Ceremony fosters unity and hope
Five sheep and ten chickens were slaughtered to provide a feast for worshippers
Philippi’s Father Raleni Brass Band charms the congregation
Peter Luhanga
The annual ceremony of thanksgiving and healing held by the St. Marks Apostolic Faith Mission in Witsands, Atlantis, drew nearly 100 congregants from across Cape Town and beyond on 1 and 2 June.
The event, cherished by the church’s members, was a vibrant celebration of gratitude, and a heartfelt plea for the healing of those suffering from various ailments.
The ceremony, rich in tradition and communal spirit, welcomed attendees from nine different church organisations. Some travelled from as far as Grabouw to join in the ceremony.
As part of the celebration, five sheep and ten chickens were slaughtered and cooked to provide a feast for the attendees. The communal meal symbolised the breaking of bread together and reinforced the bonds of fellowship.
A highlight of the event was the performance by the Father Raleni Brass Band, a talented group of about 20 young people who captivated the audience with their musical prowess. Dressed in military-style uniforms, they delivered a stirring repertoire that included trumpets, saxophones, and trombones. Their powerful and uplifting music echoed throughout the church and its grounds, creating a dynamic and celebratory atmosphere that resonated with everyone present.
The annual ceremony was a time of deep reflection and prayer.
“Every year, we set aside one day to thank God for prosperity and all we have achieved in praying and healing people. We do not hold a ceremony to slaughter animals every day, we do it once a year to thank God for helping us and healing those who are suffering. We pray for all people suffering from various ailments,” says Reverend Moses Matiso.
Matiso says his church is dedicated to helping the most vulnerable in the area.
Part of the church’s plan is to raise money through donations, or secure sponsorship to acquire a shipping container to be placed at the church’s temporary site, so that community members in need can gather and enjoy a hot meal prepared by the church.
“Churches should receive donations from those who can afford to give, and use the money to feed the vulnerable,” he said.
Senior Bishop Jackson Tsule, who oversees all Apostolic Faith Mission churches in the Western Cape, led the vibrant ceremony. Tsule says he manages a network of nine branches, including those in Cape Town and extending to areas such as Caledon, Grabouw, and Darling.
Tsule encouraged his branches and congregants to work together, as he manages them from the rural Eastern Cape and frequently visits them
“When I am not around, they must work together, be unified, and love each other. No fights; there must be peace. They should grow upward. I wish and pray for their growth,” he said.
He said his wish for the Witsand branch was that they acquire a permanent site for worship. Additionally, he says he hopes they can establish a Brass Band similar to the one led by Father Raleni in Philippi.