Actonville’s oldest church gets a facelift
The newly renovated 200 seats church aims to create a sanctuary for those seeking the presence of God.
In 1967, Past Sunny Jack Padiyachy with his wife Bommie relocated to Actonville to serve at the Free Baptist Church.
As he served in a community of various cultures and beliefs, he dreamed of establishing a place of worship where residents could unite in the Word of God.
Preaching from within the tented walls of the newly founded Evangelical Bible Church in Munshi Street, in 1974, Padiyachy’s dream slowly became a reality.
In 1983, the church building was completed and now 40 years later, under the guidance of his seven children who are active members of the congregation, the church unveiled its newly renovated building during a special celebratory service on May 21.
“We grew up in a household where God was at the centre of all we did,” said Nathan Padiyachy, who was ordained within the ministry in 2012.
“Since its establishment within the humble tent, it became home to those seeking refuge and solace in the Lord’s presence.”
Standing at the pulpit, Padiyachy said that the renovation of the church is about more than just keeping up with times, but creating a shining beacon of light, in a diverse community facing immense social ills.
“The church does not only pay homage to my parents’ legacy but paves the way for us as a congregation to make a lasting impact on the lives of every person that enters these doors,” he said.
“Serving with love and compassion is our mission.”
Five years after establishing the Bible Church, Padiyachy further hopes that the youth will be encouraged to seek careers doing God’s work and fulfilling His promise on earth.
“Careful consideration went into every facet of the renovation. We wanted to preserve the exterior aesthetics for it to look like the original building, which has become a landmark within our community,” he said.
“The newest addition and something we are immensely proud of is the cross on the pinnacle of the tower. It has been fitted with different coloured lights, which will glow to signify different Christian celebrations such as Easter, Christmas, Ascension Day, as well as baptisms.
“Community outreach programmes such as our soup kitchen will continue throughout the year as we hope to continue extending a helping hand to those in need.”
For more information regarding the church and its various activities, contact Rahginie Pillay on 073 760 4212.
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