Central Methodist Chuch

Freddy and I went to Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg this morning. WE have all been a few times before, but to the French service because some of our students and colleagues from SHADE from DRC attend there. And it is always nice after getting used to the singing and dancing during church, then going back to more of the white traditions in church to come back to our Congolese friends.

But again on the list I had really wanted to go to the main service. Central is a pretty controversial place, because its extreme welcoming hospitality to refugees and immigrants had put tremendous stress on the resources of the church and general conditions. So different people I work with are in different camps about that. Believe me I have had to talk out protocol many a time in the last few weeks, but also how do we serve as we have been called to.

This Sunday happened to be when all of the youth society stewards were being appointed for the whole circuit. As you will see in the video the Youth wear blue and can be very strong in the leadership of what we would consider youth/young adults. Adults wear red as church uniforms in the Methodist church. (Sorry it’s a bit shaky, other clips have better songs, but I was swaying and dancing too much and don’t want you to get sick…) actually too big to upload now, but soon.

Anyway it was a wonderful service to be part of. And standing there knowing the night before the same sanctuary had been filled with sleeping people that had left their own homes and families. People on a hard journey, just needing a safe place to sleep. It’s not as simple as all that, but as you look around imagine all the people that have been in the sanctuary and for all the purposes.

And there are successes too. The school connected to Central that mainly serves Zimbabwean children, many who risk their lives traveling over borders and struggle everyday to stay in this country, many without the care of their own families, passed their international examines with over a 73% pass rate. (High for most South African school) And a 100% pass rate for subjects like English literature and Divinity. This Albert Street School has been a real inspiration to me while I have been here. I encourage you to keep it and these learners in your prayers.