Cape of Good Hope District

184th Cape of Good Hope District Synod

2013-05-25T18:10:00.001+02:00

184th Synod Listening Committee Final Report .PDF Here and .DOC here
See photos of the synod here.

Download the blue book here.

Synod Blue Book...

2013-05-09T12:24:00.001+02:00

The Synod Blue Book can be viewed and downloaded here.

Thanks to our secretary of synod Rev Vincent Harry for all the hard work!

January Pastoral Letter

2013-02-14T09:55:00.005+02:00

Dear Friends,

Grace and Peace to you with the sincere wish for a wonderful, Spirit filled 2013!
Welcome back to all those who were able to take a break over the holidays, with the sincere hope that you are now well rested and energized for the exciting work of ministry. For those who held the fort, I trust that you too found some time for rest and recreation and some time with family and friends!

A very warm word of WELCOME to Brian Burger; Nkosinathi Geja; Simon Prins; Merika Nkwana; Thembinkosi Mpofu; Sanele Ncobeni; Solomzi Ralo; Jenni Sweet; Vuyisile Maseti; Xabiso Sebeni and Goodwill Masuku and their families who have moved into our district this year. We trust that you have already sampled the warm hospitality of the Methodist People in the Cape District and look forward to working alongside you in working towards the extension of God’s Kingdom in this beautiful part of the world.

Click here to download the .pdf document.

November / December Pastoral Letter

2012-12-07T08:43:00.000+02:00

Download the bishop's pastoral letter here.

We will include the full text on the website soon.

July - September Pastoral Letter

2012-10-10T19:17:00.003+02:00

(Printable version can be found here.)

Dear Friends

Grace and Peace to you with the trust that you are keeping well, and warm in the inclement weather we have been experiencing lately.

It certainly has been a while since I last wrote to you with so much happening both in the District and Connexionally. My sincere apologies for the lack of communication.

At our recent Connexional Executive and Conference our Presiding Bishop in his Sermons and Addresses invited us to reflect on the Theme: “Together a Healing Community”. In his opening devotions on the first day reflecting on Mark 2: 1-12 he suggested that we are not at the “Worst nor Best of times” even as portrayed in the historical context of this passage where despite healing happening, Jesus proclaiming Good News, there was suspicion, turning against each other and persecution. This can be seen even in Mark’s account of the Gethsemane event of the cutting of the ear where it’s not safe to mention Peter’s name as the disciple involved. Despite these conditions there were folks brave enough to open holes for healing – healing for God’s Mission. He invited us to become like the friends of the Paralysed man and urged us:

To be intentional in mentoring others to enable them to catch the Vision of a Healing Community – Of a Christ Healed Africa for the Healing of Nations.

To reflect the seriousness Jesus took with relationships to enable healing as portrayed in the story, for God’s Mission is not an individual game but a team effort.

To cut openings where there are difficulties and challenges and not be put off by them, so that we can become better than we are at the moment, to effect healing and transformation.

This was carried through in the Opening Address to conference reflecting on Jeremiah’s emotional and passionate call to God in Jeremiah 8: 18 -22 “Is there no balm in Gilead?” Again the PB reminded us powerfully that there is healing to be found in Jesus who holds the balm of Gilead and urged us to work together to effect healing. Please find attached this address or read it on our MCSA Website at www.methodist.org.za

Through these past few months in our travels through the district we have become aware that indeed this is not the worst of times, nor the best of times. There are many local churches and communities who have hearkened the call to become centres of healing, by offering space and making openings for God’s Mission and Healing to happen. A recent visit in the Fish Hoek Circuit left us encouraged and humbled at the generosity of God’s people in offering, time, talents and resources to various ministries which effect healing and transformation in the communities they serve. Ministries to those in prison, children, poverty stricken, mourning, for Spiritual Development and others are at the core of our churches in Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek, Ocean View, Muizenberg, Masiphumele and Tokai. This we celebrate. However there are also areas in our district of deep pain, hurt and of conflict filled with suspicion, mistrust and turning against each other sometimes with threats of violence which impacts negatively on our image as God’s Bride and our vision of being centre’s for healing. Lots of time, energy and resources has been spent to assist in finding resolution and healing. Your prayers in this regard will be deeply appreciated.

There is no doubt the Markan context described by our Presiding Bishop is no different to that we encounter in the World at the moment. The continued conflict in the Middle East especially Syria, Palestine and Israel, (Jenny Sprong a Minister in Durban is presently in Israel as part of an Ecumenical Peace Accompaniment Programme in Israel/Palestine, follow her journey on Facebook) the eminent American Presidential elections gaining momentum with all its shenanigans, the on-going European economic crisis are sure signs that there is need for healing in our world.

At home it is no different as the Marikana tragedy, National health and education crisis, Manguang Elective Conference and the on-going Violent Industrial and Service Strikes, coupled with the daily murder, rape and abuse of people in the gang infested townships all point to a context filled with suspicion, mistrust, anger, pain and hurt.

All of the above so similar to both the Jeremiah and Markan context described in our conference theme, should encourage, edge us on, inspire, convict and lead us to seek to become agents of Healing and Transformation in our churches, communities, country and world. It should encourage us to find and make openings to create space so we indeed become channels of God’s healing.

CONNEXIONAL NEWS

Heritage Indaba:

In August Sammy Muller and Alan Storey attended the First Connexional Heritage Indaba held in Durban which coincided with the 150th Commemoration of the Indian Mission. Three papers in the form of stories on our Western Cape Methodist Heritage were presented and Sammy appointed to represent our District on a Connexional Heritage task team. At this Indaba it was resolved to reclaim our Methodist Heritage to facilitate our Mission in the future.

Connexional Executive and Conference 2012:

The CE and Conference met in Swaziland from the 17th -23rd September reflecting on the theme: “Together a Healing Community” ably and graciously led by our Presiding Bishop, Rev Zipho Siwa who occupied Mr Wesley’s chair for the first time. His address to Conference as well as the Message to the Methodist People and other documents is available on the Connexional Website at www.methodist.co.za should you be unable to access this the district office may be able to assist you. Our District Facebook page also carries a photo album of the CE and Conference please check these out at www.facebook.com/capemethodist. Our Conference 2012 reps are finalising their report to the District and will circulate this soon.

The Connexional Executive sought to fulfil its mandate as it dealt with the administrative business accorded it in L/D 5.38 these included Unit Reports, Ministry Matters and Stationing.

Ministry Matters:

EMMU reported on the progress of 82 Deacon and Presbyter Probationers in Circuit and recommended the following:

The Ordination of 25 Ordinands at the 2012 Conference including Roland Beukes, Pam Ellwood and Sandile Kalipa.

The Ordination of 29 Probationers at the 2013 Conference including Zamani Sikupela, Moletsane Rapuleng and Bernice van Boom.

The continued training of 41 Students at SMMS

The acceptance of 20 Candidates for Ministry to commence training in 2013 at SMMS, including Lubabalo Quluba from Dumisani Circuit.

The SMMS report recommended the stationing of 22 Student Ministers as having completed their formational training at the Seminary. This is the second group who have completed the 3 year training programme and the first who have no Circuit work experience. The recommendation by the Seminary Council of Rev Dr Mvume Dandala as President of the Seminary was received and approved.

28 Ministers applied to Superannuate at the end of the year and these include Rev’s William Simons, David Newton and Richman Ngwanya (post conference) and the passing of ministers noted.

Tributes was paid in a subsequent moving Memorial Service to 15 Ministers and our former Lay President who had passed on since the last Conference which included 2 former Presidents of Conference Rev’s Fremont Louw and Khoza Mgojo, former Conference Secretary and SMMS President Ross Olivier as well as Geoff Preston, Freddy Abrahams, Ronald de Klerk and Cynthia Richards.

The secondment of Rev Dr Ruth Jonas to the Bible Society was approved as was the re – instatement of Mr Keith Benjamin.

The application to transfer into our Connexion of Rev Kyle Woodrow from the United Methodist Church was approved and the Rev Jenni Sweet’s permission to labour in our Connexion from Britain granted.

Stationing 2013: The Following Stationing Moves pertaining to our District was approved-

Moves into the District:

Brian Burger * – Boston (Bellville)

Nkosinathi Geja – Langa (Dumisani)

Simon Prins – Athlone (Dumisani)

Merika Nkwana – Aldersgate/Wesley (Heathfield)

Thembinkosi Mpofu – West Coast Peninsula (Cape West Coast)

Sanele Ncobeni – Guguletu (Bongani) (Student Minister)

Solomzi Ralo – Gateway (Cape Gateway) (Student Minister)

Jenni Sweet * – Southern Societies (Stellenbosch)

Vuyisile Maseti * – Khayelitsha 1 (False Bay)

Xabiso Sebeni – Khayelitsha 2 (False Bay)

Goodwill Masuku – Mbekweni /Wellington (Paarl Valley)

* Denotes Superintendent

Moves within the District:

Kyle Woodrow – Simon’s Town/ Ocean View (Fish Hoek)

Moira Prins – Oudtshoorn (Outeniqua)

Zamani Sikupela – Nyanga (Bongani)

Roland Beukus – Bishop Lavis/Bonteheuwel (Bongani)

Moletsane Rapuleng – Northern Societies (Stellenbosch)

Michael Lambaatjeen – Robertson (Breede River)

Moves beyond the District:

Sonwabile Vava – Tsomo Circuit – Queenstown District

Reuben Meyers – Upington Circuit – Kimberley, Bloemfontein and Namibia District

Cheryl Adams – East London Circuit – Queenstown District

Fikile Makananda – Butterworth Circuit – Queenstown District

Xolani Nomandla – Graff Reinet – Grahamstown District

Thembinkosi Fandaleki – Mount Frere Circuit – Clarkebury District

Hlanganisa Mbanjwa – Mbalisweni Circuit – Clarkebury District

As indicated earlier David Newton (Bellville), Richman Ngwanya (Pretoria) and Willie Simons (Helderberg) will superannuate at the end of the year.

Keith Benjamin will be stationed at Rehoboth in Namibia and Ruth Jonas will reside in the District.

Unit Reports will be covered in the Conference Report, but here are some highlights.

Some Conference Highlights:

Election of Pumla Msutu to the SMMS Governing Council.

Election of the following as Bishops:

Rev Sandi Dicky (Natal West District) 2013-2015

Rev Michel Hansrod (Cape District) 2014-2016

Visit and Address to Conference by the General Secretary of the World Methodist Council, Rev Ivan Abrahams.

The launch of the Swati Hymnal after ten years of labour, one of the contributors being Rev Thembinkosi Fandaleki.

The re-appointment of Rev Kenaleone Ketshabile to head the Mission Unit for a further 3years, 2013-2015.

The Bible Studies ably led by Rev Mvume Dandala who stood in for Rev Roxanne Jordaan who was hospitalized.

Amongst almost 30 Resolutions debated and received by Conference the following amongst others were approved:

The DEWCOM Document on the use of Stoles

That the 2010 directive in respect of Same Sex debate be extended for and additional period of 2years to 2014 to allow for on-going discussions in Districts using the resource booklet “In search of grace and truth”

The Structures Document was referred back to the Structures and Revisions Committee for additional work where there was consensus reached by a majority of Synods.

The extension by another year of the Moratorium on the Acceptance of Non-Itinerant Ministers to allow the continued evaluation of this category of Ministry.

The age restriction of Candidate over the age of 50 as of 2014-2015.

The adoption of the Discussion Document prepared by the HR Unit, for further discussion and report to Conference 2013.

The other Resolutions will be forwarded to Superintendents as soon as they become available.

DISTRICT NEWS:

The Young Women’s Manyano hosted their Annual Convention at Saldanha in August and elected Mrs Thini Ngonyama as their President Elect.

The District Wesley Guild was hosted at Fish Hoek last week for their Consultation and Vuyo Ngonyama was appointed as their Chairperson Elect.

Congratulations to all those who CELEBRATED significant events during the last 3 months with the sincere wish that they continue to experience the abundance of God’s Blessings upon their lives and families.

Our Best Wishes to the Following who celebrate in October & November:

09 October David Fidler

09 October Jan Erasmus

11 October Judith Afghan (Ralph wife)

11 October Peter Harry (Vincent child)

11 October Moletsane Rapuleng

12 October George Presence

14 October Ruth Jonas

14 October Warren Le Roux (Olivia child)

14 October Catherine Newton (David child)

14 October Sonwabile Vava

15 October Jabu Mnisi

15 October Hilton Petersen (Lynette husband)

15 October Jill Gribble (James wife)

16 October Erin Leigh Campbell (Gavin child)

16 October Daliwonga Kedama

17 October Romeo Pedro

18 October Thini Ngonyama (Vuyo wife)

20 October Darren Stewe (John child)

22 October Pete Taljaard

23 October Gerrida Howard (David wife)

23 October Sharon Williams (Mervin wife)

25 October Jesse Sasman (Mashna child)

26 October Elroy Kekana

26 October Zithe Williams (Mervin child)

27 October William Simons

27 October Stanley Grassouw

29 October Liwalethu Ngonyama (Vuyo child)

03 Nov Gerard Beukes (Roland child)

04 Nov Wendy Beck (John wife)

04 Nov Gabriel Nyonda (Moira husband)

05 Nov Ashlyn Southern (Ross child)

07 Nov Merkyle Williams (Mervin child)

10 Nov Rodney Baumeister

11 Nov Ralph Afghan

11 Nov Praylene Presence (George child)

11 Nov Rudyard Harrison

11 Nov wife of Napoleon Kok

11 Nov Stanley Russell

12 Nov Moira Nyonda

12 Nov Regardo Pedro (Romeo child)

15 Nov Sandy Sieborger (Andrew wife)

15 Nov Arthur Loans

17 Nov Kyle Beukes (Roland child)

17 Nov Mlibo Makananda (Thembinkosi child)

17 Nov Susan Ross (Derick wife)

17 Nov David Buwalda

19 Nov Anne Molyneux (Alan wife)

20 Nov Stafford Moses (Yvette husband)

20 Nov Barbara Moult (Terry wife)

22 Nov Valmae Beck (John child)

22 Nov Shantelle Lambaatjeen (Michael wife)

22 Nov Yolani Songelwa (Sheila child)

22 Nov Linamandla Zono (Kholly child)

24 Nov Kieron vd Laar (Debbie child)

25 Nov Sandile Kalipa

25 Nov Basil Murray

28 Nov Natalie Calder (Clive child)

29 Nov Catherine van Boom (Bernice child)

29 Nov Sibongile Mbanjwa (Hlnganisa wife)

29 Nov Joyce Alistoun (Raymond wife)

31 Nov Khothatso Rapuleng (Moletsane child)

Anniversaries:

14 Oct George and Diana Presence

17 Oct Romeo and Firita Pedro

02 Nov Rev and Mrs Napoleon Kok

06 Nov John and Debbie van de Laar

07 Nov Hlanganisa and Sibongile Mbanjwa

10 Nov Moletsane and Rebecca Rapuleng

13 Nov Michael and Rosemary Mackintosh

17 Nov Vuyo and Thini Ngonyama

23 Nov Steven and Melinda Lottering

24 Nov Kholly and Thandi Zono

Our Prayers and Condolences are extended to ALL those who lost loved ones during the last quarter:

Vincent and Mary –Lou Harry (Brother), Roland and Elsa Beukus (Dad), Xolani and Nolundi Nomandla (Brother), Cynthia Richards’ Loved ones, Mzi Jovuka (Grandmother),Gavin and Janet Campbell (Mom),Judy and Bill Simons (Dad),Deon and Sonja Seale (Mom).

We continue to uplift the following in Prayer for healing:

Stan Grassouw (Stroke), Louise Hazell (Surgery), Wendi Stewe (Surgery), Bridgette van der Merwe (Hospitalised recently), Brian Wilkinson (Stroke), Olive Green (Stroke), Pam Makananda (Surgery), Ronnie van Eck (Heart Condition), Pete Taljaard (Surgery), Meryl Preston (Surgery), Erica Bethke (Hospitalized) as well as many others in our congregations.

We celebrate the recent election of Canon Margret Vertue as Bishop of The False Bay Diocese and only the second Woman in the Anglican Church in Africa to be elected as a Bishop. Margret is a dear friend of our District.

The District Young Men’s Guild celebrates it Centenary this year and the District will be hosting its Annual Inkamyana this coming weekend at Langa in honour of this significant milestone. Langa Society will host its 80th Anniversary Celebrations at the end of October.

District Events:

02-03 November: Regional Bishop’s Meetings in Umtata

03 November: Marsh Children’s Home fête

07-09 November: District Planning Indaba

15-17 November: Bishop’s Retreat in Pretoria

22 November: District Ministers Farewell Tea and Communion

Manse News:

Our sincerest thanks to all for the many calls, cards and support during the recent passing of our Sister in-law. Tania after many weeks of agony finally saw her oncologist and surgery who declared her cancer free after an initial scare as a result of a mammogram. We Praise God for this Wonderful News!!!!! Tamia has to see a Specialist soon as there seems to be an inflammation of her arthritis diagnosed last year. Otherwise all is well despite the many absences from home and heavy work schedules of both Tania and I.

Kind Regards

Bishop Michel W. Hansrod

Methodist Response to the Education Crises in South Africa

2012-10-08T15:59:00.004+02:00

From the office of our Presiding Bishop:

I have been deeply concerned about the state education in South Africa especially the recent events with schools not having text books in Limpopo or children denied schooling due to political reasons in Northern Cape. While the system of education appears to be very stable in the other countries in the Connexion, it in South Africa that the schooling crises hits our children and especially children of the poor including from Methodist parents hardest. I further ask the Bishops/ministers/organisations and members from countries outside South Africa to do same reflection on the state of Education in each country and make recommendations and act appropriately.

You will recall that Conference in 2011 expressed itself very strongly leading to Education being adopted as a fifth pillar. Subsequently I set up an Education Task Team to reflect on the state of Education and how the church needs to respond noting the negative impact on our children. The team will continue to work on education issues and will advise me on possible approaches to be taken to engage government not only on addressing the crises but to keep government accountable. The team have come up with a preliminary framework for engaging in Education. The key elements identified were the issue of SIN, the absence of Godly presence accompanied by the lack of a strong prophetic witness. Further there is a need to recognise that the Church is the only vehicle which can address the Moral issues and needs to regain and stamp its God given authority in this regards as it appears that the churches sold its “birth right” in relation to Education.

The challenges faced by the schooling system includes: the closing of training colleges; children cannot count and read properly; the South Africa teachers not well equipped with too many restrictions placed on them.

Some of the consequences identified included: low morale of scholars and questionable moral fibre of some of the teachers; where religious education has been replaced at our schools with life orientation which does not provide any solid grounding; for education to be proper, it should be taking place at home, at schools and the church; no books in schools which impact negatively on learning.

The Education Task Team has put forward the following possible actions for reflection on which the Church should address with government:

· The need for prayer in Education

· Establishing chaplaincies in schools

· Establishing more institutions of learning which may include schools, colleges and possibility of even setting up a Methodist University

· Every child must receive quality education

· The restoration of a Godly presence in our schools which include the spiritual strengthening of Methodist teachers

· Re-introduction of 1^st Sunday in February as Education Sunday

· Possible modes of interventions include: reading rooms; use of retired teachers; taking care of the needy children and the need to address those who seems to stay are in “ the back of the queue” even after our political liberation in 1994

· Possible Quick wins proposed are: every teacher be on time every day; every teacher come prepared to teach no matter how experienced they may be; all churches provide back up and morality; that we as Methodists start to “doing” than merely Just “existing” for our children.

It is my humble view that we as Methodists start engaging on these matters and provide feedback on your thoughts. You may direct your comments to; The Convenor of the Education Task Team, Rev Professor Stephen Hendricks at stephen.hendricks@up.ac.za or fax to 012 354 2071.

God Bless youZiphozihle Siwa

Presiding Bishop

"Together, a healing community"

Bishop's Pastoral Letter - May 2012

2012-06-06T07:45:00.000+02:00

You can download a .pdf of the letter here.

27^th May 2012

Dear Friends

Grace and Peace to you!!!

Warm Christian greetings to you, with the sincere wish that you are keeping warm, now that winter has arrived, despite the sniffs, colds and general uncomfortability.

In our Christian calendar we have entered the Pentecost Season in which we celebrate the birth of the church as recorded in our lessons this past Sunday. We celebrate the outpouring of the promised One on the group of people who had gathered in Jerusalem on that first Pentecost Day and in the manner in which the Spirit who had been present from the creation story now poured out dramatically upon them, transformed and changed their lives irrevocably. From the Gospel readings we know, that in particular, those first disciples were a timid, fearful, unconfident and scared bunch. On the day of Pentecost, however, they were transformed into a fearless, confident and energetic group who took the world by storm and turned it upside down. They began to challenge the systems and rulers of the day, both the spiritual and political orders and agitated for transformation and change, where previously they were

spectators to what Jesus had done, they were capitulated onto the centre stage and became healers and transformers. They became prophets, visionaries and dreamers empowered by the Holy Spirit. Many of them became martyrs for the sake of the Gospel as the Spirit continued to empower them as they took Jesus’ message to the corners of the earth and established His church wherever they went. I pray that we too during this Pentecost season may experience a fresh outpouring of God’s Spirit to enable us as ordinary men and women, young and old to become the transforming presence of Christ in the world. I pray that we as Peter quoting from the Prophet Joel in Acts 2 will become the prophets, visionaries and dreamers of this world to establish God’s Kingdom amongst us, even if it would make us seem odd and invite comments of probable drunkards as has happened on that first Pentecost. For the world, our country and our communities is in desperate need of Spirit filled prophets, visionaries and dreamers to help transform the chaos, pain, suffering and brokenness into the vision God has of transformation and healing.

Greece soon goes to the polls for their second run off in the midst of their on-going economic woes, whilst the rest of Europe is slowly showing signs of economic growth which will bode well for the rest of the world. The crisis in the Middle East took on a more cruel and inhumane turn with the senseless killings of women and children in Syria which as a church we have strongly condemned this past week.(See the PB’S press statement). The news that Liberian former president Charles Taylor and former Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak has been found guilty for crimes against humanity whilst in government should serve as sure signs to new leaders that the Arab Spring last year has ushered a new wave of dealing with despots and bodes well for the future. The recent announcements by Joyce Banda, the new president, of Malawi of her intention to repeal inhumane laws as well as streamline the government is to be celebrated and holds much promise for the people of Malawi as does the recent democratic elections in Lesotho for the people of Lesotho and the Southern African region.

The furore around the now infamous “Spear” painting in our country which briefly removed our collective national attention from the realities of our nation, should serve as fair indication of our need to address the issues of respect, dignity, freedom, equality, justice, diversity, tolerance and integrity all of which is enshrined in our Constitution. The events of the past few weeks have been sure indicators that all is not well in our country. From the use of the term “refugees” to young people’s racist tweets, the racial violence in Grabouw, the service delivery strikes in 4 major municipal areas in our province in 2 weeks, illegal mining in Namaqualand and the subsequent tragedy, continued gang violence on the Cape Flats, the on-going Mdluli saga all of these point to the fact that something has gone horribly wrong. During this past week as we “celebrated” Child Protection Week, we continued to be confronted with the awful realities of how our children in this nation have been brutalised, abused, dehumanised, abandoned and robbed of their innocence and dignity. It is the founding father of our new Democratic Nation, Tata Nelson Mandela who remarked “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way it treats its children.” What do these realities say about the soul of our nation? Is the soul of our nation in need of healing and transformation? Yes, however, I believe that as a Pentecostal People we can begin to make a difference but it will not happen if we remain silent and inactive, fearful and intimidated by its sheer volume. We need to be the change in our communities……we should not only be heard preaching the Gospel of healing and transformation we should begin to live the Gospel of healing and transformation.

In the midst of a week filled with robust debate necessary to discover who we are and where we should be, we recognise and applaud our Department of Science and Technology for winning the major share in the bid to host the World Square Kilometre Array project in South Africa with its other African Partners. This is by no means a small achievement, for if anything it can radically help shift the global perception of our continent as a stepchild with a begging bowl. The immediate response to a School crisis in Limpopo this past week, by many South Africans is to be celebrated and emulated where there is need.

Connexional News:

The people called Methodist has met in Synod’s throughout our connexion during May. We congratulate new leaders who have been elected and note the following significant appointments and offer our sincerest congratulations to them:

Queenstown: Bishop Elect – Rev Mthobeli Matyumza

Natal West: Bishop Elect – Rev Sandy Dickie

Natal Coastal: Vice Chair- Rev Linda Mandindi

Secretary – Rev Ansie Liebenberg

Grahamstown: Vice Chair – Rev Zamikhaya Tena

Secretary – Rev Pam Delport

Kimberly, Bloemfontein and Namibia: Secretary – Rev Kedibone Mofokeng

Some of these appointments are of course subject to conference approval later this year.

The Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary continues to deal with the aftermath of the sad and tragic passing of its President and a son of Methodism, Rev Dr Ross Oliver. An announcement will soon be made of the arrangements to fill the Presidency and applications invited. The sad reality of the circumstances of Ross’ death invites the Church to once again take seriously the issues of depression and general mental health amongst its clergy.

The recent visit of our Presiding Bishop, Zipho Siwa, our Gensec, Vido Nyobole and Mission Unit Director, KK, was indeed one the highlights of our year thus far as they met with, interacted, listened and prayed with us as a District. Thank you to all those who made an effort to attend the various gatherings and who hosted them at our various circuits and mission projects. Please continue to pray for our leaders as they seek to be true to their call to leadership in these difficult times.

Conference 2012 preparations are now in full swing and all venues confirmed in Swaziland. Please pray for our hosts as they prepare to offer us hospitality in September, a first for Swaziland!

District News:

A special thanks once again to the Outeniqua Circuit for their excellent hosting of our recent Synod. There are indeed many fond memories of our community spirit created on the bus journey and communal accommodation. These memories hopefully replace the ones of “sickness” when Synod was last held there some 16years ago.

Our Secretary, Vincent Harry needs special commendation for all his hard work, preparation as well as the conscientious and meticulous manner in which he guided us enabling us to complete our Synod business. Vincent is doing well following his mishap at Synod and will be receiving Physiotherapy as of this coming Friday.

Sadly one of our delegates, from Bongani Circuit who will be remembered for her flamboyant Russian fur hat whilst at Synod, Linda Alexander passed on some 24 hours after returning home.

Our sincerest thanks to all our Synod Committees, Management team and Synod delegates for all their participation and hard work in ensuring a “good synod”

Congratulations to Derrek Ronnie from the Wynberg Circuit who was elected as our new Lay Leader for the term 2013 – 2015, as we celebrate the ministry of Judy Simons who graciously and lovingly served our District with profound wisdom, dedication and commitment over the past 6 years.

The Resolution on the Work of God is accessible on both our Facebook and Webpage, as are some photos of the Synod.

Arlene has returned back to work last Friday following her maternity leave as we bid farewell with much thanks to Marlene, who stood in for her the past 4 months.

Pastoralia:

Our prayers and thoughts are with the following who are not Well:

Stan Grassouw

Brian Wilkinson (recovering from a slight stroke)

Clive Parsley (surgery on his eye)

Pam Ellwood (recovering from surgery)

Christina Cawood (surgery on her elbow)

Jean McKaig

John Stewe

Merryl Preston’s Mom

Lost loved ones:

Gerhard Green (sister)

Jabu Mnisi (brother)

Vuyelwa Ntshinga and her husband Thanduxolo (their son)

Steven Lottering (Step dad)

Congratulations to:

Philisande Didiza who was married on 28^th April to Nanda

Moira Prince who was married on 26^th May to Gabriel

Cecilia Baker who recently became a great grandmother

Welcome to:

Darry Hackland and Napoleon Kok who has moved into our district as Supernumeraries.

Our Best Wishes to All those who celebrated significant moments in May and those who will be celebrating in June:

Birthdays:

May:

· 01 May – Adrian Goliath (Mabel child)

· 03 May – Michel Hansrod

· 03 May – Khantshe Rapuleng (Moletsane child)

· 09 May – John Clarke

· 10 May – Maurice Fearns

· 11 May – Mzi Jovuka

· 12 May - Steven Lottering

· 12 May – Sheila Songelwa

· 13 May – David Howard

· 14 May – Lee-Ann Maregele (Derick child)

· 14 May – Melanie Moses (Yvette child)

· 14 May – Owen Calverley

· 16 May – Maureen Graham (Gavin wife)

· 18 May – Yvette Moses

· 18 May – Derick Ross

· 18 May - Kholly Zono & wife Thandi Zono

· 19 May – Thanduxolo Ntshinga (Vuyelwa husband)

· 19 May – Megan Forster (Dion wife)

· 20 May – Bahle Ndlanzi (Wandile child)

· 20 May – Olufefe Zono (Kholly child)

· 21 May – Nolundi Nomandla (Xolani wife)

· 21 May Bryce van de Laar (Debbie child)

· 23 May – Saphne Muller (Samuel child)

· 24 May – Luvuyo Mhlongo (Nomvuyo child)

· 27 May – John Stewe

June:

· 02 June – Senobia Kekana (Elroy wife)

· 02 June – Lorraine Mannie (Rennie wife)

· 02 June – Charles Murcott – Jean Husband)

· 02 June – Patricia Van Eck (Ronald wife)

· 04 June – Tyla Lottering (Steven child)

· 05 June – Ayanda Vava (Sonwabile wife)

· 06 June – Sindiswa Fandaleki (Thembinkosi wife)

· 06 June – Bridget van der Merwe

· 08 June – Fikile Makananda

· 08 June – Barbara Attwell (Timothy wife)

· 10 June – Mabel Goliath

· 11 June – Roselie Laughton (Julian wife)

· 14 June – Siyasanga Gura (Fumanekile child)

· 16 June – Anele Bonoyi

· 17 June - Vincent Harry

· 17 June – Ryan Southern (Ross child)

· 18 June – Angus Kelly

· 22 June – Barbara Muller

· 23 June – Patric Engelbrecht

· 23 June – Kwakuhle Vava (Sonwabile child)

· 23 June – Danielle Williams (Mervin child)

· 23 June – Colin Kain

· 24 June – Jean Murcott

· 24 June – Olokholo Nomandla (Xolani child)

· 25 June – Noluvo Gura (Fumanekile child)

· 25 June – Otto Ntshanyana

· 25 June – John Senekal

· 27 June – Josh Afghan (Ralph child)

· 29 June - Flavia Buttner (Andre wife)

· 30 June – Nathan Buttner (Andre child)

· 30 June – Lethu Ntshinga (Vuyelwa child)

Anniversaries:

May:

· 03 May – Michael & Shantelle Lambaatjeen

· 08 May – Wandile & Maria Ndlanzi

· 22 May – Roland & Elsa Beukes

· 23 May – Jabu & Lindiwe Mnisi

· 24 May – William & Carol Simons

· 27 May – John & Wendi Stewe

June:

· 18 June – David & Daryl Newton

· 23 June - Ermal & Jenni Kirby

· 29 June – Sonwabile & Ayanda Vava

District Diary:

· 16 June – District Youth Day Celebrations – Tygerberg Circuit, Ravensmead Methodist Church

· 20 June – District Ministers Fellowship – Marsh Chapel

Stationing:

Appeals are once again made to all Ministers and Circuit Stewards to kindly respect and observe the processes and protocols of our church in this regard. The District Stationing Committee will be meeting a week prior to the Preliminary Connexional Stationing Meeting in July it may be in the best interest of ALL Circuits to be present.

Circuit Conflicts:

Conflict can be healthy for growth and development; however, it needs to be managed very carefully. We are concerned though at the high level of Conflict in our District at the moment. Please pray for our various listening and mediation teams as they work alongside a number of circuits to find resolution to the differences experienced in these circuits.

Furlough:

I will be on the first leg of my furlough from Monday 4^th June until Monday 2 July. During this time our Vice Chair, Rev Yvette Moses, will be acting as Bishop.

Yvette will be in the office for consultation on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11:00am and 3:00pm.

Whilst officially back from leave and contactable via cell on the 3^rd July, I will be out of the District until the 12^th July attending various meetings and events between Johannesburg and East London, during this time Rev Vincent Harry will be our Liaison Bishop for any pastoral emergencies.

Bishop’s Blog:

The past two months have been hectic in the Hansrod household, with the PB’S Visit, District Conventions, Synod Preparations, Connexional Meetings, my Mom being hospitalised in Joburg and Tania having Whole School Evaluation (Inspection). Through God’s grace and your prayers and support we survived. We look forward to my furlough which I will spend at Stellenbosch University for their winter School in the first week and then some holiday with family in Joburg to celebrate Tamia’s 6^th Birthday.

Thank you for all the well wishes extended to me on my recent Birthday as well as for your confidence expressed in me during the recent election for Bishop, for the term 2014 – 2016. I continue to covet your prayers and support and will seek to serve as a Servant Leader to the best of my ability.

Much Love, Blessings and Strength in all you do as we together seek to extend God’s Kingdom in this District.

Warm Regards

Michel Hansrod

183rd Synod of the Cape of Good Hope District

2012-05-22T11:07:00.000+02:00

If you would like to download the 'Resolution on the Work of God' in .doc form please click here. Please share it with your congregations this coming Sunday.

An audio recording of the Bishop's address is also available here.

For photographs etc please look in at our facebook site www.facebook.com/capemethodist (you don't have to 'sign in' to facebook to see our page).

Also note out mention in 'The George Herald.'

To read the full text of the listening committee report on the website just click the link below to expand it into view.

DISTRICT SYNOD 2012

LISTENING COMMITTEE REPORT

Travelling together from throughout the district, the members of the 183^rd Synod of the Cape of Good Hope District descended upon the Outeniqua Circuit to continue our theme, “God’s Table of Grace – A Table for All”.

We were conscious of and heard four themes throughout our Synod.

1. Inclusivity

From the outset we were drawn into a spirituality of inclusion when the traditional Roll Call of Synod was experienced in a deeply personal and moving spirit-filled moment as all were included and affirmed.

The theme of Synod was exemplified in the manner in which Bishop Hansrod led us, clearly illuminating each step so that all felt included and were able to participate meaningfully. Special moments of inclusivity were experienced as children participated in the lighting of the candle at the Ordinands’ Witness Service to the presentation of the Mickey Mouse Creche, who travelled all the way from Oudtshoorn to enthral us. The participation and inclusion of a mentally differently-abled (uphaza miseke engqondweni) person at our service at Thembalethu was a special public expression as we were reminded of God’s spirit present in all.

Synod encountered a spirituality of inclusion in each session and a real awareness of God’s presence pervaded all our discussions as each moment was prayerfully approached.

Our Bible Studies, capably led by Rev. Pumzile Mabizela, drew us to scriptures informing us of Jesus’ proclamation and practice of an inclusive Kingdom. This was substantiated in the Bishop’s address to Synod where he invited us to have “larger banqueting tables” so that all may be included.

The presentation of Child Care Ministries and the beautiful prayer of Mrs Judy Simons helped us hear the call that children be included more intentionally in our life.

Synod was ably and smoothly led through the previously onerous task of tackling resolutions as a result of clear preparation and succinct presentation.

2. Community and public witness

We were wonderfully welcomed and the multi-purpose George Society sanctuary, the gracious hosts and the use of modern technology all facilitated a meaningful, inclusive Synod. The journey together by bus and the residential nature of Synod facilitated community.

The Ordinands’ Witness Service in the Thembalethu Methodist Church on Ascension Day was a wonderful public witness in the community.

We encountered a holy moment as an HIV/AIDS test was undertaken by one of our ministers in our Synod sanctuary which encouraged us to continue to be a public witness in our communities deeply affected by HIV/AIDS.

Synod heard of the difficulties encountered by some of our mission and children’s ministry projects and were encouraged, despite trying circumstances, of their powerful public Kingdom witness.

3. Celebration

Synod celebrated a number of special moments. The recommendation to Conference that Revs Pam Ellwood (PTNINS), Roland Beukes and Sandile Kalipa be ordained; the acceptance of one candidate, one Biblewoman and two Evangelists; and the re-instatement of Rev. Keith Benjamin, all to be ratified by Connexion, were moments of hearing God’s call being celebrated.

The re-election of Michel Hansrod as our Bishop for the period 2014 – 2016, subject to Conference, celebrated his ministry as our chief shepherd and affirmed God’s call upon his life.

We were grateful for the work of Mr Trevor Peterson and re-elected him as our District Treasurer.

Synod celebrated the servant leadership of Mrs Judy Simons as she completed six years as a Lay Leader in our district, having served with distinction and great humility. Mr Derrick Ronnie was elected as our District Lay Leader for the period 2013 – 2015.

The ministry of Rev. William Simons was acknowledged and celebrated as he applied to Conference to superannuate at the end of 2012.

Synod heard the reports of the various women’s organisations in the district and celebrated the wide work of service and support for the local church through these organisations.

Our statistics reflected a membership of 52 503 Methodists in the district, an increase of 1 200 members.

Numerous expressions of God’s grace at work and God’s light shining in the world were celebrated in the many mission projects throughout our district. Bishop Hansrod highlighted some of these amazing gifts to the communities they serve, and we were encouraged and challenged to continue to be faithful to our call to be a “Table for All”.

4. Challenges

Synod was challenged in many areas. We were challenged to ensure that we include those often excluded from God’s table of grace.

The Mission and Extension Fund received 52% less in 2011 than in 2010. This drastically curtails our support of mission work and projects in our district. We were challenged to increase our income in order to support the vital work of God happening in and through these projects and circuits. An average amount of R 120 per member in our district would meet all the needs of the struggling circuits and mission projects. Societies and circuits were encouraged to request members to respond. Ministers were reminded to make the Mission Appeal DVD available.

We were challenged to keep a more faithful boundary between church and state and to continue to give expression to our prophetic role. We recognised the need for the church to be a prophetic and moral witness in our communities.

Another challenge before Synod was the need to be more conscious of the imbalances that exist and the continued exclusion of young people and women. Synod continues to nominate and vote predominantly for males to positions of leadership.

Synod gave specific time and space to those who are often not heard in Synods. The Bishop challenged us to allow for a meaningful engagement in our churches with those often not heard.

Social upliftment programmes are evidenced in the district but there remains a challenge for us to work towards the alleviation of poverty and to face and deal with other social issues.

The large structural discussion document was dealt with both in small groups and plenary. Concerns were raised regarding various aspects of the document. Synod agreed to send their responses to Conference, recognising that there were a variety of these. A strong call was also issued to Conference that consideration be given to a more deliberate and careful consideration of the process for more meaningful engagement.

As Methodists we were further confronted with our lack of presence at protest actions and marches challenging social ills and abuse of power. We were challenged to be more active in all social issues facing our world.

Synod finally went together into the various circuits and societies in this region of our district to worship God and encourage one another to follow Jesus Christ.

The 183^rd Cape of Good Hope Synod of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa is grateful to God for our sense of inclusivity, community and public witness as we celebrated God’s work through the people called Methodists in this district. Synod hears the challenges before us as we go from this place seeking to be faithful to God’s call and direction.

Mission and Extension Fund Appeal - R120!

2012-05-02T13:39:00.000+02:00

90 Second Video:

3.5 Minute Video:
At the 2011 Synod we saw a 52% drop in contributions to the Mission and Extension Fund. We hope that at the 2012 Synod we will be able to restore the fund with a collection of more than R420,000. According to our statistics there are 40 000 Methodists in the Cape of Good Hope District. To reach our goal we need an average contribution of R120. The money collected supports circuits that would not otherwise be viable and it supports skills training, feeding and other ministry projects that are desperately needed.

(Follow the link, on the web page you reach you will see a menu in the top left hand corner, click
FILE, scroll down to DOWNLOAD and click.)

Letter from our District Mission Secretary

English

Afrikaans

Xhosa

Short Mission Fund Appeal (1min 23seconds)

Download to insert in Windows Media Player / Powerpoint (.WMV format, 30 Megs)

Download as an M4V (Quicktime, iTunes etc, 29 Megs)

Longer Mission Fund Appeal (4min 30seconds)

Download as an .M4V (Quicktime, iTunes etc, 30 Megs)

Download to insert in Windows Media Player / Powerpoint (.WMV format, 80 Megs)

Or go to the folder at https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B2ASzAvukC5qUk1Td0tXblQyVGc

District Pastoral Letter February/March 2012

2012-03-30T10:55:00.001+02:00

Dear Friends

Grace and peace to you!!!

It feels like a long time since our last pastoral letter was distributed, our sincere apologies for the delay. I do trust that you and those whom you hold close to you are well.

Liturgically we are heading now to the final stages of our passion narrative with Palm Sunday this coming weekend and then Holy Week leading us in the Easter Weekend.

It is the most solemn, yet, most celebratory season in our Christian calendar for we are indeed an Easter and Resurrection people. Our readings over the next few days lead us from total and utter despair filled with much intrigue of hatred, conniving, desolation, darkness, hopelessness and ultimately a messy, grotesque death on a cross. However the narrative also leads us to a story of love, victory, light, hope and eternal life.

It is this message we will share over the next week that despite the hopelessness, gloom and death that overshadows our daily experiences that we have a risen Lord who reveals Himself to us as the One that has conquered sin and death on our behalf and sends us as He did Mary in Johns Resurrection narrative to tell that “He is Risen."

I trust that you will be richly blessed and filled with God’s Anointing as you lead God’s people over the next week or so and that similarly as we preach the Good News of Christ’s resurrection we may be challenged by Paul as he challenges the Corinthians in his explanation of the Resurrection to them in 1Cor 15:58 to Faithfulness, Diligence and Confidence.

The Presidential election primaries in the USA have once again highlighted the battle by the religious right in that country to control the state whilst the on-going economic meltdown in Europe remains a concern to the rest of the world. In Africa the effects of the Arab Spring are now been felt as new governments find their feet in returning their countries to democratic states and delivery to their people. The recent coup in Mali is once again a reminder to governments that unless people are treated humanely and justly by their leaders the unhappiness of their constituency will result in revolt.

Our presidents’ state of the nation addresses which sharply focused on infrastructure development certainly is a step in the right direction and one of the best addresses by the present government the telling of course will lie in its implementation. However the recent civil action through protests and violence in a number of communities throughout the country on serious issues around service delivery, e –tolling, the information bill and others should serve as a fair warning that all is not well in our country. The unfortunate and inappropriate remark by our Premier in the midst of the protest action in Grabouw and subsequent uproar is very telling of this warning to our leaders that unless they begin to deal with the real issues and challenges facing us economically and socially we may also be on the way to our own “Spring of Discontent”

Nearing the 20^th Anniversary of our new nation recent events has pointed to our refusal to deal with the “rotten fruits” of our new democracy which have become cornerstones of this new nation. The issues of racism, inequality, poverty, unemployment, corruption and nepotism are certainly going to be our undoing if they are not dealt with urgently and effectively.

Connexional News:

The District Bishop’s gathered in Maputo, Mozambique for their first gathering of 2012.These meetings also co –in sided with the Induction of the new Mozambique Bishop, Rev Dennis Matsolo. The warm welcome and hospitality afforded the Connexional leadership by the Mozambique’s is a cherished memory. The meetings held over three days were characterised by a freshness of spirit and open, frank and honest conversation on the issues facing our church at present.

Our Presiding Bishop, Zipho Siwa presided over the meeting with great warmth and graciousness and led in devotions on the first day reading from Mark 8:27 -38.In exegeting the text he commented that he saw this as a “survey” conducted by Jesus to ascertain the impressions people had of Him, a highlighting of the path the Messiah is to follow as well as a clear indication that Jesus had not lost His focus. From his observations of the MCSA since assuming the function of Presiding Bishop, he invited the Bishop’s and the leadership in general to reflect on the following questions as a form of survey:

Where are we going?
What is our focus?
What are the issues that take our eyes from the main focus?
What is God’s intention for the church?
How do we engage with the realities that confront us?
Do we have enough passion to take us to where we want to go?
What are we hoping for from our structures?

In conclusion he invited the meeting to re-imagine the future of the church and not to lose focus.

Updates on the mission and ministry were shared from the various districts pointing again to the fact that indeed God continues to work within the church despite the many issues and challenges facing it. It was most heartening to hear of the creative and meaningful mission projects happening throughout the connexion.

The Structures Committee presented a road map for the discussion on the structures document at our ensuing synods and again we were encouraged by the manner in which all levels of our church are grappling with the document. The conference decision to receive submissions from Synod’s only was re –emphasised whilst all districts were encouraged to ensure that Leaders Meetings, Circuit Quarterly Meetings, Organisation Conventions, Ministers Retreats, Lay Leaders Consultations and other structures were given opportunities to engage with the document and forward feedback to Synods to inform district responses to conference. The use of the church media via New Dimension, Facebook, Twitter and Facebook was commended as an additional and vital tool to encourage conversation.

Bishop Dinnis the local Bishop of the Anglican Church, former chair of the Council of Churches and a recipient of All Africa Council of Churches Peace Award led the meeting in a very challenging devotion on the second day. He based his devotion on Mark 4:3-9; 13-20 on the parable of the Sower. He reminded the meeting that as leaders we are called to be sowers of the Word and not to give up on evangelism but to persevere despite the limitations of the harvest. Our message he reminded us was to be found in our vocation to be peacemakers and encouraged us to take this message into the most basic spaces of people through the various means of communication now available.

Most of the second day was spent in Equipping the Bishop’s through a workshop lead by the General Secretary Vido Nyobole and the HR. unit leader Vukile Mehana. The topics dealt with were:

Managing Transitions
Guidelines for appointing superintendents and pastoral commissions
Responsibilities and Duties of Bishop’s
A discussion on the process of Bishop’s Performance Review was facilitated and agreed to for implementation.

Updates were received on the following:

Methodist Heritage Indaba and 150^th Commemoration of the Indian Mission:

The Indaba is to be held from the 16^th -19^th August at Koinonia Conference Centre and concluded with the celebrations at Lorne Street Durban.

The Indaba is to focus on gathering the stories of our Methodist Heritage in Southern Africa and ways in which to preserve this in partnership with civil society and government.

2012 Annual Conference:

The arrangements for Conference to be held in Swaziland in September are at an advanced stage despite the set-back experienced through the sudden passing of the chief coordinator Ms B Mkwanazi at the end of February. The conference is to be held at the Royal Swazi Hotel in Ezulwini with the theme, “Together a Healing Community”.

Ecumenical Affairs:

Bishop Vorster reported on the on-going financial difficulties of the SACC which led to the recent decision by the leadership to grant leave to all its employees to allow the SACC to secure funding. The Connexional Unit is also reorganising itself and each district was asked to participate in a survey to gauge Methodist involvement in the ecumenical movement, whilst a search for a leader for the unit is underway following the temporary appointment of Mvume Dandala last November.

Administrative Matters:

Rev Fred Cilliers has been appointed as the Principal Education Chaplain in an effort to bring together and hold accountable all chaplains in our Private Methodist Schools as well as begin a process to facilitate a Methodist Private Schools forum. Penryn College in Nelspruit celebrates its 20^th Anniversary this year and all Methodists are invited to join their celebrations.

Bishop Jonathan Anderson has been appointed as the convenor of DEWCOM following the secondment of Dr Wessel Bentley who acted in that capacity.

Education for Mission and Ministry:

There are at present 19 Candidates who will appear before synods this year whilst a possible 10 others are still to be screened.

Mission Unit:

The Mission Review undertaken by the unit is now in its second phase and the final document will be tabled at Conference later this year.

The morning of the third day of the meetings were spent with the people of Tchembeni at Ka Tembe as they celebrated the official opening and dedication of a New Church Building replacing an old informal structure.

The formal meetings ended with robust conversation on the appropriateness and relevance of our present Vision and Mission as the Methodist Church leading to a decision to extend the next Bishops Meeting by a full day to facilitate a wider and deeper conversation on this matter.

District News:

The convention season is upon us and we have received reports of good meetings for the Evangelism Order, the Women’s Auxiliary and Youth Synod. This weekend the Young Men’s Guild and Women’s Association meet in Worcester and Lotus River respectively. Our best wishes and congratulations to Judy Simons on her appointment as President Elect of the Auxiliary and Ernest van Sitters on his election as Youth Co-ordinator.

Our District prayer diary has proven to be a useful tool in our commitment to support and pray for each other. Gus however does report that some of us have been slow in sending our requests to him. May I encourage you to do so as a matter of urgency and to ensure that it is used in our prayers for the people/intercessory prayer each Sunday?

The Outeniqua Circuit are hard a work in preparing for Synod 2012 and most arrangements have been finalised. Our Synod sessions will be held at the George Church plant whilst our Communion and witness service will be held at Thembaletu. We will shortly be informing supers and unit leaders of the accommodation and transport arrangements. Our theme for Synod will be “God’s Table of Grace – A Table for All”

District Diary:

Maundy Thursday-Renewal of Ordination Vows: Thursday 5 March at 09h00at Marsh

Grant Allocation Committee: Thursday 12 April at 19h30 at Bergvliet

Far East Regional Structures Indaba: Sunday 15 April at 10h00-16h00 in George

Presiding Bishop’s Office Pastoral Visit: Monday 16 April to Friday 20 April –Various

Ordinards and Candidates School of Vocation-Synod Prep: Tuesday 17 April at 10h00

Tygerberg Circuit Staff Meeting: Tuesday 17 April at 10h00 in Parow

District Youth Pastors Consultation: Wednesday 18 April at 10h00 District Office

Cape West Coast Circuit Staff Meeting: Wednesday 25 April at 09h30 in Table view

District Management Meeting: Thursday 26 April at 14h00 at District Office

Bishop’s Advisory Committee: Thursday 26 April at 17h30 at Norton Hall

District Finance Committee: Thursday 26 April at 17h30 at District Office

District Wesley Guild Sports Weekend: Friday 27 April to Sunday 29 April - TBA

District Men’s League Convention: Friday 27 April to Sunday 29 April in Oudtshoorn

Pastoralia:

We remember the following that have had some huge challenges health wise over the last two months and continue to pray for healing for them:

Olive Green (Gerhard) a stroke

Jean Mc Kaig (John) hospitalised

Willie Simons – surgery

Stan Grassouw – hospitalised

Our sincere condolences to the following that have lost loved ones:

Romeo Pedro – Grandmother

Kholly Zono – Father

Patrick Engelbrecht – Grandfather

Thembinkosi Fandaleki – Niece

We celebrate with Leigh and Reighardt Swanepoel on the birth of the daughter at the end of February and extend our best wishes to them.

Our Best Wishes to all those who celebrated significant moments in their lives this past month as well as those who will celebrate in the next month!

Bishop’s Blog:

The last two months have been really hectic with me being away from home nearly every week however I remain grateful to God for the strength he affords me. Both Tania and Tamia are enjoying their two week break at the moment and are doing really fine. We are looking forward to my furlough break after synod this year.

Every blessing to you all!!!

Much Love

Yours in Christ’s Service

Michel Hansrod

Children in Need of Care and Protection

2012-03-16T18:57:00.000+02:00

Are you interested in helping the Cape Child Care Desk discover a vision for our work amongst “children in need of care and protection*?"

Join us for a visioning exercise led by Rev Chris Ahrends an organisational Development Facilitator

Saturday 14 April

08h30 – 12h30

At Marsh Memorial Homes in Rondebosch

RSVP by Monday 3 April 2012 for catering to

Rev. Kevin Needham: District Mission Secretary - 021-715 3045 revkev@bmchurch.org.za

Steven Moolman: Principal (Marsh Memorial Homes) 021-6899301 steven@marshmemorial.org.za

Eddie Cyster: Principal (Heatherdale Children’s Home) 021- 6965116 eddie@heatherdale.org.za

* (This is not about Christian Education or Youth Work)

Easter Christian Dance Festival

2012-03-12T16:11:00.000+02:00

The Bellville South Methodist Church - in collaboration with their Wesleyan Christian Dance Group - will be presenting an Easter Christian Dance Festival on Good Friday, 6th April at 16:30 for 17:00 - 18:30

Venue at the Sport hall, CPUT, (Belville Campus) - off Modderdam Road to Symphony Road.

Come and join us as we celebrate this year's Easter Time with various Christian Dance forms of praise and worship using hand worship and also different dance equipment like tambourines, flags, and canopies - a new form of worship.

Dance groups hail from Bellville South, Table View, Kraaifontein, Athlone. The entry fee is R50.

Tickets may be obtained from the Church Secretary - Anthea le Keur at - 072 988 0448 / 021 951 5058 on a Monday and Thursday between 09:00 and 13:00.

Or contact Sharon Rasmus at 084 443 2977.

Documents on www.Methodist.org.za

2012-02-27T08:51:00.002+02:00

Although we upload documents to our 'Downloads' page from time to time; you might find the documents you're looking for at www.methodist.org.za; the Connexional website.

There you will find yearbooks by chapter, the children's policy document, 4S and 4C forms and various other useful resources.

District Prayer Diary

2012-02-23T12:45:00.003+02:00

Under the 'Prayer Diary' tab on our home page you can view our district's 'Prayer Diary'. The idea of the prayer diary is that every Sunday each society in the district will have an opportunity to pray for one of the circuits, organisations or offices in our district.

If you are a Circuit Superintendent, or the leader of one of our District Organisations why not submit your prayer requests via the link provided on the page?

There is also an option to subscribe to the prayer diary and receive notice via email every Monday. If your society publishes weekly notices it would be a good idea for the person who publishes the notices to sign up!

Daily Worship

2012-02-21T22:30:00.000+02:00

Looking for an online resource for your daily devotions? Why not come to www.capemethodist.org and click on the 'Daily Worship' tab; Rev John VanDeLaar, author of www.sacredise.com has shared his resources with us.

"Wild Womb" Wilderness Spirituality Retreats

2012-02-20T08:51:00.001+02:00

Wilderness Spirituality is a return to an important dimension of Biblical Spirituality. It was especially in wilderness areas that individuals experienced God as the potter and they as the clay. It was in wilderness areas that some of the most profound encounters with God took place. It was precisely the very real human vulnerability in wilderness areas that humbled people into a state of awe and openness. Those who emerged as agents of God were often prepared for their role by spending time in the fierce landscapes of the wilderness areas of the Biblical lands. This applies to the people of Israel and individuals like Jacob, Moses, Elijah, John the Baptist and Jesus and many others.

Wilderness Spirituality is also an important movement today as we face the global environmental crisis. The environmental crisis that we face is essentially an ecological crisis because humans have forgotten that we are part of nature. In Wilderness Spirituality nature is not viewed as an object like visiting an animal in the zoo, rather you join nature, live in nature and immerse yourself in nature. At the heart of this is the reality and profound experience that we are part of creation, we share the same Father and Mother, and we can really know each other and bless each other. As Ian Mc Callum says “To understand wildness is to discover the thread that binds us to all living things.”

I continuously plan new dates for “Wild Womb” retreats: The next “Wild Womb” retreat is for women only (24^th to 26^th March 2012).

Men only “Wild Womb” retreat (20^th to 22^nd April 2012).

Let me know if you are interested at john@rosebankmethodist.org.za or 021-6863271.

The Programme is facilitated by Rev. John Wessels and includes:

· A 4 hour hike on two days carrying your supplies.

· Spending one night together in a cave or cedar ‘forest’.

· Solo Time (Spending 24 hours on your own. Solo Time includes fasting.)

· Lots of time for silence

· Group sharing (when it is a women’s only retreat my wife Angela Wessels, a trained counsellor, facilitates the Group Sharing. I am not present during times of group sharing.)

COST is approximately R600 per person including Park fees and meals.

Travelling costs will be additional.

“It is a wholesome and necessary thing for us to turn again to the earth and in the contemplation of her beauties to know of wonder and humility.” (Rachel Carson)

Lent Resource: "Living in the Promised Land" by John Van De Laar

2012-02-10T12:27:00.000+02:00

For Holy Week to have a formative impact requires effective spiritual preparation. This is the purpose of Lent.

Lent remains a powerful journey of penitence, spiritual discipline and preparation for the Holy Week experience. As such, it requires nearly as much creative energy as Holy Week, but over a more extended time.

For busy pastors and liturgists, sustaining a creative, transforming and spiritually challenging journey can be very difficult. That's why Sacredise is proud to offer this resource - Living in the Promised Land - based on the Revised Common Lectionary readings for Year B.

Living in the Promised Land provides:

Sermon-based commentaries on the Old Testament and Gospel passages for each week (including Ash Wednesday)
Theme-based liturgies for each week (including an ‘Imposition of Ashes’ rite for Ash Wednesday and a specially written Service of the Table which can be used on any week where the Eucharist is celebrated)
Hymn suggestions,
Small group guidelines, and
Graphics for projection software.

Any part of this resource may be freely photocopied or distributed within a single local church for congregational use.

Click Here to purchase this resource; also see Johns weekly lectionary resources (which are FREE) here.

Home Page / Notices

2012-02-10T11:37:00.000+02:00

If you have news / notices / events that you would like to advertise to the District please pass them on to the bishop's office for inclusion on this page of the website. To make them interesting please include a photograph and a paragraph or two of text.

Downloads

2011-11-15T15:47:00.000+02:00

The Capemethodist.org page is a work in progress; but here is a reminder to have a look at our 'downloads' page where you can find a copy of our District Diary for 2012; the Law and Discipline of the Methodist Church (in pdf form); and an outline of the stationing procedure to be followed by circuits and districts in the invitation of ministers. (You can also find excel versions of the 4S and 4C documents used in our accounting.)

Presiding Bishop Pays his Respects to the Sisulu Family

2011-06-05T07:01:00.000+02:00

Bishop Ivan Abrahams

The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, Rev Ivan Abrahams has visited the Sisulu family to pay his respects and express the deepest condolences of all the Methodist people in Southern Africa at the death of Mama Albertina Sisulu last night.

“The Methodist family is deeply saddened by the loss of such a great leader and amazing example of selflessness,” he said.

The people called Methodists stand in prayer with the Sisulu family at this time of loss but also celebrate the rich and full life that Mama Sisulu led, as well as embrace the heritage that she leaves behind for all South Africans.

The Resolution on the Conversation on the Work of God

2011-05-21T16:19:00.000+02:00

Methodist Church Of Southern Africa
Cape Of Good Hope district
182^nd Synod 2011, Table Bay Circuit

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The 182^nd Synod of the Cape of Good Hope District convened on the 18^th – 20^th May 2011 at the Kensington Methodist Society within the Table Bay Circuit. Meeting under the theme of , “ A Place for All at the table”, it was most appropriate that we met in the shadow of the majestic Table Mountain on the shores of the birthplace of Methodism, in around 1806. It was symbolic that this Synod was also chaired for the first time by our new District Bishop, Bishop Michel Hansrod.

The Synod was officially opened on Wednesday 18^th May with a moving Witness Service where two new ordinands, the Reverends William Simons and Nomsa Nomqolo gave telling testimonies of their spiritual journeys and ultimate response to God’s calling on their lives into the office of Word and Sacrament. Their testimonies were preceded by the symbolic lighting of the Synod candle by Ayanda Bonoyi, a young child from our District. The Candle symbolising the presence of God in the midst of our Synod. The candle remained lit during the entire session of this Synod and at the closure of Synod was handed the host of our next Synod.

The Bishop’s charge to the ordinands offered a constant reminder that they need to remember where they came from, who they were now and most importantly whose they are. He further reminded all of us as the congregation to act in a manner that is foolish in the eyes of the world as we create a table for all. What was evidently clear was that we should never forget that Christ is the host of the table and our ministry must reflect this. Preaching from 1 Corinthians 1, with particular reference to verses 26 -27, again reminding us to recognise our divisions and work towards eradicating this as we create a place at the table for all. Synod also affirmed candidature to word and sacrament of Mr Johann Breytenbach and Mr Mazwenkosi Nomx’ega.

A very thought-provoking Bible study by Dr Donald Katts ushered in day 2 of the Synod. Under the theme, “the Lord’s Supper – A Table for all, he introduced us to the various elements of the Lord’s supper and the relevance thereof. A very lively discussion followed focussing on what are the hindrances that prevent the Lord’s Supper being a table for all?, What have we heard that provides new insights into our understanding The Lord’s Supper as a table for all? The Lord’s table should be a place of memory, hospitality, human dignity, solidarity and a theology of brokenness. It is the broken who can become wound-healers. Our sin makes equal in front of God. His closing statement epitomised our oneness, The Lord’s Supper has been a table for all, is a table for all and will be a table for all.

The District Bishop’s address to Synod led us through the history of our church since arriving on the shores of the continent of Africa. We were reminded of the errors of the past that has caused divisions at the table and offered the challenge that maybe we have forgotten whose table it is. Given the challenges facing us we were reminded that the winds of change are blowing through Africa and this will impact our Church. Acknowledgement was also given to the sterling and selfless work done by one of our church fathers, Mr “Polly” Slingers. He almost single-handedly ensured the proper management and continued usage of the property at Wesley College in Salt River.

The conversation on the Work of God was facilitated as we gathered at round tables identifying the key mission priorities of the District. Amongst these priorities was the call for a renewed focus on children, to once again become the prophetic voice and to be instruments of wholeness and healing as we deal with issues of substance abuse, domestic violence and HIV/Aids.

Two very telling presentations, one by a wheelchair user, Yolanda Fredericks and another by a spokesperson for the Zanokhanyo Project, gave an indication of the movement within our church as we strive to make a place at the table for all. The presence of a mobile clinic offered delegates the opportunity to have themselves tested for their HIV status. Along with this testing delegates were able to have their blood pressure and Glucose levels tested. We commend the efficiency and professionalism displayed by those doing the testing.

The election of the Presiding Bishop was one the highlights of the Synod as we solemnly discerned the will of God for the people called Methodists. Although there were three ballots one got a sense of the presence of the Holy Spirit as we went through our deliberations. The Rev Zondo Siwa was elected as the new Presiding Bishop. As a Synod we were able to celebrate the appointment of Rev Ivan Abrahams as the new General Secretary of the World Methodist Council.

A moving service of Remembrance for our deceased and those retiring was held. Family members of the aforementioned attended this service and were able to experience the tributes offered.

Mindful of the Synod theme, our business and times of worship clearly reflected the presence and awareness of the Holy Spirit as we strived to create a table that has a place for all. The debates and divergent opinions expressed were acknowledged with the acute awareness who is the host of the table.

Synod Listening Committee

20^th May 2011