Church honours firefighters for their noble calling
“Firefighters are devoted men and women who put their lives on line (often between trapped victims and flames) to save those whose lives are in danger, irrespective of prevailing circumstances. It is this kind of bravery that defines their call of duty a calling; not just a job or career.”
Tsakani – Tsakani-based church Umndeni Fellowship Christian Centre honoured the firefighters from Tsakane and Duduza on Thursday.
The church demonstrated that it must be a heartbeat of the community in all aspects, not only by praying for the sick, feeding the hungry and caring for vulnerable members of the society but also by rewarding those who provide essential services to the population with passion and commitment.
“Firefighters are devoted men and women who put their lives on the line (often between trapped victims and flames) to save those whose lives are in danger, irrespective of prevailing circumstances. It is this kind of bravery that defines their call of duty a calling; not just a job or career.”
These priceless remarks were noted by a church member, Ntomb’futhi Hlophe, in her insightful welcome speech. It set the tone for the session as she expressed gratitude for the heroes’ declaration to protect the nation.
Hlophe honoured the families for unwavering daily support, allowing the firefighters to report for duty even with the possibility of not returning home due to the associated dangers.
The leader of this ministry, Bishop Esrom Sipho Mkhawane, conceptualised the idea to honour fire officials as he (once) passed by the fire station. On that fateful day a “vision” crossed his mind about these officers’ loyalties in the execution of their responsibilities.
“A thought crossed my mind one day as I drove past the station. I asked myself if Jesus himself would also pass by this place without acknowledging their great duties as well; methinks, no. I was on my way to buy vegetables from a particular farm in order to subsequently distribute them to those who need them.
“However, I (somehow) ended up offering the veggies to these firefighters to share with their colleagues.”
He recalled that moment with fondness as he was also welcomed with humility.
“I promptly realised they deserve more than a couple of vegetation. My presence at the venue sparked a bigger idea to appreciate their calling.
“Instinctively, there was a need to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of the community in a proper caring manner so that they also know they are truly appreciated at all times,” he added.
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The mother of the church, Bishop Busisiwe Mkhawane, honoured fighters for consistently “responding to an SOS” irrespective of who and what started the fire without complaining and compromising against all odds.
“To me that says a lot about your covenant about your pledge. The love you always reflect to the community is immeasurable”.
Humbled and overwhelmed by this courtesy, fire station commander Ronald Ngubane, expressed his appreciation on behalf of all his colleagues, including all firefighters everywhere, for recognition and tribute of their tasks in the society.
“I have been in this occupation for many years, but we have never been honoured in this manner,” he affirmed with humbleness.
“I urge my colleagues to sustain this calling with the pride and dedication it deserves because we are not only serving the community but we are also trusted by God to protect the nation.
“We came here with the expectation of only prayers and blessings from the church; however, the honour and gifts have humbled us.”
Ngubane also asked the church to pray for our South African leaders and the government to serve the country with integrity and diligence in all aspects. In a true VIP fashion, all dignitaries were later catered for with delicious food and drinks.
