Provincial Newsletter of the Anglican Women’s Fellowship United in Prayer, Service & Love Christmas message from the Liaison Bishop the Right Reverend Daniel Kgomosotho DD

My prayer for the church and for the AWF the republic is intent on taking Christ out gotten Son for the salvation of the world. in particular is that your Christmas in 2015 of Christmas. We feel aggrieved when Je- This Advent and Christmas season are will be filled with the Love of Jesus in it! As sus is ignored on his own birthday, and about the renewal of relationships, they are a citizen of Southern Africa and certainly when what is supposed to be a holiday is about family and love. that of the SADEC countries which make commercialised. Isn’t Jesus the reason for up a part of the ACSA, I have heard a lot Advent and Christmas tide? Relationships are central to Christmas. of Christians bemoaning the fact that the These seasons are undoubtedly great events secular state intends doing away with some There are many concepts so firmly associ- attesting to the incarnation. But where is of our holy days. ated with Christmas that they are applied Jesus in all this. Peace, love, restored rela- even in secular contexts. These are phrases tionships, joy, and goodwill are the results Remember that Ascension Day was taken such as peace on earth, goodwill among of knowing Jesus. To talk of these concepts away from us by stealth and it is no longer all people, the Christmas spirit and even outside of Christ is certainly heretical and considered a holiday for believers of other “Merry Christmas”. Christmas is rightly assures false hope to God’s people. faiths in the Republic. So it would seem that associated with God’s generosity for the the current review of religious holidays in world when God gave up God’s only be- continues on page 2

First published in 1968 Christmas 2015 Volume 12 - No. 3 Page 2 Provincial Newsletter of the Anglican Women’s Fellowship

Message from the Liaison Bishop’s Desk It is understandable for Christians and mas be a very special time for the church as from page 1 continued: quite rightly so, to want to tell the world well as for the world. people what Christmas is all about. This Isaiah, for example, attesting to the com- is part of the Great Commission to the Equally, it is my prayer that your act of lov- ing messiah wrote, “The people walking in church Matthew 28). The challenge applies ing and serving the world this Christmas, darkness have seen a great light”. He pro- throughout the year. Indeed it is not meant and indeed throughout the year, might ceeded to talk about joy, rejoicing, freedom solely for Christmas. Even though it is lead others to know Jesus better. When we and peace (Isaiah 9:2-5). How are these tempting to talk about the concepts and not lament the removal of Christ out of Christ- things possible, particularly in the light of the person, we can nevertheless do more mas, let’s ensure that we don’t forget him in violent acts perpetrated by the Islamic state than campaign for peace and encourage our “Christian” ministry the other 364 days in North Africa, Syria and other countries reconciliation. Blessed are the peace mak- of the year. Let us not forget that the Son of of the Middle East? And yet the messenger ers for they shall be called the children of Man came not to be served but to serve and of the Lord is persuaded to utter the words: God (Matthew 5). We could introduce peo- to give His life as a ransom for many. There “For unto us a child is born, to us a son is ple to Jesus. We serve our communities in is no greater privilege than helping people given.” Isaiah announced to the shepherd ways that are more than social work when to know Jesus. “good news of great joy for all people.” we also take opportunities to help people And what is the foundation for such a state- know Jesus better. It should certainly be It is all about Jesus. May it be all about Je- ment“? Today in the town of David a Sav- our business to know Jesus and to make sus for you this Christmas and throughout iour has been born to you; he is the Mes- Jesus known. My prayer for you is that 2016. May the almighty God bless you, the siah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:11) Peace, joy and your Christmas will be more than a time of Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. freedom are possible only because of Jesus. good will. It will be a time of growth in the The Good News is Jesus. knowledge and love of Jesus. . May Christ- Amen!

From the President’s Desk “Women Destined for God’s Purpose” “Women are coming forward as never before the world’s illiterate adults are women”. As to seize their destinies. And the question is: usual let us all involve our churches, organi- Who will train them to be released into God’s zations within churches as well as the com- call upon their lives? The time has come for munity to spread the news about this scourge Christian women, mature in their walks with that is continuously ravaging communities God, to heed the biblical call to spiritual moth- leading to broken homes and displacement of erhood. Theirs is the ministry of instructing, children. training and releasing younger women for Kingdom work. We wish to thank our sisters in the Diocese of Kimberley and Kuruman for hosting a very The Church of Jesus Christ is in a season of successful and exciting joint meeting of PEX- unprecedented release as women seize their CO Members and Diocesan Presidents at the God-given purposes. A trumpet call has been Airport Hotel from Wednesday 14 to Sunday blown to challenge women to deeper passion, 18 October 2015. And as mentioned in the great power and a significant purpose to ad- Provincial President’s report, it was exciting vance the Kingdom of God”. It is once again meeting all twenty-two Presidents from all that time for the 16 Days of Activism against over the Province. We shared our strengths, Violence against Women and Girls from 25 weaknesses as well as challenges. Among this November to 10 December. We have just re- group we had members who had never been ceived information from our sisters across the exposed to a gathering of this nature; there globe, the International Anglican Women’s were young and vibrant ladies who were en- Network (IAWN) to mobilize and take part thusiastic to learn, and they participated in in the action against this scourge that sees all discussions and were not intimidated by no class or status, race or colour. This year’s the fact that they were new comers. They dis- theme for the 16 Days Campaign is about “vi- played a hunger for knowledge, and showed olence against girls when they are in school, a fearless tenacity that can only be found in or on their way to and from school, or if they people spurred on by the Spirit of God to go don’t have access to education”. According forth and bear witness to what God has done to one article, it states that “Two-thirds of for them. continues on page 3 Christmas 2015 “Women destined for God’s Purpose” Page 3

From the President’s Desk The last leg of our meeting on Sunday 18 Oc- God the Almighty light up your life and steer continued from page 2: Hence at the tober 2015 was at St James Parish, Galeshewe. you to his predestined journey; and may the opening of my message I spoke of women who The congregation was wonderful with their year 2016 mark the beginning of a tidal wave have come forward as never before; and have welcoming and embracing greeting of – “Be- of love, joy and happiness; and look forward to heeded the biblical call to spiritual mother- thusonke and Sonkebethu”. We wish to thank a new and fruitful year with possibilities of a hood; and younger women are ready to take the Rector, Rev Moiloa and Parish Council fresh start. up Kingdom work. for allowing us to share in God’s holy myster- ies. We all felt blessed that our visit ended on To quote words of wisdom from an article that We thank Rev Walter Barnett and Bishop the “Special Day of Prayer” according to the I read: “It is true that we all need a new and for starting each day with Anglican Lectionary. This kind gesture will fresh start. Somehow life’s challenges force morning service and Eucharist. Each day we always be cherished. us into a rut. Somehow the rut eventually were challenged about our relationship with dictates the direction of our lives. The only God. One of them was about the heavy load in Once again to the Local Organizing Com- difference between a rut and a grave is the our handbags making it difficult to be helped mittee, Whoa!! What is there to say; from the depth. God has more for each of us! God has out of a rut. A very thought provoking mes- beginning to the end was just unbelievable. got more for you, not just more of the same, sage indeed. Everything went according to plan. Thank but more of his favour, more of his loving you for your resilience against all odds, and kindness, and more of his abundant life. Per- On the day of the Welcome Service, Friday thank you for upholding the Aims and Objec- haps you feel like you need a fresh start? 16 October 2015; the service started almost tives of the AWF as Stewards who are ready three hours behind the scheduled time as there to render Service where most needed. Keep up Let the burdens fall off. One thing I have dis- was a funeral in progress. Nonetheless we the good work. covered is that we cannot drag the baggage of received a warm welcome from everyone who the old season into the new. More often we was anxiously waiting for us. To Ntsatsi, Magogodi, Sylvia, Faith and cannot let go and move forward, and we end Pinky, thank you for sharing and exchanging up so consumed with the baggage of the past To Bishop Ozzie Swart and the clergy, thank ideas amongst ourselves. May we always re- while trying to accommodate it in the future”. you for making us feel at home with your in- main United in Prayer, Service and Love. End of quote. spiring welcome message. And to the Local The next Provincial Executive Committee Organizing Committee, thank you so much Meeting will be hosted by the Diocese of St “Then the angel said to them, do not be afraid, for ensuring we had a sumptuous meal before Mark the Evangelist on Thursday 21 to Sun- for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy we went to rest for the night, also ensuring day 24 April 2016. which will be to all people. For there is born our comfort in the hotel. The hotel staff was to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, pleasant to work with. Morning and after- The 25th Provincial Council Meeting and who is Christ the Lord. And suddenly there noon teas were appreciated, and all the meals 50th Anniversary will take place on Wednes- was with the angel a multitude of the heav- were served on time. day 19 to Sunday 23 October 2016 in the Dio- enly hosts praising God and saying: Glory to cese of Pretoria. God in the highest, and on earth peace, good In the afternoon of Saturday 17 October 2015 will toward men”! (Luke 2:10-14). the guest speaker was the Very Revd Reginald As the year draws to a close, we can all look Leeuw, and his topic was on Christian Lead- back and ask as to what can inspire us to fin- To all my Sisters in the Ministry of Christ, ership. He touched on various aspects of lead- ish well. It is by demonstrating faithfulness may I take this time to wish you a blessed ership, including different approaches and its to God to the end, telling our stories will be a and most joyful Christmas Season. Spend it dynamics. After the Dean’s address we all left divine moment in the lives of those who hear wisely with those near and dear to you. Do for the arranged outing to the Big Hole. This it. We can also inspire others by reminding not forget to share with those less fortunate was truly an unforgettable adventure, espe- them of God’s blessings, by presenting them than you. God willing we shall meet again cially the short trip around the mining area with a positive vision for the future. in 2016, spiritually revived and physically by tram, and this was followed by the historic geared up for a fresh start. and informative visit to the Big Hole – we And as we prepare to rejoice and celebrate the thank the tour guide for his invaluable infor- wonderful forthcoming Christmas Season, let Until then, remain steadfast and truthful mation relating to the history of how the Big us all welcome Baby Jesus into the homes of as Daughters of the King. Be inspirational Hole came about, including how and when our hearts. Christmas is the time to spend and purpose driven as “Women Destined for the diamonds were discovered. This was an with families and friends, a time to give and God’s Purpose”. unforgettable experience and this should be share with those in need; a time for love and recorded in the annals of history of the AWF forgiveness. May I then take this opportunity MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND in the Diocese of Kimberley and Kuruman for to wish you and your loved ones a magical Fes- YOUR LOVED ONES, AND AN future generations, and also that the AWF tive Season filled with good wishes and lovely AWESOME 2016! PEXCO and Diocesan Presidents ventured to thoughts. If some of you will be driving to the historic site of the Big Hole with its mystic your holiday destinations, may the Lord grant - NANA KHOZA glory. you travelling mercies and keep you safe. May PROVINCIAL PRESIDENT Page 4 Provincial Newsletter of the Anglican Women’s Fellowship Celebrating Dorcas Today

The Diocese of Cape Town love Dorcas did to any group of people in In the Diocese of Cape Town the AWF A few words on Dorcas Today held on Sat- need, ie. members are always very proud to display urday 31st October at St. John’s – Belgravia • Spend the day at a local hospital, their talents such as: knitting, baking, fabric in Athlone. Dorcas Today is celebrated ev- helping to feed or clean the sick, or painting, sewing, embroidery and lovely ery two years. reading and fellowshipping with them. food dishes. • Visit orphanages and taking gifts and Dorcas, translated from Tabitha, was a clothes for the young ones. It is also a time of fellowship with one an- Christian woman of Joppa, who was a great • Visiting safe homes for the abused other. friend and helper of the poor. Apostle Pe- women. ter raised her from the dead, an event that • Organize a talent day, where members This year the young people of our Diocese greatly accelerated the spread of the Chris- may showcase their handwork and graced us with their talent, by acting out the tian message (Acts 9: 36 – 42). articles are then sold to raise funds for life of Dorcas, and it was enjoyed by all. the AWF. The funds are then distributed On this day all AWF members are urged to needy homes. - Lucille Henniker to organize an activity to show the kind of Diocesan President George Bisdomlike Anglikaanse Vroue Vereniging Vier Dorkasdag

Om aan te sluit by hierdie tema, was ons tema Afdeling B – Brei ‘n kussing waar die vroue meeding wie die meeste geld in- vir die Dorkasdagviering 2015 - “Staan vas in Afdeling C – Hekel ‘n koekdekseloortreksel samel asook ‘n Mjekelo. Elke tak bring ook by die Here” (Fillipense 4:1) Ons vier Dorkasfees (patroon was voorsien) so ‘n geleentheid kruideniersware en klere wat elke jaar in September. Dit is ‘n dag waarna die Afdeling D – Stokperdjie geskenk word aan die gasheertak wat dit weer vroue die hele jaar na uitsien, want dit is hier (enigiets van gebak tot versamelings) aan die behoeftiges in hul gemeenskap besorg. waar die vroue hulle talente en gawes kan ten Hierdie jaar 2015 was vir ons ‘n genotvolle dag. toonstel. Ons begin hierdie dag met ‘n banierop- Elke afdeling het dan ‘n eerste, tweede en derde Die AVV van St. James in Knysna, het ons op tog en die Heilige Kommunie. Elke jaar word prys. Elke wenner ontvang ‘n skild waarop ‘n uitstappie geneem na die Knysnabos. Dit was handwerk uitgestal, maar elke tweede jaar is die tak se naam gegraveer word. Vroue word vir baie vroue ‘n belewenis. daar ‘n handwerkkompetisie. Die Uitvoerende aangemoedig om nie net op Dorkasdag met Bestuur stel ‘n program op waar die handwerk handwerk te kom spog nie, maar om hul ge- Dorkasdag verenig ons vroue werklik in gebed, in verskillende afdelings verdeel word. Die meenskap daarmee te dien. Al kan ons nie klere diens en liefde. handwerk vir 2015 was as volg ingedeel: maak soos Dorkas nie, sien baie van die AVV Afdeling A – Naaldwerk (maak ‘n voorskoot vroue om na die behoeftiges in hul parogies. Elke - Susan Williams – George Bisdom van ‘n ou jeans se agterkant en versier dit) tweede jaar het ons ook ‘n debutante kompetisie Christmas 2015 “Women destined for God’s Purpose” Page 5

DORCAS TO DAY IN THE are commanded to care for God’s creation. for Christ’s sake. All praise, then, to the nee- 1 Peter 4:10-11 As each has received a gift, dle that represented practical benevolence use it to serve one another, as good stew- among the needy. The garments Dorcas cut The Diocese of False Bay held her annual ards of God’s grace: whoever speaks, as out and sewed represented Christian faith “Dorcas Today” in Worcester, Breedeval- one who speaks oracles of God; whoever in action. “I was naked and you clothed ley Archdeaconry on Saturday, 26 Septem- serves, as one who serves by the strength me,” said Jesus of those who clothed His ber 2015. The theme for 2015 was RE-USE, that God supplies—in order that in every- poor and destitute children. My prayer is RE-DUCE AND RE-CYCLE - the theme thing God may be glorified through Jesus that the members of the AWF will: was to raise awareness that we should be Christ. To him belong glory and dominion • be more aware of our own talents and use “caring for God’s creation”. Members were forever and ever. it to the glory of God by making and pro- encouraged to make items from used and viding garments and needs for the destitute recycled materials. Dorcas, among her good works made gar- in their respective communities. ments for widows and the needy of her • show our respect for the Creator by our This challenge was met with great enthu- church and community with her own lov- stewardship of creation. Care for the earth siasm … recycled glass, oddments of wool ing hands. is not just an Earth Day slogan, it is a re- and fabric, newspaper, plastic bottles, old quirement of our faith. We are called to pro- T-shirts cut up to make necklaces, tins from The question came to Dorcas as it did to tect people and the planet, living our faith canned foods and many other beautiful Moses when he felt he was not the man in relationship with all of God’s creation. items and crafts were created. to deliver Israel from Egyptian bondage, “What is that in your hand?” And Moses This environmental challenge has funda- The Lord has blessed the AWF members answered, “A rod” (Exodus 4:2). And that mental moral and ethical dimensions that in the Diocese of False Bay with so much rod became the symbol of delegated divine cannot be ignored. talent which was evident in the crafts and power. “What is that in your hand?” the items displayed. It brings to mind the fol- Lord asked Dorcas. She said: “A needle,” - Sandi Williams lowing scripture…Genesis 2:15 Humans and He took what she had and she stitched DIOCESAN PRESIDENT Page 6 Provincial Newsletter of the Anglican Women’s Fellowship

Dorcas with a difference in the

Dorcas, who ‘abounded in good deeds thing can grow from it. God gave all of us the Church of the Holy Trinity, Belvidere and gifts of mercy,’ was a charitable wom- special talents to honour and spread His in Knysna. We wish him and his family an, raised from the dead by St Peter. On name. Dorcas used what God gave her to everything beautiful for the future. He 26 September we, the Anglican Women’s continue His good works and we contin- was an inspiration to the AWF in ensuring Fellowship in the Diocese of Saldanha ued in her footsteps. that we remember our purpose as women Bay celebrated our biennial Dorcas Today of God. On 10 October 2015, we took this with a “twist”. From old to young, male and female event on the road with a similar day in joined in on activities. The mosaic and our Namaqualand South Archdeaconry. When women destined for God’s pur- cake decorating stalls were particularly Our sisters in Christ in the branches of pose get together, we change things and enjoyed and overflowed with partici- Citrusdal, Lamberts Bay, Clanwilliam, this was no exception. Our theme for 2015 pants. Inspiration and talents flowed Klawer and Lutzville joined in on all ac- was “When life gives you hands, make throughout the day. tivity and were encouraged to learn what handmade”. Different workshops were Mrs Susan Groenewald, co-ordinator of was presented. introduced and people could take part in the Bellville North archdeaconry, also needle work, mosaic and cake decorat- gave us a presentation on the making of It was indeed a beautiful and blessed ing. sleeping bags. The sleeping bags were event which was enjoyed by all. distributed to the homeless. The theme was inspired to teach or learn Your sister in Christ and woman destined a craft, which can be used to inspire oth- On the same day we said our goodbyes for God’s purpose. ers in our communities, paying it for- to our Chaplain, Father Jerome Prins. Fa- ward. Once a skill is acquired in life, any- ther Jerome will continue his journey at - Chrizenia vd Vent

Strategies for the

The Diocese of Mpumalanga held its AGM at in by our Bishop. The Diocesan and Parochial St Andrews, Siyathuthuka. We were blessed Executives were inducted and they commit- by the presence of our Liaison Bishop, Dr ted themselves to the work of the Lord. Revd Dan Kgomosotho, our Provincial Link Mrs Thandi Mtsweni shared a message from the Pamela Mntonintshi and the clergy. Book of Rev 3: 15-16.

The youth of Siyathuthuka entertained us. Mrs Mntonintshi shared highlights on the Members had an opportunity to rededicate Theme: “Women Destined for God’s Pur- themselves to the promises made at their in- pose” and emphasized that it be implement- duction. ed during the term. She also briefed us on the five Unit Committees and mandated that it The house of the Lord was filled with the Holy be implemented and reports be submitted Spirit. Our newly appointed Chaplain, Revd upon request. Thandi Mtsweni was introduced and sworn continues on page 7 Christmas 2015 “Women destined for God’s Purpose” Page 7

Diocese of Mpumalanga from page 6: Each member was encouraged to keep a file with all AWF cor- AWF in the Diocese of respondence and minutes for future reference. The President allocated each member of the Executive to a Parish for ease of coordination and implementation of programmes and appointed Natal celebrates leaders for the Unit Committees. The held their AGM at the Parish of St Luke, Woodlands, on 16 May 2015. All members undertook to strategize and draw up an action plan on the implementation of AWF programmes. The host Parish also celebrated their 10th Anniversary on the same day, so it was a double celebration. The “Special” AGM was the last - Ms Corney Jiyane of Bishop Rubin Phillip, as he retired later in the year. Bishop Rubin gave a very inspiring message.

The host parish did a skit with a very strong message. A lovely time of fellowship was had around a meal. Delegates travelled from far distances in KZN to attend.

Top Left: Bishop Rubin Phillip presided at his last AWF AGM before his retirement. With Miranda Lawrence, Chairlady of the host Parish St Luke Woodlands in Pietermaritzburg.

Bottom Photograph: Incoming President of the AWF Queen-Brenda Mnqayi (Left), Outgoing President Zodwa Mbongwe (Right)

Women Destined for God’s purpose Page 8 The Diocese of Mpumalanga Executive Members Contact Information: does it again

The ladies in the Diocese hood and Ms Margaret like home visits and visits Provincial President - Nana Khoza adhered to a call to Minis- Mazibuko as a Revd Dea- to hospitals/sick people. 38 Block H, Mhangela Street, try. The Diocese is much conist. We still have more Soshanguve, 0152 empowered in that dur- ladies to be ordained in The AWF ladies were up Cell: 082 447 9353 ing our gatherings we uti- the near future. in arms entertaining and Email: president@anglican lize our very own AWF feeding the congregation womensfellowship.co.za Priests to lead us spiritu- Our Priests participate with refreshments during AWF Provincial Office ally. fully in Prayer & Spir- the ordination service. ituality Committees, their 802 Pretorius Street Recently we witnessed guidance always leave a Watch the space; Mpuma- Arcadia the ordination of Mrs mark to the members. langa serves the Lord! vvvvvv Fikile Phaladi as a Priest in Charge for St Margaret They also assist in Bible - Thokozile Ngwenya Secretary - Pinky Madiehe of Scotland, Ms Them- Studies and guide the President 1112 Letlametlo Crescent, Block Dd beka Mabilisa into Priest- members to lead services Soshanguve, 0152 Cell: 082 744 2366 Email: secretary@anglican womensfellowship.co.za vvvvvv

Treasurer - Frances Dickson 22 United street, Westering Port Elizabeth, 6025 Cell: 082 843 2490 Email: treasurer@anglicanwomens fellowship.co.za vvvvvv

Stock Controller - Frances Dickson 22 United street, Westering Port Elizabeth, 6025 Cell: 082 843 2490 Email: treasurer@anglicanwomens fellowship.co.za The Revd Fikile Phaladi and the vvvvvv Revd Thembeka Mabilisa Stories & information for publication can be submitted to: The Editor – Jacoba Kleinsmith Editorial PO Box 38107, Pinelands, 7430 Cell: 083 9627 049 Dorcas was a woman with Email: [email protected] a giving heart, with a life entirely dedicated to the will of God. She gave her time and energy to those less fortunate. As women destined for God’s purpose, let us care and share and give generously whenever we can in the same way that God gave us His Son Jesus Christ at the First Christmas.

- Jacoba

Website: www.anglicanwomensfellowship.co.za