Mrs Lavender Brown Highveld & Swaziland Bishop Jonathan Anderson Mr Sibewu P Ndlumbini Limpopo Bishop Themba Mntambo Prof R Nancy Malema Mocambique Bishop Dinis Matsolo Mr Carlos Fumo Clarkebury Bishop Victor Tshangela Mr Ross Mpongoma Methodist Connexional Ofﬁ ce Mrs Joanne Trytsman Communications Unit Mrs Bonginkosi Moyo-Bango Human Resources Unit Rev Dr Vukile Mehana Ecumenical Affairs Unit Rev Purity Malinga Education for Ministry and Mission Unit Rev Norman Raphahlela SMMS Rev Dr Mvume Dandala Men’s Work Rev Motlalepule Leseba Mission Unit Rev Kenaleone Ketshabile Youth Unit Rev Luxolo Mantini Women’s Work Mrs Zime Nyembezi 2014 249

CHAPTER 27

MISCELLANEOUS

CONFERENCE ROSTER FROM 2011 ONWARDS

Year District Last Hosted 2013 Clarkebury 1994 2014 Natal Coastal 1998 2015 Grahamstown 2001 2016 Limpopo 2003 2017 Central 2005 2018 Mocambique -

LIST OF LAY PRESIDENTS

Name Period MR ZANDILE JAKAVULA 1996-1998 MR COLIN WOOLACOTT 1999-2002 MS LINDENI MADLALA 2003-2005 MS BANKHOMBISILE MKHWANAZI 2006-2008 MR FUNGILE DOTWANA 2009-2011 MR FUNGILE DOTWANA 2012-2014 250 2014

Methodist Church of Southern Africa

CONNEXIONAL DIARY 2014

Month Date Event Venue JAN 01 New Year’s Day 06 Methodist House Reopens 14-16 Ordinands’ Retreat eMseni 21-25 Probationers’ Seminar eMseni 22-24 EMMU General Committee eMseni 27 Connexional Trust Properties Consultation (All DTP Secretaries) JHB 28-30 Leadership Capacity Building JHB

FEB 06-08 Connexional Children’s Ministry Indaba Port Elizabeth th 09-16 119 Maramon Convention India 11 Connexional Structures and Boundaries Committee Meetings Methodist House 13-15 Connexional LPA General Committee Meeting eMseni 17 Mission Unit Advisory Board Meeting Methodist House 18 Order of Evangelism District Secretaries Meeting eMseni 18-20 Ecumenical Affairs District Secretaries’ Consultation TBA 19-20 Clarkebury District Trust Properties Workshop Nelson Mandela Museum, Qunu 25-27 SACC Triennial Conference JHB 27-02/03 Young Women’s Manyano February Meetings Natal West District

MAR 01 Connexional Men’s League Executive Meeting Eldorado Park 05 Ash Wednesday 04-07 Order of Deacons Convocation eMseni 05-07 Bishops’ Meetings Kempton Park 05-07 Mission Unit Consultation TBA 16 Lay Leaders Meeting TBA 18 Heritage Foundation Meeting Grahamstown 21 Human Rights’ Day 25 Stipend Augmentation meeting Methodist House 26 Theological reﬂ ection think tank TBA 28-30 Robing of Mozambique District LPA Members Maputo 31 District Treasurers Meeting MCO Durban

APR 08 Unit Leaders’ Meeting MCO - Jhb 13 Palm Sunday 18 Good Friday 20 Easter Sunday 21 Family Day 27 Freedom Day 28 ‘Freedom Day’ observed 2014 251

MAY 01 Workers’ Day 03 Connexional Men’s League Executive Meeting Toekomsrust 06 Women’s Organisations Meeting MCO - Jhb 8-11 Mozambique District Synod Ka-Tembe 11 Mothers’ Day 15-17 SMMS Governing Council, Advisory Comm/Graduation SMMS 15-17 Limpopo District Synod Magalies Circuit 15-18 Order of Evangelism Biennial Convention Clarkebury District 15-18 Natal Coastal District Synod TBA 18 Aldersgate Sunday 21-24 Kimberly Namibia & Bloemfontein District Synod Kuruman 22-24 Queenstown District Synod King Williamstown 22-24 Grahamstown District Synod Bathurst/Port Alfred 22-24 Clarkebury District Synod eDutyini 22-24 Natal West District Synod SMMS 22-24 Northern Free State & Lesotho Synod TBA 23-24 Highveld & Swaziland District Synod Boksburg 24 Wesley Day 22-25 Central District Synod CMM - Jhb 27 Pharos Meeting MCO - Jhb 29 Ascension Day 28-1/6 Cape of Good Hope District Synod Wynberg

JUN 03 Order of Evangelism General Committee SMMS 07 Order of Evangelism Graduation Bloemfontein 08 Day of Pentecost 10 Pension Fund Meeting MCO – Jhb 15 Trinity Sunday 15 Fathers’ Day 16 Youth Day 18 MCO Executive MCO - Jhb 23 Mission Unit Advisory Board Meeting MCO - Jhb 24-25 EMMU General Committee eMseni

JUL 02-03 Connexional Youth Executive Maputo 03-06 Connexional Youth Consultation Maputo 02-06 Women’s Manyano Triennial Klerksdorp 03 Women’s Manyano Induction Service Klerksdorp 05 Connexional Men’s League Executive Meeting Ennerdale, Jhb 02-06 Women’s Association Biennial Meetings Ennerdale, Jhb 06 Women’s Association Induction Service Ennerdale, Jhb 16-18 Preliminary Stationing Committee Cape Town 22 Connexional Structures Meeting MCO - Jhb

AUG 09 National Women’s Day 19-22 Women’s Auxiliary Connexional Meetings Aliwal North 21-25 Superintendents’ Training TBA 26-28 Women in Ministry Consultation Emseni 252 2014

SEP 06 Connexional Men’s League Executive Meeting Klipspruit West 09 Pharos Meeting MCO - Jhb 15-17 Connexional Executive Durban 17-21 Annual Conference Durban 24 Heritage Day 25-28 Young Women’s Manyano CCS Workshop Clarkebury District 26-28 Connexional Men’s League Tri-Annual Gauteng st 29-3/10 Order of Evangelism – 1 Year Probationers Training eMseni

nd OCT 06-10 Order of Evangelism – 2 Year Training TBA 08 Pension Funds Meeting MCO - Jhb 15 Unit Leaders’ Meeting MCO - Jhb 16-19 LPA Triennial Convention Durban 20 Mission Unit Advisory Board meeting MCO - Jhb 25 Women’s Association Connexional Consultation Meeting Bosmont, Jhb 28 Connexional Structures Meeting MCO - Jhb 31-2/11 Federation Area Seminar TBA

NOV 01 Connexional Men’s League Executive Meeting Commem 05 MCO Executive Meeting MCO - Jhb nd 10-14 2 Year Probationers Training eMseni 11 Stipend Augmentation meeting MCO - Jhb 12-13 District Secretaries’ Meeting Port Elizabeth 13-15 Bishops’ Meetings Port Elizabeth 16 Bishop’s Induction Grahamstown 22 SMMS Valedictory Service SMMS 30 Advent Sunday

DEC 01 World Aids Day 12 Methodist House Closes 16 Day of Reconciliation 25 Christmas Day 26 Day of Goodwill